Top 30 Woman 2013 by d-mars.com

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston VOLUME I

Name Title of Company Positiion

2013 1st EDITION

Name Title of Company Positiion

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Directory

The 2013 Top Influential Women of Houston Icon Recipients are as follows:

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

Donna Fujimoto Cole

18th Congressional District of Texas

President & CEO, Cole Chemical & Distributing, Inc

Nargis Ahmed

Maria Moncada Alaoui

State Rep Carol Alvarado

General Manager Momentum BMW West

Texas House District 145

Dr. Heather Brown

Madeline Burillo, Ed.D.

Helen Callier

Director Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas

Owner & Orthodontist Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics

Dr. Irishea Hilliard

COO & Pastor New Light Christian Center Church

Vanessa Reed

Associate Vice Chancellor Houston Community College

Carla Lane

President & CEO Lane Staffing

Susan Repka

Rhonda C. Arnold

Dr. Patricia Brock Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Medical Bridges

Lisa Ashley

Director of Community Relations Houston Airport System

Director, Corporate Communications Port of Houston Authority

Emelda Douglas

Wilma J. Evans

President Bradlink, LLC

SVP and Chief Development Officer Neighborhood Centers, Inc.

President North Houston Frontiers Club & Managing Partner, DeMand Staffing & Consulting, LLC.

Shara McClure

Catherine Mitchell

Marlene Petry, RN, MSN

Vice President Network Management Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas

Dr. Jonita Wallace Reynolds

Chief Operating Officer Amerigroup

Kandice Rose

Jamilah Shami

Melinda Spaulding

Chief Executive Officer Gulf Coast Community Services Association (GCCSA)

Founder Pretty Girls with Cancer

Project Manager Farouk Systems, Inc.

Dr. Angela Sturm

Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade, BS, RN, BSN, DDS

Cynthia Wenz

Nicole C. West

Dr. Anjanette Wyatt

President NCA Investigations

Eva Pickens

Associate Vice President, University Advancement - Communications & Marketing, Texas Southern University

Executive Director Women Contractors Association

President & CEO The Source for Women

Christina Robinson Grochett

Chief Strategist for Innovation and Research Lone Star College

Senior Vice President GP Industrial Contractors, Inc.

Assistant Vice President, South Texas CRA Manager Corporate Public Affairs & Community Reinvestment, Comerica Bank

Plastic Surgeon Cosmetic and Neuromuscular Dentist 2FacialFacial TOPAssociates 50 BLACK HMWP / 2013 Plastic Surgery Cosmetic Dental Texas

Karen Becerra

Chief Operations Officer/Principal The Principle Partnering Group, LLC

Pharmacy Manager President & CEO, Clinical Care Pharmacy, LLC

Anchor Fox 26 KRIV-TV

Judge Mimi Yam

United States Immigration Court

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Message From the President & CEO

MR. D-MARS

“How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!” – Maya Angelou

In 1849, Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman to graduate from medical school in the United States, Amelia Earhart made the first solo flight by a woman across the Atlantic in 1932, and in 1993, Toni Morrison became the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize for literature. Women endure so many challenges – from being underpaid to developing careers in many male-dominated fields – but they still continue to make great contributions to society. It’s no wonder that women are so influential. They are the foundation for raising our youth into productive stewards of their community. Women don’t always receive the accolades they deserve, so it’s important that we recognize these heroic women because there’s a younger generation out here – many who are lacking the guidance and wisdom that our honorees possess. By casting a light on what these phenomenal women do every day in their communities, businesses, and at home, the youth in our communities will have a blueprint for success. d-mars.com wants to not only recognize the courageous, strong, inspirational women in our communities, but we want to congratulate them on their success and thank them for being a positive influence on so many young girls who will be motivated to aim higher and achieve!

Sincerely, Keith J. Davis, Sr. President & CEO d-mars.com

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston 1

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Message from Senior Vice President, Kevin “Brother D-MARS” Davis

Message from Vice President, Ms. Kimberly Floyd

“What I know is that if you do work that you love, and the work fulfills you, the rest will come.” – Oprah Winfrey

“Women are the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the world.” –Hillary Clinton

I truly believe mothers are the backbone of the community, and the most influential woman in my life is my mother. She was a person who really cared about her community. She was a devout Christian and a beautician in Fifth Ward. I remember when some of the girls in the neighborhood couldn’t afford to get their hair done for the beginning of school, my mother would do their hair for free.

The 2013 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston represent a diverse group of women who have blazed trails in their own right. Each woman is unique and has something special to offer her community. These women are not just accepting an award, but they are being recognized for the considerable amount of work they do in their communities. Our honorees have battled stereotypes, overIt’s that type of positive influence my mother – as well as others come obstacles, and put in countless hours of work. – bestowed upon their communities. There are so many influential d-mars.com is excited to have the opportunity to celebrate these women who are leading by example, and d-mars.com is proud to extraordinary and influential women – from all walks of life and honor them. all ethnicities. Kevin “Brother D-MARS” Davis Senior Vice President d-mars.com

While it may just seem like business as usual for our honorees, every day they are inspiring the young girls following in their footsteps. These women are mentors and helping to encourage a new generation of leaders. Ms. Kimberly Floyd Vice President d-mars.com

Staff: Angelle Gillum, Johnny Davis, Rockie Hayden, Keith J. Davis Jr., Kevin Wright, Yong Kwon, Valerie Jones, Eugenie Doualla, Andrea Hennekes, Booker T. “Pops D-MARS” Davis, Jr., Louis “LC” Poullard Photographers: Tony Gaines, Grady Carter Contact d-mars.com 7322 Southwest Frwy., Suite 805 | Houston, TX 77074 | Phone: (713) 272.9511 | Fax: (713) 272.6364 Email Us: contact@d-mars.com | Web: www.d-mars.com 2

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TABLE OF CONTENTS ICONS Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.... 18th Congressional District of Texas.................................................................................................................................. 6 Donna Cole.......................................... President & CEO, Cole Chemical & Distributing, Inc.......................................................................................................... 7 Dr. Patricia Brock.................................. Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Medical Bridges................................................................................................................ 8

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston Nargis Ahmed...................................... Director, Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas................................................................................................................. 11 Maria Moncada Alaoui......................... General Manager, Momentum BMW West...................................................................................................................... 12 State Rep Carol Alvarado..................... Texas House District 145................................................................................................................................................. 13 Rhonda C. Arnold................................. Director of Community Relations, Houston Airport System.............................................................................................. 14 Lisa Ashley........................................... Director, Corporate Communications, Port of Houston Authority..................................................................................... 16 Karen Becerra...................................... Chief Operations Officer/Principal, The Principle Partnering Group, LLC.......................................................................... 17 Dr. Heather Brown................................ Owner & Orthodontist, Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics................................................................................................. 18 Madeline Burillo, Ed.D.......................... Associate Vice Chancellor, Houston Community College................................................................................................. 20 Helen Callier........................................ President, Bradlink, LLC................................................................................................................................................... 22 Emelda Douglas................................... SVP and Chief Development Officer, Neighborhood Centers, Inc..................................................................................... 24 Wilma J. Evans..................................... President, North Houston Frontiers Club & Managing Partner, DeMand Staffing & Consulting, LLC............................... 26 Christina Robinson Grochett................ Chief Strategist for Innovation and Research, Lone Star College..................................................................................... 27 Dr. Irishea Hilliard................................. COO & Pastor, New Light Christian Center Church.......................................................................................................... 28 Carla Lane............................................ President & CEO, Lane Staffing........................................................................................................................................ 30 Shara McClure..................................... Vice President Network Management, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas.................................................................... 32 Catherine Mitchell............................... COO, Amerigroup............................................................................................................................................................ 35 Marlene Petry, RN, MSN....................... SVP, GP Industrial Contractors, Inc................................................................................................................................... 36 Eva Pickens.......................................... Associate Vice President, University Advancement - Communications & Marketing - Texas Southern University............ 39 Vanessa Reed....................................... Assistant Vice President, South Texas CRA Manager Corporate Public Affairs & Community Reinvestment, Comerica Bank.................. 41 Susan Repka........................................ Executive Director, Women Contractors Association........................................................................................................ 42 Dr. Jonita Wallace Reynolds ................. Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Coast Community Services Association (GCCSA)................................................................ 45 Kandice Rose....................................... Founder, Pretty Girls with Cancer.................................................................................................................................... 48 Jamilah Shami...................................... Project Manager, Farouk Systems, Inc.............................................................................................................................. 49 Melinda Spaulding............................... Anchor, Fox 26 KRIV-TV................................................................................................................................................... 50 Dr. Angela Sturm.................................. acial Plastic Surgeon, Facial Plastic Surgery Associates................................................................................................... 51 Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade, BS, RN, BSN, DDS.. Cosmetic and Neuromuscular Dentist, Cosmetic Dental Texas........................................................................................ 52 Cynthia Wenz....................................... President & CEO, The Source for Women......................................................................................................................... 54 Nicole C. West...................................... President, NCA Investigations......................................................................................................................................... 56 Dr. Anjanette Wyatt.............................. Pharmacy Manager, President & CEO, Clinical Care Pharmacy, LLC................................................................................. 58 Judge Mimi Yam................................... United States Immigration Court..................................................................................................................................... 61

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston 5

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee 1 8 t h Congressional Distric t of Te x a s

