The 2016 Outstanding Mother Honorees Sarah Jessica Parker, Joy Mangano, Louise Camuto and Gemma Lionello have all found a satisfying balance of highly successful careers and the daily demands and rewards of motherhood.
These women will be recognized for their accomplishments at the 38th Annual Outstanding Mother Awards luncheon ceremony on Thursday, May 5, 2016 at The Pierre Hotel in New York.
Mastering a healthy balance between work and family, this year’s honorees share some thoughts as to who and what helped them achieve their success:
Sarah Jessica Parker, Actor, Producer and Businesswoman
“I can think of no one who has made a stronger impression or has been more influential than my own mother. My mother was industrious, motivated, ambitious and dedicated to a full and rich life for us that had little to do with money and much to do with books, music, culture, curiosity and imagination. She instilled in us a sort of resilience and independence that I rely upon everyday in my grown up life.”
Joy Mangano, Inventor, Entrepreneur and President, Ingenious Designs, LLC
“My family will be the first to tell you that I don’t approach my work and family life separately, I blend everything! I’ve always made sure that we stay by each other’s side every step of the way, and that is the most important lesson I’ve tried to instill in my children over the years.”
Louise Camuto, Chief Creative Officer, Camuto Group
“The most important lesson in life I try to teach my son and stepchildren, is that you need to come home happy each day. I have always taught them that in order to succeed in life, you must love and be passionate about what you do.”
Gemma Lionello, Executive Vice President and General Merchandise Manager of Beauty, Nordstrom
“Don’t feel like you need to follow a certain example, do what is right for your family and situation. Give yourself permission to make mistakes, it’s okay. Your kids know they are loved and will learn and grow from watching you accomplish and realize your dreams both at work and at home.”
“We are thrilled to celebrate these exceptional women as our 2016 Outstanding Mother Honorees,” said Laurie Dowley, Chairman of the National Mother’s Day Committee. “Learning from strong women before them, prioritizing family and pursuing careers they truly enjoy were common themes among all honorees this year. These are valuable lessons from which all women and mothers can benefit. Congratulations to these well-deserving women and role models.”
As part of its continued support of meaningful philanthropies dealing with issues affecting mothers, fathers and children, the National Father’s Day/Mother’s Day Council, Inc. has donated nearly $30 million to date to deserving family-related charities nationwide.
Proceeds of the 2016 awards luncheon will benefit Save the Children's U.S. Programs, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to making lasting positive change in the lives of children living in poverty in the United States.
Find out more here.