Top 30 Woman 2014 by d-mars.com

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston

2014

VOLUME V

2nd EDITION

2014 Name Title of Company Positiion

Name Title of Company Positiion

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Directory

The 2014 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dr. Lacey Brooks

Audiologist/Houston Regional Manager Hearing Aid Express

Sonia Guimbellot

Director of Communications Development World Chamber of Commerce, Texas

CleRenda McGrady Speaker and TV Host Thryv360

Dr. Docia Rudley

Executive Director for Academic Assessment Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law

Barbara Walker-Green Investment Advisor Advanced Wealth and Retirement, LLC

Icon - Sylvia R. Garcia

Icon - Karen Eubanks Jackson

State Senator, Texas Senate

Founder & CEO, Sisters Network® Inc.

Latoya Bullard-Franklin

Marian Cabanillas

Chief Executive Officer The Bulsard Group, LLC

Vice-President, Marketing UnitedHealthcare

Joanie Y. Hare, M.D.

Nikki Elizabeth Hart

Physician Houston Perinatal Associates

Sharon E. Murphy Founding Partner McConnell Jones Lanier and Murphy LLP

Neeta Sane

Chair – Board of Trustees - District VII Houston Community College (HCC)

Reva A. Witherspoon Vice President, Marketing Amerigroup

Shern-Min Chow

Miranda Horn

President/Owner inMotion Marketing Group

Thelma Scott

Founder/CEO Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation

Carrie Poole, MSOT

Dr. Alison Scott Cuillier

Dentist/Owner Lasting Impressions Dental Group

Mia K. Wright

Co-Pastor The Fountain of Praise

President Smahrt Solutions, Inc.

Judge Maria T. Jackson

Justina Mann, CPPO

Ronda M. Prince

Chief Executive Officer Professional Career Training Institute

Pamela Ellis

President & CEO Virtual Intelligence Providers, LLC

339th State District Court, Houston

Vice President Industrial Welding Academy

Kim Ogg

Attorney The Ogg Law Firm, PLLC

Sonia Clayton

Anchor & Reporter KHOU TV/Gannett Broadcasting

Chief Operating Officer Rap-A-Lot Records

Sonya M. Sloan, MD Orthopedic Surgeon

Carlecia D. Wright

Director City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity

Chief Procurement Officer Houston Airport System

Maria Rios

President & CEO Nation Waste, Inc.

Laurie Vignaud

Senior Vice President/Senior Director – Community Development Banking Texas and Louisiana Capital One Bank

Betty Young, PhD, JD, LLM Educator

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Message From the President & CEO

MR. D-MARS

“And in my own life, in my own small way, I’ve tried to give back to this country that has given me so much. That’s why I left a job at a law firm for a career in public service, working to empower young people to volunteer in their communities. Because I believe that each of us – no matter what our age or background or walk of life – each of us has something to contribute to the life of this nation.” – Michelle Obama There’s something to be said for a group of extremely successful women, influential in their own right, who recognize and empower one another. Our Top 30 Influential Women of Houston amaze me each and every year, not just for their professional accomplishments, but for all that they do for the community. Each and every one of our honorees helps to build a better community, whether by volunteering time to charities and organizations or by serving as a mentor to the younger generation. Philanthropy and humility are part of what makes each of these women so influential. Spanning career fields ranging from medicine to the religious sector – and encompassing everything in between – our Top 30 Influential Women of Houston are the epitome of women empowerment: women empowering themselves and women empowering other women. I’m inspired by them and also extremely proud of them. It’s for that reason that we at d-mars.com choose to honor them with the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston directory. Thank you for being great!

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

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Message from Senior Vice President, Kevin “Brother D-MARS” Davis “In our society, the women who break down barriers are those who ignore limits.” – Arnold Schwarzenegger My heart is overjoyed to congratulate the 2014 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston. The ladies in this directory are some of Houston’s elite and finest – some extremely inspiring individuals. Growing up and through my life’s experiences, I’ve learned that women are some of the hardest workers in our society. They fulfill two vital roles – caregivers and protectors of everything that we hold dear. So when we were given the chance to honor ladies who make a difference in our community, it was a no-brainer for d-mars.com. It’s amazing to provide one platform for positive role models from all walks of life. These 30 ladies, in their individuality, show that no matter where you come from – no matter your race, creed or color – you can have a positive impact on our community. There’s an old saying: “Don’t wait ‘til I’m gone to give me my flowers. Give them to me while I’m alive.” The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston directories are the flowers that they leave for the world.

Message from Vice President, Ms. Kimberly Floyd “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” – André Gide Our group of Influential women come from different backgrounds, share different beliefs and have overcome different obstacles to get to the level in which they are today. But that alone does not make them influential. All of these ladies at some point in their lives ‘lost sight of the shore.’ They took calculated risks, believed in their abilities and embraced change. The courageousness and resiliency of these women is immeasurable. A fearless attitude allowed them to break glass ceilings and establish themselves as leaders in their respective fields. They believed in themselves, even when it may have been hard to do so. That’s what makes them influential. d-mars.com is proud to celebrate our pioneering group of Top Influential Women in Houston! Sincerely,

Sincerely, Kevin “Brother D-MARS” Davis Senior Vice President d-mars.com

Ms. Kimberly Floyd Vice President d-mars.com

Staff: Johnny Davis, Rockie Hayden, Keith J. Davis Jr., Kevin Wright, Angel Rosa, Valerie Jones, Eugenie Doualla, Andrea Hennekes, Booker T. “Pops D-MARS” Davis, Jr., Louis “LC” Poullard, Anthony Torregosa, Tiffany Black Photographers: Tony Gaines, Grady Carter Contact d-mars.com 7322 Southwest Fwy., 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 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TABLE OF CONTENTS ICONS Senator Sylvia R. Garcia......................... Texas State Senate...........................................................................................................................................................6-7 Karen Eubanks Jackson......................... Founder & CEO, Sisters Network®, Inc..............................................................................................................................8-9

TOP 30 Influential Women of Houston Dr. Lacey Brooks.................................... Audiologist/Houston Regional Manager, Hearing Aid Express, Inc. ..................................................................................... 12 Latoya Bullard-Franklin.......................... Chief Executive Officer, The Bulsard Group, LLC ................................................................................................................ 14 Marian Cabanillas................................. Vice President of Marketing and Network Management, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas ................................ 16 Shern-Min Chow................................... Anchor & Reporter, KHOU TV/Gannett Broadcasting ......................................................................................................... 17 Sonia Clayton........................................ President & CEO, Virtual Intelligence Providers, LLC .......................................................................................................... 18 Pamela Ellis........................................... President & CEO, Smahrt Solutions.................................................................................................................................... 20 Sonia Guimbellot................................... Director of Communications Development, World Chamber of Commerce, Texas................................................................ 22 Joanie Y. Hare, M.D. .............................. Physician, Houston Perinatal Associates............................................................................................................................. 23 Nikki Elizabeth Hart............................... President, inMotion Marketing Group ............................................................................................................................... 24 Miranda Horn........................................ Vice President, Industrial Welding Academy....................................................................................................................... 26 Judge Maria T. Jackson.......................... 339th State District Court, Houston .................................................................................................................................. 28 Justina Mann, CPPO.............................. Chief Procurement Officer, Houston Airport System............................................................................................................ 30 CleRenda McGrady................................ TV Host, Thryv360............................................................................................................................................................. 32 Sharon E. Murphy.................................. Founding Partner, McConnell Jones Lanier Murphy LLP...................................................................................................... 34 Kim Ogg............................................... Attorney, The Ogg Law Firm, PLLC .................................................................................................................................... 36 Carrie Poole, MSOT ............................... CEO, Professional Career Training Institute........................................................................................................................ 38 Ronda M. Prince.................................... COO, Rap-A-Lot Records................................................................................................................................................... 40 Maria Rios............................................ President & CEO, Nation Waste, Inc. ................................................................................................................................. 42 Dr. Docia Rudley.................................... Executive Director for Academic Assessment, Texas Southern University TMSL..................................................................... 44 Neeta Sane........................................... Chair, Houston Community College Board of Trustees - District VII ..................................................................................... 46 Thelma Scott......................................... Founder & CEO, Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation..................................................................................................... 48 Dr. Alison Scott Cuillier.......................... Owner & Dentist, Lasting Impressions Dental Group.......................................................................................................... 50 Sonya M. Sloan, MD.............................. Orthopedic Surgeon.......................................................................................................................................................... 52 Laurie Vignaud...................................... Senior Vice President - Texas and Louisiana, Capital One Bank........................................................................................... 56 Barbara Walker-Green........................... Investment Advisor, Advanced Wealth and Retirement, LLC ............................................................................................... 58 Reva A. Witherspoon............................. Vice President, Marketing, Amerigroup.............................................................................................................................. 60 Mia K. Wright........................................ Co-Pastor, The Fountain of Praise...................................................................................................................................... 62 Carlecia D. Wright................................. Director, City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity.................................................................................................... 64 Betty Young, Phd, JD, LLM .................... Educator.......................................................................................................................................................................... 66

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Senator Sylvia R. Garcia State Senator Texas Senate 5425 Polk St, Ste. 125 Houston, TX 77023 713.923.7575 www.sylviaforsenate.com 6

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

ICON

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Senator Sylvia R. Garcia State Senator

enator Sylvia R. Garcia is a native of the South Texas farming community, Palito Blanco. The eighth of 10 children, Sylvia learned at an early age the value of education and hard work. She saw her parents struggle to raise 10 children and because of their struggles, her parents wanted to make sure each of their children had a good education in order to better their lives. As a result, Sylvia worked hard and attended Texas Woman’s University on scholarship, graduating with a degree in social work. She then received her Doctor of Jurisprudence from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. Aside from acquiring her education, Sylvia knew it was also her responsibility to give back to her community. As a social worker early in her professional career, Sylvia protected our community’s most vulnerable – whether it was our children or our elderly, she made sure no one was forgotten. Shortly afterwards, Sylvia entered her public service career with the City of Houston. She served as Director and Presiding Judge of the Houston Municipal System for an unprecedented five terms under two mayors. She made our city court system effective and efficient for our community. When Sylvia was elected to City Controller, she earned a reputation as the taxpayers’ watchdog who fought to protect the pocketbooks of working families. Recalling the struggles of her own parents, she knew every dollar counted when raising a family so she made sure city government was transparent and accountable.

and made certain Harris County took care of its most vulnerable, all while making certain Harris County led the way for new jobs and economic development. Sylvia was sworn into the Texas State Senate on March 11, 2013, the seventh woman and the third Hispanic woman to serve in the upper chambers.

of Communities and Justice and was chosen as one of “Houston’s 25 Power People” by Inside Houston Magazine. She is a recipient of the Texas Woman’s University Board of Regents Woman of Distinction Award, the Hispanic Scouting Distinguished Citizen Award from the Sam Houston Area Council/Boy Scouts of America and the Board Award from the San Jacinto Girl Scouts. She also received the inaugural award for public service from the Latino Influencer Awards.

