SUCCESSFUL
WOMEN TO KNOW
We asked our audience to nominate women deserving of recognition for their accomplishments and contributions to the community. The responses highlighted inspiring leaders from all walks of life. Meet 100 Successful Women to Know whose passion, dedication and influence are impacting the Coast and far beyond.
Adrea Maxwell OWNER
SEASIDE FITNESS-GROUP TRAINING STUDIO
“Adrea is the owner/instructor at Seaside Fitness OS. She has built a center around health and encouragement for all different types of women. She is changing lives daily and providing the support behind it to really make an impact in the community. Seaside is everyone’s happy place thanks to Adrea!”
Alexis Williams FOUNDER/CEO ALOHA GLAMOUR
“Alexis should be nominated as a Successful Woman to Know because she is a trailblazer when it comes to business. She netted $95,000 in two months has been featured in Forbes, Black Enterprise, and other (publications) these past two months. She influences others and doesn’t even know it.”
Aimee Clute
APOSTLE, CO-PASTOR AND CHRISTIAN GOSPEL SINGER RIVER OF LIFE CHURCH
Amanda Compton-Ortiz FOUNDER/PUBLISHER SEASIDE SOCIAL NEWS
“Dr. Aimee Clute celebrates 40 years of full-time ministry, holding a doctorate in divinity and a certificate of chaplaincy. Dr Clute is an international singer, traveling as far as Pakistan. She has been featured on TBN as well (and has been) co-pastor of River of Life Church for over 28 years.”
July-August 2020
“I first saw Amanda when she was interviewed by Todd Trenchard on WXXV. I was so impressed by her vision and mission for Seaside Social News that I reached out to her and invited her to a WOW (Women of Wisdom) luncheon. We have been connected ever since. Amanda’s an amazing woman to know.”
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Amber Hester
CEO | ENCOMPASS HEALTH REHABILITATION HOSPITAL OF GULFPORT
“Amber Hester is a leader by example. As CEO of Encompass Rehab, she serves the residents of the Gulf Coast by providing excellence in patient care. Amber also serves on the board of The Boys & Girls Clubs. As a mother of two, she knows the importance of supporting our youth.”
Ann Marie Walley
Amber Lord
OWNER, STYLIST, MAKEUP ARTIST
ANTONIAN SALON
OWNER/STYLIST
SALON ROUGE AND BLUE DOG BISTRO “Ann Marie Walley, owner of Antonian Salon, has been beautifying the coast for 20-plus years. Ann Marie is trendy, edgy and pours into women daily, helping them realize their beauty from the inside out. She truly has a deep love and passion for the beauty industry.”
“Amber Lord, owner of Salon Rouge for 13 years, attributes her success to her undying passion for and dedication to the beauty industry. Some of Amber’s work has been featured on the cover of Gulf Coast Woman Magazine. Amber has a heart for her community, the homeless and pets.”
Amy Corr
VICE PRESIDENT / SENIOR BUSINESS BANKER | HANCOCK WHITNEY “Amy is very active in the community and civic and nonprofit organizations in many leadership roles (board and officer positions). She is a mover and shaker in Hancock County!”
Ann Toliver
AREA MANAGER/STORAGE CONSULTANT PASS ROAD MINI STORAGE
Andrea Jenkins
“Ann Toliver, area manager, Pass Road Mini Storage, (has spent) 20-plus years in the self-storage industry. She manages facilities in Mississippi and Alabama. Her most recent award was manager of the year, (being chosen) out of 820 stores for a nationwide storage company based out of Ohio. Ann truly has a heart for people, and it shows.”
OWNER
THE THREADED CORK “Andrea, owner of The Threaded Cork in downtown Biloxi, has built the Coast’s only hybrid store, featuring a variety of products. Coming from a European background and having lived overseas, Andrea wanted to offer great products, outstanding customer service and a unique experience to the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”
Anne Gillam
COMMERCIAL LINES EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
SOUTHGROUP INSURANCE – GULF COAST “She’s worked in the insurance industry for 15-plus years. She is known for her ability to connect with people of varied backgrounds, personalities and economic levels. She helps with community events that support the causes she loves. She is currently serving on the board of directors of the Women’s Resource Center. She attends Northwood Church.”
