The TTUHSC Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health Welcomes Ben Carson as Power of the Purse Keynote Speaker

• By Meaghan Collier
• April 18, 2024
• Health

Retired neurosurgeon and former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson, M.D., delivered a keynote address at the Power of the Purse luncheon and fundraiser today (April 18). To date, this fundraiser has raised millions of dollars for landmark scientific investigation, important medical education and community programs through the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health.

“The Power of the Purse Luncheon holds a special significance in our community beyond the iconic purse auction,” Callie Holton, co-chair of the event, said. “The Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health has raised more than $4.4 million for women's health in the last 15 years. Community events like this luncheon remind us all that when we work together for a common goal, we can create lasting change, inspire others to get involved and foster a culture of generosity in our community.”

This year’s purse auction featured a record number of more than 175 handbags and accessories from top designers, celebrities and stylish locals who generously donated their treasures to the auction. Bidders had a chance to win items from former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura W. Bush. 

“As women, we understand the importance of gender specific health care and support the initiatives that the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health benefits in our community,” Caroline Hawkins, co-chair of the event, said. “We look forward to seeing the proceeds for this year used locally.”

The Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health, established in 2007, works collaboratively with TTUHSC institutes and schools to invest in scientific investigation, provider education and community impact. During the last 14 years, proceeds from Power of the Purse have benefited many TTUHSC programs including the InfantRisk Center, SimCentral Simulation Center, the Breast Center of Excellence, Texas Tech Physicians Psychiatry, Texas Tech Physicians OB+GYN, the TTUHSC Human Sex Trafficking Symposium and scholarship support for the TTUHSC School of Nursing.

“Differences matter in health care, and the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health is fiercely passionate about helping women in our communities take care of themselves so that they can, in-turn, take care of their families,” Angela Knapp Eggers, Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health senior director said. “This tremendous community can take pride in knowing they help us make a definitive difference.”

Power of the Purse 2025 is scheduled for April 10. For more information, visit www.laurabushinstitute.org.