Sylvia is active in the Houston community, having served on more than 25 community boards and commissions, including the San Jacinto Girl Scouts, the Houston Hispanic Forum, the American Sylvia has dedicated her life to her comIn 2002, Sylvia was elected to Harris Leadership Forum, Battleship Texas and munity and to public service. Just like County Commissioner’s Court. The first her parents believed in her future, she the Museum of Fine Arts - Houston. Hispanic and first woman to be elected believes in the future of Texas families in her own right to the office, she con- Sylvia has been named “Humanitarian who depend on quality education for our tinued her advocacy for working families of the Year” by the National Conference children. Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

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ICON 8

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston nnual Karen Eubanks Jackson onal African American Sisters Network Inc., Founder & CEO National Sponsors st Cancer (to date) Walk/Run

aren Eubanks Jackson, in conference scholarships to help train Founder/CEO of Sisters African American breast cancer survivors Network Inc. (SNI) is rec- to be advocate leaders in their communiognized nationally as a ties though it’s national African American true visionary and leader in the African Breast Cancer conference. American breast cancer movement and Understanding the historical difficulty in a 21-year breast cancer survivor. Sis- the African American community to disters Network is the nation’s only African cuss cancer and other health concerns, American breast cancer survivorship or- Jackson created a national slogan and ganization. Jackson continues to lead branding campaign: STOP THE SILENCE Sisters Park Network’s nationwide effort to to encourage Registration fee:African Americans to disy Green focus the spotlight on increasing breast cuss their family health and history. $30.00/individual Kinney cancer awareness in the African Ameriand highly sought breast can community. The organization pro- A recognized(10) $300.00/team ,TX 77010 cancer expert, Jackson is frequently invides standardized national educational Funds raised benefit vited to speak on the international and outreach programs; survivor and family national stage and share her perspective Sisters support; empowerment; hope and finan-Network Breast - Registration on the state of breast cancer in the Africial assistance to thousands of womenAssistance Cancer annually through its national network of can American community. She has been - Walk Program (BCAP) more than 43 survivor-run affiliate chap- a featured speaker to the U.S. Army’s Comprehensive Breast Cancer Center ters located in 22 states. in Germany, the National Congressional In 1994, Jackson founded Sisters Net- Black Caucus and the Centers for Diswork Inc., during her personal fight to ease Control (CDC), as well as other orsurvive breast cancer. Jackson recog- ganizations. Jackson has been featured nized a lack of “sisterhood” in traditional in numerous national newspapers, magorganizations, and there was a staggering azines, television, radio programs and opthesilencewalk.org breast cancer mortality rate for African Internet media outlets, inclusive of the th American Ends women and limited6culturally gistration April Huffington Report, Essence, New York sensitive material. Often referred to as a Times, Washington Post, U.S. News & breast cancer champion, Jackson’s pri- World Report, Ebony, Web MD, Jet, Black mary motivation was to break through the Enterprise, Breast Cancer Wellness, Tom silence and shame of breast cancer that Joyner Morning Show and numerous loe information call: immobilizes African American women, remedia outlets. Jackson is a published 808 stricts their ability to receive support ser- cal co-author of several works, including vices, interferes with early detection and “Breast Diseases: A Year Book Quarterultimately affects their survival rates. ly,” Vol.14 No.22003; Breast Cancer in Under her leadership and vision, the or- African American Women: The Evolution ganization has developed numerous na- of Sisters Network, Inc.; and A National tional breast health outreach initiatives African American Breast Cancer Survivor including, but not limited to, hosting the Advocate Organization with Lisa A. Newonly National African American Breast man, M.D., F.A.C.S. She is in several Cancer Conference, Stop the Silence Na- books, including “Breast Cancer Black tional African American Breast Cancer 5k Women,” and “My Mother’s Breast and Walk/Run, Teens4Pink, Gift for Life Block Celebrating Life.” Jackson will release her Walk, Pink Ribbon Awareness and the book “In the Company of My Sisters” this First Ladies Brunch. Since the organiza- year. tion’s inception 20 years ago, Sisters Additionally, Jackson’s breast health Network has provided over $1 million advocacy work has garnered numer-

rday, April 13, 2013

gister Now!

ous awards and recognitions, including but not limited to, JC Penney “Champion of Change,” Ebony Magazine 100 Power List-2011, TNT Dramatic Difference award, Breast Cancer Hero by Lifetime TV, The Jefferson Award-NBC, Top Ladies of Distinction Inc. “Status of Women award,” National Council of Negro Women Inc. 2012 Impact Service award, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center award, ICC-Hope Award, Founders Award for Leadership 2011, BET award, “History Maker in the Making” and the Lance Armstrong, “Voice of Survivorship.”

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Jackson attended Morgan State Univer(to date) sity in Baltimore, Md. She is surrounded by love from her husband of 28 years, Kyle Scott Jackson, daughter Caleen and two granddaughters, Brianna and Alexis. A leader, visionary and most importantly, a breast cancer survivor, Karen E. Jackson continues to make a difference every day and is committed to Sisters Network Inc national creed: “In Unity there is Strength, In Strength there is Power, In Power there is Change.” © 1995 KEJ

Karen Eubanks Jackson Founder/CEO Sister’s Network, Inc. 2922 Rosedale St. Houston, TX 77004 713.781.0255 www.sistersnetworkinc.org Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

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Dr. Lacey Brooks Hearing Aid Express, Inc., Houston Regional Manager/Doctor of Audiology centration and a Doctorate of Audiology from Lamar University. Dr. Brooks relocated to the Houston area from Louisiana for her clinical residency in the Houston Medical Center. After completing her residency and joining Hearing Aid Express, Inc., Dr. Brooks continues to be extremely active in the Houston community and abroad. Dr. Brooks has been a part of several medical mission trips with the charity group HALA (Hearing Aid for Latin America), at times seeing more than 900 patients in a three-day period. Dr. Brooks is currently serving on the board for LSU Houston Alumni Chapter, a nonprofit organization that funds scholarships to attend Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, La. She has also volunteered her time with the Be An Angel Foundation, Habitat for Humanity and Church Under the Bridge. Dr. Brooks is active in several professional organizations, including being a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology (AAA), American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), Texas Academy of Audiology (TAA) and is a Professional Member of the American Tinnitus Association (ATA). Dr. Brooks has been featured several times on Great Day Houston. Dr. Lacey Brooks Houston Regional Manager/Doctor of Audiology Hearing Aid Express, Inc. 5201 Bellaire Blvd. Bellaire, TX 77401 1.800.348.2018 www.hearingaidexpress.com

r. Lacey Brooks is the Houston Regional Manager of Hearing Aid Express, Inc., one of the largest privately owned hearing aid providers in the State of Texas. Dr. Brooks has been with the company for more than five years and is responsible for managing six clinics in the Houston area while seeing a full 12

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Dr. Brooks credits her success, drive and values to her parents. She states that the love, support and direction from her mother Connie Brooks and her father, the late Randy Brooks, is what molded her into the woman she is today. Dr. Brooks stated, “Everything I am or will ever become is because of my mom, dad and the Lord. Both of my parents taught me so much and I am truly blessed to have had such amazing role models as my parents.”

patient load at the Bellaire headquarters. Dr. Brooks specializes in working with and treating the hearing impaired and those with tinnitus. She is passionate about helping others, improving her patients’ One of Dr. Brooks’ favorite quotes is, “Alquality of life and their ability to function ways smile. Sometimes joy is the source effectively in the hearing world. of your smile and other times your smile Dr. Brooks has a Bachelor of Science in is the source of someone else’s joy.” Biology/Chemistry with a pre-med con-

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Latoya Bullard-Franklin The Bulsard Group, LLC, CEO her career, she has also developed and instructed numerous training courses focusing on Lean Six Sigma basics, voice of the customer and building total organizational capability. Recognized as a trailblazer by Fortune 500 companies, she continues to lead global teams of top executives and mid-level managers to maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of their organizations. Bullard-Franklin was recently featured in Forbes Magazine as one of the “Texas Top Business Women” to watch and has been featured in Black Enterprise and Essence Magazine as one of “40 Next” young entrepreneurs to “transform” the world.

Latoya Bullard-Franklin CEO The Bulsard Group, LLC 832.428.1484 bulsardgroup.com

atoya Bullard-Franklin’s destiny has brought her from humble beginnings in New Orleans, LA to a successful entrepreneur in Houston. She is an experienced Master Black Belt Facilitator of Lean Six Sigma, Change Management and Organizational Strategy Development. As an Agent of Change, she believes the best way to achieve business success is to “remove barriers and think outside of the box.” She is Founder and CEO of The Bulsard Group, LLC – a firm focused on partnering with clients to uncover value, create value and deliver value in the pursuit of Operational Excellence. She has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Louisiana State University, and a Master of Science 14

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Locally, the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce has recognized her as a Pinnacle Award recipient for her success as an entrepreneur and support in the Houston community – one of the youngest persons ever to receive this honor. Who’s Who in Black Houston has recognized her as a catalyst to motivate the achievement of excellence for organizations such as WBEA, NSBE, HMSDC, AABE, Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, AKA Sorority, Inc. and GHBC, in which in Project Management from Boston Uni- she serves on the Board of Directors. versity. Her career as a leader in Oil and In her spare time, Bullard-Franklin instills Gas began with Texaco and BP oil as a excellence and provides scholarships to Reliability Engineer. As an Engineering young students through her nonprofit – Lead with Raytheon Company, she sup- the Girl POWER Network – with Principles ported the development of products for to ensure success: “Persevere, Own, major Army and Navy programs. Transi- Win, Empower and Respect.” tioning to a Quality Assurance lead for She obtains encouragement and inspirahigh impact initiatives, she developed tion from her husband and four daughstrategies to maintain the efficiency and ters. “They are my guiding light and effectiveness of the quality organization beacon of hope to lead me through the in enabling people, processes and tools uncertainties that may exist as an entreto work cohesively. It was during this time preneur.” that she became an advocate of Supplier Diversity through organizations such In pursuit of her ultimate dream of beas WBENC and NMSDC. During her ten- coming a published author, she chroniure with Chevron Company, she led the cles her experiences as a young, black execution of many projects with a strict woman and entrepreneur through her focus on delivering millions of dollars in blog “Diary of a Mad Black Womanprevalue and enhancing growth. Throughout neur.”