Homeland Security, and Judiciary. She is a leader in support of enhanced technology, better intelligence, increased airplane cargo inspections, increased security for railroads, and implementation of the 9/11 Commission report. She currently serves as the Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee for Border and Maritime Security and is also a senior Member of the House Judiciary Committee. She was the lead sponsor of the Bullying Prevention and Intervention Act of 2011, led the fight for passage of the Fair Sentencing Act, authored several immigration bills – such as H.R. 750 – which sets forth a comprehensive and humane solution to immigration reform, introduced legislation to enhance federal enforcement of hate crimes with H.R. 254, and played a significant role in the renewal and reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act. Additionally, she contributed an amendment to the NASA reauthorization bill that ensures equal access for minority and economically disadvantaged students to NASA’s education programs and launched the Dr. Mae C. Jemison Grant Program to work with institutions serving minorities to bring more women of color in the field of space and aeronautics.

member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Considered by many as the “Voice of ongresswoman Sheila Jackson Reason,” she is dedicated to upholding the Lee is an influential and forceful voice in Constitutional rights of all people. Washington, D.C., serving the 18th Congressional District of Texas, centered in During Rep. Jackson Lee’s tenure in ConHouston – the energy capital of the world. gress, she has served on various committees Rep. Jackson Lee is in her tenth term as a including the Committee on Foreign Affairs, 6

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Rep. Jackson Lee earned a Bachelor in Arts in Political Science from Yale University with honors, followed by a J.D. from the University of Virginia Law School. She is married to Dr. Elwyn Lee, who is an Administrator at the University of Houston. She has two children: Jason Lee, a graduate of Harvard University, and Erica Lee, a graduate of Duke University and a member of the Harris County School Board in Houston.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Donna Fujimoto Cole P resident & C EO, C o l e C hem i cal & D istributing, I nc .

onna Fujimoto Cole founded Cole Chemical more than 32 years ago at the age of 27, divorced with a four-year-old daughter with $5,000 from savings. In 2012, the company’s sales were in excess of $78 million providing chemicals and chemical supply chain management to a wide range of customers and industries. Top customers include: BP, ConocoPhillips, Bayer, ExxonMobil, Lockheed Martin, Procter & Gamble, Shell, Total and Toyota. Cole Chemical is ranked 134 in chemical distributors in the World by ICIS magazine. Cole Chemical has received numerous quality awards from Fortune 500 and the Small Business Administration. Cole was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009 by Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Junior Achievement as a Laureate. In 2010, she was recognized as a Breakfast of Champions by the Harris County Education Department, one of the Most Influential Women in Houston by Houston Woman Magazine (2010), American Leadership Forum Joseph Jaworski Leadership Award (2012) and recognized as a 2013 Whose Who in Asian American Communities in the United States. Cole is a long time advocate for business, the chemical industry, women and minorities in business and education for youth. Cole has served on many national, regional, advisory boards and currently serves on the Center for Asian Pacific American Women Board, Advisory Board of Helping a Hero, St. Thomas University, Rice University Chao Center for Asian Studies, The Houston Minority Supplier Development Council and

recently served on the Houston Forensic Sci- bot Challenge, Dismantling the Cradle to ence Center. Prison Pipeline, and Building a Leadership She also served on President George H. Pipeline for Asian Women, Young ProfesBush President’s Export Council from 1991- sionals, Women, and Hispanic Boy and Girl 1993. Cole attended Pan American Univer- Scout Initiative. sity, Southwest Texas Junior College and The Amos Tuck School of Business Minority Business Executive Program and graduated from Manpower Business Training Institute of Technology.

Some of her accolades include: an Asian Pacific American Women’s Leadership Institute Fellow in 1996, the Center for Houston’s Future class of 2005, a Japanese American Leadership Delegate in 2006, Asian LeadHer community service includes: Building a ership Delegation to Israel in 2007 by the Pipeline for the Sciences, The All Earth Eco- Jewish American Committee, and American Leadership Forum Class of XXV. TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dr. Patricia Brock Fo u nder & C h airman Emeritu s, M e dica l B r idge s Since its inception, Medical Bridges has served more than 80 countries, distributed close to $60 million dollars worth of medical supplies and equipment by hand-held shipments and ocean freight containers to mission teams, individuals, clinics, and hospitals in the developing world serving in low resource settings. Dr. Brock has had a lifelong interest in the global health issues, from her early readings about the Asian and African missionaries to a stent at studying about international public health matters at The UT School of Public Health. She has been actively involved her church’s mission committee, and other nonprofit endeavors over the years, including Aid Sudan, House of Charity, and the Pan African Academy of Christian Surgeons .

r. Patricia Brock: wife, mother, physician and global health advocate is the founder of Medical Bridges, a nonprofit group that donates surplus medical supplies to developing countries. It was founded in 1997. She was born and raised in Madison, Ind. and studied nursing and graduated magna cum laude from Ball State University. After four years in the nursing profession, Dr. Brock returned to school to finish her premed requirements. Dr. Brock graduated from The University of Louisville School Of Medicine in 1983 and began her surgical training at Parkland Hospital in Dallas at 8

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Dr. Brock returned to the practice of medicine working in the ER of Ben Taub Hospital for six years and now serves as Assistant Professor at the MD Anderson Cancer CentThe University of Texas program and comer working in their very busy and dynamic pleted her training at the UT Health SciER. ences Center in San Antonio. After a 10year career as a general surgeon and four She served as Chairman of the Board of children later, Dr. Brock turned her energies Medical Bridges for 15 years and now conto raising her growing family. It was during tinues to be actively involved as Chairman this hiatus that the idea for Medical Bridges Emeritus. was born. After returning from a trip to El Her latest involvement has been cofounding Salvador, where she witnessed an incredible the Houston Global Health Collaborative, lack of basic medical supplies, Dr. Brock was which seeks to unite and connect individudetermined to address this shortage all too als, groups and member institutions of the prevalent in the developing world. Armed Texas Medical Center, along with those of with the knowledge that an estimated $9 the greater Houston area to address the billion in medical surplus is produced annu- global health challenges of our time through ally in the United States, Dr. Brock founded commitment to global health education, reMedical Bridges. search and service.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Nargis Ahmed Dir e ct o r, M us lim De m o cra t ic C a ucus o f Te xas

argis Ahmed was born in Karachi, Pakistan. She knew from a young age that she wanted to make a positive change in the lives of others. While in Pakistan, Ahmed was actively involved in helping to better her community. She worked as a consular for battered women for several different social service organizations. Ahmed attended Saint Joseph’s College in Pakistan. She moved to Houston in 1974 after being accepted into a beauty school, Bellaire Beauty College. Ahmed has been a resident of Houston now for almost 40 years. While in Houston, Ahmed continued with her philanthropic efforts, remaining devoted to helping her community through positions in various organizations. Ahmed has served as the director for the Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas for one and a half years and a delegate for Fort Bend County for one and a half years. She has held several positions with the Pakistan Chamber of Commerce. These include one year as vice president of administration, one year as vice president of seminars workshop, and one year as vice president liaison. She also worked privately for her church in Houston, The Islamic Education Center. Ahmed has worked on and off with the Pakistan American Association of Greater Houston for the past eight years, holding several different positions. She held the positions of chair of the women’s committee for two years and joint secretary for two years. Ahmed is happily married and the mother of three children, all born and raised in Houston.

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Maria Moncada Alaoui

G e neral Ma n ager, Momentu m B M W We s t by Karen McKemie, the first female boss she ever had, who is tenacious and a big supporter. Moncada Alaoui is also inspired by Jeff Dyke, Chief Operations Officer for Sonic Automotive. “Sonic Automotive is a very progressive company. In a predominantly male dominated industry, Jeff Dyke has proven that he is more concerned about hiring the right person that can achieve results rather than fitting a stereotype,” Moncada Alaoui said.

aria Moncada Alaoui is the general manager for Momentum BMW West on the Katy Freeway. She’s been in the automotive industry for more than 20 years and held several positions, working her way up from administration to sales to management. Moncada Alaoui has been with Momentum BMW West for almost seven years and has proudly served as general manager for the past four years. Moncada Alaoui attended Dealer Academy, which prepared her to become a dealer operator. In this position, she oversees all sales operations, and six departments, which include service, two collision centers and an accounting team. She is responsible for customer and associate satisfaction as well as making sure the company is not only profitable but reaches its full potential. Moncada Alaoui’s store was most recently

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Moncada Alaoui is passionate about giving back to the Houston community. She is involved with Women Driving Business, The Houston West Chamber of Commerce, as well as a sponsor for the Texas Exes, but what is near and dear to her heart are children in need and for the sixth year in the honored by being named a Center of Excelrow she is contributing to Houston Chillence Dealership, a recognition only given to dren’s Charity and has helped them raise the top 10% of BMW stores in the world. more than $300,000. Momentum BMW West has been named the #1 Certified Pre-Owned Dealership in North Moncada Alaoui is married to Omar, whom America four years in a row and is on track she credits for being her strongest supporter and encourager. She has an amazing stepfor the fifth consecutive year. son, Joseph. When she’s not working, she Moncada Alaoui is influenced by numerous enjoys spending time with her family – goindividuals. From a personal perspective, ing on long road trips in style with The Ultishe is influenced by her parents because mate Driving Machine. She is a member of they led a great example – through their St. John Vianney Catholic Church. standard of integrity, hard work and high morals, Moncada Alaoui has learned what A quote Moncada Alaoui remembers her it takes to be an effective leader and good mentor using and one she still refers to businesswoman. From a business perspec- today is “Excuses are no more than an tive, Moncada Alaoui is influenced by a cou- admission to failure.” Essentially it means, ple of mentors she has met throughout her whenever we begin to make excuses for business career, one being Rick Ford, who why something didn’t work, we’ve already is a divisional president for several deal- admitted defeat. Instead, we should use our erships. She is inspired by his hard work, energy to focus on what it takes to make it dedication and commitment to excellence. happen. Additionally, Moncada Alaoui is influenced

