page 70

Greg K. Stock, MHA

CEO, THIBODAUX REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

Greg Stock, CEO of Thibodaux Regional Health System, originally wanted to become a city manager, but switched to healthcare administration. “I became fascinated with the complexities of the job and the opportunity to make a difference in the quality of people’s lives,” he says. Thibodaux Regional is the regional healthcare provider for Lafourche, Terrebonne, and the surrounding parishes. They provide a wide range of inpatient and outpatient care, including services such as comprehensive cardiovascular care and heart surgery, comprehensive cancer care, neurology, neurosurgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, women’s services, obstetrics, inpatient and outpatient physical rehabilitation, and health and wellness services. In the past year, Thibodaux Regional has opened its 80,000 square foot, stateof-the-art Cancer Institute and its Sports Complex, which is the second phase of their 242,000 square foot Wellness Center. The innovative and technologically advanced Cancer Institute is a premier facility that will continue to provide patients with high-quality cancer care close to home. Built to benefit the community, the Sports Complex will complement services offered in the adjacent Wellness Center and focuses on offering additional and innovative aspects of sports and fitness to provide people of all ages the opportunity to engage in physical activities that can lead to longer, happier, healthier lives. Over the years, Thibodaux Regional has received many awards and recognition for its superior patient care, technology, community involvement, education and outreach, and much more. “What sets us apart is our powerful vision, performance from the heart, accountability and innovation,” Greg says. When selecting a hospital, Greg suggests finding one that puts the patient first. “Ask people you trust to share their experience and preferences. Check third party ratings such as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Leapfrog, Healthgrades, and others.” Greg’s favorite aspect of being CEO is creating a powerful vision and working to make it a reality. When he isn’t working to improve lives through Thibodaux Regional, he’s actively involved with his church. He also has directed and supported fundraising efforts to benefit many charities and organizations, such as the American Cancer Society and The Haven, a nonprofit organization that benefits women and children who are survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Learn more about Thibodaux Regional Health System at thibodaux.com or by calling (985) 447-5500, or visit them at 602 North Acadia Road in Thibodaux, LA.

Annette Dowdle, RHU, CCWC, CHRS

HUB INTERNATIONAL GULF SOUTH

With the right team, benefits can be simplified. The problem solvers at HUB International are readily available and equipped with common sense application and insightful collaboration. Annette Dowdle, Senior Vice President of HUB International Gulf South, says, “It’s so very rewarding to take the mystery out of employee benefits for people.” After all, it’s people who inspire Annette to lead her team each day. “We want to go above and beyond. We take the whole experience and make it surprisingly better by streamlining the process, which helps employers create an engaged culture with their employees. Then, it becomes more than just benefits.” As the largest privately owned brokerage/consultant within the US and Canada, it’s HUB’s goal to build high-performing companies through high-performing employees. Annette’s resources and consulting options include voluntary benefits, data analytics, health and performance, program design and implementation, and much more. “An employer wants to retain and attract good talent. We create that for them with a little bit of art as well as science, but it always comes back to the human element of it all,” she says. “Someone who is dealing with a serious medical condition has a lot of claims. They might need some hand-holding, and we do that for them. We hold their hand and help them. This makes them feel comfortable enough that they can ask the questions they don’t really want to ask their employer.” Employees can engage with consultants wherever they prefer to be met. “Because the world and technology has changed, we’re digital, paper, and telephonic. We can meet each generation or person in whatever channel they are comfortable in.” The many stories of how HUB has made a difference in people’s lives is what keeps Annette learning and collaborating. “I work with phenomenal team members who are passionate about what they do. They care about our clients and the work that they do together,” she shares. “All of that is very deliberate. Our HUB employees are just as much customers as our customers. They’re going to give our customers a really good experience and work really hard for them if they’re happy working for not only HUB, but for me.” Annette is a graduate of Leadership St. Tammany and Leadership Louisiana. “Leadership training and networking give me avenues to connect with people inside and outside of my network,” Annette says. “It allows us all to draw from each other’s experiences to not only help our businesses, but our communities.” She recently completed Loyola Women’s Leadership Academy and is Co-Chair for 2022 American Heart Association Northshore Heart Walk. Annette is member of National Women in Construction and serves on HUB’s National Best Practices Task Force. “People take insurance for granted until it’s needed, but it’s then that it can change people’s lives. We are making a difference.” She concludes, “It’s not just about insurance. It’s about helping people get the right kind and having them understand it.”