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Marian Cabanillas UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas, Vice President of Marketing and Network Management health care industry in both the public and private sectors, with an emphasis on public health care. Marian’s areas of emphasis are sales, marketing, community outreach, member services, provider contracting and provider relations. Marian works closely with customers, providers, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations and community leaders to address the issues of health care in the communities she serves. Prior to joining UnitedHealth Group, Marian served as the Director of Community Relations for MHMRA of Harris County. She joined UnitedHealth Group in 2004. Marian is also an adjunct faculty member with the University of Phoenix where she teaches Healthcare Administration courses to MBA students. Some of Marian’s professional accomplishments include: • Innovation Award in 2013 • Member of Executive Leadership Team in 2013 • Culture Ambassador in 2012 • Bid and implementation of Managed Medicaid program into the Rio Grande Valley in 2011 • Responsible for Brand Transition Team in 2011 • Responsible for company-wide training on Cultural Diversity in 2010 Marian Cabanillas Vice President of Marketing and Network Management

• Served on the Executive Leadership Training Panel in 2009

UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas www.uhc.com

• Participated in the Executive Leadership Program in 2008

arian Cabanillas serves as the Vice President of Marketing and Network Management for UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas.

her MBA in Healthcare Administration in Texas. In 2008, she also completed the UnitedHealthcare executive program at the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business.

Marian has lived in Texas most of her life Her professional experience includes and earned both her BA in Psychology and more than 20 years working within the

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

• Innovation Award in 2007 • Awarded Health Plan of the Month on three occasions • Awarded Outreach Team of the Year in 2006 • Successful implementation of Houston Operations in 2006

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Shern-Min Chow KHOU TV / Garnnett Broadcasting, Anchor & Reporter

hern-Min Chow, whose first language was not English, today both co-anchors KHOU 11 News @ Noon and reports for KHOU 11 News during the week. She began her career in journalism as a stringer for Newsweek, has worked at KTRK-TV and anchored at KPRC-T V in Houston, as well as KENS-TV in San Antonio. Chow’s awards include the Houston Press Club Award for Best Series, the Texas Associated Press Award for Best Spot Newscast-Producer and an Emmy for the documentary “Hong Kong Under the Dragon.” The program was a career highlight in part because her father, Ken Chow, an engineer, joined the effort as a field producer and translator. She and her brother grew up in northern California, the children of Chinese immigrants. Their mother was a stay-at-home mom who avoided an ‘empty nest’ syndrome by investing three dollars for a real estate course and ended up opening her own real estate company. Helen Chow is an “Influential Woman” in her own right. When Chow began work in TV, she was the only Asian American broadcaster in San Antonio and later in Houston, then the 10th and fourth largest cities in the country. She is delighted at how times have changed. Chow’s live reporting has included coverage from the eye of Hurricanes (Andrew), natural disasters (Katrina, Rita, Ike, Loma Prieta Earthquakes), Texas Wildfires (Grimes County) including one in 106-degree temperatures while eight months pregnant, the O.J. Simpson verdict, Rockets Championship games, Houston’s Super Bowl XXXVIII and the 2005 Astros World Series appearance. She has been inside Mexican prisons and the Texans locker room. Best of all, she’s had the privilege of working on stories that resulted in missing persons being found, suspects arrested, and donations and assistance for those in need.

Over the years, she has made literally hundreds of community appearances. She is currently on the boards of the Asia Society and Spring Spirit Baseball. She has previously served on the boards of the YWCA, The Houston Ballet, the Chinese Community Center and The Bayou City Medical Center. A history graduate from Yale University, Shern-Min is conversant in Mandarin and Shang Hai dialects of Chinese. She has also studied German, French and Spanish. Chow routinely uses Spanish while reporting and helping her sons with

Spanish homework. She is married to her college sweetheart and they have two terrific sons. She is grateful every day for her wonderful family and the opportunity to cover Houston.

Shern-Min Chow Anchor & Reporter KHOU TV / Gannett Broadcasting 1945 Allen Parkway Houston TX 77019 713.284.1073 www.khou.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

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Sonia Clayton Virtual Intelligence Providers – Lone Star College – UP

Sonia Clayton President & CEO Virtual Intelligence Providers, LLC Lone Star College Alliance University Park 20515 State Highway 249 Building 11, 2nd Floor, Ste. 11.202 Houston, TX 77070 University Park Office: 281.290.1811 Direct Line: 281.350.6862

onia Clayton is an American entrepreneur and philanthropist. She is also best known as the Founder, President and CEO of Virtual Intelligence Providers, LLC (VIP); a recipient of 25 awards of excellence since inception to date, including White House and state recognition.

Information Systems management, ERP Systems Integration, Training and eLearning platforms. She has visited and conducted business in more than 50 countries and speaks four different languages. Sonia is a co-author of “Corporate Bold,” a multi-year project now published on Amazon.com. Corporate Bold Sonia was born in Colombia and raised in outlines a strategy for business-corporate Venezuela and Brazil. She studied busi- success and it is now a New York Best ness administration in Venezuela and ar- Seller. rived in the U.S. in 1984 with five dollars After 10 years in the Airline Industry, in in her pocket. She married Kirk Clayton, 2001, and just two weeks after 9-11, a Computer Engineer, and became the Sonia created VIP (Virtual Intelligence mother of two children: Aaron, a U.S. Providers, LLC) in an effort to help all of Navy Pilot, and Leica, a senior in the Fine her former employees and colleagues Arts Program at Brigham Young Univer- who had lost their jobs due to the ecosity. nomic downturn that followed those Sonia’s background includes 22 years tragic days. Today, VIP is a global conof experience in Human Resources and sulting firm serving more than 100 corporations with a large international foot18

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

print in five continents. VIP is a Business Technology Service Provider specializing in IT Project Management, Organizational Change Management, SAP Business Process Documentation, Corporate Training, Technical writing, e Learning and Staff Augmentation. VIP and Sonia recently made history when they became the selected small business partner to join the Lone Star College of Texas, creating the first accredited-comprehensive corporate and blue collartraining model with philanthropic benefits for LSCS-UP students and targeting the Oil and Gas industry. Sonia gives generously to the community; she has created and benefits three nonprofit organizations: The VIP Education Foundation; The VIP Cancer Foundation; and The Angels for Soldiers Fund.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Pamela Ellis Smahrt Solutions, President & CEO

amela Ellis is President of Smahrt Solutions, Inc. Prior to starting Smahrt, Pamela held various management positions with corporations such as: JPMorgan Chase Bank, LG&E Energy Corp., Union Bank of California and Dynegy.

Department and most recently, the State a certified Project Management Profesof Maryland. sional (PMP). Under Pamela’s direction, Smahrt has become one of the fastest growing minority woman-owned technology companies in Texas. In 2012, Smahrt was nominated by the Houston Citizen’s Chamber as a finalist for the Pinnacle Award. In January 2013, Smahrt formed a joint venture, ER staffing to offer a comprehensive suite of Workforce Solutions including workforce planning and analytics, staffing and recruiting, software and managed services.

Smahrt is a management consulting firm based in the greater Houston area. Smahrt provides strategic planning and program management in four primary areas: Human Resource Management, Technology, Business Strategy and Project Management. Pamela is recognized as a thought leadPamela has managed the growth of the er in the field of Human Resources and firm into a key service provider to Fortune Workforce Analytics and is often engaged 1000 companies in the greater Houston to speak at conferences, present workarea and nationwide. Smahrt’s clients shops and lead industry-related events. have included Service Corporation In- A graduate of the University of Houston, ternational (SCI), Anadarko Petroleum, Pamela is also a certified Senior ProfesTurner Broadcast Systems, U.S. State sional in Human Resources (SPHR) and 20

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Pamela’s passion is her foundation and charity of choice, The Smahrt Girl Foundation, a nonprofit mentoring program for young girls ages 12 to 20 who live in rural communities throughout the State of Texas. The foundation serves as a resource to the girls in their desire to obtain a quality education, life experiences and relationships that will equip them to live the life of their dreams!

Pamela Ellis President & CEO Smahrt Solutions 720 North Post Oak, Ste. 260 Houston, TX 77024 713.839.5757 www.smahrtsolutions.com

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A Human Resource Management Consultancy that provides strategic solutions in the areas of People, Processes and Technology.

“Whether it is staffing a project, an entire department or a single position, we will provide you with the best-qualified candidate in a timely and cost effective manner.”

Smahrt Solutions is a Human Resource management consultancy focused on synchronizing people, processes and technology to achieve optimal performance. Smahrt was established in 2003 to meet the growing need of enterprises in all industries to maximize their technology investments in order to reduce overhead cost, improve operational efficiency and increase performance. The core of Smahrt’s clients are Fortune 1000 companies and public sector entities. In 2010, Smahrt added a Public Sector division and has since been awarded key contracts with local, state and federal entities. Smahrt is one of the fastest growing technology firms among women-owned businesses in Texas. (SBA Journal, February 2012)

“Our strength is our proven ability to leverage technology to bring together people, power processes and provide business intelligence to achieve program results.” www.SmahrtSolutions.com

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Sonia Guimbellot Star Learning & World Chamber of Commerce, Texas Chapter, Director of Communications & Membership ston for many years. She enjoys volunteering at community events and taking on leadership roles. Guimbellot is a lifelong learner and is passionate about learning from others. Her motto is “Education is the new and lasting diplomacy.” She networks with everyone and tends to migrate to people like herself – gentle souls with strong wills.