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

State Rep. Carol Alvarado

Te x a s Ho use Dis t r i c t 1 4 5 of sugary drinks in public schools, increase career and technology education funding, and freeze tuition at public colleges and universities. She also joint authored a bill that would have eliminated secondhand smoke in most public workplaces. While on Houston City Council, Rep. Alvarado sponsored a similar law that earned unanimous approval among her colleagues. Rep. Alvarado was recently appointed CoChair of the Transparency in State Agency Operations committee, and serves as the Vice-Chair of the Urban Affairs committee, and as a member of the influential House Calendars and Special Purpose Districts committees. Rev. Alvarado’s commitment to public service extends well beyond elected office. She is actively involved in several charitable endeavors, including collecting women’s clothing for Dress for Success, raising money to improve Houston’s parks, and traveling across Texas on a bicycle with the Rise Across Texas Challenge, an 850-mile trek to awareness for the Rise Schools, which serve children with developmental disabilities. She currently serves as a board member for the Sunshine Kids Foundation, Unity Bank and the Houston Club.

tate Representative Carol Alvarado is a native Houstonian and a lifetime resident of Houston’s East End. Before being elected to the State House she served on the Houston City Council from 2002-2008

and as Mayor ProTem from 2004-2006. Rep. Alvarado is a tireless fighter for policies that focus on strengthening overall quality of life. She has passed or authored bills that require structured physical activity for PreK students in schools all day, limit the use

Rev. Alvarado is a sole proprietor for CA Consulting and previously worked for Houston Mayor Lee P. Brown, as a consultant in economic and community development for East End neighborhoods, and for Congressman Gene Green. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a Master’s in Business Administration from The University of Houston.

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Rhonda C. Arnold D ir ector of Commu nity Relatio ns, Ho us t o n Air po r t S yst e m Marshall School of Law in Houston. Arnold is married to Bruce Arnold and they have one pet-child: a cocker spaniel named Bentley. This International Leadership recipient was also part of the Corporate Brass in the 2013 Edition of Who’s Who in Black Houston. She works enthusiastically on several community and civic organizations, including the Lake Houston Chamber of Commerce, Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Corporate Community Relations Council, American Association of Blacks in Energy, Women in Government (DC) and the past chair of the Airport Minority Advisory Council Economic Forum. She is a member of the Links Incorporated, Port City Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Continental Societies Incorporated, Houston Metropolitan Chapter.

honda C. Arnold is the Director of Community Relations for the Houston Airport System and is a dedicated and compassionate civic leader. Arnold promotes Houston Airports and their economic importance to the region by maintaining positive, collaborative relationships with the business community, area chambers of commerce, local government, economic development agencies and community organizations with emphasis on Diversity and Inclusion. Prior to joining the Houston Airport System, Arnold held management positions in the areas of law, campaign financing, fundrais-

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Arnold enjoys writing and is an avid lover of various types of music. She sings and is in the process of writing a book about life lessons which she plans on getting published ing, government relations and public affairs in the future. in Texas, Pennsylvania, Louisiana and Wash- The person who has influenced Arnold the ington, DC. Arnold has also developed chal- most is her late father, Johnny Crawford. lenging public affairs strategies for national He always helped others and if he wasn’t and international clients, educated and at church or at home, he was at work. She transitioned bilingual students, managed has the highest admiration for him. Arnold’s immigration for a Fortune 500 corporation greatest female influence is her mother Aland advised corporate clients on public and meta Crawford because of her elegance, ingovernment public affairs issues, third party tellect, and grace. coalitions, and communication strategies in A quote Arnold uses daily at work is by the energy sector. Thomas Carlyle: “No pressure, no diaA native of Houston, Texas, Arnold earned monds.” For her, the quote means in life, in her Bachelor of Arts from the University order for you to achieve great things, someof North Texas in Denton, Texas. She also times you have to go through tough times earned a Juris Doctorate (JD) from Thurgood to get there.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Lisa Ashley D ir ector, C orporate Commu nic at io ns, Po r t o f Ho ust o n Aut ho r it y

isa Ashley is Director of Corporate Communications for the Port of Houston Authority. She is responsible for developing and managing internal and external communications. This includes corporate events, issues and crisis communications management, editorial, public awareness strategies and campaigns for the Port Authority. Ms. Ashley also serves as a spokesperson for the organization. A native Houstonian, Ms. Ashley earned a Bachelors of Arts in Speech Communications from Texas Southern University. She is a member of American Association of Port Authorities and serves as second Vice-Chair of its Public Relations Committee. Ms. Ashley is also a member of the Houston Association of Black Journalists, NAACP Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

and Houston CHARMS. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Prior to joining the Port Authority in 2007, Ms. Ashley had a successful 17-year career at Fox 26 KRIV-TV/My 20 KTXH-TV and was its Community Affairs Director.

The Port of Houston Authority is the governmental sponsor of the Port of Houston. Ms. Ashley is also responsible for promoting its community stewardship, business success and positive community impact. These campaign initiatives have resulted in multiple As Director of Corporate Communications awards. for the Port of Houston Authority, Ms. Ashley As Community Affairs Director for KRIVis responsible for the creation and delivery TV FOX 26/My 20 KTXH-TV Houston, Ms. of comprehensive communications plans, Ashley developed and maintained strong mobilizing and prioritizing messaging using relationships with community leaders. Ada variety of tactics to promote the Port of ditionally, Ms. Ashley served as Executive Houston and the Port of Houston Authority. Producer of two weekly half-hour public afThe port contributes to the creation of more fairs programs and special event campaigns. than one million jobs in Texas and more She was Coordinator of the Houston-area than 2.1 million jobs nationwide, generating Broadcasters Joint Ascertainment Sessions. an economic impact of more than $178.5 Ms. Ashley is a member of Westbury Church billion to the state of Texas and $499 billion of Christ and is active in their Secret Sisters of economic activity to the nation. program.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Karen Becerra Chi ef Ope rations Offic er/P r incipa l, The Pr inciple Pa r t ne r ing G ro u p, LLC to Hispanic businesses, community and neighborhood organizations in the greater Houston area and has led educational institutions such as San Jacinto Community College and Houston Community College to develop strong relationships with the business community. Becerra enjoys a national presence in several organizations – including being an inductee in the Hall of Fame for Hispanic Women in Leadership and Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation, and a recipient of the Humanitarian of the Year Award from the National Hispanic Professional Organization in 2006. Some of the boards she currently serves on include:

• Government Procurement Connections • National Association of Minority Contractors • TalentoBilingue de Houston (TBH) • Covenant Capital Community Development • Latino Professional Business Network • Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau

aren Becerra is the co-founder and COO of the Principle Partnering Group, LLC. She leads and directs the firm’s activities in all aspects of business development, and program planning and implementation. The firm is a premiere management consulting organization with an unsurpassed track record in helping companies of all sizes establish, manage, and maintain successful business-to-business collaborations. The firm offers objective solutions, effective project management, and strategic support services across all business segments. Becerra has more than 35 years of ex-

Her past board appointments include: perience in business development, com• Tejano Center for Community Concerns munity relations and outreach. She has been recognized by Mayor Annise Parker • Hispanic Women in Leadership through her appointments to chair the • Comerciantes Latinos de Houston Mayor’s Transition Planning Committee for Transportation and the Hispanic Ad• Houston Business Council visory Board. In addition, she is a Senior • Houston-Galveston Area Council of Fellow in the American Leadership Forum Class XVI, and has worked with Mayors Economic Development Bob Lanier, Lee P. Brown, and Bill White. Steve Jobs of Apple once said “If today Becerra is as an advocate for the His- were the last day of my life, would I want panic community and is highly skilled at to do what I am about to do today?” Kadevelopment of student internship/work- ren’s response is “YES, when I can get force programs. She achieved a 90% up every morning and look myself in the retention rate in her programs in which mirror and know that I have been ethical more than 900 students have benefited. and true with all I have done, then I know She is considered a specialist in outreach I have done the right thing.” TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dr. Heather Brown

O r t hodonti st & Own er, Dr. H ea t he r B r o w n Or t ho do nt ics Award and has been lauded as one of The Top 25 Women of Houston. Dr. Brown has made appearances on Great Day Houston, Check This Out Houston, and KHOU Channel 11 News. She has been featured in the Houston Chronicle, Health and Fitness Magazine, Seventeen Magazine, Rolling Out Magazine, Who’s Who In Black Houston and d-mars.com publications. Her exceptional clinical skills have landed her in the superior 3% of Invisalign Practitioners in the United States as an Invisalign Elite Provider. Dr. Brown is not a typical orthodontist. Her crowning achievement was when she founded and established the Houston Chapter of the Smile For A Lifetime Foundation, a nonprofit, charitable organization that provides free orthodontic services to disadvantaged children.The chapter has donated more than $78,000 in orthodontic services. Dr. Brown has partnered with the Houston Texans to form a “Play It Safe” Campaign where she and former NFL Players visit local schools to educate student athletes about mouthguard safety. Dr. Brown also offers a summer internship program where she mentors young students interested in pursuing a career in dentistry.

r. Heather Brown is a graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from Meharry Medical College and her specialist certificate in Orthodontics at Howard University where she graduated as Valedictorian of her class. 18

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Considered one of Houston’s most prominent orthodontists, Dr. Brown’s community achievements have not gone unrecognized. She is the recipient of the 100 Black Men 2013 Phenomenal Woman of The Year Award and was named one of the 25 Most Beautiful Houstonians by HTexas Magazine. Dr. Brown received the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce 2012 Pinnacle

Dr. Brown remains active in several professional organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She also serves as a Board of Director for the Houston Texans YMCA. Dr. Brown is married to former NFL player Eric Brown. The couple has two sons, Jaxon and Jace. Heather Brown, D.D.S. Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics 2636 South Loop West, Suite 100 Houston, TX 77054 713 665-4455 www.drheatherbrown.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Madeline Burillo, Ed. D.