Allison Herrera

UPTOWN GIRL MEDIA

Allison, owner of Uptown Girl Media, fell into digital marketing somewhat on accident. “I originally worked in the news industry as a producer for local television stations—WVUE Fox 8 in New Orleans and WAFB Channel 9 in Baton Rouge. I absolutely loved my experience in news and helping keep our community updated and informed through storytelling,” she says. “What I genuinely loved about my job was sharing people’s stories, specifically small businesses’ stories. These feature stories on small businesses would grow their presence in the community and make a positive impact in small business owners’ lives… and that’s all I wanted to do. I wanted to work in a career focused on small businesses, professional videography, storytelling, and writing, but off of the television screen and on to another type of screen, which was gaining more and more popularity—smartphones.” Her favorite aspect of running a business is creating a positive impact on people’s lives. “I’m a social person by nature, so I truly love being in the ‘front seat’ by helping others and creating genuine connections within my community. There’s been many sleepless nights, but watching my clients succeed through the help of Uptown Girl Media is the sweetest and most rewarding feeling,” she says. “We treat each client as a family member and truly invest in their brand when they come on board with us.” Allison also enjoys the freedom and creativity of digital media. “I decided if I’m going to tell people’s stories, highlight their memories, & explore their experiences through a visual experience that no one else can reproduce, I am going to do it on my own terms,” she says. “A lot of clients like to joke around and say they wish they had my brain when it comes to creativity, and to me, that’s what sets us apart. Creativity isn’t something that’s learned or a copy/paste situation. Authentic creativity is a trait people are born with, and how my team and I harness it in connecting people to brands and businesses is what sets us apart.” Allison is a member of the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce, American Marketing Association, and Junior League of New Orleans. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her loved ones and Yorkipoo, Gumbeaux, as well as exploring New Orleans with a cocktail in hand.” There’s so much to do around here while absorbing culture, fests, and (my personal favorite) food. I also enjoy live music, playing chess, writing, reading, LSU sports, and watching any movie with Tom Hanks in it.” Uptown Girl Media is the first woman-owned and first minorityowned marketing agency in New Orleans (and possibly Louisiana) that produces videos in-house, from pre-production to post-production. “When there was no seat at the table, I decided not only to create my own seat… I decided to create my own table.”

Tricia Barrera and Jessica Marasco Illes

EDWARD JONES

Whether you want to plan for retirement, education, or ensure you have income to cover your expenses, we offer personalized service and long-term investing strategies instead of the latest investment fads. As Edward Jones Financial Advisors, we love that we get to wake up every day and help our clients create wealth. We became Financial Advisors after seeing a grave need for women in the financial industry. We also take pride in understanding the financial needs of entrepreneurs and clients with unconventional careers. Because Edward Jones is a privately-owned company and not publicly traded, we truly work for our clients—not shareholders—when we give advice and create a strategy. From buying a lake house, to planning an annual food tour across Europe, or taking the grandkids to Disneyworld, we enjoy listening to how our clients want to spend retirement. As separate branch teams located in Mid-City and The Lower Garden District, we create strategies to get them there. Jessica Marasco is a Series 7 and 66 licensed Financial Advisor whose Mid-City branch office is located near City Park. She is a proud alumna of Northwestern State University, Dominican High School, and the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. She serves as President of the St. Martin’s Episcopal Mom’s Club and is a member of the Gretna Economic Development Association. She is also a co-captain of the sub krewe of House Floats: Old Gretna, and a member of the Krewe of Cleopatra. Tricia Bordelon Barrera is a Series 7 and 66 licensed Financial Advisor whose branch office is located in the Lower Garden District. She is a proud alumna of the University of New Orleans, Delta Zeta Sorority, and Benjamin Franklin. She serves as a board member of the Sylvain Society of the New Orleans Opera Association. She is also a member of The Slidell Noon Lions Club, and The Patio Planters of The Vieux Carre.