“Don’t be afraid to let your soul shine.” – Sonia Guimbellot

onia Guimbellot serves as an influential woman who leads by example. Her insatiable desire for our world to do better inspires change around her. As a constant student herself, she understands the importance of providing our children with a quality education. Her desire for providing for the future of our world led her to take on the position of Director of Communications at Star Learning in April 2014. Since then, there has been an exponential growth in enrollment and overall morale in the institution. Star Learning is an educational initiative to garner higher test scores in the state and challenge the gifted and talented students. Guimbellot works with the Chair of the University Pillar, aiming to connect local universities with universities overseas. It is evident that her 15 years in Development and Community Outreach has given her the kind of ability to relate and communicate with all walks of life. By utilizing her talents in social arenas, Guimbellot has been the face of many prestigious 22

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

organizations in which she has been involved. From Small Business Today Magazine to spearheading the first World Chamber of Commerce, her deep commitment is in making the City of Houston a better place and she has an international interest in global improvement. The World Chamber of Commerce, Texas Chapter, has a mission to promote and teach international trade and foster cultural and humanitarian exchange to develop economic opportunities worldwide. The nonprofit organization is made up of a wide array of individuals from different cultures, including former mayors and former governors. The World Chamber organizes and supports initiatives and events promoting global trade, cultural/ educational and humanitarian goals. Guimbellot is in charge of membership and serves as Director of Communications Development. She’s worked with companies such as SCORE, Goldman Sachs and the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council. Guimbellot has built a successful security and surveillance company from the ground up, launched a business magazine and radio show and contributed to the Rotary of The University Area of Hou-

Guimbellot helped put on the first Global 7 (G7) Awards, recognizing Houston’s international businesses and academic achievers. She’s also coordinating the Houston Global Trade Conference and Expo to take place May 2015, after being the only Houston contact person for the derivative of Houston’s Offshore Technology Conference called Energy Nexus. She is a board member of the Read3Zero Literacy Foundation, member of Houston Mayor’s Economic Development Council and member of HITDC. She is also an advocate for anti-bullying and is part of the Unite to Stop Bullying (U2SB) organization. She has earned the respect as one of the most influential professional business networks of today. She has used her ability to connect professionals of diverse industries to create strong relationships which have led to successful businesses and personal growth for many. From comforting parents and children on their path to gaining an education to inspiring entrepreneurs to continue pursuing their dreams, Guimbellot is a proponent for positive change and a proponent for encouraging those around her to become a star. Sonia Guimbellot Director of Communications & Membership Star Learning & World Chamber of Commerce, Texas Chapter 3528 Hwy. 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 832.999.4921 www.worldchamberc.org www.starlearning.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Joanie Y. Hare, M.D. Houston Perinatal Associates, Physician

r. Joanie Y. Hare is a physician at Houston Perinatal Associates in Houston, Texas. After receiving her medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine, Dr. Hare completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and her fellowship in Maternal Fetal Medicine at Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia.

Since 2011, Dr. Hare has served on the Houston Board of the March of Dimes and chairs the Healthy Babies are Worth the Wait committee, whose focus is to decrease premature deliveries and combat disparities in maternal healthcare. Her dedication addressing these devastating realities in Houston’s African American community has earned her several distinguished honors and awards including “Houston Hero” from the HouDr. Hare is on the staff at Texas Children’s ston Chronicle and a member of the Hospital Pavilion for Women and The 2012 class of “Women on the Move.” Woman’s Hospital of Texas, where she is In 2012, Kathleen Sibelius, U.S. Secpresently chairman of the Board of Trus- retary of Health and Human Services tees. At The Woman’s Hospital, she is the invited her to serve a six-year term on Medical Director of the Perinatal Diabe- the Advisory Council on Blood Stem Cell tes Program and Medical Director, Ma- Transplantation Health Resources and ternal Transport Service at the Woman’s Services Administration (HERSA) due to Hospital of Texas and Assistant Medical her strong leadership and relationship Director at Reach Air Medical. with the M.D. Anderson Cord Blood Bank

Minority Recruitment Committee. Dr. Hare is a member of Windsor Village United Methodist Church and is a board member of The Kingdom Builders Prayer Institute, whose purpose is to educate and the practice “Taking the world by Prayer.” Dr. Hare believes and practices prayer for her patients because her mission statement is “to give the best health care to women and babies despite the reality they have been told ‘it is impossible;’ every woman should reach any goal she desires.” Joanie Y. Hare, M.D. Physician Houston Perinatal Associates 7900 Fannin St. Ste. 2600 Houston, TX 77054 www.houstonperinatal.com 713.791.9700 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Nikki Elizabeth Hart inMotion Marketing Group, President service provider from sales, to negotiations, to radio and TV commercial production, to media placement and on-site event marketing. The Bible verse, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” – Philippians 4:13 is a daily inspiration for Hart, which she learned the meaning of at an early age. Hart’s first male mentors were Vince Lombardi and Zig Ziglar. She had the honor of meeting Ziglar and told him how inspiring his words had been to her. Hart is also inspired daily by the different individuals with whom she works. Hart’s female mentors are the women she works with from Women Driving Business, an organization that connects, inspires and promotes other professional women while raising money for local charities. She’s amazed by how they consistently balance their family lives and careers with such grace. Hart truly believes in giving back and has worked with numerous charities over the years, including Texas Sentinels Foundation, Operation Salute Our Troops, Pin Oak Horse Charity, Toys for Tots, Houston Children’s Charity, Best Buddies and many others.

ikki Elizabeth Hart came from humble roots: she was born in a small town in Ohio with just one stoplight. She was quite the athlete – a competitive roller skater, cheerleader, track runner and FFA Queen who didn’t quite see herself as anything but a farm town girl. Hart spent some time studying at Clark State before she got hit with the “business bug” and quickly advanced in her company at age 19. While with L.M. Berry/Sprint, she moved from Ohio to Tennessee to Kansas

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

She is married to the love of her life, James, and the two have a beautifully blended family of four boys – Logan, Ryan, Parker and Cayden – whom the couple devotes hundreds of hours involved in their sporting activities. They have been members of Grace Church of Humble for 14 years. In her free time, Hart enjoys cars, racing, gardening and NFL football.

before making her home in Kingwood, Texas. Her true passion in life is helping others, and rather than pursuing a teaching degree, Hart found great satisfaction in becoming a corporate sales trainer at Sprint. She loved helping develop sales associates and managers and watching them achieve their professional and perNikki Elizabeth Hart sonal success. President Hart currently serves as President of ininMotion Marketing Group Motion Marketing Group, a company she Kingwood, TX started with her husband. Their primary 832.456.7000 goal is to become their clients’ premier www.inmotionmarketinggroup.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Miranda Horn Industrial Welding Academy, Vice President helping her husband Andre E. Horn fulfill their vision of helping others. In 2007, Miranda and her husband founded Industrial Welding Academy (IWA) in East Houston. She serves as director. Industrial Welding Academy is dedicated to teaching students the trade of welding through a uniquely designed curriculum, allowing graduates to achieve entry-level positions within the many fields of skilled trades that utilize the learned techniques of welding. Miranda credits one reason for IWA’s success as being the continual training of its staff members. She said so often individuals are given expectations, but are not given the tools needed to meet those expectations. One of Miranda’s favorite quotes is: “In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear.” – Bill Cosby IWA believes in placing its students on the path to not just a job, but a career, by addressing the shortage of skilled workers in welding and imparting the value of integrity and discipline upon its students. Many students of IWA, many who have troubled pasts, have gone on to make six figures after graduating from the school’s programs.

iranda Horn was born in Coushatta, La. October 4, 1972 and graduated from Pelican High School. She earned an associate’s degree in social work from Angelina College and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now known as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette).

Miranda is a member of Emmanuel C.O.G.I.C. under the leadership of Bishop Hewitt Richardson, Sr. She is currently a member of the women’s executive team, University of Southwestern Louisiana on dance ministry and financial department. Miranda has been married to her husathletic scholarships for basketball. Miranda is a highly experienced, dedicat- band Andre for 20 years and they have ed professional with more than 10 years three children: Dalton, Desiree and Nyla.

of experience in the Workforce Development industry. Her experience also in- Miranda Horn cludes several years of managerial skills Vice President in which she has been commended. Industrial Welding Academy She worked for organizations including 11001 Wallisville Road Neighborhood Centers and Workforce Houston, TX 77013 Miranda was quite the athlete and at- Solutions before she dedicated herself to 713.672.9353 tended both Angelina College and the www.IWAtraining.com

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Judge Maria T. Jackson 339th State District Court, Judge Foundation, Houston Bar Foundation, American Bar Association, Houston Lawyers Association, and the Houston Bar Association, where she serves on the Harris County Bench Bar Pro Bono Awards Committee. • Judge Jackson served as past cochair on the Speakers Bureau Committee. • She currently serves as a volunteer, mentor and a role model for at-risk youth. She also serves as a mentor for law students and young lawyers. Professional Experience Judge Maria T. Jackson has been the presiding Judge of the 339th State District Court in Houston, Harris County, Texas since 2008. Judge Jackson presides over the trials of felony offenses which run the gamut from low-level drug offenses to capital murder. She has presided over 100 jury trials and several have been featured on The First 48 TV show.

won the People’s Choice Award in 2012 and 2013 by d-mars.com. • Judge Jackson was also honored by the Houston Sun in 2013 as a “Woman of Power and Purpose.” • Prior to winning the election to the district bench, Judge Jackson was appointed to the Municipal Courts of the City of Houston in 2003. She served as a trainer and instructor for the Texas Municipal Courts Education Center.

• Judge Jackson was chosen as one of 24 judges from across the coun• Judge Jackson has also been rectry to represent Texas at the Naognized in the Mayor’s Spotlight, tional Computer Forensics Institute making her the first judge to be ac(NCFI). The NCFI is a partnership knowledged in the City of Houston’s between the United States Secret employee newspaper. Service, Department of Homeland Security, the Alabama District Attor- Professional Activities and Memberships ney’s Association and the National • Judge Jackson serves on the Board Judicial College. of District Judges,’ chairs the Security committee and serves on the • Served by appointment of the Chief Administration of Justice and the Justice of The Supreme Court as the Legislative Committee. Presiding Judge in Cameron County, Texas • Judge Jackson was named “Best Criminal Court Judge of 2011” by the Houston Press, making her the first African American in Harris County to be so honored. • She has been voted Top Judge and 28

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

• She has been a frequent speaker in the community, and she has appeared on several local television and radio shows, including the Red, White and Blue political show, Magic 102, KCOH and The Prison Show on 90.1. • Judge Jackson served on the Board of Directors for Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. • Her involvement in the community includes lifetime membership of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where she serves on the Lamb & Goat Committee. • She is also an active member of the Houston Chapter of Links Incorporated, where she served as Chairman on the Services to Youth program; a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority; and a sustaining member of the Harris County Democratic Party. • Judge Jackson is a member of Lakewood Church.

