Buffalo – Thursday night saw a unique blend of runway glamour and football spirit at Highmark Stadium as the Western New York Women’s Foundation presented its annual “What She’s Made Of” event. The fundraiser celebrated women‑owned businesses, highlighted local talent and raised money to help women thrive throughout the region.
Local designers showcase their work
Buffalo State fashion design senior Kaylee Starkweather used the evening to debut her bridal and formal‑wear collections. “It means so much for me to be here and form ourselves as a community,” Starkweather said, noting the importance of visibility for women in the fashion industry. She added, “We are generally overlooked, so having supporters and allies in the room is amazing.”
Community partnership with the Bills
The event featured a runway show in partnership with the Buffalo Bills Women’s Association, bringing the excitement of the Bills brand to the fashion showcase. “Our theme is fashion, and we’re partnering with the Bills Women’s Association to bring male allies together to network and learn,” said Sheri Scavone, CEO of the WNY Women’s Foundation.
Fundraising for women‑focused programs
Proceeds from ticket sales and donations will support the foundation’s mission to provide mentorship, grants and educational resources for women‑owned enterprises across Western New York. “Supporting women and recognizing the talent present in the region are central to our work,” Scavone explained.
Highmark Stadium provides a unique setting
Choosing Highmark Stadium as the venue offered attendees a fresh experience beyond the usual banquet hall. Development director Suzanne D’Amico noted, “The stadium is a place everyone wants to be, and it gave us an opportunity to give the community a truly unique evening.” The venue’s capacity and modern amenities allowed for a larger gathering of entrepreneurs, community leaders and Bills fans.
Building a stronger community
Beyond fashion, the evening emphasized networking and collaboration. Local business owners, students and supporters mingled, sharing ideas and forming partnerships that could translate into future job creation and economic growth. The event underscored the foundation’s belief that empowering women entrepreneurs strengthens the broader Western New York economy.
Overall, the “What She’s Made Of” gala demonstrated how a shared love of fashion and football can unite a community around a common purpose: uplifting women‑owned businesses and fostering a vibrant, family‑friendly economy in Buffalo and the surrounding region.
Original reporting: WKBW 7 Buffalo (Buffalo section) — read the source article.
