PAST KEYHOLDERS

KEYHOLDER IS THE BIGGEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR.

A night where 2,500 of us come together to celebrate women and girls and influence progress. We hear the real stories of the change makers, disruptors, and influencers. We experience how they create real change by amplifying their voices for women and girls. Inspired by their stories, we unlock the power of our voices to advocate for women and girls, mobilize for action, and create lasting social change. Together, we are connected, ignited, and fiercely committed to gender equality.

2019 KEYHOLDER HIGHLIGHT:

At Keyholder 2019, Aly Raisman, Brittany Packnett, and Piper Perabo compelled us to step into our power from right where we are. By sharing how they live their purpose through activism, they fueled our potential to create lasting change for women and girls here in central Ohio.

PAST KEYHOLDERS:

GEENA DAVIS & ROXANE GAY

Two powerful storytellers, Geena Davis and Roxane Gay shared an open and authentic conversation about their own experiences, feminism, the portrayal of women in media and culture, how women can use their voices, and why it matters that they do.

“Change requires intent and effort, it really is that simple.”

-Roxane Gay

BILLIE JEAN KING

Billie Jean King is the epitome of a game-changer, breaking down barriers as a pioneer for gender equality. From her history-making Battle of the Sexes match and her fight for Title IX, to founding the Women’s Sports Foundation and commitment to equal pay for equal work, she is a tenacious leader for positive social change.

“You can only shape the future if you understand the past.”

-Billie Jean King

VANESSA WILLIAMS

Vanessa Williams’ integrity, resiliency, and grace make her an authentic voice as she lives her life with dignity and professionally defines her own path to success. Vanessa’s strength and endurance over the years to become a multi-faceted performer and actress resonated with many, while encouraging us to script our own lives.

“I believe that the older you get, the more fearless you become.”

-Vanessa Williams

MELISSA ETHERIDGE

A two-time Grammy and Academy Award winner, Melissa Etheridge’s voice is unforgettably authentic. Her spirit and confidence radiate beyond her music when she advocates for gender equality and as she raises awareness to create a stronger community for all. Melissa amplifies and embodies the power of ME.

“All men, and women, and everything in between are created equal.”

-Melissa Etheridge

ASHLEY JUDD

Author, humanitarian, activist, and actress Ashley Judd uses her voice as an advocate for equality, encouraging women by sharing her own story. Her words focused on the strength she gained from her travels and understanding she has gained by giving back and helping others find their voices.

AMERICA FERRERA

America Ferrera is one of Hollywood’s most vibrant young talents with a unique outlook on the world for women today. From their work together on the documentary, Half the Sky, America Ferrera and author Sheryl Wu Dunn shared a powerful message; one that illustrates the incredible potential of women and girls.

WHOOPI GOLDBERG

One of the few elite artists who have won a Grammy, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a Tony, Whoopi Goldberg is outspoken, genuine, and informed. She makes us listen. She gets us to pay attention, even when we might disagree. She can be a little unpredictable. And she keeps us curious. Her movies have inspired us, and so have her humanitarian efforts.

GOLDIE HAWN

Whether it is early memories of her quirky spirit in Good Morning, World or the compelling performance that earned her an Academy Award for the Cactus Flower, most of Goldie Hawn’s movie career leaves us cracking up. We know you’ve met her in film and TV. Have you met her as a philanthropist and educator? The Hawn Foundation teaches a curriculum to school age children about mindfulness.

DIANE KEATON

Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton has always been in a class of her own. Superstardom arrived with the semi-autobiographical “Annie Hall,”which won her the Academy Award for Best Actress. Widely recognized as one of the nation’s pioneer actresses, Diane Keaton has defied stereotypes and has given a clear and powerful voice to women who do not let gender or age define them or hold them back from reaching their full potential.

GLORIA STEINEM

Gloria Steinem has committed over 50 years to creating social change for women and girls and remains one of America’s most influential, eloquent, and revered feminists. Steinem was a founder of the first national U.S. women’s fund — the Ms. Foundation for Women — and her work, such as the recent establishment of a Women’s Media Center that ensures that women and women’s experiences are reflected in the media, continues to give voice to significant social issues facing women and girls.