The Atlanta Women’s Foundation had a big week. Its Inspire Atlanta Class of 2026 raised more than $800,000 for women and girls across metro Atlanta.
That’s a record. And it’s the program’s ninth year.
Inspire Atlanta brings together women leaders who want to put their influence, networks, and money where their mouth is.
The goal: create real change through philanthropy and collective action. The funds will support education, after-school programming, life skills, and access to mental and physical health services.
Now for the standouts.
Alejandra Aguirre of Novelis took the top fundraiser title — raising $80,113. That’s a new all-time record for the program. Runner-up Boann Oliver of ANDMORE brought in $65,030. Demery Hatfield of Norfolk Southern rounded out the top three with $60,401.
Oliver also took home the “Spirit of Inspire” Award. Her classmates chose her. They said she pushed everyone to think bigger, fundraise bolder, and stay in it together.
Two other awards made their debut this year. Peaches Green earned the newly created Becoming Award for her personal growth throughout the program. Sue Tairu of AbbVie won the Awareness Catalyst Award for mobilizing her network despite limited corporate support.
“Passion meets purpose” is how AWF CEO Kari Love put it.
Hard to argue with $800,000 in proof.