A s s o ci ate Vi c e Chan c ellor, H ous t o n C o m m unit y C o lle ge es Future Leaders Institute, Class of 2005, HCC Leadership Excellence Institute Class 2009, and the 2013 American Council in Education Leadership Program. Dr. Burillo was honored in 2001 with the Hispanic Women in Leadership Award for outstanding service in education. In 2010, she was honored as one of the Houston Community College Eagle Award recipients for Administrative Leadership. In the past 25 years, Dr. Burillo has held several administrative positions in higher education institutions in the areas of student services, college operations, workforce education, continuing education, corporate training, and distance education. Dr. Burillo was born in New York, New York to Pedro Burillo and Victoria Lopez. Mr. Burillo, an emigrant from Spain, and Victoria Lopez, an American immigrant from Puerto Rico, met in New York City and eventually moved and raised their family in the island. The younger of two daughters, Dr. Burillo became a first generation college graduate, which set the pathway for the next family generation.

s the Associate Vice Chancellor of Workforce Instruction, Dr. Madeline Burillo oversees all workforce instruction for Houston Community College. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from The University of Puerto Rico, a Master’s in Organizational

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Management from The University of Phoenix, and a Doctorate in Education in Educational Leadership from Sam Houston State University. In addition, she is a graduate of Leadership North Houston Class of 1996, Leadership Houston Class XXIII (2005), the American Association of Community Colleg-

Dr. Burillo and her life partner have three daughters: Alysa, Alayne and Aly and are residents of Katy. Dr. Burillo is passionate about education and believes it is the key in providing individuals with the knowledge, skills and competencies to transcend into economic prosperity, achieve sustainable wages and have the ability to participate effectively in society. Her beliefs are summarized in one of her key statements: “Transforming one life through education transforms families, future generations and our community.”

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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Helen Callier

P r e si dent, Bradlin k, L L C Callier knows firsthand how to steer and sustain a successful small business over the multimillion dollar revenue threshold. From flying high working in GE’s Jack Welch organization to teetering on the brink of failure as a small business owner to now recognized as a small business success story, Callier, with more than 10 years in business, has made a business impact in the Houston area. Headquartered in Kingwood, Texas, Callier has led Bradlink to be recognized as a small business success story and has received several business community awards. • 2013 – Turner Construction Business Excellence Award • 2012 – Featured as METRO Small Business Success Story • 2011 – Houston Minority Supplier Diversity Council (E-10) Minority Business of Excellence Bradlink LLC Web: www.bradlinkllc.com Tel: 281.361.5809 Email: info@bradlinkllc.com Connect: @BradlinkLLC

• 2011 – Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Advocate of the Year by Houston Airport System • 2010 – Outstanding MWBE Professional Services Firm by City of Houston

Belt, a bestselling author of “Your Money is in the Follow-up” and host of a top-ranked Callier is branded as a ‘giver’ and mentors elen Callier is the president of blog radio show (www.SmallBusinessSuc- many small businesses. Callier has volunBradlink LLC, a go-to Technical Services Firm cessTalk.com). teered for more than seven years for Govthat provides Program Management, Conernment Procurement Connections (GPC), struction Management, Facilities Design, Callier began her career in Corporate Amera nonprofit organization that helps small, BIM, and Operations/Maintenance services ica working for some of the top Fortune minority, women and Veteran-owned busiprimarily in the public sector. Some of Bra- 500 Petrochemical companies in the world. nesses to make connections with governdlink’s clients include the Houston Airport While serving as an Executive Staff Level ment agencies. Callier served as chair of System, AECOM, TDIndustries, XEROX, and Technical Manager of a division of GE Plastics, Callier traveled extensively throughout GPC in 2012 and 2013. She is active in sevCH2MHill. North America, including Canada, Mexico eral industry associations including AMAC, Callier has Bachelor of Science in Mechaniand Central America and worked on South APTA, COMTO and WTS. cal Engineering. She is a Six Sigma Black American projects. 22

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Emelda Douglas S VP a n d C h i e f D e v e l o p me n t O f f i c e r, Neighbo rho o d C enters, Inc.

melda Douglas is a veteran leader in the local philanthropic community. Her passion is to ensure that young people have the resources, education and connection to build better lives for themselves and their families. She is living her dream at the crossroads of this passion and her profession as a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). Douglas is Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer of Houston’s largest nonprofit organization: Neighborhood Centers Inc. (www.neighborhood-centers. org) She informs charitable giving decisions of high-net worth individuals, corporations and private foundations. These investments are allocated strategically to deserving projects, including early childhood education initiatives, after-school youth programs, senior citizen health initiatives and financial literacy classes at sites such as Ripley House in east Houston, Baker-Ripley Neighborhood Center in southwest Houston and Harbach-Ripley Community Center near Sunnyside, as well as 67 other service sites ment for the Greater Houston Community across southeast Texas. Foundation and facilitated the distribution Douglas and her professional staff also or- of annual grants of more than $34 million ganize the annual TXU Energy Houston Tur- to local charities. The previous decade of her key Trot, a 10K run on Thanksgiving morning career was in the corporate sector in busiwith more than 12,000 participants. Pro- ness development for a natural gas liquids ceeds from the event support local senior pipeline company. citizens programs, including an Alzheimer’s Douglas is most influenced by her parents, day care center. She is always humbled by who were her heroes: the late Cleopatra such a large turnout of committed people and Joseph Robinson. Their lives exempliwho show up at dawn on this holiday to be fied the ideals of faith, family, and a good a part of a movement that transforms lives work ethic. In her spare time, Douglas enfor good. joys international travel, reading romance Prior to joining Neighborhood Centers, she novels, and having long dinners with family was Vice President of Community Invest- and friends. 24

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Douglas holds a BBA in accounting from Stephen F. State University. She sits on numerous local nonprofit boards and advisory councils. She is married to Roy Douglas and they are the proud parents of Alicia and Alexander. One of Douglas’ favorite quotes is “A community is like a forest. When you are outside it seems dense. When you are inside, you see that every tree has its place.” – African Proverb You can reach Emelda Douglas at edouglas@neighborhood-centers.org

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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Wilma J. Evans Pr eside nt, N orth Ho u s t o n Fr o n t i e r s Cl u b & M anaging Par t ner, DeM and St af f ing & Co ns u l tin g, LLC team of volunteers committed to continuing the work and celebrating the life and journey of Martin Luther King, Jr. For the past 26 years, North Houston Frontiers Club has raised more than $1 million for scholarships supporting 360 deserving minority children in the Greater Houston area. In 2009, Evans became the first female Vice Chair to be elected at the National Convention of Frontiers International in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Three years later in 2012, she was elected to become the first Chairwoman for Frontiers International, Inc., which is a nonprofit community service organization founded in Columbus, Ohio in 1936 by Nimrod B. Allen. As Chairwoman, she leads the national effort of the Frontiers Club. This requires a sacrifice of time and commitment to a rigorous travel and meeting schedule. Special Recognitions: • Board of Directors – Motivating and Empowering Women to Excel, Inc. • Frontiers International Service Award • Chaired Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast • Chaired National Convention of Frontiers International, Inc.

ilma Evans moved to Houston from San Antonio, Texas and began her career with Arthur Andersen & Co. and Langham Petroleum Corporation. She retired in 2004 from the North Forest ISD after a 22-year career. She cofounded in 2009 and presently serves as the Managing Partner of DeMand Staffing and Consulting, LLC. 26

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Evans’ vision of a better world is reflected in her life works and leadership positions in the Houston community. She is unrelenting in her commitment to creating and expanding avenues of success for inner-city youth. As a member of Ladies of Class, she has held leadership positions in the North Houston Frontiers Club, Inc. Currently, as president of North Houston Frontiers Club, Evans leads a

• Served as District Director for Frontiers International, Inc. Wilma and her husband Sidney Evans, Sr. are the proud parents of two sons and three daughters and eight grandchildren. The couple is members of The Luke under leadership of Timothy W. Sloan, Sr. Pastor, located in Humble, Texas.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Christina Robinson Grochett C h i e f S t ra t e g ist f o r Inno vati o n and Research, Lo ne Sta r College

hristina Robinson Grochett currently serves as Chief Strategist for Innovation and Research at Lone Star College – University Park. Grochett spearheads the expansion of innovative ideas across the Lone Star College system and engages cross-functional teams in delivering strategic outcomes. Grochett is a champion of higher learning and was honored as one of the Top Ten Most Influential Women in 2010 by Houston Woman Magazine and 2008 Top

Ten Business Woman in the country by the American Business Women’s Association. Most recently, she was selected from across the nation as the 2011 Cambridge Who’s Who in Education VIP. In 2008, Grochett co-authored a book for women called The Power of Ten: Extraordinary Stories of Ten Top Business Women. The book is featured on Amazon.com. Grochett has monthly articles published in D-Mars journal.