Meet with Tricia at Edward Jones Investments located at 1350 Magazine St, Suite A. 504-208-9311. Edwardjones.com. Member SIPC Meet with Jessica at Edward Jones Investments located at 606 N. Carrollton Avenue. 504-486-8645. Edwardjones.com. Member SIPC

Meggan Ory

MAKEUP BY MEGGAN

Makeup by Meggan is a two-fold business: Meggan is both an aesthetician and a cosmetic brand creator. When she started Makeup by Meggan nine years ago, it only consisted of makeup artistry. After a few years, she expanded to offering skincare services, and in 2018, she launched her cosmetic line, Makeup by Meggan Cosmetics. “Watching the brand grow has truly been a dream come true!” she says. Meggan has been drawn to beauty since she was a little girl. Her mother is a licensed aesthetics instructor and the assistant director at a top-ranked beauty college here in Louisiana, and her involvement in the beauty industry and career is what ultimately sparked Meggan’s interest. “I would get so excited when my mom would put on makeup,” she says. “I would sit on top of the toilet seat cover and just watch her apply her makeup in the mirror. To this day, I recall feeling deep admiration for what it is to be a woman. When she would finish, I would sneak behind her and play in her makeup.” Her favorite aspects of her business are being creative with product development and helping increase women’s confidence through beauty. “Looking good is feeling good—and that is a powerful notion.” In addition to skincare, makeup artistry, and her cosmetic line, Meggan posts beauty tutorials weekly on Instagram and Facebook. “Through my years in the industry, I have learned that most women are not confident in their makeup skills. I break it down in my tutorials so they can take my products home and know exactly how to use them. This is so important as a beauty brand creator.” Meggan’s hard work and perseverance shows in her wide range of products and services and her impeccable skill. “When you come to the Makeup by Meggan Studio, we have the tools and knowledge for helping you achieve the best skin of your life and the best makeup. We are a one-stop skin shop.” Meggan has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a license in Aesthetics. She’s been married for 10 years, and she has two wonderful children! In addition, Makeup by Meggan Cosmetics has a new product launching at the end of June. “Stay tuned!”

Purchase Makeup by Meggan cosmetics and make an appointment at makeupbymeggan.com or by calling 504-473-7263. Follow Meggan on Instagram at @makeupbymeggancosmetics.

Anna Tusa

NEW ORLEANS CREOLE COOKERY AND BRIQUETTE

“Our family approach makes all the difference,” Anna Tusa says. “We treat each guest like they are a member of our family!” As owner of the New Orleans Creole Cookery and Briquette, Anna enjoys serving guests in comfortable atmospheres with first class service. She is active in the restaurants daily, interacting with locals and visitors from near and far. “I love seeing everyone happy and enjoying their meals, cocktails, and our total dining experience.” Housed in the former Rodd Brothers Molasses Refinery, Briquette is nestled in the Warehouse District and features a contemporary, yet casual, restaurant interior marked by a signature open kitchen. “Our 18-foot seafood display is filled with fresh sea bass, halibut, steelhead salmon, Louisiana redfish, and many other seafood favorites that are caught daily,” says Anna. Also at Briquette, Anna recently launched her “Shaken Up NOLA” Craft Cocktail Classes that can accompany lunch or brunch. Over in the French Quarter, Anna delights guests at the New Orleans Creole Cookery. The courtyard, oyster bar and dining room offer a mixture of settings to enjoy traditional Creole food. The new and improved courtyard has a beautiful mural by a local artist, string lights and a courtyard bar. “Our staff enjoys what they do, and it shows in the culinary delights that are created and delicious cocktails that are hand-crafted,” Anna adds. “We care about each other, and the guest experience. We have fun every shift doing what we love. We know that we need each other to accomplish all our goals.” Since 1995, Anna has been devoted to the New Orleans restaurant industry. Out of high school, she began working in the industry and went to college for restaurant management. She serves as President of the French Market Corporation Board of Directors and is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs Small Business program. She is a member of the Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, which is the oldest and largest food and wine society in the world, and the Société Mondiale du Vin, which focuses on wine and spirit appreciation. When Anna isn’t welcoming guests at Briquette or New Orleans Creole Cookery, Anna enjoys traveling, eating, and experiencing new cultures with her husband, A.J. She is regular contributor to Inside New Orleans’ “Drinks with Anna” column. Very soon, Anna will launch a travel blog with great tips for trips, restaurant recommendations, and more fun things.

