Orlando City Magazine June 2022

Meet some of the business, civic and educational leaders who work to bring about positive change and enhance the quality of life in our community.

26HEALTH

26Health celebrates its amazing women leaders (From L to R): Kristan Landry; Tara Dorsey; Stephanie Hunter; Tynisha Dunnell; Angela Martinez; Neema Richardson; Ali Wilson; & Maria Garcia-Rolón

Not pictured: LaToya Crittenden

26Health is proud to be an inclusive health clinic, o ering comprehensive services for LGBTQ+ community members and allies in the city of Orlando and beyond. All are welcome at 26Health; adult, child, nonbinary, transgender, cisgender, sick, or well, regardless of ability to pay.

26Health o ers a holistic approach to care and our health clinic supports its patients through primary and medical care, behavioral health, adoption counseling and home studies, rapid HIV, Hepatitis C, and STD testing and treatment, and a

medical spa. In addition to these services, there is also an on-site pharmacy and lab, so the process of getting test results and prescription medications is seamless and trouble-free. Our team is here to support its patients and community by making all our services convenient and easy to access at our downtown Orlando location or virtually.

The professionals at 26Health are proud to o er unrivaled healthcare to underserved, underinsured, LGBTQ+ and allied members of the Central Florida community. What originally started as

a focus on LGBTQ+ health needs has evolved into a wider set of community and family health o erings serving Central Florida’s (and beyond) most diverse members. The team at 26Health is a direct reflection of that and we are committed to having a professional, experienced, and qualified sta as diverse as our patients. We are transgender, gay, bisexual, Black, Hispanic, people of color (POC), male, female, gender nonconforming, and non-traditional family professionals. All generations of workers are represented here.

Meet 26Health’s Women in Leadership:

KRISTAN F. LANDRY, Administrative Director, who provides world-class guest service experience to clients, sta and friends of 26Health. She enjoys cooking and spending time with her dog Cavalier King Charles.

TARA L. DORSEY, Government A airs Director, has more than two decades of experience developing and implementing corporate and government relations strategies which serves 26Health in a great way.

STEPHANIE HUNTER, Associate Director of Clinical Services, is a BoardCertified Family Nurse Practitioner. She believes in educating patients and giving them the best tools to understand their personalized health plans.

NEEMA RICHARDSON, Associate Finance Director, has a passion for her community and church. Neema brings her attention to detail and ability to analyze numerical data to 26Health.

TYNISHA DUNNELL, Executive Assistant, brings to 26Health over 25 years of working in the public sector. She is family oriented and her most important job to-date is parenting her three beautiful children.

ANGELA MARTINEZ, Special Projects Manager, is a Certified Medical Interpreter whose goal is to help 26Health establish a direct relationship with their non-English speaking patients through linguistically accurate and complete interpretation.

ALI WILSON, Marketing Manager, brings to the team over 10 years of

marketing experience with a passion for helping others and bringing awareness to important issues that a ect underserved communities and individuals.

MARIA GARCIA-ROLÓN, Associate Director of Patient Care, joined 26Health after working with the City of Orlando and brings a wealth of community resources and connections to empower 26Health patients and clients.

LATOYA CRITTENDEN, Administrative Manager, received her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida and has worked in administration for the past 7 years. She was born and raised in Orlando, Florida and has always had a strong desire to help others.

