On April 25, 2025, the ballroom of Atlanta’s Signia by Hilton came alive with purpose as women from across the country gathered for the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum Brunch & Auction — a signature event that celebrates our freedom, honors tradition, and uplifts the women who help protect both.
It was an unforgettable morning, made possible by the tireless efforts of conservative leaders like Marci McCarthy, who graciously invited me to attend. Marci is not only the Chairwoman of the DeKalb County GOP — she’s a powerhouse of conviction and class. Watching her co-chair this event alongside Julie Woods Hill, daughter of NRA legends John and Judy Woods, was a reminder that the torch of leadership is not just being passed — it’s being wielded with integrity.
Janelle King and her daughter, both forces in Georgia’s conservative landscape, were present as well. Their commitment to community, legacy, and God-given rights sets a standard I deeply respect. I’m learning from their example every day, and I’m grateful for their guidance and friendship.
A highlight of the brunch was the keynote speaker, Hogan Gidley, former National Press Secretary to President Donald J. Trump and current Senior Advisor at the America First Policy Institute. His words struck the heart: clear, calm, and confident — no fluff, no fuss. And let me just say — who knew one of America’s most eligible bachelors was among us that morning? His humility, strength of character, and reverence for the values that shaped him spoke volumes — especially knowing he was raised by a strong, single mother. May his path ahead be as blessed as the one that brought him to us.
At my table, I had the joy of connecting with Mrs. Julie, a new friend with a warm and generous spirit, the dynamic young ladies from Beretta, Ms. Trang and Ms. Dina. Mrs. Liz Lazarus, a talented author whose presence was just as powerful as her pen. I was delighted to see the Beretta team again later at the NRA Convention, where I brought my three sons — Darrnell Huggins, Isaiah Huggins, and Wynton Witherspoon II. They treated us like family, especially Mr. Joe. That kind of connection is exactly what makes this community so special — firearm ownership isn’t just about defense; it’s about discipline, heritage, and unity.
A special personal moment for me was simply being in that hotel. Years ago — long before the Signia by Hilton ever stood tall — I was honored by my community in Neighborhood Planning Unit T (NPU-T) to represent the Westside during the early planning stages for this very site. I want to especially thank Angela Clyde, Terry Ross, Sam Young, and Lloyd Hawk, who helped position me to sit at that roundtable. We spoke up for our neighborhoods, our families, our future. To walk into that same space years later, invited to a national gathering of powerful, principled women — it truly brought tears to my eyes. Full-circle moments like that don’t come around often, and when they do, you stand a little taller.
The live auction had no shortage of jaw-dropping items — from a 7-night stay at White Stallion Ranch, to a New Zealand red deer hunt, a 14k topaz elk ivory pendant, and even a Kriegkhoff Semprio with Swarovski scope. But I’ll admit — my favorite was the Beretta 687 EELL Classics Shotgun 20 Gauge: 47th President Commemorative Edition. A true piece of legacy.
And let’s not forget the Vineyard Vines tradition — the custom made scarf for the women at the NRA-WLF brunch every year is a cherished, feminine touch that reminds us that we can honor our values and still walk in style. This year’s design was just beautiful.
Outside the ballroom, small businesses shined just as brightly. I was blown away by the artistry and warmth of:
Mandrianabandanas, handcrafted in Franklin, TN by Catie Offerman
Norton and Hodges (Charleston, SC), led by Elizabeth Gumb
Bullet Bloom, a family-run business offering gorgeous jewelry from expanded bullets — shoutout to Bridget, Banjo, Lola, and Bullet the Bear
Darling & Company, known for their charming and classic style, featuring uniquely crafted purses— the perfect touch of elegance for a night out or a special occasion.
Basic Spirit from Nova Scotia — whose palm-sized handmade ring holder bowls were gifted to each lady in attendance
Another powerful highlight of the event was the recognition of the extraordinary women and generous sponsors featured in the official program — each of whom played a key role in bringing this celebration to life.
2025 Brunch Co-Hosts
Julie Woods Hill
Marci McCarthy
2025 Auction Chair
Grace Marie Small
Platinum Sponsors
Susan Springhorn
Greer Johnson
Anne Draper
VIP Photo Opportunity Sponsor
Gina Archer
Presenting Sponsors
Sandra Sadler
Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Taurus
Table Favors
Liz Murray
Wine Sponsors
Laurie Larson Partlo
Chantal Bagwell
Generous Host Committee
Chantal Bagwell
Toni Brown
Sharon Callan
Alicia Cantrell
Sandy Froman
Dunkin-Lewis
Cyndi Flannigan
Janet Nyce
River Bend Gun Club
Barbara Rumpel
Judi White
Women’s Leadership Forum Executive Committee
Susan Springhorn – Co-Chair
Mitzy McCorvey – Co-Chair
Gina Archer
Chantal Bagwell
Alicia Cantrell
Anne Draper
Schell Hammell
Betsy Brantley Johnson
Greer Johnson
Liz Murray
Laurie Partlo
Sandra Sadler
Grace Marie Small
Each of these women — and generous sponsors — helped make the 2025 NRA Women’s Leadership Forum Brunch & Auction more than just an event. They brought heart, heritage, and excellence to every detail, creating a space where conservative women from across the nation could gather, connect, and continue the work of preserving our values.
Brunch Menu
First Course
A curated selection of artisan pastries, baked fresh for your indulgence
Pome & drupe seasonal fruits & velvety overnight oats with a touch of honey
Main Course
Farm-fresh soft-scrambled eggs
Herb-roasted breakfast potatoes
Chef’s selection of premium sausage links & applewood-smoked bacon
Beverages
Coffee
Tea
And yes — in true Leslie fashion — I accidentally raised my hand to scratch my head and almost ended up making a bid at $2,500! It quickly turned into a shared laugh at our table — myself included — and made for one of my favorite memories of the morning. I walked away with a new lesson: at a live auction, still hands are smart hands.
Gun rights aren’t about violence — they’re about responsibility. Whether it’s for sport, survival, or self-defense, we must ensure our future generations understand that our rights come with purpose — and pride. This event was a reminder of exactly that.
To all who made this brunch a success — the co-chairs, sponsors, speakers, volunteers, and patriots in heels — thank you. You reminded me that conservative womanhood doesn’t have to fit a mold. It just needs a mission. I was reminded that feminine strength is not about shouting louder, but standing taller, together. In lace or in leather, we lead with love, liberty, and legacy— there is room at the table for every woman who loves her country.
Here’s to the women who shape the future — and to gatherings that prove our values still have a home.