Angel Greer
CEO | COASTAL FAMILY HEALTH CENTER “Angel Greer, chief executive officer at Coastal Family Health, is passionate about serving others through teaching, mentoring and community service.”
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Brandin Brosh
OWNER/OPERATOR
CHARISMA “A GIRL’S BEST OUTFIT”
Arlana Hargrave ASSOCIATE REALTOR
EXIT MAGNOLIA COAST REALTY
Brandie Morace
“Brandin, owner of Charisma Boutique in downtown Ocean Springs, has six years of success here on the Coast and is known for “A Girl’s Best Outfit!” Brandin’s success is not only in the store, but throughout the community. Brandin may be one of the youngest, smartest business owners I know.”
ADMINISTRATOR
SUNPLEX SUBACUTE CENTER “Arlana Hargrave is a hardworking professional registered nurse, consultant and entrepreneur. She has been a nurse for 28 years. She is also a realtor for EXIT Magnolia Coast Realty.”
“Sunplex Subacute Center houses over 50 elderly residents and even more staff. Brandie has taken the COVID-19 crisis seriously and been determined to keep all our staff and residents safe through training and screening. Her leadership and influence have created a culture of integrity. She leads by example.”
Brandy Waltman
OWNER/OPERATOR
Beth Breland
MISSISSIPPI ROOTS LLC
“Brandy is all about others. She owns and runs her business, Mississippi Roots LLC, and is able to help others navigate through hard decisions after they have lost a loved one. She is upfront, honest, caring, sympathetic and delicate all at the same time.”
OWNER/AESTHETICIAN
FACE AND BODY ADVANCED AESTHETICS “Beth is a dedicated, empowering and successful business owner and woman. She strives to bring the best service to her local community, as well as her clients. She has a genuine and authentic heart, as well as the education and technical background that shines through in her business.”
Bridget Turan
VOLUNTEER HUB DIRECTOR
GULF COAST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION “Bridget demonstrates ‘servant leadership’ in everything she does. She volunteers more than 15 hours a month in our community, helping so many nonprofits by recruiting volunteers and adding to their success. I can speak to this personally; she is a valuable piece of the WOW (Women of Wisdom) puzzle.”
Catherine Riemann
Brandi Viator
SENIOR LOAN OFFICER
STARS AND STRIPES REALTY
“Catherine has worked in the mortgage industry since 1999 and has been at Supreme Lending since 2013. She prides herself on ‘hand-holding’ customer service and considers it an honor to help people into new homes. She also serves as board president for the Women’s Resource Center, totaling five years of service.”
SUPREME LENDING
REALTOR AND HOME STAGER “Brandi Viator is the epitome of a successful woman, mother and friend. In October of 2019, Brandi tragically lost her husband in a car accident. Since his loss, she is piecing together the life they had built. She works tirelessly as the sole provider for her sons.”
July-August 2020
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Cathy Reed
SECOND GENERATION CO-OWNER W. P. SHELTON JEWELERS
“Cathy is full of life and always has a smile to share. She continued her father’s jewelry business and then taught her daughter how to as well, which speaks volumes. She now has a side business selling Tori Belle magnetic lashes, which she is rocking!”
Crystal Cagle
Christian Hartley
OWNER | MOXIE SHOP
BRANCH MANAGER
“Crystal started an online, plus-size boutique two years ago and has had a small boutique in Ocean Springs since November 2019. All of this was done while working her regular, full-time job. She is very creative, and there is no limit to what she can achieve.”
KEESLER FEDERAL CREDIT UNION “Christian Hartley, who manages two branches of the Keesler Federal Credit Union in Jackson County, sets a great example of community leadership and professional accomplishment. She is a light to others — always looking to help wherever she can.”
Cindy Frederic
CO-OWNER AND BUSINESS MANAGER HERITAGE FUNERAL HOME
CO-OWNER AND VICE PRESIDENT FREDERIC & COMPANY LLC AND BELAIR STORAGE INC.