KIM BLAYLOCK Vice President, Account Service | &Barr

Advertising is the business of humans—what brings us together and what makes us feel alive. Great marketers find those points of connection by studying the psychology behind our decisions, but extraordinary marketers bring them to life. And that’s what makes Kim Blaylock a master at her craft. A listener first and a strategist second, Kim represents exceptionalism in the art of Client Service because she treats every person she meets with care. During her 11-year tenure at &Barr, an Orlando-based full-service marketing and advertising firm celebrating its 65th anniversary, she has doubled the size of the Account Service team and pioneered a personal and professional growth training program, leading to exemplary client service. As a member of &Barr’s executive leadership team, Kim has helped lead the agency to record-breaking growth in the past two years. Living and breathing the company’s core values, she spearheaded a Health & Wellness program for the agency during COVID, o ering physical fitness and meditation sessions, plus wellness resources for inspiration, stress relief and productivity. Beyond the walls of &Barr, Kim currently serves as chairman of the board for Seniors First, a non-profit organization that helps Central Florida seniors remain independent in their homes by providing services like Meals on Wheels, inhome care, guardianship and medical equipment. Under her leadership, Seniors First successfully navigated the pandemic, keeping their essential services operating, and ensuring they were fiscally sound with additional funding. Kim has served as Chair of the Seniors

First High Tea & Hats signature fundraiser event and continues to serve on the committee, helping to secure sponsorships, auction items and advertising leading to year-over-year growth for the event. Kim also uses her marketing expertise for direct mail appeals that increase fundraising each year to help seniors in need. Proud of the faith that’s the backbone to all she does, Kim serves as a trustee and a teacher at the Tuskawilla church of Christ, where she’s been a member for 20 years. It’s the combination of all her endeavors that makes Kim the powerful, respected and trusted woman she is.

DENA JALBERT

Founder and CEO | Align Business Advisory Services

Dena Jalbert wholeheartedly believes there is tremendous market value in smaller businesses. This belief has propelled her company, Align Business Advisory Services, to complete nearly $2 Billion in mergers and acquisitions (“M&A”) transactions for lower-middlemarket companies. These are companies often overlooked by most investment banks due to their size, leaving the market vastly underserved. For over 20 years, Dena has worked in M&A, first as a consultant with firms such as Ernst & Young and PricewaterhouseCoopers,

and then as a Chief Financial O cer for companies who eventually exited to companies such as Google, Hewlett Packard, and Bank of America. She founded Align with the mission to break the mold of the traditional M&A advisory firm by providing superior service and compiling an industry leading network of prospective acquirers and investors. Dena prides herself on being able to bridge business operations with capital finance, resulting in abovemarket outcomes for her clients. Dena has been named a rising star of M&A

by The M&A Advisor, as well as one of the top 50 women in midmarket M&A by Mergers & Acquisitions magazine. Align has been named the best midmarket consultancy for 2019, 2020, and 2021. Dena is a native of the outskirts of Chicago. She graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University and obtained her CPA, subsequently moving to Florida to work and pursue her master’s in business administration from Florida State University. She and her husband live in Winter Park, and they have two young daughters, Olivia and Whitney.

SEJAL DHARIA PATEL, MD & SHARON B. JAFFE, MD

Center For Reproductive Medicine (CRM)

Center for Reproductive Medicine (CRM) has been providing patients with individualized fertility treatment options in Orlando and Central Florida since 1985. Combining more than one and one-quarter centuries of physician experience and new state-of-the-art o ces with an onsite surgical facility, CRM has achieved some of the highest success rates in the Southeast. CRM is known for providing compassionate patient care, customized treatment plans, and a ordable pricing options to give patients every possible chance of success in conceiving.

OUR DOCTORS: CRM’s five reproductive endocrinologists and infertility specialists—Randall A. Loy, MD; Sharon B. Ja e, MD; Sejal Dharia Patel, MD; Frank C. Riggall, MD; and Albert Asante, MD—are locally and nationally recognized as leaders in the field of reproductive medicine.