Chloé T. Potter

GLO EVENTS BY CHLOÉ

An event planned by Chloé T. Potter is an event well-planned. “I am here to make it look easy, so my clients don’t feel the stress on such an important, emotionally-charged day. I love what I do and want my clients to feel like we just wiggled our noses and poof – it all came together!” For 15 years, the event industry has served as a creative outlet for Chloé. Starting as the Director of Sales at Latrobe’s in New Orleans, she moved on to become a Live Nation Sales Manager for the House of Blues where she met lifelong and cherished mentors and friends. After the birth of her son in 2013, she moved closer to her family in Mandeville and accepted a position with The Lakehouse, Maison Lafitte and The Inn at La Provence. She says, “I have worked in many aspects of the event industry, and most importantly, have also been a bride myself… twice. Since I have paid for two weddings, I feel like I have a true understanding of how expensive everything can be. I know that for some clients, this can be extremely stressful and take away from what should be a wonderful and joyous occasion. With that in mind, I work with my clients to generate creative solutions to make their décor, candles, and floral budgets go farther. Clients with budgets, both large and more conservative, seem to appreciate this consideration.” Glo Events was Chloé’s light in a time of difficult life circumstances ending in divorce. “It was a dark and scary time, but I was determined to persevere and bring back some light into my children’s lives, so I started Glo Events, specializing in event décor, candles, rentals, and more! Glo was a way for me to feel confident and happy again, to reconnect with the creative side of this industry, and to better connect with clients who bring me so much joy. And most importantly, to set a good example and path for my children, while being motivated by the need to support them on my own.” Through the encouragement and support of her family, especially her mom, she is thriving and excited for what’s next. When not pulling together beautiful gatherings, she says, “I enjoy living a healthy lifestyle and staying active in my community. Outside of events, my other passions are my family, working out, and cooking. I live to eat and love trying new cuisine and craft cocktails.” Chloé has served as Marketing Director, Vice President, and President of the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) and is on the events committees for the City of Mandeville and St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce. “I was never the little girl that planned her wedding, but in college, my favorite job was selling wedding dresses at a bridal boutique. Fast forward and I have now planned and produced thousands of weddings and have had two myself! Typically, you don’t go into a marriage thinking you’ll have a second wedding, but in my industry, it was a good refresher to be a bride again and to find love later in life, happily blending our families.”

Jennifer Ponson

JENNIFER PONSON JEWELRY DESIGNS

Jennifer got started in jewelry design when her daughter came home from college with an interest in rocks, minerals, and semiprecious stones. “I soon became addicted to the natural beauty of these items and started creating jewelry for myself,” Jennifer says. “Before long, I had people asking me where I got my jewelry, and my hobby developed into a business.” Jennifer Ponson Jewelry Designs is celebrating 10 years in business this year. “I enjoy working with people. When people see my creations, they smile, and smiles are contagious,” she says. “As for my jewelry, you need to touch and feel my pieces. The stones we use have a special energy, and you need to find the stone that connects with your personal energy. When selecting a jeweler, you should be allowed to touch the jewelry.” Jennifer’s jewelry is not just an accessory, but each is a conversation piece and source of each individual’s energy. Jennifer earned a certification from the New York Institute of Art and Design. She graduated from the University of West Florida and has been a certified dental assistant for 35 years. She is married to Randy, her wonderful husband of 33 years. Together, they have a beautiful daughter, Whitney.

Olivia F. Scott

FREEDOM AT THE MAT

Olivia unexpectedly found refuge and peace in vinyasa yoga after years of growth and achievement in her professional career in New York City. After finding vinyasa yoga, she became a diligent student of yoga and decided that she wanted to spread word of this modality, which had been a blessing to her. Freedom At The Mat started in Harlem, NYC, teaching classes at The Dream Center Harlem, which gave Olivia great insights into women and what they needed. After Olivia moved to New Orleans in January of 2020, she began to teach yoga online via Zoom. She launched a YouTube channel in June of 2020, YouTube.com/ FreedomAtTheMat. “Our mission is to create wellness content accessible to women 24/7 daily,” she says. “We are available online through our YouTube channel, and we also have appearances via our partners such as New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans Family Justice Center, ESSENCE Wellness House, Project Peaceful Warriors, among others. Our priority is ensuring that women carve out time for themselves, even if just for a short while” she says. Women are nurturers and caretakers, and we often slight our own self care. So, we offer content in the form of 1-, 2-, 3-, 5-, 10-, 15-, and 30-minute classes.” In addition to offering classes, Freedom At The Mat also sells yoga gear. Their mats feature art from visual artists of color, and they are launching four new designs in June. 15% of their profits benefit non-profit organizations serving underserved women, especially survivors of domestic violence, substance abuse and homelessness.