“This is one hard-working woman! She is part owner of Heritage Funeral Home in Moss Point and owner of Belair Storage in Pascagoula. You can always find her helping those in need or on a Heritage commercial on WLOX 100 times a day.”
eAGENT NEXUS
“Darlene is very humble, but also very knowledgeable when it comes to real estate — especially in new home construction. She started her own real estate brokerage to help Coast residents connect to reputable home builders because the home-building process can be very intimidating. She’s always working the win-win!”
Cindy Picard MANAGING OWNER RIGHT AT HOME
“A self-described hometown girl, Cindy always has been attracted to strong people-person ethics. She served five years as the victim-witness coordinator for the district attorney’s office, managed Edgewater Village Shopping Center for 10 years and served as publisher for two community newspapers for 13 years.”
Darlene N. Allen
CO-FOUNDER, BROKER/OWNER
Constance Woulard DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF NURSING AND UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
“Constance Woulard is a native of Gulfport. In her current role as divisional director of nursing and utilization management, she is accountable for nursing practice and quality across her organization, encompassing 12 sites within the U.S.”
Dawn Lieck
CEO | FINALLY FREE LLC “Dawn Lieck is a bold, out-of-the-box transformation life coach, certified health and wellness coach, best-selling author and international speaker. She shares her powerful stories and coaches. Dawn is transforming lives emotionally, physically and mentally. Her motto is ‘Do it scared!’”
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Dorothy Roberts OWNER AND ARTIST
ROBIN’S NEST IN THE PASS “She exemplifies excellence in business, community service and family support. She is an all-around success, and as such, she is a bright inspiration to all women everywhere.”
Denise Howell
PRESIDENT | HOWELL CPA, PA “She cares. She cares about helping people needing accounting services. She cares about her community. She’s a smart businesswoman who deserves more credit and recognition.”
Dr. Angela Wingfield
BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST AND FOUNDER AND CEO THE DERMATOLOGY CLINIC PLLC
“Dr. Wingfield deserves to be recognized for this award, as she’s set a standard of world-class dermatology care on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She’s an amazing doctor who found success by serving others.”
Courtney Meredith
PHYSICIAN
BILOXI OB-GYN CLINIC
Dianne Murray
“As an Ob-Gyn physician, she cares about her patients’ health and wellbeing. She loves helping her female patients with passion, care and concern.”
THIRD-GENERATION CO-OWNER W. P. SHELTON JEWELERS
“Dianne is one of the smartest women I know in business. She handles everything, from the accounting and the jewelry buying to the customer service and overseeing marketing initiatives for her family-owned business. Her fun-loving personality is contagious!”
Kady B. Pietz
ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT OF FOUNDATION AND ALUMNI RELATIONS DISTRICT OFFICE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Dr. Joanna Trus DOCTOR
WOMAN’S CLINIC P.A.
Dixie Newman
OWNER | JACKED UP COFFEE BAR COUNCILWOMAN | CITY OF BILOXI “Dixie strives flawlessly to improve business in downtown Biloxi. She consistently has brewed her small business ethics through a “Biloxi Strong” mentality as one of Howard Avenue’s west-end merchants. She maintains poise as a city leader fighting for her constituents in Ward 3.”
July-August 2020
“She’s the hardest worker I know and reaches out to help our community every single day. She’s a mentor to many.”
“Dr. Trus is a wonderful Ob-Gyn and has served our community for over 20 years. She is dedicated to her patients and makes sure everyone is treated with TLC. It shows that she loves what she does every day with her joy for life and helping bring new life into the world.”
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Dr. Lisa Smith DOCTOR
GCI RADIOLOGY PA "Lisa Smith is a board-certified radiologist with specialty fellowship training in breast imaging, making her the only female radiologist on the Mississippi Gulf Coast with this training. As a member of GCI Radiology, she is dedicated to providing comprehensive imaging services, including mammograms, while also balancing mom life.”
Erin Riggins
DEAN OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
JEFFERSON DAVIS CAMPUS, MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Dr. Paige White DOCTOR (UROLOGIST)
“Dr. Erin Riggins is a dedicated leader. Her work ethic is stellar, and she completes her tasks with an added dose of humor that makes the workplace enjoyable for all. She models the ideal employee and has earned the respect and trust of her peers.”