• She serves on the Mental Health Education Task Force. Judge Jackson earned a B.A. in Political • She is a member of the State Bar of Science in 1987 from the University of Texas, Texas State Bar College and Texas at Arlington (with honors) and a the Garland R. Walker American Doctor of Jurisprudence in 1998 from Inns of Court. Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. • She is a Fellow of the Texas Bar She is also a certified mediator.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Justina Mann, CPPO Houston Airport System, Chief Procurement Officer

Justina Mann, CPPO Chief Procurement Officer Houston Airport System 18600 Lee Road Houston, TX 77338 281.230.8008 www.fly2houston.com

ustina Mann is Assistant Director of Procurement and Supply Chain Management for the Houston Airport System. She directs alignment with procurement and supply chain management by understanding and communicating customer (business unit) needs and requirements throughout the organization. Her primary role is to develop, interpret and execute procurement policies and processes, as well as identify and manage resolution of unusually complex issues requiring innovative solutions.

ment Manager. Mann came to Houston with 14 years of contracting and procurement experience at city and quasi-government organizations. A Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives, Certified Public Procurement Officer, Certified Professional in Supply Management, Certified Professional Contracts Manager, Project Management Professional and Six Sigma Green Belt, Mann’s focus is to identify and achieve efficiencies in Procurement and Supply Chain Management that will further enable the Houston Airport System and the A native of St. Paul, Minnesota, Mann City of Houston to achieve its mission. received her Bachelor of Science from An active member of the National Inthe University of Minnesota. She earned stitute of Government Procurement, her Master of Project Management from Mann has taught several online classes Keller Graduate School and continued and presented workshops at the annual her career at the Atlanta Housing Author- Forums that have reached more than ity (AHA). After 10 years at AHA, Mann 1,600 government purchasing and conjoined the Atlanta International Airport, tracting professionals. She is an active where she served last as the Procure- member of the Airport Purchasing Group,

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

where she presents workshops on airport procurement matters and contributes to the newsletter. Mann is actively involved with the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) in which she recently served as the Chair for the 30th Anniversary Annual Conference in Atlanta, Ga. attended bymore than 800 public officials and administrators. Mann is passionate about procurement and sharing information about procurement opportunities. A Toastmaster, she enjoys speaking to groups of peers, professionals and students where she can share her knowledge and expertise. Mann is an avid project manager and merges this interest with her Six Sigma training to stay on the forefront of procurement best practices to assure the success and transparency of Houston Airport System procurement projects and initiatives.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

The Houston Airport System CONGRATULATES

JUSTINA MANN

CHIEF PROCUREMENT OFFICER 2014 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

CleRenda McGrady Thryv360, Speaker and TV Host

s host and producer of the new Houston-based television show, “Thryv360,” CleRenda McGrady is excited to share her voice and platform on what matters most to her: Faith, Family and Community! CleRenda brings her fun, hip and trendy style fused with inspirational, informational and educational topics that will captivate, excite and motivate viewers! “Thryv360” prides itself on highlighting and bringing awareness to “thryvers,” – people, places and events that are making a difference, giving back to the community, impacting and ultimately transforming lives. CleRenda is also a part of Inspire Women, a Houston-based ministry and organization that serves and invests scholarships, grants and resources for women to live out God’s purpose for their lives. CleRenda is the chair for the annual scholarship luncheon that has raised over 2 million dollars for women. In addition, CleRenda has also personally created and funded the “Aloa JoAnn Harris Scholarship Fund,” in honor of her mother who served 42 years in ministry. CleRenda is also the host for Inspire Women Broadcasting, where she captures faith stories of various women throughout the community. As a speaker, TV host and producer, CleRenda has a vision and compassion for being a part of life transformation in the lives of others. CleRenda has a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina State University and a The City of Houston recently proclaimed Master of Education from North Carolina a day of Mentor Appreciation, in which Central University. CleRenda was recognized as one of HouCleRenda and her husband were honored ston’s top 50 mentors. recently as Community Leaders by Inspire Married to seven-time NBA All Star legWomen and were also honored at the All end Tracy McGrady, CleRenda and her Star Gospel Celebration for Leader Cou- husband reside in Sugar Land, TX with ple in the City of Houston. their four amazing children.

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

CleRenda McGrady Speaker and TV Host Thryv360 713.213.6018 clerenda@clerendamcgrady.com clerendamcgrady.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Sharon E. Murphy McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP, Founding Partner cal government agencies as well as commercial businesses. Sharon has more than 30 years of experience in financial management, business and strategic planning, organizational assessment, policy analysis and program evaluation. As a partner in the consulting division, she heads the firm’s education practice and is responsible for a national clientele that includes school districts and institutions of higher education as well as government (federal, state and municipal) agencies. In the education arena, Sharon has led consulting engagements for 20 of the nation’s top 100 school systems covering 13 states. She also oversees the operations of complex, large-scale Jobs Corps Centers in California, Texas, Maryland and Massachusetts for the U.S. Department of Labor.

Sharon E. Murphy Founding Partner

haron E. Murphy is a founding partner at McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP (MJLM). MJLM has grown into the third largest African American-owned consulting and accounting firm in the nation. MJLM’s CPA affiliate has established itself as one of Houston’s largest certified public accounting firms. MJLM is proud 34

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP 3040 Post Oak Blvd., Ste. 1600 Houston, TX 77056 713.968.1600 www.mjlm.com to include notable Fortune 500 firms, privately held companies, large-scale nonprofit entities, tier-one universities, and multifunctional government agencies in its portfolio. With more than 250 employees in Houston, Dallas and Austin, Texas; Washington, DC; and Huntsville, Ala., MJLM provides a full range of professional services to federal, state and lo-

Sharon strongly believes in giving back to the community and is dedicated to civic involvement. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Houston Chapter of American Leadership Forum (ALF), the Ensemble Theatre and the Women’s Home. At ALF, Sharon is the former Chair for the Collaborative on Public Education Committee. At the Ensemble, Sharon serves as Co-Chair of the Theatre’s Annual Golf Tournament, which benefits the Young Performers Program and Co-chair of the Facilities Renovation Committee. She also served as Co-Chair of the Ensemble Theatre’s 2012 and 2013 annual galas. Sharon has been a panelist at national meetings for Council of Great City Schools and the National School Board Association addressing issues on public education. Past honor recognition includes “Woman of Distinction” by the Houston Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation and Houston’s ABC affiliate, KTRK Channel 13. She has also been the recipient of the Building Block Award, given by Child Builders, Houston’s advocate for mental health in children.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

MJLM

MC J L & M  B U S I N E S S

CONSULTANTS

A D V I S O R S

Congratulations to

Sharon Murphy For Being Honored As

one of the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston! Partners (l-r): Odysseus M. Lanier, Ira Wayne McConnell, Sharon E. Murphy, Tene Thomas, Eric Ernest, and Thomas Jones.

MJLM LLP specializes in improving operational performance in a variety of industries including federal, state and local governments, education, manufacturing, oil & gas, investment management, real estate, construction, healthcare, hospitality, nonprofit and professional services. MJLM operates with the overarching business objective of helping our clients save, invest, protect and manage their money by providing reasoned financial anslysis and consultation. MJLM’s services include: • Logistical Support • Facility & Administrative Management • Process Improvement • Strategic Planning • Internal Audit • Business Process Outsourcing • Technology Consulting

Corporate office: 3040 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 1600 Houston, TX 77056 TEL: 713.968.1600 FAX: 713.968.1601

Other office locations: • Austin, TX • Dallas, TX • Huntsville, AL • Oakridge, TN • Washington, D.C.

Please visit us online at www.mjlm.com. Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Kim Ogg The Ogg Law Firm, PLLC, Attorney

im Ogg is currently the Democratic nominee for Harris County District Attorney. She is a native Houstonian; licensed by the State Bar of Texas in 1987; and recognized as a specialist in Criminal Law by the Board of Legal Specialization since 1992.

In 2006, Kim transitioned to private legal practice and is currently the Managing Partner of the Ogg Law Firm, PLLC, a boutique litigation firm fighting for the rights of families, individuals accused of crimes and police officers and citizens whose civil rights have been violated. Kim now seeks to bring her strong track Kim served as a prosecutor for the Har- record of public service and 26 years of ris County District Attorney from 1986– professional experience to the position of 1994, in which she served as a Chief Harris County District Attorney. Felony Prosecutor. She was appointed Kim Ogg is running for DA because she by Mayor Bob Lanier as the City of Hou- believes that despite the expenditure of ston’s first Anti-Gang Task Force Director tens of millions of tax dollars, the justice in 1994 and oversaw a 40% reduction system is failing. She believes that main gang crime during her tenure. From jor reforms to our criminal justice system 1999-2006, Kim was the Executive Di- must be implemented if we are going to rector of Crime Stoppers and led the increase public safety and also insure organization to national record-breaking that no one is wrongfully convicted. To years of assisting law enforcement in the accomplish this, Kim believes we must capture of thousands of violent felons. stop sending tens of thousands of low36

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

level drug offenders to jail and instead send them to work on our bayous and waterways as community service. The recouped savings may then be used for the investigation and prosecution of violent gangs and professional criminals responsible for the majority of crimes in Harris County. Kim’s platform further promotes a major increase in the investigation and prosecution of white collar crime, consumer fraud – especially of the elderly – human traffickers, environmental polluters and those who would betray the public trust. Kim Ogg Attorney The Ogg Law Firm, PLLC 3215 Mercer, Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77027 713.974.1600

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Carrie Poole, MSOT Professional Career Training Institute, Chief Executive Officer and support area employers with a highly trained and competent workforce while serving the cultural and civic needs of the communities became a reality that has now grown into a respected and diverse institution. Her goal was and continues to be responding to the changing needs of a highly technological society by providing skilled workers for business, trade and industry in the public and private sectors. Poole has been successful in securing major training contracts with Federal and State agencies. In 2008, she was successful in leading the institution to full accreditation by the Council on Occupational Education, Title IV certification by the U. S. Department of Education in 2009, and a successful accreditation reaffirmation in August 2014.

Carrie Poole, MSOT Chief Executive Officer Professional Career Training Institute 227 West Airtex Drive Houston, TX 77090 832.484.9100 www.pcti.edu

arrie Poole was born in Greenville, Miss. She attended Mississippi Valley State University and was a member of Alpha Chi, Alpha Kappa Mu and Sigma Tau Delta National College Honor societies. She graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Journalism. Upon graduation, she became the first African American newspaper reporter of the Greenwood Commonwealth, in which she was a feature story writer. In 1982, Poole relocated to Houston, Texas where she pursued employment in corporate America and has held positions in management, training and development. She began her career in post-secondary education and workforce training in 1990. This motivated her to further her career by attending The University of Houston where she received her Master of Science in Occupational Technology with emphasis in training and development in 1996. Since that time, she 38

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

has established herself as an icon in the post-secondary education industry and has a broad background in educational leadership, accreditation standards, institutional compliance, program development and fiscal management. Poole has been successful in not only workforce training and re-training, but she has also been successful in finding career opportunities for students in tough labor market trends. Poole is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Professional Career Training Institute (PCTI), a post-secondary vocational training school that opened its doors in 2002. Poole started the institution with a mere vision and an idea to embark upon a journey to open a state-of-the-art career training facility recognized for its commitment to lifelong learning, highly regarded for its commitment to students, economic growth, community partnerships and educational excellence, and is respected for its excellence in teaching. Her profound vision to supplement