WHAT SETS US APART: Whether helping to conceive Central Florida’s first IVF baby, performing robotic and minimally invasive reproductive surgeries, or preserving fertility via elective egg and sperm freezing, CRM has always been on the leading edge of technology and is part of an elite category of infertility clinics that are equipped with multiple, on-site embryologists, laboratory and surgical facilities (Orlando Avenue Surgery Center), providing patients with the highest quality of fertility care and convenience. In addition, CRM is a founding partner in My Egg Bank (myeggbank.com), the world’s most successful egg-freezing program with hundreds of successful deliveries and many more patients currently pregnant. CRM physicians are also consistently recognized as Orlando Top Doctors and Best Doctors as well as being named to the U.S. News &

World Report list of Top U.S. Reproductive Endocrinologists. SERVICES PROVIDED: If you are in need of the most sophisticated IVF technology available or less complex fertility therapies to help you conceive, CRM’s dedicated physicians and sta o er a full range of diagnostic and treatment services for both men and women. From ovulation induction to the most advanced reproductive technologies, such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), pre-implantation genetic diagnosis and screening (PGD and PGS), third party reproduction via egg donation, or fertility preservation (elective freezing of eggs or sperm), CRM will work with you to provide a customized treatment plan based on your physical, emotional and financial needs. Please contact us today to schedule an initial appointment at one of our o ces in Winter Park or Celebration.

SANDI VIDAL

Vice President of Community Strategies & Initiatives | Central Florida Foundation

Sandi Vidal describes herself as “just a girl trying to change the world one day at a time.” In her role at the Central Florida Foundation, she does just that.

Sandi oversees the Foundation’s annual grant-making program, where she is responsible for the over $5 million (and growing) in grants and scholarships deployed each year. Her work covers social justice e orts, Foundation signature initiatives like 100 Women Strong, and a women’s giving initiative.

Most recently, Sandi and her team designed Thrive Central Florida, a framework to address the region’s most critical issues through five impact funds focused on Economic Stability, Healthcare, Livability, Education, and Community & Social connection. Thrive is about discovery and curiosity, breaking down silos, imple-

menting practical solutions, and making sure they work.

In the past, it’s been unclear who owns specific community issues and how to get to the result. Thrive changes that by streamlining goals and incentivizing proven solutions for systems change. With Thrive catching the attention of global partners, The Brookings Institution and the United Nations Foundation invited Sandi to share the work with their audiences.

Sandi shows her passion and commitment to making Central Florida a better place. Her community involvement and ability to create connections between organizations, individuals and local governments show her credibility within the region. Her community involvement and ability to create connections between

organizations, individuals, and local governments show her credibility within the region.

She has a gift and experties in taking complex, scary, audacious goals, and ideas and making them come to life. She has done this time and time again. Central Florida is lucky to have a strong, intelligent, and kind leader that cares deeply.

Central Florida Foundation stewards philanthropic dollars on behalf of individuals, families, and nonprofits. We partner with people who are determined to make a di erence in their community. Knowing that true change demands more than dollars and cents, we foster collaboration, fuel ideas, and spearhead the innovation to transform our region for good.

SHERYL ROSA-CRUZ, MD; ELISA BIANCHI, MD; JESSICA NARVÁEZ-LUGO, MD

The Digestive and Liver Center of Florida was established in 2005 promoting a patient fi rst environment by providing compassionate and sophisticated medical care. Throughout the years, DLCFL has expanded within Central Florida having six practice locations and two ambulatory surgery centers (Endo-Surgical Center of Florida and Endo-Surgical Center of Kissimmee). The practice has attracted an exceptional and diverse team of physicians with a broad spectrum of internationally recognized authorities in gastroenterology, hepatology, and colorectal expertise. Amongst the team, we have three physicians we’d like to highlight. Sheryl Rosa-Cruz, MD; Elisa Bianchi, MD; and Jessica NarváezLugo, MD.

Sheryl Rosa-Cruz, MD has a dual board certifi cation in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. She received her

medical degree from the Autonomous University of Guadalajara in Mexico, then fulfi lled her internship year at New York Medical College. After her residency, she had the privilege of being Chief Resident for a year. Dr. Rosa then completed her fellowship in gastroenterology at the VA Caribbean Healthcare Center in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Her specialties include diagnosing and treating GI disorders that include GERD, H.pylori, peptic ulcer disease, IBS, IBD, and more.

