Bright Girls, Bold Futures 2025

Written by Maria W. Long

I was escorted into the celebration by a beautiful young girl with a sparkling smile, who said, “Welcome, I am so excited you’re here!” as I entered this heartwarming, yet powerful event. Over 200 passionate community leaders at the Santa Barbara Club where there for a joyful celebration of resilience, courage, and the limitless potential of girls, as well as to pay tribute to Stina Hans, who passed away earlier this year.

Stina Hans, a Santa Barbara resident for over 40 years, was a tireless advocate for women and girls, serving on the board of Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara and holding leadership roles for two decades with the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara. Her generosity was matched only by her grace and fierce determination. Whether hosting philanthropic events in her home, mentoring fellow volunteers, or simply offering wise counsel, Stina touched hundreds of lives with her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to community. Stina was a shining example of what it is to be “Smart, Strong and Bold.”

“It is truly an honor to celebrate Stina’s impact and legacy on Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara,” Executive Director Cydney Justman shared. Stina demonstrated that effective leadership is not focused on personal acknowledgment, but rather on creating conditions where girls can access every opportunity to succeed. Her steadfast focus, vision, and unwavering commitment continue to guide us, reminding me each day of the power of perseverance and purpose.”

Stina’s family filled a table and daughter Elizabeth Kreiner, and sons Brian and Steven also gave moving speeches. Christina Campbell wrote a loving poem in tribute to her late friend Stina. The evening marked the successful launch of the Stina Hans Impact Fund, inspired by Stina’s belief in empowering girls. The fund will support opportunities for girls in Santa Barbara County, helping them overcome barriers and achieve success. 

“Stina was a committed advocate for girls, and we commend her passion, dedication, and generosity,” stated Christy Kelso, event co-chair. “Her legacy will live on through the Stina Hans Impact Fund.” 

Lynn Scarlett, former Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior, former Girls Inc. board member, and good friend of Stina, gave a keynote speech that set the tone for an evening of reflection and vision. However, it was Daisy, a Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara teen, who stole the show with her moving story that proved the importance of such empowerment.

Jessica and Travis Hawley glowed as they shared how their family is third generation Girls Inc. participants and praised the organization and the positive outcomes they have experienced because of their daughter’s participation in the program.

With a paddle raise led by Layla Khashoggi, also a close friend of Stina, in total over $240,000 were raised thanks to the incredible generosity of event sponsors, vendors, attendees, and donors.

These funds will support free programming for up to 200 elementary and teen girls. “Girls are already strong, smart, and bold,” said Justman, who leads the local organization. “The Stina Hans Impact Fund is Girls Inc.’s commitment to lighting the way, so every bright girl can build the bold future she deserves. We are truly blown away by the generosity of our community. Each dollar invested supports free, high-impact Girls Inc. programs that build confidence, leadership, and career readiness. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for investing in the power of girls.”

Live music from Miriam Dance and her band was woven throughout the evening, including a dance floor to close out the evening. 

The event was sponsored by Mechanics Bank, BlueStar Parking, Montecito Bank & Trust, Projects General Construction, Cresset Capital, Fidelity National Title, and SBCC Foundation, as well as Jody Dolan Holehouse, Lauren Hudspeth, Eileen and Tom Mielko, Doug and Patricia Aiken, Tina Berg, Chita Edlund, Drs. Joanne and Tem Gronquist, Tina Hansen McEnroe, Perri Harcourt, Cydney Justman, Missy and Chuck Sheldon, and Gerald and April Thede.

The long-time supporters in attendance included Ginni Dreier, Anne Towbes, Lynn Pearl, Karen and Peter Warshaw, Blair and Steve Raber, Christy Kelsoand Randy Franciose, Carrie and Eric Lundquist, Meg and Dan Burnham, Marybeth Carty, Kathy and Tom Dunlap, Lynn Karlson, Susan Matsumoto, and Nicole Powers.

Event Co-Chairs were Christy Kelso and Anne Towbes, while the Event Committee was formed by Carrie Lundquist, Nicole Noren, Nicole Powers, Megan Turley, and Cydney Justman.