Visit FreedomAtTheMat.com or YouTube.com/FreedomAtTheMat to learn more.

Kathryn Perrin

LA COCINA NOLA

Kathryn owns La Cocina, a local catering business that features Cuban classics such as lechón, a roasted pork butt dish, and black beans. She started her business by making family meals for family and friends during the pandemic in her hometown of Miami. She and her family moved to New Orleans in February of 2021, and she brought her business with her, though she still does catering in Miami, as well. “It’s scary to start a new business, especially in a field that is maledominant, but I went with it, and I’m so glad I did,” she says. “I think my Cuban background and my culturally diverse upbringing help me bring flavors to a plate that not everyone can do.” “Food is the center of any party and or event,” she says. So when you’re choosing a caterer, she advises to “make sure it’s what you want and the caterer can bring your vision to life.” “The catering business is very competitive; there are so many talented chefs to choose from, but I always say ‘the sun shines for everyone.’ I learned that phrase when I moved here.” Kathryn loves the flexibility of being her own boss. Since moving to Louisiana, she and her family have not missed a festival. “We love the food, music, and people. It’s an experience better than the last one every time. Louisiana truly is a place like no other.”

Reach Kathryn at 305-336-6877 or lacocinainfo00@gmail.com. Follow along on Instagram and Facebook @lacocinanola.

Nora Vaden Holmes, CHFC, CPCU, LUTCF

NORA VADEN HOLMES - STATE FARM

Nora’s favorite part of being an insurance agent with State Farm is leading a team of professionals and knowing they make an impact on the customers and community we serve. “I love watching my employees grow and develop to become the best version of themselves,” she says. “Being a business owner allows us so many opportunities to give back to our community to make it a more desirable place to live and work for us and future generations.” With over 500 five-star reviews on Google, Nora and her team have proven that they’re experts in their field who take customer service very seriously. “We’re a full-service agency for not only home, auto, renters, and flood insurance, but we are also one of the top agencies at State Farm for business insurance and life insurance. I’m also a licensed mortgage originator for Rocket Mortgage, and we do financial services. We practice delivering the best insurance experience for our customers—service matters.” Her agency of fully licensed insurance professionals has been consistently ranked in the top 50 agencies out of 19,000 State Farm agencies nationwide. They’re also a lifetime Million Dollar Round Table qualifier, which is an industry award for financial service providers. “I’m proud to represent a company like State Farm that has the financial ability to deliver on their promise when devastation strikes. We’ve seen a lot of recent hurricane activity, and many companies didn’t survive it—we did and will continue to be there for our policyholders.”

Nora Vaden Holmes - State Farm is located at 117 Metairie Lawn Drive, Metairie. 504-831-0002.

Dr. Jessica Miller

UPTOWN VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Dr. Miller’s favorite part of owning her own veterinary hospital and doggy play day space is that she’s able to run her business by her moral code and not by a strict business model. “When I see a problem, we can address it immediately and not worry about red tape,” she says. “I think it’s just easier for me with my small business model set up just for me and my clients and patients.” Her veterinary hospital offers veterinary care, bathing, sleepovers, and doggie day play. She is the only doctor, so she gets to know her clients and her patients very well to provide outstanding care. “I love to solve problems, and I take a practical approach to medicine,” she says. “I recommend what I would do if it were my pet, but still let you know the thousands of other options available.” Dr. Miller graduated from Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine in May 2001. She then practiced at a very large vet outside of Washington, D.C., where she was mentored by a wonderful veterinarian who taught her innumerable invaluable ways to approach animal health. She has two feisty chihuahua mixes named Laverne and Cubbie, who are at her practice almost every day yapping away. Uptown Veterinary Hospital will be celebrating its 10-year anniversary in November.