Elisa Bianchi, MD is a board-certifi ed general surgeon. She completed her medical training at the University of Illinois. She then completed a colorectal surgery fellowship at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health in New York. Her specialty training encompassed a variety of small bowel, colon, rectal, and anal pathologies that include benign and malignant infl am-

matory diseases (Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis). Dr. Bianchi has also studied the robotics technique approach to surgery.

Jessica Narváez-Lugo, MD has a dual board certifi cation in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. She earned her medical degree from Ponce Health Sciences University in Puerto Rico. After completing her internal medicine residency at the VA Caribbean Healthcare System, she pursued an additional year as a training program leader where she became a Chief Resident. Dr. Narváez’s specialties include diagnosing and treating diverticulosis, diarrhea, hepatitis c, abdominal pain, and more.

The female physicians at the Digestive and Liver Center of Florida are also fl uent Spanish speakers. We are grateful for the assorted experiences, passion, and intelligence they bring to the practice.

ELIZABETH GODWIN Senior Manager, Industry Recruitment | Duke Energy

Bringing jobs and businesses to Central Florida is a high priority for Duke Energy. The prominent utility eagerly supports the region’s economic development organizations as they promote Orlando and surrounding communities to corporate decision-makers around the world.

That’s where Elizabeth Godwin is making a di erence. Godwin is senior manager for industry recruitment at Duke Energy. She’s put together a strong track record convincing companies to invest in Central Florida. Her expertise and hard work, for example, helped lead EV battery-maker Microvast to announce the launch of a $25 million R&D center in Lake Mary last year. In just four years with Duke Energy, Elizabeth has played a major role in 12 project wins creating 1,744 new jobs and more than $440.4 million in capital investment.

Godwin was recruited by Duke Energy in 2018 after spending nearly five years on the sta of the Orlando Economic Partnership. She now oversees Duke Energy’s economic development strategy across six counties. Much of her time is spent talking to company o cials about the technical aspects of their power needs – especially how Duke Energy can help them meet clean energy goals. “More and more projects are interested in renewable energy and electric vehicles,” Godwin says. “That’s where we’re bringing custom energy solutions to the table.”

A Texas native, Godwin studied international relations and political economy at The University of Texas. A stint as a research intern at AngelouEconomics, an Austin-based consulting firm, whetted her appetite for economic development. An opportunity at the Orlando Economic Partnership soon opened up. “People thought I was crazy for leaving Austin,” she recalls. “But I really felt like I had the opportunity to do in Orlando what I had seen happen in Austin, and I wanted to be part of that.”

Today, Godwin’s commitment to Central Florida remains steadfast. She serves on several local boards, including the Orlando Economic Partnership. She also volunteers at Young Life West Volusia, a faith-based non-profit providing guidance to local youth. A married mother of three, she is eager to do her part to shape economic diversification and sustainable job creation in Metro Orlando. “The work I do will make a di erence in the community where I am raising my kids,” she says. “That’s what motivates me.”

ELISHA GONZÁLEZ Executive Director | FAIRWINDS Foundation

Financial illiteracy is negatively impacting millions of Americans every day. Without a clear understanding of financial knowledge and confidence, personal financial skills are impacted and — on a national scale — the economy su ers.

Elisha González, Executive Director of the FAIRWINDS Foundation, is driven to changing this narrative. She has been successfully advocating the relationship between financial crisis and overall financial literacy for years. A basic financial education not only promotes financial confidence, it encourages better money management skills, decision-making, and strong budgeting and spending habits. Research confirms that being more literate in financial topics is positively correlated to an individual’s capacity to overcome macroeconomic di culties like COVID-19 or the 2008 financial crisis.