THE UROLOGY CLINIC LLC
“Dr. Paige White is passionate about meeting her patients’ needs. She specializes in the male and female urinary tract and male reproductive organs.”
Dr. Racheal Butler DIRECTOR OF PHARMACY
COASTAL FAMILY HEALTH CENTER “Dr. Butler is a woman who exudes professionalism, determination, hard work and compassion. Dr. Butler is a woman of strength and passion. She is a leader and a person who does not hesitate to help others. Dr. Butler embodies excellence!”
Emily Clemens
Geneva Dummer
OWNER/OPERATOR THE MEETING PLACE
“Mrs. Dummer created a nonprofit organization, The Meeting Place, which is an incubator for other small businesses. She serves on several community boards and recently was recognized as Businesswoman of the Year by William Carey University.”
BROKER/OWNER
RE/MAX ALONG THE WAY “She just turned 40 and has run a successful real estate business for over 10 years. She got pregnant with me (at a young age) and has been a loving provider and role model. She specializes in getting to know her clients and building lifelong relationships.”
Ginny Reeves
Emily T. Smith
BUSINESS OWNER/LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST/WELLNESS ENTREPRENEUR
MANAGING PARTNER
SMITH CONTRACTING CO LLC
RECIPERO MASSAGE AND WELLNESS
“Emily sets a great example of entrepreneurship as managing partner in her business with her husband. She also is a mother who is very involved in her children’s success. She manages to balance it all while continuing to improve herself through higher education.”
“Diagnosed with Lupus in 2016, Ginny was facing aggressive chemo treatments. As a young mother, wife, and business owner, she was determined to live the life she encouraged to others, and a holistic approach to her battle began. Since, she has won fitness competitions, and her business has exploded.”
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Holly Lemoine-Raymond OWNER/ BROKER
HL RAYMOND PROPERTIES
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER/DIRECTOR HL RAYMOND PRODUCTIONS
“Holly is a hard worker and a real go-getter. She is always working her real estate and to better the community.”
Heather Eason FOUNDER/CEO
COMEBACK COOLERS
Jacqueline Wilson MANAGER
“Heather Abigail Eason is the founder of the nationally recognized nonprofit Comeback Coolers. She has received the key to the city of Ocean Springs and is winner of the prestigious Hardee’s All-Star award. She holds a master’s degree from William Carey College and is the creator of Buy A Barricade and co-founder of the Discover Christmas parade and toy drive (in Ocean Springs.”
BILOXI BEACH RESORT RENTALS “Jacqueline Wilson, manager of Biloxi Beach Resort Rentals, is a no-nonsense woman. She is running multiple properties here on the Coast. I love that Jacqueline leans forward in her thinking and does what it takes to make it a win-win for all parties involved.”
Jaye Brice
BUSINESS/OFFICE MANAGER
BRICE PEDIATRIC DENTAL SPECIALISTS “Jaye shows that dedication and commitment to a family team can lead to success. She exhibits a commitment to her job and team that has aided in the success of the pediatric dental clinic. After 40 years growing a successful business, she has earned the title of successful woman.”
Heather Rafferty-Phillips OWNER, PHOTOGRAPHER
Jennifer Hearne
EJR PHOTOGRAPHY
OWNER/DESIGNER
“She works tirelessly to be the change. (She’s a) wife, mother to three and the hardest worker I’ve ever seen. Not only is she insanely talented, she’s selfless. She’s consistently inclusive of other small businesses in her ideas/work. She pushes to show everyone’s authentic self in anything she creates.”
PIXEL POP DESIGNS
DESIGNER/MARKETING DIRECTOR SOUTHERN TATERS: A SMALL TOWN SMOCK COMPANY
MARKETING DIRECTOR
CHICK- FIL-A, EDGEWATER MALL
OWNER
A PINCH OF PRETTY LLC
Helen Cao
OWNER, PERMANENT MAKEUP ARTIST, MICROBLADING SPECIALIST EYETRACTIONS
Jeannie Beattie OWNER
JACK BEATTIE’S HOUSE OF CARPET “Jeannie Beattie is an icon in the coast community. A master designer and businesswoman, she also has been a consistent community advocate, including serving on many boards for nonprofits and at one time coordinating the Junior Miss Pageant on the Coast.”