Visit Uptown Veterinary Hospital at 731 Nashville Avenue in New Orleans. 504-897-4973

Paula Polito

BEARY CHERRY TREE

Paula is the third generation in the early childhood education business, with her grandmother starting Beary Cherry Tree Child Development Center in 1974. Paula has been owner and director since 1999. Beary Cherry Tree serves over 225 families in the Greater New Orleans area, providing equitable access to high-quality early care and education in an environment that offers a diverse teaching team. Paula is most proud of the impact she has on each family. “Ninety percent of brain development occurs between birth and four years old. We have children at the most important time in their lives, and we have a social responsibility to do what is best for each child!” she says. When choosing a childcare center, Paula emphasizes the need for quality. “Look for a culture that is inviting and welcoming, and look for centers that are licensed with low [child-teacher] ratios, low turnover, and that practice quality on a daily basis.” Beary Cherry Tree offers quality—and so much more. “Our socially, emotionally, and academically appropriate environments enable children to explore, learn and play.” Paula earned her Bachelor’s of Science and her MBA at University of New Orleans, and she is currently a doctoral student in the field of Urban Studies. Her advocacy work includes serving as the Advisory Board Chair for the Louisiana Department of Education, a commission member for the Louisiana Early Childhood Care and Education Commission, Core Leadership team for the Jefferson Parish Early Childhood Collaborative, Advisory Board for Teachstone, and the former Education Chair for the Jefferson Chamber of Education.

Beary Cherry Tree is located at 3117 Lake Villa in Metairie. (504) 455-1950. bearycherrytree.com.

Susan Freeswick and Ioan Tamas

EVERYDAY KETO TO GO RELINTLESS DRYER VENT AND CHIMNEY SERVICES

Susan Freeswick and Ioan Tamas are a dynamic duo in both of their businesses. Susan’s bakery, Everyday Keto To Go, provides gluten-free, sugar-free, low-carb goodies with clean, organic, locally sourced ingredients. “I explain how diverse our keto based bakery is to customers and how it touches so many different lifestyles—celiac, diabetics, children, people with autoimmune issues, and other medical issues,” she says. Ioan’s business, ReLintless Dryer Vent and Chimney Services, specializes in bringing homes to safety standards, historic restorations, masonry, chimney sweeps, fireplaces/gas log sales, and inspecting and cleaning dryer vents. No job is too small or big! His concentration is getting your home safe again! He works on projects from St. Tammany to Terrebonne Parish. They both are involved in each other’s businesses. Ioan, as a jack of all trades, helped design, build and provide the finishing touches in the bakery on everything from the counters to their signs. He’s also the official “taste-tester”! “He’s a little spoiled,” laughs Susan. She loves to present him with new flavors of all types of goodies! Susan assists in the administrative side of ReLintless Dryer Vent and Chimney Services by answering the phones, scheduling, talking to insurance adjusters and sending them the info they need—all while she’s baking at the bakery! She also manages both company websites, Facebook and Instagram pages. This driven and ReLintless duo help support their businesses together as a team even if it means getting the family involved! “As busy as we are, it is very important that we spend time with our family. Sometimes that means take your family to work day or scheduling lunch dates between appointments just to spend extra time with each other!” Whether you’re craving a delicious, healthy dessert or need your chimney inspected or dryer vent cleaned, this power couple has you covered.

Everyday Keto To Go is located at 110 Athania Parkway, Ste. B, in Old Metairie. 504-957-9033. everydayketotogo.com. ReLintless Dryer Vent and Chimney Services. 1000 Central Ave, Metairie Relintlesssweep.com. 504-444-6297

Dr. Lauren Agnew

EYE WARES

Dr. Lauren Agnew, owner of Eye Wares, understands the impact eye care can have on someone’s life. Her passion for optometry was sparked by having a “lazy eye” as a child. “The experience propelled me on a course that led me to my current career. I can now pay it forward and help the next child,” she says. One of her favorite parts of the job is developing relationships with patients. “I love working with patients, hearing about their lives and their families, and knowing that I’m making a difference. I also love to help style patients in some of my favorite lines to highlight their personality and to let their true self shine through.” “Remember that comfort is key!” she says. “If your glasses are too heavy, you won’t wear them. Confidence in a great pair of eyeglasses can add an aspect of style while giving you the best vision.” She notes that eye care isn’t only about a prescription. “The bulk of an annual eye exam is a health exam. We can find evidence of diabetes, high blood pressure, and skin cancers—to name a few. There is even ongoing research linking eye health and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s.” Dr. Agnew graduated from Tulane University, and she attended Optometry school in Memphis. She is a member of the American Optometric Association and the Louisiana State Optometric Association. Her favorite local charities include the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Mutts to Models, and the You Night Runway program. Nationally, she supports St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital after seeing their amazing impact during her time in Memphis.