Elisha believes that the investment in financial literacy education collectively impacts and improves our community’s economic well-being. The FAIRWINDS Foundation, the philanthropic arm of FAIRWINDS, provides grants to some of Central Florida’s most economically vulnerable populations, including homeless and at-risk youth, victims of domestic violence, and minority business owners impacted by the pandemic, among many others. Through financial literacy programming, delivered by FAIRWINDS Foundation grantee partners, families and individuals have the information and tools needed to secure and improve their financial health.

Her curating of these collaborations with nonprofit grantee recipients is changing lives every day. In 2021 through its grants, the FAIRWINDS Foundation made measurable impacts, from helping Heart of Florida United Way to secure $3.4 million in tax refunds for disadvantaged families to aiding Prospera USA help small businesses create or retain 2,400 jobs.

Financial literacy programming, delivered virtually, and in person, by this year’s FAIRWINDS Foundation nonprofit grantee’s, has effectively advanced broad-based prosperity. When it comes to the betterment of our community and neighbors in need, Elisha is “all-in!” She is a passionate ambassador who invests in community partnerships proudly representing the FAIRWINDS Foundation. Through these relationships Elisha has built and nurtured, economic empowerment and financial freedom is possible – for everyone.

FANNIE HILLMAN + ASSOCIATES

Fannie Hillman + Associates was established in 1981 by single mother, entrepreneur, real estate visionary Fannie Hillman, and has blossomed into the largest independent real estate company in Winter Park. A true leader in the real estate industry, we have built a reputation for delivering the highest quality real estate services to Central Florida. The women at Fannie Hillman + Associates are some of the highest-producing real estate agents in Central Florida; they are extensively involved in the community and they strive to stay on top of the latest market trends. Fannie Hillman + Associates is proud to have the women agents pictured above representing us, and we know they will continue to make great strides in the community we all love.

205 W. FAIRBANKS AVE. WINTER PARK, FL 32789

122 S PARK AVE. WINTER PARK, FL 32789

PHONE: 407-644-1234

FANNIEHILLMAN.COM

DEANNE MAPLES

DeAnne Maples considers herself to be among the lucky. “I love what I do,” says Maples. “I work for the best people – beef farmers and ranchers. Cattle ranching is Florida’s oldest industry and I’m honored to play a role in sharing that story.”

Born and raised in New Smyrna Beach, Central Florida has always been home for DeAnne, and raising and showing cattle was a large part of her young life. She is a graduate of the University of Central Florida. Her passion for agriculture led her to the Florida Beef Council where she serves as a spokesperson for Florida’s 15,000 beef producers, and oversees the marketing and promotion of beef, on their behalf, through the management of the Beef Checko , a national producer-funded program established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill.

“Home to 1.6M head of cattle, some of America’s largest cattle ranches are in the sunshine state,” says Maples. “People always seem surprised when I say that, but it’s true. It is a long-standing tradition that began in 1521 when Spanish explorers brought the first cattle to North America and landed in what is now Florida. Those cattle, whose descendants still roam ranch lands across our state, marked the beginning of the cattle industry in the United States. And the beginning of the cowboy.”

DeAnne enjoys the ever-changing landscape of her office. Some days find her training chefs or educating physicians about beef’s nutrition, versatility, and sustainability, while other days are spent on ranches introducing new friends to the beauty of Florida’s open spaces where cattle freely graze, and wildlife co-exist.

DeAnne enjoys mentoring young people pursuing careers in agriculture and serves on the Florida Agriculture in the Classroom board. She is also a member of Florida CattleWomen. While she does enjoy her career and many volunteer activities, DeAnne’s favorite role is being a mother to her three cool kids – two sons and one daughter – who jokingly refer to their mom as the “beef queen.” “We all have a good laugh each time they say that, but I do hope my children will make a career out of something they enjoy just as I’ve been able to do,” says Maples. “It’s a great feeling to work at something you believe in.”

Director of Beef Marketing and Promotion | Florida Beef Council

Family law matters can have an emotional, financial, and/or psychological impact on everyone involved, especially the children, as they navigate unfamiliar terrain in search of a new path forward.

Caryn M. Green, Florida Bar Board Certified Marital and Family Law Specialist, founded Green Family Law, P.A. (“GFL”) with an aim to serve as a voice of reason for her clients during an otherwise uncertain and unsettling period in their lives.

“We seek to secure the best possible outcome for clients while minimizing potentially negative e ects on families, especially the children,” Caryn states, acknowledging that litigation is sometimes necessary.

Family law matters require an extraordinary attention to detail, involve highly sensitive and delicate issues, and require a significant level of trust. With over two decades of experience handling divorce, paternity, time-sharing arrangements, prenuptial/postnuptial agreements, among other matters, clients are confident they receive the skillful, responsive representation required for meaningful resolution, whether through comprehensive settlement negotiations or complex litigation.

Caryn has been recognized by “Best Lawyers,” in Orlando Magazine since 2010, and National Advocates’ “Top 30 Lawyers in Matrimonial and Family Law.” Caryn was also designated as one of Florida Super Lawyers, “Top 50 Women,” and featured as an honoree of Florida Trend’s “Legal Elite,” list for the past eleven years.

“Helping clients regain a sense of optimism and hope for their future is the most rewarding aspect of my career,” says Caryn, further revealing that she is most proud to be of witness to the resiliency exhibited by her clients, as they experience highly contentious and tumultuous circumstances with positivity and grace.

CARYN GREEN

Marital and Family Lawyer | Green Family Law

DR. FRANCES BALLAGAS

Innovative Endodontics

Innovative Endodontics has prided itself in providing excellent service while ensuring that patients are comfortable and pain free for the last nine years. My goal has been to save teeth and break down the presumption that root canal treatments are painful, complicated, and unnecessary. Ever since I started this company, I knew the technology I would provide had to be the most innovative, which led to the inclusion of now industry standards of portable digital radiography, the best practice software available, 3D cone beam computed tomography analyzation, and advanced surgical operating microscopes. This approach of always finding the newest, most advanced methods of providing comfortable, effective treatments through research and continuing education has led to loyal referring offices and

patients. By having a conservative treatment mindset to avoid tooth debilitation, my practice has relied on a multiple visit structure, regardless of production, to ensure the elimination of patient symptoms before obturation. Although effective for my commitment to patient care, at times it has caused an inconvenience for my patients in having to return repeatedly due to continued symptoms. In consideration of the everchanging dental environment, especially amidst a global pandemic, as well as patient feedback it will be my pleasure to introduce the newest advancement in endodontic care, Sonendo’s GentleWave procedure. This groundbreaking technology will reduce the number of visits necessary for success while providing a less-invasive, efficient way of cleaning canals with minimal instru-

mentation. It has been a journey of research, discussions, and meetings to decide to include this amazing procedure into our standard of care, but it is the best option for my staff, my referring doctors, and most importantly my patients. Being the first in the Orlando area to step forward with GentleWave is a testament to my dedication of providing state-of-the-art Endodontic Therapy while catering to patients’ comfort and needs to ensure a lifetime of care and satisfaction. From my diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics to my Endodontic Fellowship and Residency to my extensive experience, it is my passion and pleasure to continue growing and providing the highest standard of care while focusing on exceeding patients’ expectations of comfort and customer service.

7352 STONEROCK CIR | SUITE B | ORLANDO, FL 32819 | PHONE: 407-434-0305 | INNOVATIVE-ENDO.COM

KELLY L. PRICE

Broker & Owner | Kelly Price & Company

“On the road to success, you must lead with passion and purpose,” says Kelly Price, the powerhouse broker who has dominated the Central Florida real estate market for more than 30 years. Renowned for her razorsharp instinct, love of community, and exuberant flair, Kelly is an entrepreneurial icon. Her boundary breaking career continues to raise the bar for Orlando real estate professionals.