Poole is also founder and Chairman of the Board of Workforce Training and Development, Inc. (WTDI), a nonprofit corporation organized to fill the gap between education and funding streams and to provide resources and alternative solutions to individuals who desire to improve the quality of their lives. Poole is a member of various local and national professional organizations that provide excellent education and support in occupational training and career development. She has served as a Visiting Team Member for the Council on Occupational Education for evaluation of career schools and colleges for accreditation. She is an NAACP life member, 2013/2014 Woman of the Year for the National Association of Professional Women, a member of the University of Houston Alumni Association, a member of the Association for Career and Technical Education, Career Schools and Colleges of Texas and the International Women’s Leadership Association. Poole is an active member of The Church Without Walls with her husband, Joe Nathan Poole. Together they have two children, Cristala and Nicholas.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Ronda M. Prince Rap-A-Lot Records, Chief Operations Officer Specialist for Mental Health Mental Retardation in which she taught interview skills, resume’ writing, life skills and had self-esteem groups and networked in the community to assist individuals with job search/job placement. In 2000, Ms. Prince became a Gang Intervention Specialist for the City of Houston (City Hall) under the administration of Mayor Lee Brown, where she worked directly with gang members. She taught gang classes to law enforcement, the educational department, religious organizations and parenting groups. She became the first parole officer to start a program called Voice Track in Harris County. She also encouraged gang members to turn their lives around, while educating the community on the ins and outs of gang life through the Mayor’s Anti-Gang Office. Ronda M. Prince Chief Operations Officer Rap-A-Lot Records 2141 W. Governors Circle Houston, TX 77091 281.850.3918 www.How2RetireYou.com

onda M. Prince has a very diverse and well-rounded professional background. A 1985 graduate of Kashmere High School in Houston, she continued her education at Lamar University where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology/Social Work in 1990. She furthered her education at Prairie View A&M University for graduate studies in Counseling. She taught many classes, including Life Skills, Job-Searching Skills and Leadership Development and is a Mentor at Rice University. Ms. Prince owns and manages several different companies. She is a member of National Association of Professional Women and is a Certified Mediator. She is a Rotarian for the Bear Creek Rotary Club. She has garnered honors for successfully com40

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

pleting workshops for Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. Ms. Prince has been recognized by numerous professional entities for her outstanding leadership and work ethics. Ms. Prince’s professional career experience includes work as a Child Protective Service Specialist for Texas Department of Human Services, Parole Officer for Texas Department of Criminal Justice and a Specialized Parole Officer. In 1997, she became an Agent Investigator for Texas Board of Private Investors and Private Security Agency investigating security companies and PIs. In 1998, Ms. Prince relocated to Oakland, Calif. where she took on the responsibility of managing and organizing a company named Products Unlimited, Inc. After returning to Texas, she became an Employment Marketing

Ms. Prince’s journey as an entrepreneur began in 2001 when she started Prince Limousines, Inc. In 2004, she opened PayDay Distribution, Inc. In 2006 Ms. Prince started Motivate Me, Inc where she encourages individuals through motivational speaking engagements, including going out high schools and universities. She also spoke at an event for the 2010 All-Star Basketball Weekend in Dallas, TX. In 2009, she launched Numbers Made Easy, LLC, in which she currently manages the accounting books for 15 companies and consults start-up companies. She also owns Your Miracle Water, Inc. and is currently Vice President/Chief of Operations for both Rap-A-Lot Records, Inc. (28-year-old record label) and Prince Boxing Enterprise, Inc., managing professional and amateur boxers. In 2013, she partnered with a company out of Europe to offer a mobile commerce service to help turn the U.S. economy around by helping small/medium-size businesses. Ms. Prince’s motto is, “I am a student to life and class is always in. I appreciate the lessons from the past and look forward to the rewards of the future.”

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Maria Rios Nation Waste, Inc., President & CEO

aria Rios is the proud President and CEO of Nation Waste, Inc., one of the first female Hispanicowned waste removal companies in the United States. Her dedication to providing the highest caliber of customer service has allowed Nation Waste, Inc. to become one of Houston’s largest minority-owned waste removal companies. Maria received a B.A. from the University of Houston in 1997. While attending, she worked for a large waste removal company and was inspired to remain in the waste removal industry after completing her degree. She saw a niche in the industry for a company to thrive by relentlessly focusing on the highest caliber customer service while offering both waste removal and recycling. Upon graduation, Maria purchased two trucks and Nation Waste, Inc. was born. Through 24-hour-a-day, quality customer service, Maria proved herself to contractors in a predominantly male industry. Nation Waste, Inc. began with small jobs and Maria offered a level of customer service that was unheard of in the waste removal and recycling industry, proving herself and opening doors for larger con- Board member of the Houston Hispanic tracts to flow to her company. Chamber of Commerce, Greater Houston Maria has built Nation Waste, Inc. into a Women Chamber of Commerce Board, successful waste removal and recycling United States Green Business Council company with a focus on how to serve Board, and was appointed by the mayor others in the Houston community. She to the City of Houston Office of Business and her team worked tirelessly to help Opportunity Advisory Board.

Maria Rios President & CEO Nation Waste, Inc. 713.649.7776 www.nationwaste.us preneur of the Year Award from the National Congressional Committee in Washington D.C., 2009 Female Entrepreneur of the Year Award from the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, 2009 BBB Gold Star Award, The Texas Governor’s Award for Best business practices and Houston’s Most Influential Women by Houston Woman Magazine. Maria won the 2013 Fortune Most Powerful Women Entrepreneur Award for her innovative and groundbreaking business model.

those affected by the aftermath of devas- Nation Waste, Inc. is registered as a tation caused by hurricanes Katrina and Small Business Enterprise and Women Ike. Business Enterprise with the City of HouMaria’s commitment to the community ston, HISD, Port of Houston and METRO. is also demonstrated by her support of Nation Waste, Inc. is Texas Historically Maria emigrated from El Salvador with Aldine Little League, the Harris County Underutilized Business certified. Sherriff’s Department, the Girl Scouts of Maria has been the recipient of numer- her parents as a child, pursued an eduAmerica, ESL literacy, women’s retreat ous professional accolades including: cation, founded a successful business, scholarships and support of various other 2004 Gold Medal Award Business Wom- has received an award from the President organizations causes. She is a member of an of the Year from the Business Advisory of The United States and is truly living the the Houston Minority Supplier Develop- Committee by President of the United American Dream. ment Council, and serves as an Executive States at the White House, 2006 Entre42

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dr. Docia Rudley Texas Southern University TMSL, Executive Director for Academic Assessment

r. Docia L. Rudley, an attorney and educator, currently serves as Executive Director for Academic Assessment at Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University. Dr. Rudley graduated with high honors from Michigan State University and attended law school at the University of Washington in Seattle, Wash. She was previously a member of the faculty at Thurgood Marshall School of Law, where she taught courses in Consumer Law, Antitrust Law and Professional Responsibility. Dr. Rudley also served on the faculties at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Middle Tennessee State University. During the early nineties, she was a supervisory attorney in the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights, where she led the development of policy guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). She received the OCR Special Act award for her work on the ADA. Dr. Rudley is a member of the State Bar of Texas, the National Bar Association, the American Bar Association and an inactive member of the state bars of Tennessee and Louisiana. She was recently selected by the Center for Inquiry at Wabash College in Indiana to participate in the Teagle Scholar Development program. Funded by the Teagle Foundation, this national program trains and develops scholars to assist higher education professionals throughout the country on best practices in educational assessment.

Dr. Docia Rudley Executive Director for Academic Assessment Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law 3100 Cleburne Avenue Houston, Texas 77004 44

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Dr. Rudley currently serves as a member of the Advisory Board for Inprint Houston. She is married to Dr. John M. Rudley, president of Texas Southern University. As First Lady of Texas Southern, Dr. Rudley actively supports the University’s fine arts programs and mentoring initiatives. John and Docia Rudley have two sons, John Michael and Jamal.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Neeta Sane HCC Board Chair, HCC Trustee - District VII

aving established an impressive record of public service, Neeta Sane continues to dedicate herself to causes that make a difference in the growth of the community. In 2007, Neeta was elected to serve on the Board of Trustees of Houston Community College. In 2013, she was re-elected to serve her second six-year term on the HCC Board. In 2014, the HCC Board elected her to serve as the Board Chair. She is an entrepreneur, wife and mother who brings a unique blend of energy, ideas and fervor to serve the community with universal values. She is committed to “Student Success” and she works tirelessly on behalf of the constituents of the Houston Community College. Neeta grew up in India with tremendous respect for America. To give back some of the blessings and opportunities that this country gave, Neeta combined her academic training with her passion to help her fellow citizens become well prepared and productive members of society. Neeta holds an M.S. in Chemistry and an MBA in Finance. Neeta has received congressional recognition and she was honored by the State of Texas House of Representatives for her leadership and service to the community and Houston Community College. The Texas Legislature commended Neeta for her efforts to strengthen college’s capacity to serve as a pathway to higher education and workforce training. She has served in several organizations ranging from American Association of University Women to Super Neighborhood Council to YMCA and has received recognitions for her caring and effective leadership. As a member of National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Neeta is committed to advancing educational opportunities for students to succeed in the 21st century. She has hosted regional workforce summits, Youth Leadership Summit for Early 46

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

College High Schools students and has launched scholarship programs to inspire students to excel in education. She has also been leading initiatives to help foster diversity and inclusion for people from all walks of life. In 2009, Neeta received DiversityFirst award from an established nonprofit organization, Texas Diversity Council, and she continues to serve as VP – Youth Outreach for National Diversity Council.

experience makes her prepared to forge a meaningful role in workforce development. She is committed to establishing stronger business partnerships for a mutually beneficial educational and workforce environment in the community. HCC Board Chair Neeta Sane HCC Trustee – District VII

Houston Community College (HCC) 3100 Main Today, as a business owner, Neeta leads P.O. Box 667517 a management consulting firm. Her busi- 713.718.5025 ness acumen as well as her extensive www.NeetaSane.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Congratulations to

HCC Trustee Neeta Sane for being named a 2014 Top 30 Influential Woman of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Thelma Scott Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation, Founder & CEO Associate Producer for the movie “Pound of Flesh” by Street Corner Films. She will also be featured in the film “Temp to Fire” with Davito Family Films.

Thelma Scott Founder & CEO Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corp. www.barbarajordanambassadors.org

helma Scott, affectionately known as “Mama Scott,” is the Founder & CEO of Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation (BJEC), an organization discovering students with “Unique Abilities” throughout school districts in Houston and the Gulf Coast. She is a dedicated and passionate advocate for people with disabilities. Scott’s first appointment as an advocate for people with disabilities was in 2004 by the Honorable Mayor Lee P. Brown to the Mayor Committee for People with Disabilities and she was reappointed in 2006 by Honorable Mayor Bill White, which was the voice to create the Mayor Youth Advocate Award, awarded to a Youth with a Disability each year.

of the Year Award in 2012.

