Local & Community
Former Senator Barbara Boxer Headlines Women Who Lead Luncheon in Rancho Mirage
Former U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer is bringing her message of leadership, perseverance, and empowerment to the Coachella Valley as the keynote speaker for this year’s Women Who Lead Luncheon. NBC Palm Springs anchor Mary Strong sat down with Boxer ahead of the event to discuss the importance of recognizing women leaders, supporting local communities, and continuing the fight for progress and equality.
The annual luncheon celebrates extraordinary women across the Coachella Valley whose leadership, service, and dedication are creating lasting change in the community. Boxer, a longtime advocate for women and families and now a Coachella Valley resident, said events like Women Who Lead are deeply meaningful because they shine a spotlight on women making a difference close to home.
During the interview, Boxer reflected on her decades of public service and the barriers women have overcome in leadership roles. She also acknowledged there is still work to be done when it comes to advancing opportunities for women and ensuring their voices continue to be heard.
Boxer encouraged young women who may be hesitant to step into leadership positions to push through fear and self-doubt, emphasizing that perseverance and resilience are often key ingredients to success.
As for her keynote address, Boxer said she hopes attendees leave feeling inspired and empowered to continue leading in their own communities, no matter the obstacles they may face. The Women Who Lead Luncheon takes place Wednesday, May 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage. Tickets are still available through PalmSpringsLife.com
By: Mary Strong
May 19, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What do you think is really going on here? Drop your thoughts below 👇 #therogginreport #coachella #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings
During the 2025-2026 school year, PEN America reported there were nearly 12,000 book bans in public schools nationwide, the largest number of book bans in a single year since the group started tracking numbers in 2021.
Delta Airlines overhauled its frequent flyer program in 2024. CNN’s Randi Kaye asks Delta CEO Ed Bastian if the airline has made it more difficult for flyers to earn status and if any further changes to the loyalty program are on the horizon.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Favorite Festival?
‘The Hayden’ is back @babysmarche !! John Hayden himself took a trip to the Indian Wells staple for lunch and to chat with @chefjustinsnyder on how it became the most popular item on the menu! #TheHayden
🛑A bike ride ended in tragedy Monday night in Palm Springs. A bicyclist died after being struck by a car around 8:30 PM on E. Palm Canyon Dr. The driver stayed at the scene and police say there’s no indication of foul play or impairment. ❓Saw the crash or have video from the area? Call Palm Springs police at (760) 327–1441.
Social Time: Jerry sings the end! 🎶🎵
CALIFORNIA IS AGING FAST... BUT WHERE WILL THE WORKFORCE LIVE? #therogginreport #coachellavalley #localnews #agingpopulation #nbcpalmsprings
119 jobs on the line and DRD’s General Manager won’t answer questions … Drop a comment 👇: Would you vote YES or NO on giving a district more money if they refuse to answer transparency questions? #therogginreport #drd #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings