The 2013
Women of Excellence
Reunion
story begins on page 24
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From the Chamber
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
T
he Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber works to be a catalyst for growth and prosperity for its members and the Capital Region by providing leadership, advocacy and services. The regional chamber is made up of 2,200 member businesses and organizations of all types and sizes and from throughout the region who employ 110,000 area residents. The chamber is committed to the economic vitality of the region and actively works with other business organizations, development groups, and federal, state and local governments to ensure the continued growth and viability of our Tech Valley Region. One of the largest and most active business groups the regional chamber has is the Women’s Business Council (WBC). It promotes the full participation
and leadership of women at all levels in the workplace in Tech Valley’s economic development, community and government. Founded in 1986, the WBC develops programs that provide opportunities for women to network and share their expertise with each other and all chamber members and to address the unique challenges and issues of women in business. In addition to monthly meetings featuring various business and educational topics, the WBC hosts annual signature events, including the Women of Excellence Awards Luncheon. For more than 20 years, the Women’s Business Council has recognized women for progression in their careers, involvement in their communities, and accomplishments in their personal and professional lives. The recipients are honored annually at the Women of
Excellence Luncheon. Since the inception of the awards ceremony, our community has had the opportunity to meet and learn about more than 200 women. This truly dynamic group has taken on challenges with purpose and passion. They have achieved success in their professional careers and have dedicated themselves to our community. We have caught up with many of the Women of Excellence we met through the years for an update. We invite you to come and meet many of recipients in person at the Women of Excellence Reunion. Celebrate the Capital Region’s abundance of excellence! This evening of Excellence and networking takes place on November 13th from 5:30-7:00pm at the Desmond Hotel and Conference Center. To register, visit acchamber.org or call 518.431.1400.
Celebrating Past Women of Excellence Winners Dr. Dawn Abbuhl
Year won: 2005 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Director of Psychology, Kids Care Pediatric Services Proudest career moment: I own a technology company and am also a child psychologist. I worked with a child who had a disorder called Selective Mutism. She hadn’t spoken a word outside of her home to anyone ever, didn’t smile or laugh at school. I began working with her when she was in second grade. After intensive therapy, she finally began speaking to her friends and teachers, and eventually to everyone.
Kathryn Allen
Year won: 1997 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: President, HMO Conference of New York Proudest career moment: After a career in health care and development, I took two years off and went back to graduate school, this time for an MFA in writing and literature. That combined with my master’s in public health provided me an opportunity to volunteer as a public information officer with Project Hope on a Navy hospital ship. During two tours, I wrote about and photographed medical clinics in Peru, Jamaica and Indonesia. 24 | women@work
Marri Aviza
Year won: 2006 Category won: Excellence in Business (10+ yrs) Position when won: President and CEO, Rumors Day Spa and Hair Salon Proudest career moment: When looking back on my career, it is hard to choose a single moment that defines it all; many have been so meaningful to me. Perhaps none have been as rewarding as the completion of our brand new salon and spa. This venture has allowed us to enhance our guests’ experience and give back to the community in ways we could have never imagined.
Eileen Bagnoli
Year won: 2008 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: Executive Vice President, Pioneer Bank in Troy Proudest career moment: My proudest career moment was bittersweet as well. Upon the death of my predecessor, John Scarchilli, in 2010, I was elected by the Pioneer Bank Board as president and CEO. At the time of my election, I agreed to serve for three years to lead Pioneer as we healed as an organization and during the process of transitioning to Pioneer’s wonderful new leader, Tom Amell. continued on page 26
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Anne Barba
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Year won: 2010 Category won: Emerging Professional Position when won: Associate Professor, Dept. of Neurology, Albany Medical Center Proudest career moment: I’m not sure that I have a “proudest moment.” I’m lucky that I love my work. I work with wonderful, smart, and dedicated people, and I’m part of an amazing team. I’m proud that those wonderful people think that my opinions are important and that I’m worthy to help their patients in difficult times.
Maude Baum
Year won: 2003 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: Artistic Director, eba Dance Theater Proudest career moment: Performing Isadora Duncan Dances for people in Russia. They had not seen their beloved Isadora’s work in 70 years. Also, organizing our Living Circle Ensemble, a community group of people 3-65 years old, both abled and disabled, who love to create and perform in dance and drama.
Kathy Beam
Year won: 1997 Category won: Emerging Executive Position when won: Local Sales Manager, WTEN TV Proudest career moment: My proudest career moment actually occurred over this past fiscal year at WMHT. In my current position as director of corporate support, I am responsible for managing our underwriting department in addition to maintaining and growing a full account list. As a team we finished our fiscal year 12 percent over the prior fiscal year and personally I achieved 127 percent of 2011-12 fiscal year’s list performance.
Amy Bellcourt
Year won: 2001 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: VP of Marketing/Chief Marketing Officer, MVP Health Plan Proudest career moment: I work at SCA, a global consumer goods company based in Sweden. Here, I have many opportunities to travel the world and work with people from many cultures. Often I’m in virtual meetings working collaboratively with colleagues from Germany, Sweden, China and Brazil. I’m most proud that coming from the local area, I have found success in the global business arena.
Roberta Berkowitz
Year won: 2009 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-99 employees) Position when won: President, NAWLEE, Prendo Forensics, LLC, NABA Proudest career moment: I had a dream and now I am living it! I am the proud owner and president of Prendo Forensics, LLC – Certified Woman Owned Forensics Supply and Equipment Company. Prendo Forensics provides training facilities nationwide with the products that they need. We also design hands-on student labs, and speak with business students about their goals, aspirations and career opportunities.
Mary C. Bintz
Year won: 2003 Category won: Emerging Executive/ Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Senior Vice President, Business Financial Services Commercial Division, Fleet Bank Proudest career moment: I have had many proud moments in my 20-year career with Bank of America. The most special ones have occurred when I have been part of a team reaching a collective goal and then celebrating those successes. Working with so many talented and diverse teammates continues to be the best part of my job.
Elizabeth Bishop
Year won: 1996 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: News Anchor, CBS6-WRGB — SBGNET Proudest career moment: I received a special NYS Associated Press Broadcasting Award for my anchoring/reporting on the first anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks on the World Trade Center. The judges wrote that “Liz Bishop must have been the hardest-working journalist in New York City that day.” It was such an important occasion that I felt honored to have my work acknowledged.
Linda Blumenstock
Year won: 1996 Category won: Excellence in Management (public sector) Position when won: Stratton VA Medical Center Proudest career moment: Being able to organize a team of employees to provide emergency housing within our facility for the children living in the Equinox Homeless Shelter when it was flooded and could not be occupied. Many employees poured out their hearts to make our facility meet their needs. It was a proud moment for many. Equinox now has a beautiful new shelter thanks to community support. continued on page 28
26 | women@work
The University at Albany family proudly celebrates the achievements of these past Women of Excellence honorees. Katharine Briar-Lawson Judy Genshaft Karen Hitchcock Linda Krzykowski Nancy Liddle
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Teri Bordenave
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Year won: 2003 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector, 11-74 employees) Position when won: President/ CEO, Girls Incorporated of the Greater Capital Region Proudest career moment: During the 20-plus years I was CEO at Girls Incorporated, each year I witnessed the metamorphosis of the young women graduating and moving on from our programs — a moment of pride for us all!
Bettyjo Bouchey
Year won: 2004 Category won: Emerging Executive/ Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Vericast Director, VersaTrans Solutions, Inc. Proudest career moment: It took a surprising layoff last summer for me to realize I have an identity outside of my employment. It was a difficult time, but now with my current role, knowing who I truly am, regardless of my title, where I live, who I’m with, has not only made me feel more powerful and effective, {but] it changed my relationship with my family dramatically, for the better.
Jill BravermanPanza, MD
Year won: 1999 Category won: Excellence in Business (2-9 yrs.) Position when won: CEO/Owner, Primary Care Internal Medicine Practice Proudest career moment: I have been blessed with several. The first was opening my private medical practice, and I was thrilled when my father gave me my first $20 bill to put on the wall, where it remains today. Being chosen as a Best Doctor in Capital Region Magazine for many years makes me feel appreciated by my peers and patients. And of course being chosen as a Woman of Excellence in Business!
Sara Brenner
Year won: 2012 Category won: Emerging Professional Position when won: Asst. VP, Nanohealth Initiatives, College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering of the University at Albany Proudest career moment: There is a different kind of proud moment in the backdrop of extraordinary events like the WOE award, ones that are rarely seen or talked about, ones that happen discreetly at unexpected times. Those are the moments when students, colleagues and friends tell you how inspirational you are to them, and how much you’ve meant to them along their journey. 28 | women@work
Katharine Briar-Lawson
Year won: 2008 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Dean, School of Social Welfare, University at Albany Proudest career moment: My appointment as Assistant Secretary for Children Youth and Families in Washington State. Leaving my academic post to assume this state role, I oversaw state programs involving child welfare, juvenile justice and parent and child health. This role reshaped my career and my commitment to building new university-agency-community partnerships to address vulnerable individuals, families and communities.
Mary Brizzell
Year won: 1997 Category won: Excellence in Management (public sector) Position when won: Supervisor, Town of Colonie Proudest career moment: I am proud to have been the first woman to become Supervisor of the Town of Colonie. My greatest pleasure in this position was to meet and work closely with so many residents and businesses in our town. I am most proud of The Crossings, a large passive park where thousands of people walk, run and play every day.
Pamela Sawchuk Brown
Year won: 1995 Category won: Excellence in Business (10 or more yrs.) Position when won: Sawchuk Brown Associates Proudest career moment: When I realized I had founded a successful communications agency at a time when women were an anomaly among business owners. The largest PR agency outside of Manhattan whose work was highly respected for three decades, whose outstanding team of professionals set the standard, and whose culture made community a priority.
Suzanne Brownrigg
Year won: 1992 Category won: Excellence in Management (public sector) Position when won: Coordinator of Corporate Programs, Hudson Valley Community College Proudest career moment: In 2012, I received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service. This award honors SUNY academic and administrative employees by recognizing consistently superior professional achievement, and encourages their ongoing pursuit of excellence. continued on page 30
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Patricia Bucklin
Year won: 2006 Category won: Excellence in Management (75+ employees) Position when won: Executive Director, New York State Bar Association Proudest career moment: Each time that I have been able to help promote legal reforms, enhance the justice system or assist people with law-related needs, whether through my work with the court system, in the Governor’s office, or in my current role at the State Bar Association.
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Nancy Burton
Year won: 1997 Category won: Excellence in Management (public sector) Position when won: Comptroller, City of Albany Proudest career moment: Sponsoring the first Common Council resolution (1986) to make discrimination illegal against members of the LGBTQ community in Albany housing and employment. The legislation failed, but provoked public debate on gay rights in Albany, and set the stage for passing a bill in 1991. Becoming the first female City Comptroller in 1994, earning the highest vote total of any candidate in the 1993 citywide races.
JulieAnn Calareso
Year won: 2009 Category won: Emerging Professional Position when won: Associate Attorney, Burke & Casserly, PC Proudest career moment: After winning the Emerging Professional Award in 2009 as a result of transitioning to a career in the law after time in the entertainment industry, I became partner (and the first female partner) in my law firm in 2011. I guess I truly did emerge!
Karen Carpenter-Palumbo
Year won: 2010 Category won: Excellence in Management (100+ employees) Position when won: Commissioner, NYS Office of Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Services Proudest career moment: When I arrived at Vanderheyden 16 months ago, there had been years of financial difficulties, staff layoffs and talk of closing. Now Vanderheyden is celebrating its 180th anniversary and imagines MORE for the future for our children, adults and families. After months of reorganizing, Vanderheyden obtained a better than breakeven financial report for the first time in over seven years!
Gina Castelli
Year won: 2010 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Head Women’s Basketball Coach, Siena College Proudest career moment: My proudest career moment is being recognized as a Woman of Excellence in the Profession. The award encompasses all that really matters to me in coaching and life: giving back!
Lisa Clifford
Year won: 2007 Category won: Excellence in Sales and Marketing Position when won: Senior Vice President, Curan Investment Management Proudest career moment: The opportunity to join Key Private Bank [where I currently work] came unexpectedly and in the depths of the worst financial crisis. I thought carefully about the risk of leaving a successful and fulfilling career with my previous firm. I called a few mentors for advice and just went with my gut instinct that this was the right step. I’ve reaped more success, personally and professionally, than I could’ve imagined in this role.
Sue Commanda
Year won: 2012 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-99 employees) Position when won: CEO, Hudson River Community Credit Union Proudest career moment: In my six years as HRCCU CEO, we’ve doubled in size. My greatest accomplishment must be the 2013 completion of our Corinth Operations Center. As one of HRCCU’s most significant investments in its future growth, I was involved in the decision-making every step of the way. I realized the positive implication of every decision I made, and am proud of the result.
Lissa D’Aquanni
Year won: 2002 Category won: Excellence in Business (2-9 yrs.) Position when won: Owner/ Chocolatier, The Chocolate Gecko Proudest career moment: The moments all involve leading team projects. Whether renovating an abandoned building, rebranding an organization, submitting a major grant or organizing a large event, when we successfully navigate through the energizing, yet sometimes frustrating, process of teamwork and get to the synergistic result that makes teamwork so valuable, that is my proudest moment. continued on page 32
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Valerie DeLaCruz
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Year won: 1992 Category won: Excellence in Business (5-9 yrs.) Position when won: Owner, DeLaCruz Design Group Proudest career moment: Celebrating 30 successful years in business, and, of course, being one of the inaugural recipients of the Women of Excellence Awards in 1992.
Ann DiSarro
Year won: 1993 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: Senior Service Centers of the Albany Area, Inc. Proudest career moment: While I was the Executive of Senior Services, I assembled a special team of employees that helped transform the organization from a small Albany-based organization for services to the elderly to being recognized throughout NYS and the country. We created a number of innovative servicedelivery models that won Senior Services three large federal grants and national recognition as a leader in the aging field.
Sandra Fox
Year won: 2010 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-99 employees) Position when won: Vice President and Director of Technology Operations, CHA, Inc. Proudest career moment: I’ve been blessed with many opportunities to make a difference through mentoring and other community involvement. I’m most proud of the moments that have helped elevate the role of women in nontraditional careers and inspire girls to explore STEM options. I’m particularly proud of my work with Girls Inc., SUNY’s Center for Women in Government, and the CNSE Children’s Museum of Science and Technology.
E. Kristen Frederick
Year won: 2006 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-10 employees) Position when won: President/ CEO, The Community Foundation for the Capital Region Proudest career moment: While release of the region’s first nonprofit Charitable Barometer and publication of “Wealth Transfer in Northeastern New York” were wonderful moments of personal achievement, signing the agreement with the regional United Ways to form the Women’s Fund of the Greater Capital Region was a crowning moment. 32 | women@work
Jeannine Garab
Year won: 1999 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: Executive Director, Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York, Inc. Proudest career moment: In 2012, the Epilepsy Foundation of NENY honored me for 25 years of dedicated and compassionate service. I received recognition from the president of the Epilepsy Foundation national office. ... I reflected on the number of people with epilepsy we have assisted over the past 25 years and how fortunate I am to work for such a great organization.
Maryellen Gilroy
Year won: 2013 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-99) Position when won: Vice President for Student Affairs, Siena College Proudest career moment: Being selected among my peers nationally to Chair the Board for the Association of Student Affairs at Catholic Colleges and Universities. The opportunity to work with a group of fine professionals across the country has allowed me to make invaluable professional connections.
Cheryl GnadeMcGrattan
Year won: 1998 Category won: Emerging Executive/ Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Assistant Director of Marketing, Northeast Career Planning Proudest career moment: The Woman of Excellence Award, even 16 years later, remains one of my proudest moments as it marked a pivotal time for me personally and professionally. And now, although corny, one of my proudest moments was receiving my new name tag from Nathan Littauer Hospital with the title “Vice President” appearing under my name.
Kathleen Godfrey
Year won: 2007 Category won: Excellence in Business Position when won: President, Godfrey Financial Associates, Inc. Proudest career moment: Serving as National President of WIFS (Women in Insurance & Financial Services) during 2009-10 and knowing that my leadership helped hundreds of women advance their financial services careers. continued on page 34
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Jane N. Golub
Catherine Hedgeman
Laura Hagen
Carrie Hillenbrandt
Catherine Halakan
Karen Hitchcock
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Year won: 2011 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: Director of In-Store Marketing, Price Chopper Supermarkets Proudest career moment: When I learned that the Anti-Defamation League approved adjusting the A World of Difference Curriculum from a strictly high school level to encompass kindergarten to 12th grade. I fought hard to make this change. I believe strongly 5-year-olds need to be prevented from becoming prejudiced and filled with stereotypes; you cannot wait until they are in high school. It was a wonderful victory!
Year won: 1999 Category won: Emerging Executive/ Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Executive Director, Capital District Center for Independence Proudest career moment: In 2010, I began a master’s degree in Recorder & Early Music at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music and coordinated its Pre-College Recorder Program. My proudest moments are watching my young students as they stood up — all alone onstage — and performed their recital music. Their dedication, fearlessness and determination assures the future of vibrant, heartfelt live music-making in our communities.
Year won: 2007 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Senior Vice President for Human Resources, Albany Medical Center Proudest career moment: My 2007 Albany Chamber Women of Excellence Award for Excellence in the Professions was my proudest career moment and an honor I will always treasure. To be so distinguished by members of our community continues to renew and inspire me. I am truly grateful.
Joan Hayner
Year won: 2013 Category won: Excellence in Management (100+) Position when won: CEO, CapitalCare Medical Group Proudest career moment: May 1, 2012, when the cumulative efforts of our providers, staff and administrative team came together meaningfully for the activation of our electronic medical record. This was a tremendous endeavor, years in the making, and was accomplished with grace, humility and humor. It was an outstanding accomplishment and I’m grateful to have been part of it! 34 | women@work
Year won: 2005 Category won: Emerging Executive/ Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Associate, Hiscock & Barclay LLP Proudest career moment: Admission to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Year won: 2012 Category won: Excellence in Sales or Marketing Position when won: Corporate Director of Sales and Marketing, BBL Hospitality Proudest career moment: Being named a Woman of Excellence, of course!
Year won: 1995, 2001 Category won: Lifetime Achievement, 2001; Excellence in Management (public sector), 1995 Position when won: President, University of Albany Proudest career moment: As a scientist working at Tufts Medical School, my research focused on the different factors that affected lung development. We discovered that thyroid hormone, coupled with steroids, accelerated the development of the lung significantly, a discovery which had the potential to help treat and prevent respiratory distress syndrome, at that time the leading cause of death in premature newborns.
Nancy Hodes
Year won: 2002 Category won: Excellence in Business (10+ yrs.) Position when won: President, Hodes & Landy Proudest career moment: My proudest career moment was founding and leading the growth of Hodes Associates (now Hodes & Landy) into a highly successful government affairs consulting firm with a track record of accomplishment and exceptional client service. I have built an organization, not just for the present, but for the future. continued on page 37
on ratu ations C TO THE
PAST AND PRESENT WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE!
Thank you for helping to make the Capital Region the place where peoplee get better at life Congratulations ions to All of the W Women omen off Ex E Excellence xcellence cellence Award Recipients ients including Donna Lamkin, the Center’s Chieff Pr P Program roogr graam mO Officer Officer, fficerr, r, 2013 Distinguished guished C Car Career areer reer Award r rd
www.cfdsny.org
Congratulations to Key’s own Ruth Mahoney and Lisa Clifford along with all of the Women of Excellence award recipients.
trust
To past & present
Our guiding financial principle.
Women of Excellence
Helping you build wealth begins with earning your trust. Our team of Relationship Managers offers expertise in banking, investments, and trust, as well as the personal service you’re looking for.
Including our own
Barbara J. McDonald
For an integrated and objective approach to managing wealth, turn to Key Private Bank.
On your well deserved honor
More than a pharmacy. We’re family. Downtown Cohoes • 237-2110
go to key.com/kpb call Fran O’Rourke at 518-257-8733
Bank and trust products from KeyBank National Association, Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. Investment products are: NOT FDIC INSURED • NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE • NOT A DEPOSIT NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL OR STATE GOVERNMENT AGENCY ©2013 KeyCorp ADL1551
Community’s Women of Ex r u O celle oring nce n o ~ ~H
Girls Incorporated of the Greater Capital Region
Board Member Joanne Kugler
Past Board Member Georgia Kelly
Karen Carpenter-Palumbo
Board Member
Board Member Sandra Fox
Board Member Katharine Briar-Lawson
Past CEO Teri Bordenave
Board Chair Ann DiSarro
2012 Management (100+ Staff)
2011 Sales / Marketing
2010 Management (100+ Emp)
2010 Management (1-99 Emp)
2008 Professions
2003 Management-Nonprofit
1993 Management-Nonprofit
Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region • 962 Albany St., Schenectady, NY 12307 • 374-9800 • www.girlsinccapitalregion.org
continued from page 34
Elaine Houston
Year won: 2001 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: News Anchor/ Reporter, WNYT/News Channel 13 Proudest career moment: In 2000, in Havana, Cuba, covering a demonstration by 15,000 moms upset that the U.S. was holding their native son, Elian Gonzales, in an international custody battle. I got the story and headed to Cuban TV. I went to the engineer and in my best H.S. Spanish got him to see I was on deadline. At 6:15 on a Cuban monitor, I listened to former anchor Ed Dague read my intro and saw my story pop up. I did it: went live from Cuba!
Year won: 2011 Category won: Excellence in Sales or Marketing Position when won: Assistant VP, Senior Financial Adviser, Merrill Lynch Proudest career moment: I may sound cliché but my proudest career moment was receiving Mark Eagan’s call to say I was selected as a 2011 Women of Excellence in Sales or Marketing. What an honor to be included in an accomplished group of women professionals who have made their mark on their communities, businesses and families. I felt like I finally arrived!
Linda Krzykowski
Year won: 2006 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Assistant Dean, Campus MBA Programs, University at Albany-School of Business Proudest career moment: I am still with the University at Albany. My proudest moment was when I earned my Ph.D. In 2008, I was honored with the President’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service. I am now the Assistant Vice Provost for Student Engagement and work with all our Schools and Departments to develop programs to connect our undergraduates to our faculty, classes, majors and the campus.
Joanne Kugler
Year won: 2012 Category won: Excellence in Management (100+ employees) Position when won: Chief Information Officer, GE Energy Proudest career moment: My proudest career moments happen when someone I have had the opportunity to work with experiences an event in their career, such as a promotion or recognition, and they reflect back and share that I made a difference. Knowing that you played a role in someone else’s success and accomplishments is extremely rewarding. That’s what it is all about for me.
Year won: 2013 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: Chief Program Officer, Center for Disability Services Proudest career moment: Because people with disabilities are so often marginalized, I was very proud to receive the WOE Distinguished Career award validating the worth of the work at the Center for Disability Services and of the people we represent. It was a great moment to be able to thank the business community for supporting people with disabilities as full participating members of our community.
Heather LaVine
Year won: 2010 Category won: Emerging Professional Position when won: Director of Fan Development, Tri-City ValleyCats Proudest career moment: The opening of Lucas Confectionery. My husband and I took many risks when deciding to open our own business. We face challenges every day, but I cannot imagine doing anything else, anywhere else. I am incredibly proud to be a business owner in the city of Troy.
Gail Leonardo-Sundling
Year won: 1994 Category won: Excellence in Business (10+ yrs.) Position when won: President/ Owner, The Delmar Bootery Inc. Proudest career moment: My proudest moment was starting the Stuyvesant Plaza store in 1988 because I maxed out sales in the original 400-square-foot Delmar store location.
Noel Liberty
Year won: 2010 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: Founder and Director, The Music Studio Proudest career moment: The moment when a student takes a step forward. It could be a timid 4-year-old confidently pointing out middle C, or a teenager performing a Chopin étude with skill and passion. Watching them shine, knowing that I helped make that possible: that’s my proudest moment, and I am deeply fortunate to get to experience it over and over again. continued on page 39 capregionwomenatwork.com | 37
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Georgia Kelly
Donna Lamkin
CONGRATULATIONS
WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE!
TO ALL
Innovative professional development. Creative association management. Strategic planning for a bright future. Worry-free conferences and events.
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Kathleen A. Van De Loo, President ph: 518.465.7085
Michele Wyse, Art Director ph: 518.694.5512
www.adgcommunications.com www.studio136.biz
continued from page 37
Kara Conway Love
Year won: 2009 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Principal, Conway Love, PLLC Proudest career moment: After practicing law for 23 years, I am proud to celebrate over 12 years of owning a successful law firm, and becoming a NYS Certified WBE.
Year won: 2009 Category won: Excellence in Sales or Marketing Position when won: Charter and Special Event Coordinator/Owner, Albany Aqua Ducks and Trolleys, Inc. Proudest career moment: Winning a Woman of Excellence Award, which I acknowledge is not mine alone but earned because of the support and hard work of coworkers. Also, achievements like coaching and watching my co-workers grow; learning that a failure is not a mistake, but a learning tool; being congratulated for a job well done; and working on projects that come to satisfactory conclusions.
Ruth Mahoney
Year won: 2004 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-10 employees) Position when won: Senior VP and Market Leader, Fleet Private Clients Group, Fleet Boston Financial Proudest career moment: Being honored as a Woman of Excellence was definitely one of the proudest moments of my career! To join such a distinguished group of women was amazing! Only second to being a WOE was the day I was named president for Keybank for the Hudson Valley/Metro NY area [where I work now].
Lucille Marion
Year won: 1997 Category won: Excellence in Management (public sector) Position when won: Vice President/Executive Director, Capital District Educational Opportunity Center (a division of Hudson Valley Community College) Proudest career moment: Bringing a 10-year search for a new facility to house the Troy center to a successful conclusion. The center moves in December 2013 to its wonderful new location at 431 River St., Troy.
Year won: 2013 Category won: Emerging Professional Position when won: Director of Programs and Services, Colonie Senior Service Centers, Inc. Proudest career moment: Every year, when writing our annual report, we reflect upon how our programs help keep thousands of Seniors healthy, safe and independent, how our fundraisers continue to grow and attract friends, and our community partners faithfully support our efforts. All this is possible only because our team is fiercely committed to our mission. That’s something of which I am continually proud.
Clare Mertz, MBA
Year won: 2003 Category won: Excellence in Sales Position when won: Financial Consultant, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC Proudest career moment: I won a radio station contest and developed a “Smile Bus” to enable people who had a difficult year due to illness, bereavement or economic struggles to park their troubles at the curb and board the bus to NYC to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. This has become a very special annual tradition at Capital Financial Planning.
Tracy Metzger
Year won: 2003 Category won: Excellence in Management, For Profit (11-74 employees) Position when won: President, TL Metzger and Associates Proudest career moment: When my company, TL Metzger & Associates, was named the 2008 Small Business of the Year by the AlbanyColonie Chamber of Commerce. What an honor and accomplishment for me and my entire team.
Christine Miles
Year won: 1996 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: Director, Albany Institute of History & Art Proudest career moment: We transformed the Albany Institute into a 21st-century facility that could express our region’s unique history and rich culture as embodied in the museum’s collections. Working collaboratively, we raised $20 million to restore historic structures, install technology and environmental controls, add a collections storage wing, and connect it all with a glass atrium, now a favorite spot. continued on page 41 capregionwomenatwork.com | 39
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Maureen Lundberg
Kelly Mateja
CONGRATULATIONS TO
JEANNINE S. GARAB
“Helping excellent women have excellent futures.”
1999 Women Of Excellence Award Recipient
Saluting Clare Mertz, Executive VP, 2003 Woman of Excellence, and all of our women financial advisors, associates, and clients.
Executive Director From YOUR STAFF and BOARD MEMBERS
6 Tower Place Albany, NY (518) 867-4000 www.capitalfinancial planning.net 3 Washington Square, Albany, NY 12205 (518) 456-7501 (800) 894-3223 www.epilepsyfoundation.org/efneny
“Challenge your children and they will exceed your expectations. They want to learn, they want to achieve, and they want to make music.” Noel Liberty Founder and Director of The Music Studio Women of Excellence Distinguished Career Award (2010) and One of 100 Women of Excellence (2000)
Visit TheMusicStudio.com to learn about our comprehensive music program, without equal in the Capital Region. You will be amazed at what your child can achieve.
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Securities and investment advisory services offered through ING Financial Partners, Member SIPC. Capital Financial Planning is not a subsidiary of nor controlled by ING Financial Partners.
The music school of choice for more than
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continued from page 39
Rose Miller
Year won: 2007 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-10 employees) Position when won: Shareholder and Managing Director, DR Human Resources, LLC Proudest career moment: Awarded the 2013 HR Leader of the Year award from the Capital Region HR Association, the local chapter of the Society of Human Resources Management.
Year won: 2006 Category won: Excellence in Sales Position when won: Director of Sales, Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau Proudest career moment: Recently witnessing the MAAC Basketball Championships Press Conference about their return to Albany for the 2015-2017 championships. My role is to handle the athlete housing in conjunction with the Times Union Center as hosts of the event. This is great business for the Times Union Center, Albany hotels and hospitality partners, and our community.
Alma Mitchell
Year won: 1992 Category won: Excellence in Business (2-4 yrs.) Position when won: Managing Partner, Mitchell Management Associates Proudest career moment: I was honored to be named a member of the U.S. Health Delegation, People to People Ambassador to the former USSR. This was a 3-week educational exchange program consisting of 35 health care ambassadors of varying positions/roles from across the USA. My role was to provide information regarding marketing, outreach and business development for health care practices.
Carole Montepare
Year won: 1995 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector) Position when won: Sr. Vice President, Sales, Community Health Plan Proudest career moment: As Senior Vice President of Sales my success is measured by how well my staff performs as a team to meet the enrollment goals for CDPHP. I am proud to say that they have exceeded the enrollment targets year after year. My greatest success has been to hire and mentor my managers to reach their career objectives.
Year won: 2013 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Administrative Director/Medical Oncology Samaritan Hospital Cancer Center & Women’s Health Center, St. Peter’s Health Partners Proudest career moment: Realization that my peers, colleagues and community members recognized me as an expert in my field of oncology care and business, both locally and nationally. It was great to know that others also believe that we just need to do what is right for the patient.
Nan Mossey
Year won: 2001 Category won: Emerging Executive/ Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Publications Manager, Times Union Proudest career moment: I’ve been given many opportunities to contribute to the success and growth of the companies for which I have worked. My proudest contributions have been in mentoring young women and men to find their own successes. As Director of Digital Marketing for Potratz, I am able to recognize talent in at the apprentice level, and coach individuals along chosen career paths.
Lisa Norgrove
Year won: 2009 Category won: Excellence in Business Position when won: Business Partner, Rumors Day Spa and Hair Salon Proudest career moment: Opening our new salon and spa location. It is a dream come true to be able to provide our guests and team members with a beautiful atmosphere and work environment.
Susan Novotny
Year won: 2001 Category won: Excellence in Business (10+ yrs.) Position when won: President, The Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza Proudest career moment: Every morning when I open the door for another day selling real books to all the loyal readers of the Capital Region who have kept us alive and kicking. Also, the day The Book House and other independent booksellers filed suit against Amazon. continued on page 43 capregionwomenatwork.com | 41
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Gina Mintzer, CMP, MHA
Sabrina Mosseau
Congratulations to the Women of Excellence!
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JulieAnn Calareso, Esq. 2009 Emerging Professional Recipient Congratulates All of Her Fellow Women of Excellence
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Since opening the doors to Rumors Salon & Spa in 1986, Marri Aviza and Lisa Norgrove have given women what they want— a gorgeous hair do, and the confidence to show it off. 27 years later-they’re still at it. Built, from the ground up, they are proud owners of a brand new building, and a team that has grown from 4, to 104. Just as Rumors has continued to grow, so too has their ability to generously give back to the community that has defined them. The salon has
donated nearly $1 million dollars in funds, services & products to health related causes and charitable organizations. Throughout it all - their philosophy has remained the same:
“We believe every woman has the right to look, feel and be beautiful.”
continued from page 41
Lauren Payne
Year won: 2012 Category won: Excellence in Business Position when won: Principal, Spiral Design Studio Proudest career moment: When Spiral Design Studio won the national Gold ADDY Award in 2003 for SelfPromotion/Direct Marketing. The project was a total team effort. We all flew out to California to receive the award!
Bernadette Pedlow
Marilyn Pendergast
Year won: 1997 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Shareholder, Urbach Kahn & Werlin PC, Certified Public Accountants Proudest career moment: Becoming a partner in Urbach Kahn & Werlin, a predecessor firm to UHY, in 1974, provided me with a career in public accounting, working with clients and other professionals throughout the Capital Region. This continues to be both rewarding and challenging. Recognition of my efforts to contribute to the profession at a state, national and international level has been the icing on the cake.
Mary Ellen Plass
Year won: 2009 Category won: Excellence in Management (100+ employees) Position when won: Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Albany Medical Center Proudest career moment: I received comments from a seasoned nurse manager regarding recent remarks I made that validated her pride and love for the professional practice of nursing. It made me realize that the hard decisions we make daily do end up making a difference. Leadership, advocacy and dedication have served me well in my career, and a simple “thank you” was clearly a reinforcement.
Year won: 1993 Category won: Emerging Executive/ Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Shearson Lehman Brothers Proudest career moment: My proudest career moment was becoming a mom and a Vice President in the same year! My family has always been a top priority, so to get my VP title at the same time was very special to me personally.
Milinda Reed
Year won: 2012 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Director, Domestic Violence Services, Unity House of Troy, Inc. Proudest career moment: My proudest career moment is simple: it’s my job, every day. I am so proud to be part of the fabric of a successful domestic violence service delivery model that allows me to help people, develop innovative programming, and dream big about the end of domestic and dating violence in our communities.
Dorothy H. Reynolds
Year won: 1997 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: Manager of Marketing and Leasing, Rensselaer Technology Park Proudest career moment: The work I have accomplished as Department Chairperson of Fine Arts, Theatre Arts, Broadcast Communications, Gallery Management and Digital Media at HVCC. During the last 10 years, I created and built the department which involved developing five major academic degree programs, essentially 10 academic degree programs, 850 students, 30 faculty and 70 courses.
Cheryl Richardson
Year won: 2005 Category won: Excellence in Sales Position when won: Independent Sales Director, Mary Kay Cosmetics Proudest career moment: Without question becoming an Independent Sales Director with Mary Kay Cosmetics, a position only 2 percent of our company enjoys and being named a Woman of Excellence that year. Next to that, two moments come to mind: achieving the No. 4 team-building position in 2011 for our MK Sapphire Division, and watching our daughter graduate from Cornell University this past May. continued on page 45 capregionwomenatwork.com | 43
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Year won: 1998 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer, Seton Health System Proudest career moment: Over a period of several years, I mentored a young professional in health care management. This person was ultimately hired into a prestigious position. One should never pass up an opportunity to mentor when talent and promise are evident. Being mentored is the how and why successful people accomplish their career goals.
Alissa Quinn
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continued from page 43
Kathy Rowe
Year won: 2002 Category won: Excellence in Sales Position when won: Vice President, ThinkOne Proudest career moment: My experience taught me you can never make assumptions about peers or employees. In my current role as Regional Manager for the Mayo Clinic, I respect colleagues and clients and like to seek input from all levels. You never know what someone might have done before or what role each might move to next (become your boss or your next influential client!).
Year won: 1995 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: RCCA: The Arts Center of the Capital Region Proudest career moment: I have two: The first was the grand opening of The Arts Center of the Capital Region in our new home in the heart of downtown Troy – the culmination of four years of hard work by board and staff. The second was watching the pioneering students of the first graduating class of Tech Valley High School receive their diplomas.
Margo Rudzinski
Year won: 2007 Category won: Excellence in Management (75+ employees) Position when won: Principal and Resource Manager, CHA, Inc. Proudest career moment: Becoming an Associate, then Shareholder, of CHA. I had worked very hard to continue being promoted and felt rewarded for that hard work. I was one of the first females at CHA to reach this goal as well.
Kimberly Russell
Year won: 2005 Category won: Excellence in Business (2-9 yrs.) Position when won: President and COO, Frank Adams Jewelers Proudest career moment: The celebration of the 90th anniversary of Frank Adams Jewelers. It is inspiring to know our thirdgeneration family business has both endured AND flourished for nearly a century. Through challenging historical and economic periods, Frank Adams Jewelers has evolved with the times, and I am blessed to have been a part of this success. I look forward to preserving our family’s legacy for future generations.
Year won: 2009 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: Executive Director, Center for Women in Govt. & Civil Society, University at Albany Proudest career moment: Under conditions of fierce competition for a Kellogg Foundation Building Bridges grant, the Center for Women in Government & Civil Society won a transformative four-year grant to launch the Nonprofit Education Initiative at Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy. The grant established the college as a significant player in higher education in the field of nonprofit management and policy education.
Anne Saile
Year won: 2002 Category won: Excellence in Management (institution) Position when won: President and Chief Executive Officer, Bellevue Women’s Hospital Proudest career moment: When my friends and co-workers gathered to wish me well as I was moving on to another job and my daughters stood together at the podium to talk about how proud they were of what I had accomplished. Hearing them talk about how my career impacted their vision for their future was deeply gratifying.
Susan Scrimshaw
Year won: 2012 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: President, The Sage Colleges Proudest career moment: Being elected to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies of Science in 1993 for my work in improving pregnancy outcomes, and joining my father as a member to become the first father/daughter pair elected to the IOM.
Shadi ShahedipourSandvik
Year won: 2007 Category won: Emerging Professional Position when won: Assistant Professor and Scientist, College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering of the University at Albany Proudest career moment: Five of my students received their Ph.D.s within the last 10 years. I am so proud when I see them defending their Ph.D.s. All five joined high-tech industry as thought leaders and innovators. Also, when one of my former students became a collaborator, and funded a project with my lab. continued on page 46 capregionwomenatwork.com | 45
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Raona Roy
Judith Saidel
continued from page 45
Jan Smith
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Year won: 2004 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: Manager, Global Communications & Public Affairs, GE Energy Proudest career moment: Having the opportunity to lead a worldwide team of amazing professionals from Australia to China through the Middle East, Europe and the United States. Together we built, promoted and protected the reputation of GE Energy and its employees 24 hours a day. We dealt with governments, business leaders, communities. We made both a professional and a personal contribution.
Teresa Spadafora
Year won: 2013 Category won: Excellence in Sales or Marketing Position when won: Branch Manager, VP, First Niagara Bank Proudest career moment: Securing thousands of dollars’ worth of school-supply donations, including computer systems for a school for special-needs children in Zimbabwe. Also, every time one of my staff gets a promotion.
Paula Stopera
Year won: 2008 Category won: Excellence in Management (75+ employees) Position when won: President & Chief Executive Officer, CAP COM Federal Credit Union Proudest career moment: Receiving the Arthur Kapner Award from the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce. I was able to share that evening with so many of my colleagues, friends, co-workers and both of my children. Being able to show my children that hard work, community spirit and giving can be rewarding was awesome!
Faith Takes
Year won: 2013 Category won: Excellence in Business Position when won: President, Empire Education Corporation Proudest career moment: My proudest career moment is every graduation when I see students whose lives we’ve changed cross the stage. Some are the first in their families to graduate. Others have returned to school to advance their careers. All of them have worked hard to achieve this milestone. It is priceless to see how their lives are changed forever through a quality education!
46 | women@work
Pamela Tobin
Year won: 2005 Category won: Excellence in Management (under 75 employees) Position when won: Executive Director, Downtown Albany Business Improvement District Proudest career moment: Leading in the creation and launch of the award-winning downtown Albany brand identity campaign – “Downtown Albany: Worth Discovering Since 1609.” I engineered the creation of the Capital Region’s first prixfixe Restaurant Week resulting in a $2.4 million economic impact driving 100,000-plus into downtown. Both programs resulted in the 2005 and 2007 AMA Mark of Excellence Award respectively.
Joella Viscusi
Year won: 2011 Category won: Excellence in Business Position when won: President, Ambient Environmental, Inc. Proudest career moment: I started my career as an administrative assistant. I worked for several prominent members of the industry through the years, always in a support role. I paid my dues at these companies, taking on more and more technical assignments and managing projects, but was never promoted. So I started my own firm and promoted myself. Now I do business owner-to-owner with some of my former bosses.
Helen Volk
Year won: 1994 Category won: Excellence in Business (2-9 yrs.) Position when won: President, Beyond Clutter Proudest career moment: I was asked to speak to the national conference of the National Association of Professional Organizers on a topic near and dear to my heart -- helping clients live a clutter-free life.
Kelly Waters
Year won: 2006 Category won: Excellence in Management (11-74 employees) Position when won: President/ CEO, Center for Economic Growth Proudest career moment: Being part of the team that led efforts to secure the Global Foundries project for the region. The transformational economic impact of the project is now being realized. The level of collaboration, cooperation and sheer determination to see this project to fruition was staggering. I feel privileged to have been a part of it and to have worked with a tireless and courageous team of colleagues.
Marcia White
Year won: 2011 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-99 employees) Position when won: President & Executive Director, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Inc. Proudest career moment: When I recognized the connection between my oldest daughter dancing on SPAC’s stage under the watchful eyes of George Balanchine, my four daughters’ passion leading to their professions in the arts, and my position at SPAC. That experience enhanced and transformed our lives; it’s our turn to give it to others.
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Patsy Whitney
Year won: 1998 Category won: Excellence in Sales Position when won: Broker, Coldwell Banker Prime Properties, Inc. Proudest career moment: As a sales person in a National Real Estate Company, I have had the opportunity to meet, learn and share ideas with the best in the industry at meetings both regionally and nationally. I was always impressed by the knowledge and depth of experience of the panelists at these meetings. And one year I was invited to be one of those panelists.
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Year won: 1999 Category won: Excellence in Professions Position when won: Health Reporter and News Anchor, WNYT-TV/Channel 13 Proudest career moment: I have covered the inauguration of President Obama, a host of national political conventions, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, 9/11, Superstorm Sandy, the Unibomber trial, and the world gathering of Holocaust survivors, but I am most proud of the stories I do that help empower people.
Karen Zalewski-Wildzunas
Year won: 2007 Category won: Excellence in Management (11-74 employees) Position when won: Senior Vice President, KeyBank Proudest career moment: Building a successful team that exceeded all goals and expectations, and becoming the #1 team. Coaching the team to their strengths, challenging the team to be the very best; that’s what makes me proud.
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Additional Winners Eleanor Bartlett Year won: 1998 Category won: Excellence in Management (public sector) Position when won: Deputy Superintendent, Albany City Schools
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Charleen Bloom
Position when won: President, Beaux Visages, Inc.
Carol Desmond Year won: 1999 Category won: Excellence in Sales Position when won: Account Executive, Times Union
Year won: 2011 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Professor of Communication Sciences & Disorders, The College of Saint Rose
Mary Ann DiChristopher
Constance Casey
Year won: 2003 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-10 employees) Position when won: Partner, Mercury Web Solutions
Year won: 2006 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: President/CEO, Academy of the Holy Names
Pamela Cassick Year won: 2010 Category won: Excellence in Business Position when won: CEO, The MailWorks
Rhonda Childs Year won: 1994 Category won: Lifetime Achievement Position when won: Empire Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Lauretta Chrys Year won: 1999 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector) Position when won: Senior VP of Retail Banking, KeyBank
Mae D’Agostino Year won: 1995 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Maynard, O’Connor, Smith, Catalinotto & D’Agostino
Mary Darian Year won: 1993 Category won: Excellence in Management (public sector) Position when won: New York State Department of Labor
Barbara Dennis Year won: 1996 Category won: Excellence in Business (10 or more yrs.)
48 | women@work
Year won: 1994 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: Executive Director, Hope House
Erika Dietz
Regina DuBois Year won: 1994 Category won: Excellence in Management (public sector) Position when won: Director of Operations, Office of the Albany County Executive
Patricia Ellis Year won: 2004 Category won: Excellence in Management (75+ employees) Position when won: Vice President, Quality & Regulatory Affairs, Albany Molecular Research Inc.
R’Lou Ellson Year won: 1992 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: Executive Director, American Red Cross, Albany Area Chapter
Stacy Fitch Year won: 2008 Category won: Excellence in Management (11-74 employees) Position when won: GM, Paradies Shops, Albany International Airport
Maureen Fitzgerald Year won: 1995 Category won: Emerging Executive/Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Capital District YMCA
Lorraine Flaherty
Grace Jorgensen
Year won: 1998 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Research Scientist and Director of Molecular Genetic Program, Wadsworth Center, NYS Department of Health
Year won: 1992 Category won: Excellence in Business (10+ yrs.) Position when won: Board President, Bellevue Hospital
Kate Langdon Forham Year won: 1999 Category won: Excellence in Professions Position when won: Professor of Political Science, Siena College
Judy Genshaft Year won: 1999 Category won: Excellence in Management (public) Position when won: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, University at Albany
Rose Golden Year won: 1992 Category won: Emerging Executive/Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Executive Director, Senior Care Connection
Audrey Hoffman Year won: 1993 Category won: Excellence in Business (10+ yrs.) Position when won: President, Audrey Hoffman Enterprises, Inc.
Clara Hunt Year won: 1997 Category won: Lifetime Achievement Position when won: Vice President-Facilities Management, Samaritan Hospital
Shirley Ann Jackson Year won: 2001 Category won: Special Recognition Position when won: President, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Linda Jackson-Chalmers Year won: 2003 Category won: Excellence in Management (75+ employees) Position when won: Asst. Superintendent for HR & Community Relations, City School District of Albany
Marjorie Karowe Year won: 1994 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Marjorie E. Karowe, Esq.
Michel Kimball Year won: 2002 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: Executive Director, ClearView Center, Inc.
Anne LaRoche Year won: 2008 Category won: Excellence in Management (1-10 employees) Position when won: Manager of Technology & Information Systems, KAPL Inc.
Ellen Lawlor † Year won: 1993 Category won: Lifetime Achievement Position when won: CEO, St. Peter’s Hospital MercyCare Corporation
Susan Lehrman Year won: 2004 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: President and Dean, The Graduate College of Union University
Dorothy Loftus Year won: 1993 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector) Position when won: Standard Copy
Patricia Martinelli Year won: 2001 Category won: Excellence in Management (public sector) Position when won: Assistant Deputy Attorney General, NYS Office of the Attorney General
Additional Winners Denise Mason Year won: 1994 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector) Position when won: Fleet Bank of NY
Susan Matthews Year won: 1995; 1998 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector); Excellence in Business (10+ yrs.); Position when won: President, Corporate Health Dimensions, Inc.
in Business (2-9 yrs.) Position when won: Owner, Center for Hearing
Katherine Pelham Year won: 2011 Category won: Excellence in Management (100+ employees and volunteers) Position when won: CEO, United Way of the Greater Capital Region
Maria Piccione
Lillian Moy
Sue Rosander
Barbara McDonald
Year won: 2004 Category won: Excellence in Management (11-74 employees) Position when won: Executive Director, Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York
Year won: 2002 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector) Position when won: Senior VP and District Sales Manager, Eastern NY KeyBank
Kathleen Murray
Sue Ellen Rose
Year won: 1998 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector) Position when won: Co-owner, The Shipyard Restaurant
Barbara Nagler
Year won: 2001 Category won: Excellence in Management (nonprofit sector) Position when won: Director of Supported Employment and Vocational Services, Wildwood
Year won: 2005 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: District Superintendent and CEO, Capital Region BOCES
Virginia Rossuck
Sandra Nardoci
Jane Rothfield
Year won: 1998 Category won: Lifetime Achievement Position when won: Executive Director, Wildwood
Year won: 1997 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector) Position when won: Dean of Business, Siena College
Mary Scanlan Year won: 1993 Category won: Excellence in Business (2-9 yrs.) Position when won: Scanlan Public Relations
Missy Shorey Year won: 2008 Category won: Excellence in Business Position when won: CEO, Shorey Public Relations
Leslie Stein Year won: 2002 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won: Supreme Court Justice, NYS Unified Court System
Gail Sundling Year won: 1994 Category won: Excellence in Business (10+ yrs.) Position when won: Owner, The Delmar Bootery Inc.
Nancy Tarabochia-Hart Year won: 2010 Category won: Excellence in Sales or Marketing Position when won: VP and Relationship Manager, KeyBank National Association
Karen Tassey
Year won: 2008 Category won: Excellence in Sales or Marketing Position when won: Associate Broker/Relocation Specialist, Prudential Manor Homes
Year won: 2001 Category won: Excellence in Sales Position when won: Advertising Account Executive, WRGB/Channel 6
Year won: 2001 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector) Position when won: Vice President, Patient Care Services NE Health, Albany Memorial Hospital/Samaritan Hospital
Mary Lou Saetta-Gilman
Donna Nowak-Hughs
Year won: 1999 Category won: Lifetime Achievement Position when won: Executive Artistic Director, Capitol Chamber Artists, Inc.
Susan Tatro
Year won: 1997 Category won: Excellence in Business (2-9 yrs.) Position when won: Executive Vice President, Nowak Associates, Inc.
Margaret O’Neill Year won: 1996 Category won: Excellence
Year won: 1993 Category won: Excellence in Profession Position when won: Albany County Executive’s Office
Partner, Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP
Judith Torel Year won: 1997 Category won: Excellence in Business (10 or more yrs.) Position when won: President, The Sweat Shop of Albany, Inc.
