A fashionable event for the University Park Women's Club

Surrounded by glamour and dressed to the nines, 19 women walked the runway alongside their leading men. 

Over the last 25 years, each of those women had made a difference within the University Park Women's Club. Some were former presidents, others special interest groups chairs and others have been members for more than 20 years. 

The club's "Lights, Camera, Legacy" Fashion Show and luncheon was held March 25 at The Grove. 

Carol Shabe and and Bette Graves were the co-chairs for the show. The models in wore clothes from J. McLaughlin and Darci's boutique in Sarasota. 

Daria Charlesworth, president of the University Park Women's Club, said the future is bright for the club because so many women make positive contributions in the past.

"We stand on the shoulders of the women who have laid the groundwork for us," Charlesworth said. "It was so much fun to see those women on stage, displaying these fashions in such a fun and sassy way." 

Funds raised from the show will be donated to two local nonprofits — Women’s Resource Center and Feeding Empty Little Tummies.

Jessica Ryherd, the executive director of Feeding Empty Little Tummies, said those donations are important.

"The fashion show was about so much more than the runway," Ryherd said. "It was about raising awareness and making sure no child in our community goes to bed hungry. The support we receive helps us continue that mission, and we’re incredibly grateful to be part of something so meaningful.”

Vicki DiPaolo, who was president of the University Park Women's Club from 2021 to 2023, agreed with Ryherd.

"The charities I have been able to be a part of have focused on women and children in meaningful ways," DiPaolo said. "To be able to help improve the lives of others in our community is a true gift."

Andrea Mahan, one of the models in the show, is a special interest group chair for the mahjong club and also puts together luncheons. She had never modeled before. 

"We should give back to our community by helping fund special causes and by giving of our time," Mahan said. "We are blessed to live in a great community with a wide variety of people."