Flexibility and Innovation and the Best Places to Work honor from the Houston Business Journal. Her commitment to further educating the community was recognized, landing her the 2010 Good Neighbor Award for Spring Branch ISD and 2011 Houston A+ Challenge Award - Raising Expectations and Student Achievement in Houston public schools. Grochett holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Texas A & M UniUnder Grochett’s leadership, the University versity and a Masters of Arts in Organizaof Phoenix was a four-time winner of both tional Management from the University of the Alfred P. Sloan Award for Workplace Phoenix. TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

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Dr. Irishea Hilliard CO O & Pa st o r, N e w L ight C hr is t ia n C e nt e r C h u r c h of New Light Christian Center Church, in addition to her multiple titles of the Overseer of the Children’s Ministry (Dreamers), Youth Ministry & Teen Ministry (OuRlife). Pastor Irishea counsels with parents/teens, giving them direction in working through challenges. Although Pastor Irishea is over the entire NuGen Ministry, her heart is with “OuRlife” Youth ministry. Pastor Irishea was given the assignment of Spiritual Encounter, which began in 2000, and has had astounding growth each year. It is the most incredible move of God to reach this generation in a mighty way. This event is huge; churches from across America make plans each year to make sure their teens are in attendance. In 2011, she passed the baton of this great conference to her sister, but she will continue to give oversight and input. Pastor Irishea is the on-site Pastor of the west location, where the worship style is a more radical approach versus the traditional style of worship. Pastor Irishea recently became Dr. Irishea Hilliard after receiving her Doctorate in Urban Youth Ministry due to the tireless hours she spent counseling and educating youth around the world.

God has abundantly blessed Dr. Irishea with “Double Grace,” in an incredible way. She has the anointing of her father and the power of her mother; blended together, she is a gift to the body of Christ. Dr. Irishea is leading this new generation into the future with the Word of God. Dr. Irishea Hilliard, “A Houston State University and majoring in Woman of Purpose Fulfilling Gods Plan for accounting, Pastor Hilliard decided to stop Her Life”. pursuing her dream for her life and fulfill her true purpose and join her parents in ministry She is an awesome mother with two sons, Ivan Harrison and Jonathan Sean-Michael. by carrying out the ministry vision.

astor Irishea Hilliard, daughter of Bishop I.V. and Pastor Bridget Hilliard was born on June 7, 1977 in Houston. She is definitely wise beyond her years. After attending The University of Oklahoma and Sam Pastor Irishea is the Chief Operating Officer

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Carla Lane

Pr e s ide nt & C E O, L a ne S t af f i n g

arla Lane is president and CEO of LaneStaffing, the largest minority woman owned employment solution provider in the southwest. Lane began working in the staffing industry while attending The University of Houston as an accounting student. In 1993, she became the first staff member of BestStaff Services, formally the largest minority owned staffing firm in the South. Lane was hired as senior vice president and Chief Operating Officer of DiverseStaff in 2003, where she was responsible for the company’s overall financial strategy and financial processes as well as branch operations in Houston. Lane purchased the brand name in 2007, and 30

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

tegic Teaming Award by Houston Minority Business Council for her work with “teaming” with other minority owned organizations to provide quality solutions to her clients. She also was awarded the Emerging Ten Award by the Houston Minority Business Council in 2008. The firm was named one of the Top 500 African American owned companies in the U.S. and one of the Top 100 Women owned firms in Texas by DiversityBusiness.com in 2009, 2010 and 2011. She also was awarded the 2009 Distinguished Alumni Award by The University of Houston. Lane was listed as one of 40 distinguished Houston area business leaders under 40 (40 under 40) by Houston Business Journal in 2009. Lane was named one of the 2010 Minority Achievers by the YMCA and the 2010 Vanguard Award by Texas Business Alliance. In 2011, she was inducted into the Greater Houston Black Chamber’s Hall of Fame and was honored by TWEF in 2013. since that time she has transformed its business strategy, adding new higher-margin business lines and increasing community involvement. In 2008, Lane expanded the service offerings and rebranded the firm “LaneStaffing.” Lane’s overall business strategy is “take care of the people and the bottom line will grow.” Under Lane’s leadership, LaneStaffing has expanded the footprint of the organization by 18 states and expanded its client base of Fortune 100 and 200 clients and has become a leader in government contracting.

In 2012, she became one of the first female members of Across the Track Pac, a political action committee comprised of the owners of Houston’s largest African American owned businesses. Lane is an advisory board member of the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce and a board member of the Texas Black Expo.

She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., National Presidents Organization, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, National Association of Female Executives, American Staffing Association, Texas AssoIn 2007, she received the Pinnacle award, ciation of Staffing, and the National Human by the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Resource Association. Commerce. Lane was named one of the Top Lane is married and the proud mother of a 25 Women in Houston by Rolling Out Magdynamic teenage daughter. azine in 2008 and awarded the 2008 Stra-

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Shara McClure

Vice Pr esi dent Network Man age m e nt , B lue C r o ss a nd B lue S hie ld o f Te xas

in health care financing related to managing the cost of medical services. McClure earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. She is a Senior Fellow with the American Leadership Forum Houston and a graduate of Leading Women Executives. She serves on the Houston Business Coalition on Health’s board and is on the Executive Leadership Team for the American Heart Association’s 2013 and 2014 Go Red for Women Campaigns. Her father, a retired high school principal, influenced McClure on leadership and her mother, a retired high school teacher, influenced McClure on the importance of communication and the value of physical fitness. “The greatest wealth is health.” -Virgil, an ancient Roman poet. This quote inspires McClure because she feels her best investment is daily exercise. She’s been running every morning with a good friend for 13 years. She is convinced this has helped her stay healthy.

McClure’s previous health care experience in the Houston area includes serving as director of provider contracting for two other local health plans, contract specialist for a Houstonarea independent physician association, and director of managed care services for Tenet Healthcare. She began her career as a systems analyst at Price Waterhouse.

hara McClure joined Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) in 2005. As vice president of network management, she is responsible for provider relations, provider contracting, and provider services statewide. Prior to her current position, McClure was divisional vice president of Houston McClure has 20 years of career experience Healthcare Operations at BCBSTX. 32

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

When she isn’t busy working, McClure enjoys golfing. She has been married for 22 years to Craig McClure, a Sales Director at Honeywell with a background in Chemical Engineering. Her daughter Melinda, 20, is studying Chemical Engineering at Texas A&M University. Her son Michael, 18, is a senior at Stephen F. Austin High School in Sugar Land. She is a member of Parkway United Methodist Church and plays golf at the Houstonian Golf and Country Club in Sugar Land.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

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Catherine Mitchell C hie f Ope ra t io ns Of f ice r, Am e r i g r o u p Prior to joining AMERIGROUP, Mitchell held various management level positions with the following health care industry leaders: MetLife Healthcare, Prudential Healthcare, AmeriHealth of Texas and Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. In her roles, she gained experience in both commercial and government programs and includes provider relations network development and contracting, health plan operations, outpatient clinic operations, strategic planning, finance and budgeting and marketing. In addition to an active professional career, Mitchell is also an active volunteer with a focus on education and health care; Girl Scout Troop leader for 11 years, held a three-year term with a leadership role in a Houston area School Board, held leadership roles (President, Vice President and Class Rep) in area school PTO. She was a part of the 2011-2012 Annual Giving Fund for Houston area high school Foundation. She also actively participates in Houston March of Dimes, Health Babies are Worth the Wait Advisory Board. Mitchell was most inspired by her mother as a child. Her mother survived breast cancer in her early 30s. Her grace and faith during that time left an everlasting impression on Mitchell. Her mother taught Mitchell to be independent and to believe in herself.

atherine Mitchell is the Chief Operations Officer (COO) for the AMERIGROUP Texas, Houston and Beaumont health plans. Mitchell is a native Houstonian who has a

Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Sam Houston State University and has been with AMERIGROUP for more than seven years. She has an extensive background in the Houston health care industry with more than 25 years of experience.

Mitchell is married to her husband Trey and has three children: her daughter graduated from Incarnate Word Academy and attends Texas A&M, a son who graduated from HSPVA and attends The University of South Dakota, and a son who is a senior at CyCreek High School.

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Marlene Petry, RN, MSN SVP, GP Industrial Con trac tors, Inc. Petry worked as an educator in the Intensive Care Unit at Memorial Hermann Hospital Southwest in Houston. She is currently retired from the nursing field to work more closely with her husband. In 2011, she and her husband were recognized by the mayor of Port Arthur for exceptional commitment and willingness to help others in their community. The most prestigious award she received was from the State of Texas House of Representatives in 2011, recognizing her many contributions for giving back to local communities. She and her husband also donated funds to create an endowment scholarship at Lamar State College in Port Arthur for nursing and engineering students. The most recent contribution is an endowment scholarship fund at Texas Southern University in Houston. Petry is a member of The Fort Bend Church in Sugar Land, Texas, in which she is the coordinator of activities for the youth in grades six through 12. She also serves as the leader of the women’s chorus. Her newest endeavor is volunteering for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Black Heritage Committee, where she serves on the decorating committee for their annual gala.

arlene Petry is Senior Vice President of GP Industrial Contractors, Inc., which she and her husband Roosevelt have owned since 1998. Petry received her Bach-

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Petry lives by the scripture from Philippians 4:13, which states “I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.” Because with Christ in her life, there is nothelor of Science in Nursing from The Univer- ing she cannot accomplish. sity of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in GalPetry loves baking, cooking and traveling veston and her Master of Science in Nursing with her husband, Roosevelt. They have from Regis University in Denver, Colo. where been married for 26 years and have three she was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau Boston Terriers: Lilo, Stitch and Mac. honor society. Before retiring from nursing,

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Eva K. Pickens As s o c i at e Vi c e P r es i d e n t , U n i ve r s i t y A d va n c e me nt - Communicat ions & M ar ke t ing - Te xas S out hern Uni v ersi ty

s the Associate Vice President for University Advancement, Eva Pickens is responsible for the image, branding, communications and marketing at Texas Southern University, the third largest Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the country.