Joan Townley † Year won: 1992 Category won: Lifetime Achievement Position when won: Albany and Colonie Chambers of Commerce; Business Environments by Ras
Nina Tyzik Year won: 2005 Category won: Excellence in Management (75+ employees) Position when won: Executive VP and Regional President, HSBC Bank USA
Gemma Vigliotti † Year won: 1996 Category won: Lifetime Achievement Position when won: Bellevue Woman’s Hospital
Jaruloch Whitehead Year won: 1996 Category won: Excellence in Management (private sector) Position when won: KeyCorp
Margery Whiteman Year won: 2002 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: Director of Advancement Services, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rachel Zimolka † Year won: 2008 Category won: Emerging Professional Position when won: Senior Business Development Executive, Sunmark Federal Credit Union
† Deceased
Lorraine Tharp Year won: 2003 Category won: Excellence in the Professions Position when won:
continued on page 51 capregionwomenatwork.com | 49
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Year won: 2007 Category won: Distinguished Career Position when won: President, Marra’s Pharmacy Inc.
Year won: 1994 Category won: Emerging Executive/Professional Businesswoman Position when won: Manager of Business Development, Mallin, Mendel & Associates Architects P.C.
Patricia Sanders
Colonie Senior Service Centers
Once again congratulates Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber’s
2013 Women of Excellence
For their achievements & success in their professional careers & their dedication to community service. 2013 Emerging Professional
KELLY BROWN MATEJA
Director of Programs and Services Colonie Senior Service Centers, Inc.
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2000’s 100 Women of Excellence These 100 Capital Region women, who’ve worked in various fields, including business, social activism and religion, were honored in 2000. Jodye Holmes, community volunteer † Stefanie Isser, social activist and teacher of the Holocaust Ω Shirley Ann Jackson, Ph.D., Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Chris Jansing, NBC/MSNBC Karen Johnson, former mayor of Schenectady Carolyn Jones, Capital District Business Review Ω Grace Jorgensen, M.D., Bellevue Woman’s Hospital Sr. Maureen Joyce, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany Mary Kahl, Ph.D., Albany Medical Center Foundation Hon. Judith Kaye, NYS Judiciary † Eliza Kellas, pioneer in education † Alice Kenney, historian and author Ruth Klepper, Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood Margaret Krause, The Eddy Rachel Kretser, NYS Office of the Attorney General Mary Anne Krupsak, former NYS lieutenant governor ◊ Gloria Lamere, Proctor’s Theatre Ω† Sr. Ellen Lawlor, former president and CEO, St. Peter’s Hospital and founder, MercyCare Corporation Martha Lepow, M.D., Albany Medical Center Hospital Marya Levenson, Ph.D., North Colonie Central Schools Ω Noel Liberty, The Music Studio ◊ Nancy Liddle, University Art Gallery, University at Albany Judith Lyons, The Community Foundation for the Capital Region Margaret Mancinelli-Cahill, Capital Repertory Theatre Maria Markovics, United Tenants of Albany Inc. Ω Susan Mathews, Ph.D., DigiComm, LLC Hedi McKinley, pioneer in broadcasting Susan Meineker, Capital District Center for Independence † Edythe Meserand, pioneer in broadcasting Ω Christine Miles, Albany Institute of History & Art Malinda Myers, community volunteer Jeanne Neff, Ph.D., The Sage Colleges Mary Nolan, R.N., Albany Medical Center Hospital Antonia Coello Novello, M.D., NYS Department of Health
Ω Katherine Pelham, United Way of
Northeastern New York Inc. Ruth Pelham, The Music Mobile, Inc. Ω Marilyn Pendergast, Urbach Kahn & Werlin PC † Anna Eloise Pierce, crusader for better housing conditions for women college students Anne Pope, Albany Branch NAACP Libby Post, Communication Services Ersa Poston, NYS Department of Civil Service Vera Rappazzo, Rappazzo Electric Co., Inc. Joan Roberts, The Egg † Sr. Blanche Rooney, founder, The College of St. Rose † Olivia Rorie, civil rights and community activist Ω Virginia Pitkin Rossuck, Wildwood Programs, Inc. Ω Raona Roy, The Arts Center of the Capital Region † Margaret Olivia Slocum Sage, founder, Russell Sage College and philanthropist Josephine Sano, Albany Central Federation of Labor (AFL-CIO) Shelly Shapiro, United Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York Ellen Sinopoli, Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company Marion Roach Smith, author and community activist Mary Jane Smith, Unity House of Troy, Inc. Sr. Anne Bryan Smollin, Ph.D., Counseling for Laity Alethea (Thea) Snyder, 1 Data Way/1Call4All LLC Jamienne Studley, Skidmore College Madeline (Lyn) Taylor, Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce Ω◊ Joan Townley, businesswoman, first chair of merged Albany and Colonie Chambers of Commerce † Harriet Van Vranken, pioneer in public education Michele Vennard, Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau † Frances Vosburgh, M.D., pioneer in women’s health care and family planning Dolores Wharton, community leader and volunteer Ω Benita Zahn, WNYT-NewsChannel 13 Ω Women of Excellence winner † Posthumously honored ◊ Deceased capregionwomenatwork.com | 51
Women of Excellence Reunion 2013
Rezsin Adams, community activist Jane Altes, Ph.D., SUNY Empire State College Judith Avner, Brain Injury Association of New York State Judith Barnes, Ph.D., J.A. Barnes & Company Betty Barnette, City of Albany Ω Eleanor Powell Bartlett, University of the State of New York Marlene Belfort, Ph.D., Wadsworth Center, NYS Department of Health Phoebe Powell Bender, community leader and volunteer Ω Elizabeth Bishop, WRGB ◊ Sr. Serena Branson, Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany Ω Mary Brizzell, Town of Colonie Ω Pamela Sawchuk Brown, Sawchuk, Brown Associates Charlotte Buchanan, community leader Ω Nancy Burton, City of Albany Deborah Campbell, New York State Police Nancy Carey Cassidy, Picotte Companies † Blanche Stover Clum, suffragette and political activist Elizabeth Coco, MicroKnowledge, Inc. † Elizabeth Corning, former first lady of Albany and expert horticulturist Jo-Ann Costantino, The Eddy Joann Crupi, Times Union Matilda Cuomo, Mentoring U.S.A. Helen Desfosses, Ph.D., Albany Common Council Georgetta Dix, Refreshing Spring Church Lt. Governor Mary Donohue, State of New York Denise Farnan, LPGA Professional Lucia Fischer, Capital Region Software Alliance Ω Lorraine Flaherty, Ph.D., Wadsworth Center, NYS Department of Health Sheila Fuller, Town of Bethlehem † Harriet Gibbons, pioneer in education † Elizabeth Gillette, M.D., suffragette and first upstate woman elected to the NYS Assembly Mara Ginsberg, To Life! † Winifred Goldring, pioneer in NYS paleontology Ω Jane Golub, Golub Corporation Hon. Victoria Graffeo, NYS Judiciary Alice Green, Ph.D., Center for Law & Justice, Inc. Ω Karen Hitchcock, Ph.D., University at Albany