Glamour with Purpose

Dress for Success SF raises $350,000 at annual gala.

On May 3, over 300 guests gathered at San Francisco’s Terra Gallery for the inaugural Disco Ball, a dazzling night of retro glam and real impact hosted by Dress for Success San Francisco. The sold-out event raised more than $350,000 to support the nonprofit’s mission of empowering women toward economic independence.

Traci Schmitz, Lisa Bugni, Anita Battle, Jill Unikel, Diana Wolff, Kira Dales, and Susannah Howard
Traci Schmitz, Lisa Bugni, Anita Battle, Jill Unikel, Diana Wolff, Kira Dales, and Susannah Howard

The evening was chaired by longtime community leader Sharon Seto, whose steadfast leadership over the past seven years has helped shape the gala into one of the Bay Area’s premier philanthropic events. Under her guidance, the Disco Ball delivered both spectacle and substance, honoring the women served by Dress for Success and those who support them.

From roller-skating performers to glittering décor, the night kicked off with disco flair. Guests were treated to live music by WHIT the DJ, caviar from The Caviar Co., wines by Wente Vineyards, faux casino games, and a thoughtfully curated, nonalcoholic bar by Abstinence Spirits.

Mary Jung and Willie Brown
Mary Jung and Willie Brown

Adriana Aro, Erin Badillo, Liz Pisano, Jennifer Johnston, and Jenn Kurrie
Adriana Aro, Erin Badillo, Liz Pisano, Jennifer Johnston, and Jenn Kurrie

Beyond the celebration, the evening honored extraordinary individuals. Brenda Wright received the inaugural Anne Cochran Sutton Award, while Chip Zecher and Mary Jung were named 2025 Success Honorees for their continued support of the organization. Mayor Daniel Lurie presented each with a certificate of honor.

The most moving moment came from client ambassadors Alicia Quick and Juthaporn Chaloeicheep, who shared their emotional stories of resilience and how Dress for Success changed the course of their lives.

**ALT text:**
Guests in vibrant outfits at Dress for Success SF gala.
Stefanie Roumeliotes, Chip Zecher, and Pam Preston
Stefanie Roumeliotes, Chip Zecher, and Pam Preston

Mark Rhoades, Anne Cochran Sutton, and Brenda Wright
Mark Rhoades, Anne Cochran Sutton, and Brenda Wright
Sharon Seto
Sharon Seto

The event’s production, led by Nicole Villa Krassner, created a polished experience from start to finish. Notable guests included Willie L. Brown Jr., David Seto, Brooke Jenkins, and Consul General Rana Sarkar. The Seto family’s involvement extended throughout the evening, with Sharon’s children, Stephen and Marissa, having served as after-party co-chairs in past years.

The Disco Ball was more than a gala. It was a celebration of what happens when a community comes together to support women with vision, purpose, and heart.