The 10th annual LPGA Volvik Founders Cup has announced the return of the Women’s Leadership Forum, an extension of its annual “What’s Fore Lunch” program.

On Thursday, March 19, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego is the keynote speaker at the networking event, sponsored in part by HonorHealth, JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, Marriott Golf and the LPGA, according to a press release.

Mayor Gallego is the second elected female mayor in Phoenix history and the “youngest big city mayor in the United States,” said the release, describing the Harvard University graduate with a master of business administration degree from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.

Before being elected, Mayor Gallego worked on economic development for the local utility company, Salt River Project, according to the release.

She has focused on diversifying the economy, strengthening infrastructure investment, and working to make Phoenix a leader in sustainability during her time in office.

Leading efforts on criminal justice reform and ensuring equal pay for equal work, Mayor Gallego pursues building a “Phoenix that works for everyone and increasing the quality of life for all Phoenicians.”

A panel of other influential Valley community leaders will include Jane Spicer, owner and founder of Daphne’s Headcovers, the release added. 

A Phoenix native with English roots, she started Daphne’s Headcovers at age 16 and has turned it into a global brand, the release said.

Daphne’s Headcovers started as a fundraiser now found in more than 75 different countries and on celebrity golf bags, including those of Tiger Woods, Dustin Johnson, country music star Jake Owens, Brittany Lincicome, Cheyenne Woods and the late LPGA founder, Marilynn Smith.

“On any given day, Spicer’s in-basket is filled with dog, ninja or pirate designs,” detailed the release.

Ms. Spicer is the recipient of accolades such as the Spirit of Enterprise Award from Arizona State University, a Forbes Top Golf Company, Gabriel’s Angels Precious Paw Award for Philanthropy, and more. She is actively involved with charities like ASPCA, Golf Fore Africa, and The Ernie Els Fancourt Foundation.

“The LPGA’s history is engrained with the spirit of strong female leaders,” said Scott Wood, Volvik Founders Cup tournament director, in a prepared statement.

“This event allows us to advance and empower women, across industries, by connecting these featured guests with the next generation of leaders.”

At the networking event, guests will enjoy lunch before heading to the course to watch the "best female golfers in the world" with access to the Pioneer Pavilion on the 9th green presented by Daphne’s Headcover’s.

The day will end on the driving range with golf demonstrations and tips from LPGA teaching and club professionals, open to all skill levels.

Individual tickets are available for $150 or as a table for $1,200. Tickets include valet parking plus a special attendee gift.

For more information, sponsorship opportunities and tickets: TheFoundersLPGA.com/event-info/womens-leadership-forum.