July-August 2020
“Jennifer offered hand-drawn and sewn appliqués for almost 10 years. Last year, she started a digital design shop and surpassed 27,000 sales on Etsy in just six months. She also designs for a smock company on the side and acts as a marketing manager for several small businesses.”
“She is talented, hardworking and kind. (She) makes women happy and confident about themselves because eyebrows are not easy to do, and many of us suffer (because of) that. Helen is sweet and very professional. She started small and now is very well known — definitely a young, successful entrepreneur.”
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Jill Champagne
MEDICAL OFFICE MANAGER WOMAN’S CLINIC PA
“She has been working at Woman’s Clinic PA for almost 40 years (39). She is a phenomenal leader who manages two Ob-Gyn clinics. She went through stage-three breast cancer (twice) and didn’t miss a beat! She loves her job and worked through her chemo treatments.”
Joan Hampton
LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR, BUSINESS OWNER OASIS MENTAL WELLNESS LLC “Joan always has possessed the skills to achieve greatness because she sets her goals high and exceeds expectations. She moved to the Gulfport area, opened a private, self-sufficient business and became a top-selling book author in less than three years. Recognition for success is next.”
Jode’ Braxton
REALTOR | CAMERON BELL PROPERTIES “Jode’ is one of the hardest working realtors I know. She has successfully sold properties for me, and her work ethic is extremely impressive. In addition to her work responsibilities, she has accepted the appointed position of Ward 2 beautification commissioner and serves on two other boards.”
Karol Brandt
EXECUTIVE CASINO HOST
SCARLET PEARL CASINO RESORT
AMAZON BEST-SELLING AUTHOR “THE STRUGGLE IS REAL”
CHIEF VISIONARY | KAROL BRANDT ENTERPRISES “Karol Brandt is an accomplished ball of positive energy with a personality bigger than this world! Her community involvement and dedication to empowering women are qualities worthy of celebration. She has begun building an empire that will inspire her community and the world all while simultaneously serving the corporate world.”
Jodie Picciano-Swanson LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER, HOMELESS PROGRAM MANAGER
Karina Carver
OWNER | ISLAND GIRL OUTFITTERS “Karina Carver is owner of Island Girl Outfitters, located in Bay St Louis. Karina and her daughter have built a trendy Southern boutique that offers a unique selection of clothing, shoes, accessories and gifts. Karina’s customer base extends far beyond the Coast. Their customers rave about the friendliness and uniqueness of the store.”
GULF COAST VETERANS HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
“Jodie is a phenomenal advocate for every veteran she comes into contact with. As homeless program manager, she has reached functional zero for homelessness along the entire Gulf Coast. After she lost her husband to cancer, Jodie not only stayed strong for her family, but she also thrives at work.”
Karen Arguelles
VICE PRESIDENT | THE PEOPLES BANK, BILOXI “She has a distinguished, wide-ranging 27-year career. She holds an associate degree, banking and finance (Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College), a graduate degree (Mississippi School of Banking, University of Mississippi), (and is) attending the Graduate school of Banking at Louisiana State University. She is a Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber member and Leadership Gulf Coast graduate. Her community involvement includes the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Nativity BVM Catholic Church, the Gulf Coast Carnival Association, Billikins Carnival Organization and Hera Carnival Organization.”
Kary Hisrich PRESIDENT AND CEO
BETTING KINGS - ALTERNATIVE ASSET INVESTMENT ADVISORS “Kary lives in Biloxi and had the vision of sports investing before it was even legal. She left a very lucrative career with Deloitte to start and grow Betting Kings. She has taken care of all employees and members during these hard times. She is a leader and deserves recognition.”
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Kimaka Bowens
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER
PRESIDENT | MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST BLACK NURSES ROCK
Kathy Van Zutphen ATTORNEY
KATHY BROWN VAN ZUTPHEN, ATTORNEY AT LAW
“Kathy is passionate about helping others traverse through the most difficult times in life. Her passion and excellence set a great example to other women of how to not only pursue your career, but also your passion.”