Eye Wares has locations in Mandeville, 985-624-3314; and Metairie, 504-301-1726. eyewaresnola.com. Coming soon Uptown to Magazine Street.

Kelly Martin

THE LAUREL SENIOR LIVING

The Laurel Senior Living located on Magazine Street offers independent living, assisted living, and New Orleans’ only all-female memory care with specialized programming tailored just for her! Their warm and safe environment will give families peace of mind about their loved ones. They also provide personalized and proactive wellness plans and around-the-clock care, including nurses, security, and assistance with everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication management. Everything at The Laurel is taken care of, including laundry, housekeeping, and transportation. They even have a beauty salon and therapy center on-site. “Helping seniors and their families navigate through one of the most difficult parts of the aging process by guiding them and giving them resources that make them feel good about their choice to become a part of The Laurel family is my favorite part of this business,” Kelly Martin, executive director, says. “I want residents and families to feel at home at The Laurel.” Kelly and operator/owner Stuart Coleman embody the Albert Einstein quote, “Only a life lived for others is a life worth living.” Stuart is directly involved in the day-to-day operation, which gives The Laurel the ability to personalize the senior living experience for each resident. “I want to build a work environment where employees feel more like a family, they are excited to come to work, and where they feel comfortable and encouraged to share their ideas, as well as their concerns,” Kelly says. “It takes a village, and I certainly cannot do it without the right team in place!”

The Laurel is opening in September and is now taking priority reservations. Learn more at laurelnola.com or by calling (504) 350-2244.

Ursuline Academy Ignites Impact With Women in Leadership Roles

Dr. Karen Jakuback

URSULINE ACADEMY OF NEW ORLEANS

Ursuline Academy recognizes the benefits of women in leadership. Women are powerful agents of change, and the need for more female leaders has never been more critical. As the working landscape evolves, success in tomorrow’s world will be fueled by our girls’ ability to think creatively, articulate their ideas confidently, and solve problems collaboratively. Through highly interactive experiences powered by STEM and the arts—and a nurturing community diverse by design—we develop tomorrow’s brightest independent thinkers, innovators, leaders, and community builders. Our girls stand up, stand out, and blaze trails. As the nation’s first all-girls Catholic school, it’s been our legacy for 295 years. Make it hers, too.

Ursuline Academy of New Orleans is located at 2635 State Street. 504-861-9150. go.uanola.org.

Dr. Suma Maddox

AESTHETIC | RECONSTRUCTIVE PLASTIC SURGERY

Dr. Suma Maddox has always had a desire to be a surgeon, working summers in high school at the outpatient surgery center her surgeon father built. After completing her General Surgery residency at Brown University, she worked for Ochsner as a General and Breast surgeon for four years, frequently collaborating with Plastic Surgery for breast cancer patients needing reconstruction after mastectomy surgery. It was during one of these cases that her colleague, recognizing her ability, asked her to join LSU’s Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery training program. “Plastic surgery has become my artistic medium, and I really feel like my potential blossoms each day because of it,” she says. In addition to being board eligible with the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Maddox’s connection to her patients sets her business apart. “I am a woman and a mother, and I am my patient demographic,” she says. “I understand the changes that a body goes through to become a mother and there can be shame generated when trying to voice one’s desires for change. I offer a safe space without judgment, because I truly want to empower women to love their details again.” Dr. Maddox will be an American Cancer Society Belle this year. She also founded the Fleur de Bra Breast Cancer Reconstruction art bra fundraiser last year in collaboration with Breastoration and the Cancer Association of LA (formerly CAGNO), which will be hosting their second show in October 2022.

Visit Dr. Suma Maddox’s practice at 1603 Second Street, Floor 3 in New Orleans. 504-439-9728. devin@drsumamaddox.com

