Dress for Success Cincinnati is thrilled to welcome Annette Pfund-de Cavel and Alandes Powell as the Co-Chairs of our 2026 Fashion Show, Illuminate. As two accomplished leaders with a shared passion for community impact, Annette and Alandes bring energy, vision, and heart to one of our most anticipated events of the year.
More than a fashion show, Illuminate is a celebration of confidence, transformation, and opportunity. This signature fundraising event helps power the mission of Dress for Success Cincinnati as we support women pursuing economic independence through career development, professional resources, workforce programming, and community connection.
This year’s event will bring together community leaders, partners, advocates, and supporters for an unforgettable evening where fashion and purpose intersect in meaningful ways.
We are honored to have Annette and Alandes helping lead this exciting chapter and look forward to the inspiration, leadership, and enthusiasm they will bring to the experience.
Why This Matters
Illuminate is more than a fashion show—it is a celebration of confidence, leadership, transformation, and the power of community coming together to create opportunity for women.
This year’s co-chairs embody that vision in meaningful ways.
With a distinguished career spanning executive leadership in finance, community advocacy, the arts, and social impact, Alandes Powell represents the power of women leading boldly, creating change, and using their voices to shape stronger communities. Her commitment to equity, empowerment, and civic leadership reflects the heart of Dress for Success Cincinnati’s mission: helping women access the tools, confidence, and support needed to thrive professionally and personally.
Likewise, Annette Pfund-de Cavel’s extensive background in hospitality, entrepreneurship, and experience design brings a perspective rooted in service, excellence, and connection. Her work creating memorable guest experiences and leading successful businesses aligns beautifully with the spirit of Illuminate—an evening designed not only to inspire, but to create meaningful investment in women’s futures.
Together, their leadership reflects what Dress for Success Cincinnati stands for: women supporting women, leadership with purpose, and communities that grow stronger when opportunity is made accessible. Because when women are equipped with confidence, resources, and opportunity, careers are launched, families are strengthened, and communities thrive.
Fashion Show Leadership
Annette Pfund-de Cavel
As the Co-Chair of the 2026 Dress for Success Cincinnati Fashion Show, Annette Pfund-de Cavel brings over 25 years of expertise in hospitality, leadership, and event management. Currently, she serves as the Regional Director of Hotel & Restaurant Operations for Van Rooyen Hospitality Group, overseeing notable properties such as Hotel Covington, Coppin’s Restaurant and Bar, Hotel North, Knowledge Bar, and the forthcoming Lunken Hotel.
Additionally, as the owner of the de Cavel Group, she manages the acclaimed Bar-à-Bœuf restaurant, exemplifying her commitment to service excellence and creating unforgettable guest experiences.
Annette’s passion for connection and empowerment transcends the hospitality industry. Through her work with Dress for Success, she is dedicated to celebrating women’s confidence and creativity while generating vital support for the organization’s mission to help women achieve economic independence.
Fluent in German and French, Annette combines a global perspective with genuine local dedication in every endeavor she undertakes.
Why This Mission Matters to Me
“The mission of Dress for Success resonates deeply with me because I believe in the transformative power of confidence and self-empowerment.
Throughout my career in hospitality, I have witnessed the profound impact that a supportive community can have on an individual’s journey toward economic independence. Helping women feel empowered to embrace their potential is not just a professional commitment but a personal passion.
I am inspired by the strength and resilience of women who strive for better opportunities, and I am honored to play a role in cultivating an environment where they can thrive. Supporting women through Dress for Success aligns with my values and the belief that, when we uplift one another, we create a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone.”
Alandes Powell
Alandes Powell serves as the CEO of Black Art Speaks, an arts collective based in Cincinnati, Ohio. With over thirty years of experience in the financial sector, Alandes’s career began at Citi, where she progressed through several significant positions, including Senior Vice President and Relationship and Operations Director.
In October 2018, she transitioned to Fifth Third Bank, NA, taking on the role of Vice President and Director of Consumer Business Controls.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Alandes is renowned for her extensive community advocacy. She was instrumental in the creation of Cincinnati’s Black Lives Matter Mural, which draws inspiration from her poem, “We Want What You Want.”
Alandes is a co-founder of Black Art Speaks and currently serves on the boards of the Cincinnati Ballet, ROMAC, and GenNow. Her past leadership roles include Chair of the Urban League of Southwestern Ohio, board member of the YWCA and Brighton Center, Assistant Director of a youth sports organization, and Co-Chair of the Academic Scholarship Committee at Triumph Church.
Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as a 2025 NAACP Innovator, a YWCA 2023 Social Justice Honoree, and one of Cincinnati’s Black History Makers.
Why This Mission Matters to Me
“Dress for Success Cincinnati’s mission matters to me because confidence can change how a woman shows up in the world.
Sometimes how we feel begins with how we dress—that ‘mirror moment’ and how we carry ourselves when we walk into a room and see our own potential.
I understand the importance of feeling seen, valued, and prepared for opportunity. To me, this work is about much more than fashion or clothing; it is about confidence, dignity, empowerment, and helping women believe in themselves again.
I am honored to support a mission that uplifts women and helps create pathways to opportunity and success.”
As we continue counting down to Illuminate, we are incredibly grateful for the leadership, passion, and vision Annette and Alandes bring to this year’s event. Their dedication to empowering women and strengthening our community reflects the very heart of Dress for Success Cincinnati’s mission.
We look forward to an unforgettable evening celebrating confidence, transformation, and the power of women supporting women and we invite our community to join us in helping create brighter futures for the women we serve.