Mama Scott currently serves on The Governor’s RCT Advisory Council in Austin and serves on various committees, including the Planning and Review Committee and Advocacy and Education Committee. She serves on the Spring ISD Business and Community Advisory Committee, the Texas RehabAction Network Advocate Advisory Committee and travels to Washington D.C. to advocate for bills that affect people with disabilities. She serves on the Mayor’s Office K-12 Advisory Committee and Marketing Advisory Committee. Mama Scott has served on the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce Education Committee for 10 years. She now serves on the Gulf Coast Always the activist, in 1997, Mama Scott Diversity Council Advisory Committee and headed the project for the renaming of a the Black Data Processing Association Diboll street in honor of the late Dr. Mar- Advisory Committee. tin Luther King, Jr. In May 2012, Mama Mama Scott is unstoppable when it Scott and BJE were nominated for the comes to reaping the benefits of her laWashington D.C. White House Cham- bor. She has received numerous awards pion of Change STEM Award for People at national, state and local levels and with Disabilities Winning Futures Across has been featured on numerous televiAmerica! The Honorable Mayor Annise D. sion stations and in several publications. Parker presented Mama Scott with the Recently, Mama Scott was appointed as Mayor’s Community Disability Advocate

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Most importantly, Mama Scott has overcome her own health scares and endured the most devastating incident to ever happen to her: the death of her beloved husband, partner and best friend for 41 years, Otis Scott Sr., in 2008. He was the person who influenced her most in life and all that she is today is because her husband loved her unconditionally, never letting her fail in anything as a woman with a “Unique Ability.” Rose Mary McGowen, the sister of the late Barbara Jordan, has also been an inspiration in her life as a close friend and she continues to be the number one supporter for the BJE Program. Mama Scott is the proud mother of five beautiful children and nine wonderful grandchildren. She began her career in Law Enforcement working for the Diboll Police Dept. for 10 1/2 years as a Communication Officer Supervisor. She attended Kilgore College, Stephen F. Austin State University, Lamar University and Angelina College in Law Enforcement. Mama Scott also attended North Harris Lone Star College studying Marketing and became a news article success story at North Harris College as a 52-year-old woman with a disability receiving a 4.0 GPA. Mama Scott is branded as a “giver” and always quotes Barbara Jordan: “It is clear to me. We as human beings must be willing to accept people who are different from ourselves.” Mama Scott’s magnetic personality and unbridled determination has allowed her to impact more lives that can be counted. She fervently believes that “a disability is the opportunity to demonstrate extraordinary Unique Abilities.”

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dr. Alison Scott Cuillier Lasting Impressions Dental Group, Dentist/Owner Dental Branch at Houston, she has been practicing Dentistry for more than 20 years. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, National Dental Association, Gulf State Dental Society, Charles A. George Dental Society, Academy of General Dentist, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentist, Graduate of the Las Vegas Institute (LVI) and the Houston Chamber of Commerce. She is the founding member of Awesome Angels Incorporated, a nonprofit organization which provides volunteer services. Their big event is the “Free Dental Day” in which Dr. Cuillier and other local dentists, hygienists and assistants provide free dental care to adults! More than 100 people are seen. She also volunteers on mission trips to South America (i.e. Brazil, Nicaragua and Mexico) providing basic and implant dentistry to patients who would not be able to afford it otherwise. She has participated in walkathons for breast cancer awareness, including Sisters Network as well as walkathons for Alzheimer’s disease. She was featured in the 2009 Vogue Magazine as a world renowned Cosmetic Dentist. In 2010, she was recognized by Rolling Out Magazine as one of the Top 25 Women of Houston and received a Pinnacle Award by Houston Chamber of Commerce. She was also a 2012 and 2014 Houston Top Dentist and a Master Affiliate with Fast Braces. Dr. Scott Cuillier is married to Joseph Cuillier Jr. and has one child, Julian as well as three bonus children: Christen, Joseph III, Sydney; and two bonus grandchildren: Jaylen and Jace.

r. Alison Scott Cuillier is a native Houstonian who knew at the age of 12 that her career calling would be dentistry. Since 2002, both she and her 50

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Dr. Alison Scott Cuillier team of dental professionals have served Dentist/Owner many patients at her practice, which is Lasting Impressions Dental Group located in Houston’s Third Ward/Mid- 4418 Almeda town/Museum District. Houston, TX 77004 A graduate of the University of Texas 713.528.0040 www.lastingimpressionsdentalgroup.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Sonya M. Sloan, MD Orthopedic Surgeon After a year of surgical residency, Dr. Sloan became the first African-American female Orthopedic Surgical resident at Baylor College of Medicine. She has completed several research projects in Orthopedic Sports Medicine (published) and a joint venture with NASA, Johnson Space Center. In 1992, Dr. Sloan began her first entrepreneur venture with “Not Just Coffee” and later established two nonprofits called AAA-CP (African American Association for Christian Physicians) and ME & WE, Inc. (Motivating & Empowering Women to Excel), and these organizations reach more than 5,000 women daily. Due to her passion to impact lives beyond the hospital walls, Dr. Sloan is a highly sought after public speaker for health awareness and motivational speaker. She currently serves on the Houston School Board Committee called School Health Awareness Committee (SHAC) and Dairy Max to help youth gain the proper daily nutrition. She is currently working on two books to assist medical professionals and an autobiography book that will disclose her personal failures as a successful doctor. Both books are expected to be released in 2015.

onya M. Sloan, MD, aka “#orthodoc,” is a woman on the rise in a male dominated field. Dr. Sloan prefers to be a traveling Orthopedic Surgeon and is certified to practice in over five states. She concentrates on helping her patients understand their problem and get the results they want. Her love is science, but her passion is in helping others.

gree in Chemistry at Texas Tech University. In 1992, she gained national attention as the first African-American Homecoming Queen at Texas Tech University. She received her Medical Doctor degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) at Galveston. Upon graduation from UTMB, Dr. Sloan accepted a residency position in surgery at Baylor College of Medicine. She was the first ever Dr. Sloan is a native of Denison, Texas African-American female surgical resiand she earned her undergraduate de- dent in the history of Baylor College of Medicine. 52

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Aside from surgical and technical expertise, Dr. Sloan was recently chosen for the “Top 25 Women” in Houston and featured in Essence Magazine aside from many other publications. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Mary Susan Moore – Black Female Physicians and multiple academic societies. Dr. Sloan is the First Lady of “The Luke Church” in Humble, TX, where she currently is the servant leader for The Luke Women’s Ministry. Beyond all her success, she’s most proud of her family. She and her husband, Reverend Dr. Timothy Sloan, are raising two beautiful daughters, Sarah and Soren, and one son, Timothy.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Laurie Vignaud Capital One Bank, Community Development Banking affordable housing, small business and economic development and asset-building opportunities. Ms. Vignaud manages a team of five associates strategically located across Capital One’s south central region. She has more than 18 years of experience in the community development arena and more than 20 years of banking experience. A New Orleans native, Ms. Vignaud received a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of New Orleans and a graduate degree in banking from the Southern Methodist University Southwest Graduate School of Banking in Dallas. She also attended Southern University of New Orleans, where she studied social welfare.

Laurie Vignaud Community Development Banking Senior Vice President/Senior Director – Texas and Louisiana Capital One Bank

aurie Vignaud has the overall responsibility for the development, monitoring, management and promotion of community development programs and Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) initiatives for Capital One Bank in Louisiana and Texas. She has been instrumental in bringing millions of dollars in grant financing to the bank that were used to support affordable housing programs. In addition, she has created and led some of the bank’s most creative affordable housing and small business initiatives in the region in recent years. 56

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Active in the community, Ms. Vignaud serves on the board of the Houston Area Urban League, the NAACP Texas State Corporate Advisory Board, City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity Advisory Board, Texas Southern University Business School Advisory Board and the board of the Ensemble Theater. Some of Ms. Vignaud’s recent recognitions include: • 2013 Women’s Resource Center Top 9 Women in Banking and Finance • 2012 NAACP Presidents Award- Corpus Christi Branch

The team led by Ms. Vignaud recognizes and cultivates community development projects, which may involve the new construction and renovation of singlefamily housing units throughout Capital One’s south central region. Ms. Vignaud serves as the President of Capital One’s Community Development Corporation, which is the entity that provides capital to nonprofit housing developers for the construction of new single-family homes sold to low- and moderate-income firsttime homebuyers. She works directly with various governmental, nonprofit and forprofit agencies to provide and promote

• 2012 Fountain of Praise Stella Tumble Community Award • 2011 Latino Learning Center Partner Recognition • 2010 Missouri City NAACP President’s Award • 2009 Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation Partner Award • 2008 Rolling Out Top 25 Women of Houston • 2006 Houston NAACP President’s Award

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Capital One® works every day to give back to the communities where we live and work. Through programs that support financial literacy, education and affordable housing, we provide people the tools they need to succeed.

General Community / 8.5” x 11” • Committed to Community - Generic

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Barbara Walker-Green Advanced Wealth and Retirement, LLC, Investment Advisor Representative

arbara Walker-Green has always been interested in helping others. When she first entered the financial services industry, she initially focused on corporate finance, but the needs of her boomer friends, as well as her family, inspired change. In an effort to help those around her experience financial freedom and peace of mind, Walker-Green opened her own financial planning practice, Advanced Wealth and Retirement Planning Concepts, nearly a decade ago. As a Personal Wealth Advisor, Barbara Walker-Green specializes in wealth management, financial planning and retirement strategies. She focuses on the entire family during this process to ensure the goals – both financial and personal – are well communicated to the client’s family and structured to be honored upon one’s passing.

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Walker-Green is a Registered Investment Advisor and is insurance licensed. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Finance and a Master’s in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. She is both knowledgeable and passionate about her work and is a well-suited planner for individuals and families in need of comprehensive financial and retirement planning services. Her combination of nearly two decades of experience, training and specialized education means Walker-Green can meet a client’s total financial planning needs. She has been quoted by media giants such as Forbes, Dow Jones, Money magazine, and RTINews as a financial expert and ‘goto’ person. She was also featured on the cover of the Senior Market Advisor magazine as the “Boomer Expert” and quoted in Black Enterprise Magazine.

She provides regular financial commentary on FOX, KHOU and KTRX News stations in Houston. She is currently producing her own reality series, The Financial Fixer – aimed at providing financial solutions to a wide range of financial challenges. Since beginning her practice, Walker Green has become a top advisor and a nationally recognized speaker, joining groups such as the National Ethics Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau, Million Dollar Round Table and NAIFA.