Kearn Cherry VICE PRESIDENT PRN HOME CARE
ENTREPRENEUR, SPEAKER, COACH, AUTHOR, AND COLLABORATOR
“Kimaka Bowens is an experienced nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing science, focus area family nurse practitioner. Kimaka specializes in urgent care, women’s health and immunotherapy. Kimaka is also president of the nonprofit nursing organization Black Nurses Rock, Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter, and a Mary Kay consultant."
POWER UP SUMMIT AND SUCCESS WOMEN’S CONFERENCE “A true enigma, Kearn shows others around her how to courageously make an impact in the world while also being a mentor to many women in her own hometown.”
LaWanda Jones
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER | AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY
Katy E. Fulghum
CLOSING ATTORNEY/ PARTNER
“She has immersed herself within her community to help develop her business and a strategic skillset that led to her present career working with a nonprofit. She has leveraged her business network to grow the awareness of that nonprofit’s mission, as well as being a community partner.”
ISLAND WINDS TITLE COMPANY LLC “Katy Fulghum gives 100 percent in everything she does. There is no job too small for her. She keeps her cool to make sure the group works together as a whole. Katy is always looking for new ways to make the jobs easier for her employees.”
Leah Rodgers
OWNER | SELAH YOGA & FITNESS “Leah is an expert on the coast in mindfulness and wellness related to the mind, body and spirit. She is an innovator in her industry. She is an influencer who shines bright in this world.”
LeAnna Morgan Saucier
Kay Daneault
MANAGER, WORKFORCE READINESS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH MISSISSIPPI
“Known for being a ‘champion of positive mental health and wellness’ for nearly 14 years, Kay shares compassion for those experiencing mental illness while in the midst of nonprofit management, in which she excels. Her keen sense of motherly intuition inspires others to remember self-care.”
July-August 2020
MEMORIAL HOSPITAL AT GULFPORT
“LeAnna is an outstanding community advocate and is passionate about encouraging and mentoring youth and women. From her involvement in the local chamber of commerce and nonprofits to teaching Sunday school, she absolutely loves serving her community. In her current role at Memorial Hospital, she loves working with student programs.”
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Leilani Tynes
FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER’S OFFICE “Leilani is a public servant who dedicates her time to ensuring others get a proper defense. She raises four children and always finds time to support their passions, be it soccer, dance, cheer or photography. She is also an amazing friend and advocate for women.”
Lindsey Lind Richard
LeKeisha Cotten
REALTOR | COLDWELL BANKER ALFONSO REALTY
FOUNDER/CEO
“Lindsey is a multi-million-dollar-selling Realtor on the Gulf Coast and has only been in business six years. She is a lifelong resident of Hancock County and involved in every organization you can think of. She spends as much time giving back to others as she does working.”
GULF COAST GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS “Mrs. Cotten has been a force in the community. As a gifted singer and psalmist, she created one of the largest gospel awards in the region with the GCGMA, which has over 300 nominees this year. She has been involved with many community projects and also donates her time.”
Leslie Kelley
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT | COMMUNITY BANK OF MISSISSIPPI “She works hard to be excellent in her career and community. She is an inspiration to other businesswomen in how she carries herself and how she carries responsibility.”
Lori Massey COORDINATOR
MISSISSIPPI COAST CRIME STOPPERS
Leslie Ramon
“Lori is an unsung hero among law enforcement agencies across eight counties. She works countless hours behind the scenes to ensure crimes get solved thanks to anonymous tipsters. She could easily be described as the ‘Carmen Sandiego’ for South Mississippi, with a confidence like no other!”
OWNER | RAMON INSURANCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LOAVES AND FISHES
“Leslie is a growing community leader in Biloxi who recently took on an executive director role to keep feeding those who need them most. As part of her small business ethics, she works her magic to ensure clients receive the best health insurance benefits possible.”
Loretta Bridges
REGIONAL COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT SPECIALIST, AVP BANCORPSOUTH BANK, ALABAMA/ MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST AND FLORIDA PANHANDLE “Loretta’s current job on the Mississippi Gulf Coast enables her to work in several familiar metropolitan areas, including portions of the Gulf Coast, Mississippi Pine Belt, Alabama and the Florida Panhandle. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in marketing from Jackson State University.”
