06/18/2026
Big news! 📣
We’re excited to announce our 2026 Love Purse Gala Honorary Co-Chairs: Sheila R. Brown, Founder of The Self-Trust Lab, and Edgaras Valecka, VP, Business Banking Center Manager at PNC Bank. Their commitment to community, advocacy, and women’s empowerment will help make this year’s gala our most impactful yet.
Sheila R. Brown is a transformational speaker, thought leader, and Founder of The Self-Trust Lab, where she helps people build earned confidence and self-trust. With more than 30 years in television, media, and workforce development, she is known for opening doors and developing talent. At Cinespace Chicago Film Studios, she created the Mirkopoulos Inclusion Program, connecting young adults from underserved communities with paid training opportunities on network television productions.
Edgaras Valecka is a high-performing financial services leader and Branch Manager at PNC Bank in Franklin Park, Illinois. He is recognized for delivering strong business results while championing engagement, inclusion, and community impact. He is also a PNC-Certified Women’s Business & Minority in Business Advocate and President of the Chicagoland Women Connect EBRG.
Join us for the Love Purse “88 Miles to Impact: Back to the Future” Gala as we hit 88 miles per hour and launch into a future where every woman has what she needs to move forward with confidence.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you — stay tuned for more updates!
📅 Date: Thursday, October 8, 2026
📍 Time: 6:00 PM
🎟️ Get your tickets! https://conta.cc/44euqow