Barbara Walker-Green Investment Advisor Representative Advanced Wealth and Retirement, LLC 2425 W. Loop South, Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77027 713.297.9185

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Reva A. Witherspoon Amerigroup, Vice President, Marketing

Reva A. Witherspoon Vice President, Marketing Harris & Jefferson Health Plans 3800 Buffalo Speedway, Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77098 713.218.5100 www.amerigroup.com

eva Witherspoon is the Vice President of Marketing for Amerigroup, a managed healthcare organization serving more than 192,000 underserved citizens of Harris, Jefferson and 18 surrounding counties. Amerigroup is a subsidiary of WellPoint, Inc., one of the largest health benefits companies in the United States. Witherspoon completed her education at Middle Tennessee State University and then the Graduate School of Human Resources at the University of Colorado. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Change Happens! Witherspoon is a past board member of CABLE (Women’s Professional Organization), Tennessee 60

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Bankers Association, Society of Human Resources Management (Nashville) and Contract Services of America Advisory Board.

violence and keys to living a fulfilled life. Her daily mantra is “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” She is currently an active member of The She was encouraged by her dad to live Fountain of Praise Church. fearlessly and authentically. As the only Witherspoon is most proud of her daughdaughter of five children, Witherspoon’s ter, Tiffany. An accomplished oil & gas father insisted that she define her own professional and diversity advocate, Tifunique destiny. Although chronically ill, fany continues the legacy of her grandher dad found the strength to inspire parents by promoting change, improving self-discipline and accountability in the lives and serving her community. Withermany children drawn to him throughout spoon is the proud grandmother to Presthe community. ton, a sophomore at Kipp Sunnyside ColAn ordained minister, Witherspoon serves lege Prep, and Maya, 7 a second-grader her community through volunteerism, at Law Elementary. In addition to spendteaching, mentoring and motivational ing time with family and friends, Withspeaking – pragmatically addressing is- erspoon also enjoys travel, music, great sues such as homelessness, domestic conversation and a few good books.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

When it comes to health care, there’s no place like home Amerigroup can help you get the coordinated health care you need. Look at what you get with Amerigroup:

Your regular STAR+PLUS benefits include: n An Amerigroup service coordinator who can help

coordinate your health services n Physician services from a network primary care provider you choose* n Qualified specialists who know and understand your needs*

n Hospitalization coverage* n Prescription coverage* n Immunizations n Vision benefits* n Wellness checkups* n And more

Plus, you may qualify for these additional services: n Long-term support services

n Community-based services

Your extra Amerigroup value-added benefits n Our 24-hour Nurse HelpLine – nurses are available

24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your health-care questions n Amerigroup On Call – nurses and/or doctors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for help with an urgent medical issue or setting up an urgent doctor appointment n Transportation assistance to get to your medical appointments when medical transportation services are not available (Members who have Medicare will get transportation to services for their Medicaid-covered long-term services and supports.) n Enhanced vision benefits for members age 21 and older* n Additional 200 one-time Lifeline cell phone minutes with free health-related text messages if you qualify Important phone numbers 1-800-600-4441

TDD/TTY

1-800-855-2880

Amerigroup On Call

1-866-864-2544

24-hour Nurse HelpLine

1-866-864-2544

STAR+PLUS Help Line

1-800-964-2777

who have limited or no access to a reliable phone for emergency and medical use n An extra 8 hours of respite services for families and caregivers of members age 21 and older n Smoking/Tobacco cessation help with personal coaching‡ n Taking Care of Baby and Me® program for pregnant women and new mothers*‡ n Healthy lifestyle coaching for eligible members with certain chronic conditions ages 18 to 64‡ n Pest control services every 3 months n Personal disaster plan and free first aid kit after completing a plan online

Amerigroup is a diverse company and welcomes all eligible people. We do not base membership on health status. If you have questions or concerns, please call 1-800-600-4441 and ask for extension 34925. Or visit www.myamerigroup.com. *For members not covered by Medicare ‡Not for members in Tarrant

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

TXMKTAL-0442-14 06.14

Member Services

n Preprogrammed cell phone for high-risk members

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Mia K. Wright The Fountain of Praise, Co-Pastor program for teenage girls, a compassion outreach, empowerment seminars and international programs. Through her work, thousands have embraced lifelong transformations. In essence, Mia’s gift is in helping others to transform life’s broken pieces to a place of fulfillment and purpose. Mia is a noted community influencer and “woman to watch” in Texas. Her efforts in the community have been widely recognized, earning her a list of accolades from distinguished organizations. She was named one of Houston’s Top 25 Women by The Steed Society; Endowment Alliance Award honoree by Inspire Women, Inc.; “Most Inspirational Person of the Year” nominee by StreamingFaith. com; Who’s Who in Black Houston honoree since 2007, and was a featured citizen in the 2010 Who’s Who edition.

ia K. Wright is inspiring people around the globe to pursue their passion for living.

She is a powerful speaker who encourages others with uplifting messages, relevant life stories and life skills that apply in both the faith-based and industry sectors. Her messages are inspiring as well as encouraging. With a call to action, she elevates others to purposeful thinking with a higher mindset. People respond with testimonials of how Mia encouraged them to begin a new business, to complete school, or to be a better person. She is a sought after motivational speaker, women’s conference presenter, and corporate work/faith/life balance coach. As a speaker, she has shared transformational messages in churches, town halls,

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Mia earned her bachelor’s degree at The University of Texas at Austin in Biology and Chemistry. Following college, she was highly successful as both a sales professional and training specialist with Merck Pharmaceuticals and Astra Zeneca Pharmaceuticals. In 2005, Mia graduated convention centers, hotels, corporate with honors with a Master of Divinity from venues, schools, mud huts and prisons Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. She participated in a Study Abroad around the world. Program on the History and Relevance of Mia is the Co-Pastor and Director of Minthe First Century Church in North Africa. istry at The Fountain of Praise. Alongside her husband, Pastor Remus E. Wright, Mia is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha the couple leads a congregation of more Sorority, Inc. Beyond her impressive than 20,000 members, making theirs academic background and professional one of the largest churches in the United accomplishments, her greatest achieveStates. She leads the Women’s Ministry ments are her three sons and her 25and the Social Media platforms for The year marriage to Pastor Remus Wright. Fountain of Praise. In addition to her church leadership and professional speaking platforms, Mia’s passion is fulfilled as the Executive Director of the Metamorphosis, Inc., a women’s empowerment organization. Metamorphosis encompasses the lifechanging Metamorphosis Women’s Conference based in Houston, a mentoring

Mia K. Wright Co-Pastor The Fountain of Praise 13950 Hillcroft Houston, TX 77085 713.433.1824 www.miawright.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Carlecia D. Wright City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity, Director She has also launched and implemented innovative business development policies and initiatives such as Hire Houston First, the largest local preference program in the State of Texas, and TweetMyJobs Houston!, an online job platform that has connected more than 20,000 individuals to more than 100,000 jobs in Houston. Prior to coming to Houston, Carlecia worked in New York City government where she led various policy, strategic planning and communications initiatives for the City of New York’s Departments of Small Business Services and Housing Preservation and Development. While in New York, she was recognized as an aspiring and emerging leader for the work she had done in city government. Carlecia is a Change Agent and Strategic Planner as well as an avid advocate for economic development policies. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Columbia College of Chicago and a master’s degree from New York University. In 2013, Carlecia was honored by the Houston Business Journal as one of the city’s 40 Under 40 professionals. Her leadership has also brought national recognition to the City of Houston for their diversity programs. She involves herself in the Houston community by volunteering for several arts and educational organizations. She serves on various chambers of commerce boards, and the University of Houston’s College of Education Dean’s Advisory Council. She is a proud graduate of the Center for Houston’s Future and Leadership Houston. A native of Illinois, Carlecia is the wife of Philip Wright, Jr. and mother of Kaomi.

arlecia D. Wright is the Director for the City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity.

In this role, she has led the city’s supplier 64

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

Carlecia D. Wright diversity and small business programs; Director helping facilitate historical accomplish- City of Houston Office of ments, including the award of over $1 bil- Business Opportunity lion to small, minority and women-owned 611 Walker Street businesses under the administration of Houston, TX 77002 Mayor Annise D. Parker. director.obo@houstontx.gov

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Over the last four years, the City of Houston has awarded over $1 billion dollars to certified Minority, Women, Small, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises. The City wants you to be a part of future awards. Get Certified Now!

The City of Houston’s Office of Business Opportunity wishes to congratulate

Carlecia D. Wright

Interested in certification? For more information, visit www.houstontx.gov/obo or call 832.393.0600

EDUCATE. CONNECT. GROW Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Betty Young, PhD, JD, LLM Educator with a 99-year lease at $1 per year with a 99-year extension, essentially saving the college $25 million in land expense for construction and delivering an invaluable asset to Houston. Her commitment to educational pathways is demonstrated in partnerships developed with ISD schools including Roderick Paige Elementary and Jane Long Academy, exposing primary school students to careers in the health care industry and offer the pharmacy technician and associate degree, beginning with high school freshmen giving these students an opportunity to graduate from high school with a degree and career in-hand. She has raised millions of dollars for student scholarships, including the two largest gifts in the history of HCC. She is a member of the HCC Golden Eagle Society and has endowed scholarships in her name and in the name of her late husband. Her passion for community colleges is fueled by her own experience as a single mother starting at a community college at age 28 – in her words “to create a life for me and for my daughter, I took a few classes to get ahead at work.” From there, she went on to earn an associate degree in math and science, a bachelor’s degree in business, master’s degree, PhD, law degree and postgraduate Master of Laws (LLM) in Business.

etty Young has dedicated her life to service of others through her career in higher education. She most recently served as President of Houston Community College Coleman College for Health Sciences. A priority from her first day in 2009, she began planning for the expansion of the college, which has grown from 1,400 students to serve

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

6,000 students in the 2013-14 academic year. She was a driving force behind the 2012 $425 million capital bond passage, which included $120 million for Coleman’s expansion in the Texas Medical Center. She further developed this expansion project by negotiating with the Texas Medical Center for additional land on which to build the expansion. The medical center board presented HCC

Today, she is involved in advocating for the community college to offer the bachelor’s degree in nursing to meet the high demand for BSNs in the Texas Medical Center and surrounding Houston area. She is currently an elected member of the President’s Academy Executive Committee of the American Association of Community Colleges, an immediate past member of the AACC Board of Directors and Chair of the AACC Commission on Economic and Workforce Development.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2014

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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2014 70

Top 30 Woman 2014

Articles inside

Judge Maria T. Jackson ......................... 339th State District Court, Houston

Shern-Min Chow .................................. Anchor & Reporter, KHOU TV/Gannett Broadcasting

Sonia Guimbellot.................................. Director of Communications Development, World Chamber of Commerce, Texas

Sharon E. Murphy................................. Founding Partner, McConnell Jones Lanier Murphy LLP