LuAnn Pappas
CEO | SCARLET PEARL CASINO RESORT “LuAnn Pappas is one of only two female casino chief executive officers on the Mississippi Coast and attributes much of her success as a leader to the influence and advice of her father, who emphasized fairness, firmness, discipline and a never-quit attitude. She supports our community and cares for her employees.”
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Lynn Frisby
COMMUNITY INFLUENCER, SELF-EMPLOYED “Lynn has taken her business connections in public affairs and community engagement and transitioned those skills to help local nonprofits reach their goals. Her knowledge, networking (ability) and dedication has made her a successful woman.”
Nicole Martz
Merrin Mueller
SPECIAL EVENTS AND PROMOTIONS MANAGER
DIRECTOR OF PEOPLE FIRST
IP CASINO RESORT SPA
RPM PIZZA LLC
“Nicole is a true asset to this region. She is very much involved as a volunteer and serves as a board member for several nonprofit organizations such as CYP and GCHFH. At the IP, she is a great mentor and leader to her team. The place couldn’t function without her.”
“Merrin is a visionary leader in our company. She is always focused on taking care of our team members, which enables them to take care of our customers. She served for years on the Biloxi Junior Auxiliary Board. Not only is Merrin a pioneer for RPM Pizza, but for all of Domino’s (Pizza)!”
Misty Stevenson
CO-OWNER/MANAGER/INTERIOR DECORATOR | STEVENSON ELITE RENOVATIONS “She is very active in the community and wears several hats — mentor, advocate and role model. She is often called on by the community to educate on health. She is an amazing woman and friend and highly respected in her community.”
Paige Luckett
OWNER / OPERATOR
SOUTHERN FLAVOR CATERING
Natasha Pickett
“For 13 years, Paige has been creating success in her company by helping others fulfill their dream menus for their events. For the past six years, she’s lived out her dream — working side by side with her husband. Paige is passionate about giving back to the community and rescuing animals.”
CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER/ FIRST LADY/ CO-PASTOR PRAISE TEMPLE OF BILOXI
“Natasha Pickett serves as co-pastor of Praise Temple of Biloxi. She is a small business owner. She is a mother to two awesome children. She wears many hats, and she serves her community. She is a beacon of light and gives hope to many!”
Nickie Harris-Ray
DOCTOR/EDUCATOR/NONPROFIT CEO | NHR BLUEPRINT FOUNDATION “She is a compassionate doctor, successful educator and curriculum designer, community champion and servant, TV personality and speaker/writer, women’s advocate and programming creator, inaugural Mardi Gras queen and first slated AA Mardi Gras queen for the city of Pass Christian and super mom.”
July-August 2020
Paula Gamboa VICE PRESIDENT
FLOOR CO. FLOORING AND DESIGN CENTER “Paula demonstrates innovation and creativity that delivers lasting results in the design world. She balances a family and a busy work schedule as owner and designer in FloorCo.” SUCCESSFUL
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Rhonda Rhodes PRESIDENT
HANCOCK RESOURCE CENTER “Rhodes has served as the president of the Hancock Resource Center since 2008. Under her guidance, HRC became a pillar of the Hancock County community by stabilizing families in need through coordinating shelter and supportive services with sustainable solutions. As a result, HRC received the 2019 Community Award of Excellence.”
Paula Vondenstein LYRICIST AND PRODUCER BIBLE BELT BLUES
“Paula has produced two Christian albums with her husband, Harold, and won the coveted 2019 Josie Music Award for Gospel/Christian Duo. Twenty-two songs already have received radio airplay and extensive media coverage (interviews/print, song reviews). (Other achievements include a Song of the Year nomination in the 2020 Gulf Coast Gospel Music Awards 2020, a Best of Mississippi 2020 nomination for Ministry of the Year and a third album that is in the works.”
Rita Green
OWNER | GEAUX FIG “Rita Green is moving and shaking trees these days. She is now the CEO of Geaux Fig Executive Administrator Services, as well as chief visionary officer of Diamond Ambitions. She has been in Biloxi for 15 years, balances four children and a role as sales manager at Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort.”