Pickens has 25 years of overall professional experience in the Public and Media Relations Industry. As the Associate Vice President of Communications, Marketing and Branding, she is responsible for creating campaigns that heighten the awareness of Texas Southern University’s goals and mission, as well as highlighting its unique academic programs, achievements, accomplishments and scholarly research. To accomplish success for getting the university’s stories told, she pitches positive news stories to the media, writes strategic statements and position papers for targeted audiences, writes and disseminates press releases and public service announcements and serves as the spokesperson for the university. She cultivates relationships with media personnel for the purpose of explaining the unique responsibility of Texas Southern University – to nurture and graduate every student who attends the premiere urban serving institution in search of earning a degree. She directs integrated marketing and press events, positioning faculty to speak as experts during media interviews regarding topics that impact the community at large. Pickens also has experience working as a daily newspaper reporter at the Opelousas Daily World, a New York Times Subsidiary, in which she earned several writing awards

for hard news, features and special edition profiles. Pickens earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Southern University in three years and graduated as Summa Cum Laude. She earned a certificate of completion in Public Relations Management from Notre Dame University, and received the Women’s Achievement Award from the Governor of the State of Texas in 2010. She was also the recipient of the 2011 Who’s

Who in Houston Arrival Award and has been listed in Cambridge Who’s Who, a powerful networking resource that enables professionals to outshine their competition, in part through effective branding and marketing. She is a member of the Public Relations Society of America, the National Association of University Women and the Southern University Alumni Federation. TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

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Vanessa T. Reed Assistant Vice President, South Texas CRA Manager Corporate Public Affairs & Community Reinvestment, Comerica Bank

Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation (TWEF), FDIC’s Alliance for Economic Inclusion, and Houston Money Week. Honors and recognitions include Rolling Out’s Top 25 Most Influential Women in Houston in 2007 and Who’s Who in Black Houston (2007 – 2013), Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation 2011 Volunteer Award, Honey Brown Hope Foundation’s Citizens Improving America Award and HCCC 2011 Outstanding Board Member of the Year and 2012 YMCA Minority Achievers Award. Reed is a member of the National Association of Professional Women. Reed’s hobbies include spending time with family and friends, reading, gardening, traveling, and shopping. Reed is inspired by everyday women who are making a difference in their homes and community.

anessa Reed is Assistant Vice President and Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Manager of programs for Comerica Bank – South Texas. Reed is responsible for community development and involvement for Comerica Bank for Houston, San Antonio and Kerrville. Her priorities include affordable housing, education including financial literacy, small business development, job training and neighborhood revitalization programs for low-to-moderate income individuals and communities. Reed joined Comerica Bank in 2000. She earned five Comerica ROAR awards for her outstanding achievement and results as a credit specialist for the commercial real estate department.

Reed, also an active member of The Fort Bend Church, serves on the Accounting Prior to joining Comerica Bank, Reed Team. She is the wife of Kevin J. Reed and worked as the office accountant for The mother of Jordan Nicole and Parker James Ellis Roofing Company, the largest African Reed, ages 12 and 8, respectively. American owned roofing company in the southern sector. She also worked for the One of Reed’s favorite quotes is from the former First National Bank of Commerce in Bible and it speaks to fulfilling your purpose in life. Philippians 1:6 says "Being conNew Orleans. fident of this, that He who began a A graduate of University of New Orleans, good work in you [me] will carry it on Reed holds a bachelor’s degree in business to completion until the day of Jesus management with a concentration in acChrist.” In essence, I can be confident in counting. the work that He is doing in and through Her civic and community involvement in- me that it will be completed. This was emcludes serving on the board of directors powering for me. Whenever I am faced with for the Change Happens! and Greater an impossible challenge, I am reminded that Houston Black Chamber (formerly Houston He is really doing the work. I am just the Citizens Chamber of Commerce). She is ac- vessel. Success will come because there is tively involved in the community through no failure in Him. service and volunteer initiatives with the TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Susan Repka E x e cut i v e Di rec tor, Women Con t ra ct o r s As so cia t io n

usan Mitchell Repka has served as a champion for small businesses in the Houston area for more than 15 years. During this time she has had an opportunity to interview hundreds of women business owners about their successes, challenges and even their failures. The hours spent interviewing and brainstorming with entrepreneurs assisted Repka in providing advice and resources to startup businesses and those that are ready to take it to the next level. One resource is The Houston Galveston Women’s Business Center, founded in 2010 by the WBEA, while Repka served as the Executive Director. Repka found that entrepreneurs, who had a strong foundation at the startup phase of their businesses, were usually more successful. HGWBC provides the consultants and workshops for business owners to build that foundation. In 2013, Repka joined The Women Contractors Association (WCA), which is an advocate for women in the construction industry. WCA was instrumental in the reinstatement of WBE goals in the City of Houston construction contracts. WCA worked closely with Houston City Council and the Office of Business Opportunity for more than five years to ensure that women contractors had the opportunity to bid on all of the construction happening in Houston. currently serves on the GPC Planning ComRepka has been hearing impaired since mittee and is a strong supporter of Small 2008; however, has not let that handicap Business Saturday. stop her continued fight for small business- In 2010, Repka was named one of Houes. She believes that it is small businesses ston’s Most Influential Women by the Houthat are the backbone of our economy. She ston Woman Magazine and one of the Top 42

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

25 Women of Houston by rollingout.com. She is a graduate of Leadership Houston, Class XXXI. Repka currently resides in Hempstead, Texas. She is married with two grown children and six grandchildren.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dr. Jonita W. Reynolds Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Coast Community Services Association (GCCSA) Forum Fellow, a member of the Legislative Ladies Club, Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., Missouri City Links, Inc., NAACP, the Young Learners School National Advisory Board, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

r. Jonita Reynolds, affectionately called “DrJ”, is a native Houstonian and notable leader in the community. Upon graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of Houston in 1992, she began working for the Houston Independent School District as an English teacher at Sterling High School. In 1994, she was promoted to Magnet Coordinator at Sterling Aviation Sciences. During that time, she earned a Master’s in Administration and Supervision. In 2002, she was promoted to Director of Strategic Management & Quality Improvement for HISD, where she and her team worked on projects at the request of the Superintendent of Schools. In 2004, she earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Cultural Studies from the University of Houston.

Since December 2004, DrJ has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Gulf Coast Community Services Association, Inc. (GCCSA), the largest Community Action Agency in the State of Texas. With an annual budget of $20 million, 300 full-time employees, and a host of community partners, GCCSA has facilitated the economic independence for more than $1 million of Harris County’s most vulnerable populations. Although a CEO’s responsibilities are demanding, coupled with volunteering, facilitating workshops, mentoring, speaking at engagements and commencements, and serving as an emcee, DrJ is also Vice Chair of the City of Houston’s Department of Health & Human Services Foundation and 1st Vice President of the Texas Association of Community Action Agencies Executive Board. She is an American Leadership

This former Ms. Black World Houston Pageant winner has received numerous honors, including the American Red Cross’ Distinguished Humanitarian Award; YMCA’s Minority Achievement Award; The Houston Sun’s Woman of the Year-30 Points of Light Award; Rolling Out Magazine’s Inaugural Group of Houston’s 25 Most Influential Women; d-mars.com Community Hero Award, Extraordinary Events’ Mother of the Year Award; Texas Black Expo’s Outstanding Mentor of the Year Award; The Association of Black Social Workers’ Outstanding Community Service Award; Houston Style Magazine’s Top 5 Most Stylish Community Leaders in Houston; Top Ladies of Distinction’s Healing Hand of Houston Award; Holman Street Baptist Church’s Legacy & Leadership Award; featured in the Inaugural Edition of Who’s Who in Black Houston as one of Houston’s Most Influential African Americans; and named by d-mars Magazine as One of Houston’s Top Women in It to Win It. Reynolds is married to State Representative Ron Reynolds, Esq. Together, they are members of The Church Without Walls and parents of Lacey,10, and their 2 years-old twins, Reagan and Ron Reynolds, III. DrJ firmly believes that we are spiritual beings sharing this human experience; therefore, as long as she has breath, she vows to be deeply rooted, ever-growing, and forever serving. TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

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TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Kandice Ashlee Rose Fo u nder, Pretty Girls with Can ce r in Houston and surrounding areas. Rose was chosen to attend the White House for President Obama’s healthcare planning meeting on HIV/ AIDS education in the minority communities. In 2010, Rose was diagnosed for a third time with cancer and second time with lymphoma Hodgkin’s stage four and started treatment at M.D. Anderson. Rose and Lindsey (a high school friend recently diagnosed) formed a group called Pretty Girls with Cancer ™ after finding out both were diagnosed weeks apart. Rose began chemotherapy, and after eight months she received a stem cell transplant in 2011 in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Hospital. After returning from Philadelphia, Rose continued to get treatment at M.D. Anderson Hospital for transplant aftercare.

andice Rose was born and raised in Houston, and is the youngest child of Larry and Roslyn Rose. She has two sisters and one brother. She attended Langham Creek High school in Cy-Fair where she enjoyed playing sports. By the time Rose went to college at Huston –Tillotson University in Austin, she was already a two-time cancer survivor. Rose was 14 years old when she was diagnosed with Lymphoma Hodgkin’s (8 months after her grandmother passed from Non- Hodgkin’s). Her junior year she relapsed and was diagnosed with leukemia and needed a lifesaving bone marrow transplant. Rose’s sister was a perfect match and she received a transplant at Texas Children’s Hospital. After staying in the hospital for two months, she continued to 48