Royd Anderson

WRITER AND FILMMAKER

Royd Anderson was introduced to the wonderful world of literature and writing by his English teacher at Ganus High, Mrs. Bjerke. With his creativity chakra opened, he went on to get a B.A in English Literature at Loyola, and his lifelong love for movies led him to pursue a Master of Science degree in Communication at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, specializing in filmmaking & broadcasting. “My grandfather, Alfonso Cortina, owned a cinema in Havana, Cuba, so I grew up watching and appreciating films with my family. He and my family have had a strong impact on my life,” Royd says. Royd’s stories focus on Louisiana disasters that are not usually mentioned in Louisiana history textbooks. He published his first book last year, New Orleans Disasters: Firsthand Accounts of Crescent City Tragedy, which peaked at number four on Amazon’s “New Releases in Disaster Relief” category. He also has produced many award-winning documentaries such as Pan Am Flight 759, The UpStairs Lounge Fire, The Continental Grain Elevator Explosion, Mother’s Day Bus Crash on 610, and The Luling Ferry Disaster. “My film on the ferry disaster served as my master’s thesis project at UL-Lafayette,” he says. “The success of this film led to the creation of a monument for the victims in 2009.” “I’m a proud ‘Yat,’ born and raised in Gentilly,” he says. “Preserving local history is imperative; I’m blessed to do it in writing and also in film—it’s a dream come true.”

Meet Royd for a Q&A and to buy his book and DVDs of his films at a screening of Pan Am Flight 759 on Saturday, July 9 (the 40th anniversary of the crash) at 9:30 a.m. at the West Bank Regional Library and at 2 p.m. at the River Ridge Library.

Greg LeBlanc

Jessica LeBlanc, CPA/CFF, RENE/e-PRO Trey LeBlanc

JESSICA D. LEBLANC, CPA, LLC CPA REALTY, LLC

With over 20 years of experience in private industry and public accounting, and over 18 years of experience in the real estate industry, Jessica LeBlanc thrives in two professions. She and her husband Greg are licensed Louisiana real estate salespersons, who own CPA Realty, LLC, and she also owns a CPA consulting firm, Jessica D. LeBlanc, CPA, LLC. Jessica’s financial background adds value for her accounting and real estate clients, while Greg handles all aspects of the real estate side of the business, including residential and commercial real estate transactions, such as listings and sales, and property management services. Jessica is a Certified Public Accountant with a Certification in Financial Forensics. She has also received the National Association of Realtors’ certifications of Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) and e-PRO. She is also a licensed real estate broker in Louisiana, Colorado and Pennsylvania. The CPA consulting firm, Jessica D. LeBlanc, CPA, LLC, is where Jessica provides financial consulting and accounting services in the areas of business consulting, forensic accounting, litigation support services, and outsourced accounting services. Her son, Trey, works as a part-time bookkeeper, helping her with her outsourced accounting, forensic accounting and other consulting matters. Trey is currently attending LSU to obtain his accounting degree. He also works for CPA Realty, LLC, helping with social media and marketing. Jessica hopes that her 17-year-old daughter, Tristin, will one day join the family business, as well. “Clients in both of my businesses appreciate our attention to detail,” Jessica says. “They appreciate my openness and that I know the numbers.”

To reach Jessica, call 504-812-7105 / 504-812-8807. JessicaLeBlanc.cpa. CPArealtyLLC.com

Raven Davis

STUDIO LU ELLE

Raven wanted to be a hairstylist her entire life. “As a small-town girl, I dreamt of owning my own salon in the city,” she says. Studio Lu Elle is a studio suite designed for a private luxurious experience. “As a color expert, I feel that my approach to coloring women’s hair is unique because I not only strive to hit the clients expectations on color but the health of the hair. Each guest’s formula is customized to their lifestyle, and they take along with them a regimen best-suited for at-home maintenance.” When looking for a hairstylist, Raven emphasizes the importance of finding someone you can trust. “I believe that this is the most important aspect of sitting in someone’s chair. A great hair salon is not ‘one size fits all.’ Once you’ve found the trust in the relationship, you know you’re in the right place.” One year before she started her business, she began working with a hairstylist business coach. She took the leap into opening up her own salon. “In this industry you have to be prepared for the unexpected but also ready to take the risk,” she says. Her hard work has paid off. She has been a studio suite for four and a half years, and she was voted Stylist of the Year 2021 for Inside New Orleans Magazine. Her success comes from hard work and dedication, earning multiple extension certifications, as well as support from her family. “I want to thank my sister, Anacia, for her continuous support and believing in me more than I believe in myself sometimes. And to my son: “Follow your dreams. I’ll be alongside watching you grow to be successful and happy. I love you both so much!”

Visit Studio Lu Elle at 3348 West Esplanade Ave., Ste. 105. in Metairie. 504-655-9868. studioluelle.org.