Sabrina Stallworth
OWNER/CREATOR | ALLBOTTLEDUPBYBRE “Sabrina is a self-taught artisan. Her unique leather accessories and art creations have been exhibited with The National Arts Program in Fulton County, Georgia, The Peter Anderson Arts Festival, ArtsAlive Arts Festival and NOLA Fashion Week. Sabrina is an active board of trustees member of the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art.”
Rachael Hollingsworth OWNER | POLISHED SALON & SPA
“Rachael Hollingsworth, owner of Polished Salon & Spa, is a woman who powers through adversity. Rachael is one of the most giving people I know. She is always so willing to go above and beyond for community events to make sure the women of the Coast look their best!”
Sharon Weeks OWNER
GRANT’S FOR HER
Samantha Walley
“Sharon, owner of Grant’s for Her, is a trend leader here on the Coast with an eye for fashion. You can trust Sharon to dress you for any occasion, from the everyday, sophisticated look to red carpet glam. Sharon is a gift to the women on the Coast.”
OWNER
COMCEPTS LLC
Rebeca Fairley
OWNER | PANACHE APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES “Rebeca Fairley, owner of Panache Apparel & Accessories, has run her boutique for 14 years on the Coast. Rebeca opened her business after Hurricane Katrina, and it has grown from a 900-square-foot to a 4,000 square-foot store. She has mastered the art of selling — not only from her storefront, but on social media as well.”
“Sam is a dynamo businesswoman and civic leader. She has served as president of Rotary International in Bay St. Louis and now coordinates the student exchange program for a multi-state area. She is an entrepreneur, with businesses supporting the medical community and small businesses on the Gulf Coast.”
SUCCESSFUL
WOMEN TO KNOW
www.gcwmultimedia.com
Stacy Pair
PARTNER/OWNER
HERITAGE HOUSE GIFTS “Stacy Pair and her sister, Julie Gainey, own Heritage House Gifts in Gulfport. They demonstrate the unique ability of familial strengths to complement each other in the business world, ultimately leading to the success of this fabulous shop.”
Wendi Husley ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
Starr Chapman
GULFPORT HIGH SCHOOL
PARTNER | RUM KITCHEN
“Wendi Husley is the go-to person for everyone at GHS; her door is open to everyone, and she always manages to handle every situation brought before her with grace and poise. She is the first to arrive and the last to leave every day and is a true servant leader.”
“Whether it is work for her community, church, charities or business, Starr shares her skill and talents to bolster a team atmosphere on any project she undertakes. She was awarded the highest award given, Person of Passion, by the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce in 2020.”
Stephanie Shaw BROKER/OWNER
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES SHAW PROPERTIES “Stephanie’s family has served Mississippi Gulf Coast real estate needs for over 44 years. As a broker/owner, she has made significant contributions to her industry, serving in leadership positions for numerous local, state and national Realtor associations, and has cultivated some of the top Realtors in Mississippi and on the Gulf Coast.”
Yekaterina Karpitskaya ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON
BIENVILLE ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS “Dr. Karpitskaya is one of the most successful women I know and deserves to be recognized for her achievements, as her success is driven by serving others and putting their needs above her own.”
Tenesha Danielle Batiste DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES MOSS POINT SCHOOL DISTRICT
CEO | TENESHA & COMPANY “Batiste is a community leader (Kiwanis, AKA, and The Links) and a well-respected human resources Leader on the Gulf Coast. She has led human resources (departments) in city government (city of Moss Point, serving three mayors and boards of aldermen) K-12 education (Moss Point School District) and higher education (Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College)."
Tiffany Bell
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
July-August 2020
WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER
Yolanda Jerry
“Ms. Bell has overseen the WRC for almost 10 years now. She has brought this organization from the brink of closure to financial soundness. She also has increased the number of clients the organization sees and the number of supporters.”
YJ EMPOWERMENT SOLUTIONS LLC
CEO/FOUNDER
“Dr. Jerry, who recently retired from the military, has been pouring her energy into the community. Dr. Jerry is a dynamic speaker, author, advocate, life coach and a retired U.S. Air Force veteran. She is the empowerment advocate. She is a board member for the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence.” SUCCESSFUL
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WOMEN TO KNOW