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

On October 11, 2012 Pretty Girls with Cancer ™ was launched – only months after Lindsey lost her battle with ovarian cancer. Since Lindsey’s passing, PGWC has been involved with “Be The Match™” program to find donors for cancer patients, American Cancer Society “Relay For Life ™”Survivorship Chair, “Totes of Love” for patients who receive cancer treatment in M.D Anderson, Texas Children’s and Methodist. Pretty Girls with Cancer™ has continued to assist cancer patients, survivors and caregivers with attend high school and went to Huston-Tillotson social services, referrals and coordinating events to raise funds for cancer patients. In 2013, Rose University. was chosen to be the Opening Speaker at Relay In college, Rose was chosen to be Mistress of for Life (Rice University). Ceremonies for the American Cancer Society Walk in 2003 and lead cancer patients and Kandice launched a school program “Coinz 4 survivors to the first walk around the track. In Kids with Cancer” to raise money for kids with 2004, the Austin Statesmen Newspaper named cancer in Texas Medical Center in 2013. In 2014, her “Mover and Shaker” for the fight against Pretty Girls with Cancer™ will launch “Too HIV/AIDS in the African-American community. In Pretty and Positive for Cancer,” a program that 2005, her only brother lost his long battle with will connect caregivers, patients and survivors sarcoma cancer. After graduation, Rose returned together through events, support groups and a back to Houston and started working for Moth- phone buddy system. ers Against Drunk Driving as a victim advocate helping families who’ve lost loved ones to drinking and driving. Rose also volunteers with Saving Our Community Kids and Senior (S.O.C.K.S.) providing HIV testing and promoting prevention

Pretty Girls with Cancer ™ has a motto: “Staying Pretty, Positive and Powerful against Cancer.” Rose and Lindsey believe you can keep your self-confidence, stay positive and be powerful while fighting cancer.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Jamilah Shami

Pr o je ct M a na ge r, Fa r o uk S ys t e m s I n c . Directors to address the needs of the community through coordination and support of social, cultural and political initiatives. She mentored college and university students as they explored activism on and off campus. She is strongly rooted in the grassroots base and enjoys working directly with the community to increase communication and coordination with other marginalized communities. Shami worked as an Education Program Manager at International Business Machines (IBM) and at the American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA). She served as a Consultant for the United Nation’s Development Program (UNDP) through their TOKTEN Program in Prime Minister Salam Fayyad’s office and as Deputy Campaign Manager on the Farouk for Governor Campaign. She currently handles special projects at Farouk Systems, Inc. She is inspired by her parents, Dr. Jamil and Kamelah Shami, and by her late grandfather, Sheikh Mohammed Shami. As educators, they taught her the importance of education. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from George Mason University and a Master’s in Human Resource Management from Marymount University. As leaders, they taught her to treat others with respect, humanity and dignity, to lead by example and to try to make the world a better place.

amilah Shami is a Palestinian-American organizer dedicated to civil and human rights. She served as a board member of several organizations, including the Amer-

ican-Arab Anti-Discrimination (ADC), the largest Arab-American Grassroots Organization. She also served as an ADC National Board Member and as Chapter President of the Washington D.C. Area Chapter where she worked closely with the local Board of

She is married to Maher Husseini, CEO of Jaguar Security and Investigations, and they have two beautiful boys, Amin and Jamil. She enjoys sharing her love of music and nature with them, and spending time with family and friends. TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Melinda Spaulding A n chor, Fox 26 KRIV- TV

by the regional Associated Press. She also can often find Spaulding giving her time received a regional Suncoast Emmy award by hosting and emceeing charitable events elinda Spaulding is the co-anfor “Best Spot News Coverage.” around the Houston area. She serves as a chor of FOX 26 News at 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. She began her television job tour as a writer board member for Family Services of GreatSpaulding joined the FOX 26 family shortly and morning news producer at KTLA, WB 5 er Houston and an advisory board member before the start of 2005 as a live reporter in Los Angeles. While at KTLA, she won an for Pro Vision Inc. Her memberships have for FOX 26 News at Nine and a fill-in anaward for “Best News Writing” by the re- included the Spouses of Houston Barristers, chor. In 2006, she was named co-anchor of The Junior League of Houston, the Houston gional Associated Press. FOX 26 News at Noon. That same year, she Association of Black Journalists and Wheelalso won a Lone Star Emmy for her story Spaulding started her journalism career in er Avenue Baptist Church. online media in New York as a member of “Bait Cars.” the launch team for Entertainment Weekly She is a graduate of Howard University. She’s Before joining the FOX 26 News team, Online and then as the first editor-in-chief married to Houston attorney, Felix Chevalier. Spaulding was a reporter and anchored They have a four-year-old daughter, Landon for Essence Online. morning updates at WGNO, the ABC affiliJoy, and a two-year-old son, Felix II. ate in New Orleans. While at WGNO, Melin- Serving others in the community she covers da was named “Best Spot News Reporter” is important to the New Jersey native. You

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dr. Angela Sturm Fa c i a l Plasti c Surgeo n, Facial Pl asti c Surgery Assoc iates trained side-by-side with Dr. Russell Kridel to gain extensive expertise in cutting edge facial rejuvenation and head and neck surgical techniques. Dr. Sturm also has extensive training and expertise in non-surgical modalities for facial rejuvenation and advanced laser techniques, to help her patients look and feel their best. She completed important clinical research in areas of ethnic rhinoplasty, revision lower eyelid surgery, septoplasty and male rhinoplasty. Dr. Sturm is board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery. During her medical training, Dr. Sturm received numerous awards for her surgical excellence, including the Outstanding Otolaryngology Medical Student Award. She has also co-authored and published noteworthy medical journal articles on head and neck surgical techniques, as well as facial plastic surgical techniques. Dr. Sturm is active in multiple civic and charitable organizations, including Leadership Houston, Greater Houston Area Women’s Chamber of Commerce and The Face Foundation. She has held board positions in professional organizations, such as the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, as well as community groups.

r. Angela Sturm is an Associate at Facial Plastic Surgery Associates located in the Texas Medical Center. She has been named one of Houston’s Top Docs for facial plastic surgery and recognized as a 2013 Top Women in Business.

Dr. Sturm attended medical school at Baylor College of Medicine and was awarded her M.D. She completed residency in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. After residency, Dr. Sturm entered the distinguished American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) Fellowship Program and over the course of the year

Passionate about working to rejuvenate our community, Dr. Sturm is also involved with the Citizens for Animal Protection, Leadership Houston, and The Face Foundation. She has also been named as an H-Texas Top Doc in 2013.

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade, BS, R.N., B.S.N., D.D.S. Cosmetic an d Ne ur o m us cula r De nt is t , C o sm e t ic De n t al Te xas She obtained her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from The University of Texas and completed her cosmetic training at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Dr. Wade is a veteran of the United States Army, where she served as a dental officer and retired with rank of captain. She is a premier preferred Invisalign provider. Dr. Wade is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, an organization which fosters their continued proficiency through continuing quality education. She is also a member of the American Orthodontic Society, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Association of Women Dentists and an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Dr. Wade was the first African American female to be featured on the cover of Doctor of Dentistry magazine.She was the recipient of: • 2009 Pinnacle Award • Houston Top Dentist in 2009, 2012 and 2013 • Named by the Steed Society’s 2012 Top 25 Women of Houston • Top 50 Black Healthcare Professionals 2012 and 2013 Through the Positive Black Male Association, Dr. Wade has sponsored a child to travel to Washington D.C. since 2006. Dr. Wade is the founder of Houston Medi-Dent, a nonprofit organization which provided more than $40,000 in dental services in 2012. Dr. Wade’s dental treatment has been sought out all over the world. Her motto is ate studies at Wiley College and received “changing the world one smile at a time.” her Bachelor of Science in Biology. She then r. Ka-Ron Y. Wade is a premier attended Texas Woman’s University and recosmetic dentist with an office in Midtown ceived a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Houston. She completed her undergradu-

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TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Cynthia Wenz Pr e side nt & C E O, The S o ur ce f o r Wo m e n

Four years later, The Source has grown from a one center operation to a network of three pregnancy medical clinics with a holistic response to the women’s health care access problem and the 24,000 annual abortions in Harris County.

“ t’s not what we’re against, it’s what we’re for. We’re here for her.” Cynthia Wenz, CEO of The Source for Women, has proven her words time and again as a pioneer in the field of women’s The Source is the first PMC in the nation to holistic reproductive health. become a Medicaid provider and focus its When she accepted the position of unpaid reproductive health services on the 73% CEO in 2009, Wenz brought along her of women who, according to Guttmacher, experience as an event planner, wedding choose to terminate their pregnancies coordinator, accountant, entrepreneur, because they feel they cannot afford to do and general manager to two of Houston’s otherwise. largest television post-production facilities. Coupled with her passion for life and a This CEO will not rest until that 73% directive from on high, her main concern know they have options and an incredible at that time was reviving the 27-year- network of support in the community. She old nonprofit so it could remain open to was recently featured on KPRC Houston Newsmakers with Khambrel Marshall, and Houston’s underserved women. 54

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

KHOU 11 News with Sherry Williams. Her work at The Source has also caught the attention of the Texas Tribune, Houston and Austin Chronicles, News 92 FM, and WORLD Magazine, to name a few. Under the guidance of an accomplished Board, The Source anticipates four new clinics in greater Houston over the next four years, with 15 to follow statewide. After that? One thing is clear, things are just warming up. Wenz is wife to rock-solid Man of God and Real Estate Investor Chris Wenz and mother to three sons, Roman, Justice and Caleb. Wenz gives deep thanks to d-mars.com for honoring her as one of the Top 30 Influential Women in Houston.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Houston’s Premier Pregnancy Medical Clinic

WE are ThE SourcE. WE empower WomEn To makE hEalThy choicES.

Are you an OB/GYN, NP or PA? To reach the underserved women of Houston, we need you! The Source is Houston’s first pregnancy medical clinic to become a Medicaid provider and offer reproductive health services at no cost to our clients. Our nonprofit clinics exist because like-minded medical professionals give their time, skills and expertise to improve the health of our community. Our full suite of holistic reproductive services include well-woman care, STD/STI testing and treatment, pregnancy tests, ultrasound exams, counseling, mentorship, education, materials assistance and access to our vetted network of Referral Partners.

THE SOURCE WELCOMES THE FOLLOWING MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS: • OB/GYNs • Nurse Practitioners • Physician Assistants • Registered Nurses • Nursing Assistants • Certified Midwives • Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographers • Licensed Social Workers • Licensed Professional Counselors

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s u p p o r t t h e so u r c e .o r g 713.780.0030 | suppor hesource.org | nursemanager@thesourceforwomen.org TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Nicole C. West

P r e si dent, NCA In vestig ation s

icole West managed success on both the corporate ladder and entrepreneurship tracks for several years before taking the full leap in 2002 to invest her time solely in NCA Investigations, Inc. NCA was West’s first fulltime endeavor with multiple clients, certifications and financial success. NCA is a private investigation firm that looks into corporate and workers compensation fraud, conducts surveillance, performs employee and criminal background checks, among other matters, that helps her clients reduce exposure to loss. Once her company became a lifestyle changer there was no looking back. She knew she enjoyed running, growing and taking care of her own business. Eleven years later, she is now a five-time entrepreneur and investor. Her successful business enterprises include a construction company, WestCo Ventures, and 1st Alert EMS and Transportation, an emergency and non- emergency transportation company. She is a multi-tasker that gets things done and is known to many as the Professional Closer.

husband, along with her parents and in- Hotel by Mayor Bill White and later working laws playing an essential role. with Mayor Annise Parker. West is also often Taking a play from Warren Buffet’s playbook, called upon to chair fundraising events for West believes that “success” is relative and nonprofits and charitable organizations.

that it cannot be measured by dollars but With her tenacity and ingenuity, West has instead by the relationships one builds. Her been able to grow and sustain each of the philosophy is that money runs out but relabusiness endeavors. This success ultimately tionships run deep. required husband Anthony West to leave Along with her business leadership, West his corporate executive position to work has received various accolades for her fulltime alongside her; ensuring continuous professional, civic and community leaderquality of service for their growing number ship. She currently serves on the Board of of public and private sector clients. When Directors for the Ensemble Theatre and has asked to describe the force behind her drive, previously served on the Board of Directors she’s quick to provide this reply, “persever- for Target Hunger and Hester House. Adance.” She credits her ability to multi-task ditionally, West was appointed to serve on and to generate multiple streams of income, the Board of Directors for the Convention from the support and leadership of a great Center Hotel Corporation-Hilton Americas 56

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

West, a native Houstonian, graduated from Lamar University with an undergraduate degree in finance and she also attended Texas Southern University’s Barbara JordanMickey Leeland School of Public Affairs where she received her Master’s in Public Administration. West is the wife of Anthony and mother of Cameron,15, and Chelsey, 11; she is actively involved in their respective schools, along with family oriented organizations such as Jack and Jill of America and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dr. Anjanette Wyatt Phar m a cy M a na g e r, P r e s i d e n t & C EO, C l ini cal C are Pharm acy, LLC the 2011 Woman of the Year Award in Houston. Dr. Wyatt was recently honored by the Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation (TWEF) as one of the leading National Business and Community Woman in Houston. She is a member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. As a health care provider, she is extremely concerned about the number of African American women who are faced with hormonal-related cancers (i.e. Breast Cancer) at an early age. When she discovered that more than five of her close friends were battling this type of cancer, she realized that this issue should be a priority for organizations such as ABHP. “In particular, we need to focus on increasing the number of African American clinical trial participants. Educational awareness and clinical trial financial incentives are key components to increasing the enrollment of African American participants. Also, we need to focus on increasing the participation of African American health care providers in professional organizations such as ABHP.” Some of Dr. Wyatt’s other accomplishments:

r. Anjanette Wyatt is the Pharmacy Manager, President and Chief Executive Officer of Clinical Care Pharmacy, LLC. She also serves as Consultant Pharmacist for the Mother of Many Children’s Home and the Heavenly Care Residential Facility in Houston. Dr. Wyatt obtained her Bachelor and Doctor of Pharmacy degrees from Texas Southern University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 1987 with a biology degree. She is a member of the Association of Black Health System Pharmacist, American Society of Health System Pharmacist, National Pharmaceutical Association, American Pharmacy Association, National Association of Professional Women, Gulf Coast Society of Health-System Pharmacists (GCSHP), 58

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

Houston Area Pharmacy Association, Houston Speakers Bureau, Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity, and the Texas Pharmacy Association (TPA). Her leadership experience includes serving on the Board of Directors of GCSHP, NPhA, and as President, Director and Executive Director of the TSU Pharmacy and Health Science Alumni Association. Dr. Wyatt has received numerous awards, including the Lemon Award, Outstanding Young American Award, the TSU Dean Service Award, and the TSU National Alumni Membership Development Award. She formed Clinical Intervention Inc., a nonprofit organization that focuses on health care issues that affect the elderly and children. She was recognized by the National Association of Professional Women in Business and received

• 2013 Top 30 Women of Power and Purpose by The Houston Sun Magazine • 2013 Introduction of Mayor Annise Parker, “State of the City Address” • 2012 Texas Exes Alumni Award Recipient “Unsung Hero” • 2012 Appointed to the Texas Pharmacy Foundation Board of Trustees • Founder of the Texas Association of Independent Pharmacy Owners • Recently installed as the National President of the Association of Black Health System • Recently voted as President-Elect for the Alliance of Independent Pharmacist of Texas • Founder of Clinical Intervention and Kids Elite Retreat, an Entrepreneurial Camp for Kids.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Judge Mimi Yam

Unit e d S t a t e s Im m igra t i o n C o u r t

nyone who knows Judge Mimi Yam understands that she is one of those rare persons who is a deep well of kindness and goodwill. Judge Yam is one of those individuals who instinctively taps a natural reservoir of positive energy and radiates that energy to all who come in contact with her. If this natural ability to positively impact the lives of others can be characterized as influential, Judge Yam is truly worthy of being called “influential.” At age 16, Judge Yam traveled unaccompanied from Hong Kong to the United States to enroll as a freshman in college. Judge Yam didn’t slow down long enough to consider that other people might think that she did not belong. Everywhere she goes, she carries a respectful attitude, a laugh-outloud sense of humor and a glow of goodwill toward every human being. This positive attitude soon endeared Judge Yam to a growing circle of friends as well as the fact that, as Judge Yam sometimes declares in jest, “I’m pretty smart for a girl.” When Judge Yam returned to Hong Kong with a degree in special education from Vanderbilt University, she was appointed principal of a school for special needs children and became the youngest female principal in Hong Kong. She introduced a program that had never before been considered in a conservative culture: sex education. Recognizing that these children comprised a vulnerable class, Judge Yam acted with steadfast resolve to protect and teach these children what they needed to know in the face of determined institutional and personal opposition.

By the time Judge Yam graduated from the Law School at Tulane University, she had mastered the English language well enough to study law and pass the bar exam. “Being pretty smart for a girl,” hard work, and a desire to help others has carried her through.

passionate result. She granted asylum to an abused woman in the Matter of R—A— which led to an expanded legal interpretation that permits asylum for a woman who had suffered or faces domestic violence on account of her membership in a particular Judge Yam accepted the position of Fed- social group. eral Immigration Judge as the first Chinese- Judge Mimi Yam, a loving mother, a devotspeaking Immigration Judge in the United ed daughter, a trusted sister, a courageous States because it would allow time to be a Judge, and a lovely woman has shared and mommy to her children, Lexi and Michael. continues to share the most precious gift As an Immigration Judge, Judge Yam issued that she can give to her community: her love a landmark decision that allows for a com- for others and belief in the American Dream. TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

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TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston / 2013

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston 63

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Articles inside

Dr. Angela Sturm ................................. acial Plastic Surgeon, Facial Plastic Surgery Associates

Dr. Jonita Wallace Reynolds ................ Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Coast Community Services Association (GCCSA

Vanessa Reed...................................... Assistant Vice President, South Texas CRA Manager Corporate Public Affairs & Community Reinvestment, Comerica Bank

Eva Pickens ......................................... Associate Vice President, University Advancement - Communications & Marketing - Texas Southern University

Dr. Irishea Hilliard................................ COO & Pastor, New Light Christian Center Church

Shara McClure .................................... Vice President Network Management, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas

Christina Robinson Grochett ............... Chief Strategist for Innovation and Research, Lone Star College

Marlene Petry, RN, MSN ...................... SVP, GP Industrial Contractors, Inc

Carla Lane........................................... President & CEO, Lane Staffing

Wilma J. Evans .................................... President, North Houston Frontiers Club & Managing Partner, DeMand Staffing & Consulting, LLC

Madeline Burillo, Ed.D......................... Associate Vice Chancellor, Houston Community College

Dr. Heather Brown............................... Owner & Orthodontist, Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics

Donna Cole ......................................... President & CEO, Cole Chemical & Distributing, Inc

Maria Moncada Alaoui........................ General Manager, Momentum BMW West

Rhonda C. Arnold................................ Director of Community Relations, Houston Airport System

State Rep Carol Alvarado .................... Texas House District 145

Nargis Ahmed ..................................... Director, Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas

Lisa Ashley .......................................... Director, Corporate Communications, Port of Houston Authority