In a world where white glove service is often promised but rarely delivered, Kelly has redefined the client experience within the real estate industry. In 2002, she founded her brokerage, Kelly Price & Company, on the core principles of “integrity, loyalty, and unwavering enthusiasm.” Since then, her firm has dominated the local real estate market, amassing more than $2.9 billion in residential sales and helping over 7,000 Central Florida families achieve their real estate goals.

“My secret to success is simple,” says Kelly. “Surround yourself with the very best team, trust them, and empower them.” From the very beginning, Kelly has emphasized the importance of trust, transparency, and confidence in the competitive real estate market. Distinguished by their exceptional, personalized service and record-setting results, Kelly’s team of talented, topproducing agents deliver time and time again.

But for Kelly, it’s not just about selling homes and breaking records. It’s about creating relationships, fulfilling dreams, and giving back to her community. Kelly has lived in Winter Park since she was 12-years-old. She graduated from Winter Park High School, the University of Florida, and Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College. Despite the demands of her business, Kelly remains a dedicated ambassador and local advocate, proudly supporting the real estate and livelihood of where she calls home through civic and philanthropic endeavors.

“The challenge in real estate, like it is in life, is not about being good, it’s about always striving to be better—to keep moving forward and to help others along the way.”

ANDREA MASSEY-FARRELL

President & CEO | Harvey & Carol Massey Foundation

Senior Vice President, Community Relations | Massey Services, Inc.

Managing Director of Ranch Operations | Checkerboard Cattle Company

Andrea Massey-Farrell has always known she wanted to work with people. After earning a degree in organizational communications from Rollins College, she began her career as an O ce Manager and worked her way up to president/CEO of Massey Communications (now Moxē). In 2014, she joined Massey Services as the Senior VP of Community Relations AND President & CEO of the Harvey and Carol Massey Foundation to lead Massey’s commitment to giving back to our communities.

Andrea has been the driving force behind many successful volunteer initiatives and is also a fervent advocate for educational advancement and the arts. She serves on multiple boards including Nemours Florida Board of Managers, the Orlando Shakes Board of Trustees

(president), the One Orlando Alliance Board, the Mead Botanical Garden Board of Trustees (past chair), the Winter Park High School Foundation Board of Directors (president-elect), The Victory Cup Initiative Board of Directors and the YMCA of Central Florida.

Over the last two years, Andrea has seen many local non-profits that the foundation supports struggle due to the pandemic and has made it a top priority to ensure these organizations continued to receive necessary support. She has volunteered many hours of her time sharing her expertise on fundraising and other efforts that can be done in the community.

For the past few years, Andrea has led the charge in creating a company-wide holiday giving initiative. This initiative involved the participation of every single

Team Member across all 172 of the company’s locations. “It was such an inspiration to see the excitement of our Team Members when they delivered gifts to these organizations,” she said.

Despite the time-consuming challenges of each of her positions, Andrea has recently taken the reins of Ranch Operations for the Checkerboard Cattle Company, as Managing Director for the Massey family-owned ranch in Montana. “I love what I do, and I want our sons to know that if you work hard and believe in what you do, great things can happen,” said Andrea.

As a business leader, a wife and a mother of twin teenage sons, Andrea is passionate about supporting our community and tirelessly demonstrates the importance of giving back.

JEAN NOWRY

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial O cer (CFO) | Massey Services, Inc.

Since joining Massey Services in 1998, Jean Nowry, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial O cer, has made a tremendous impact not only on the company, but in our community and the pest management industry as well. While she is responsible for all financial and human resource matters relating to Massey Services and its subsidiaries, Jean views her primary responsibility as ‘ensuring the financial health of the company and team members.’

She has been influential in Massey’s 37 consecutive years of profitable growth and has been instrumental in revising and enhancing the company’s 401(k) program, which currently holds a 95% participation rate and has received numerous national awards.

Jean exemplifies the “go above and beyond” approach to her work and can often be found mentoring and training team members who appreciate the time she takes to make sure they understand why operational decisions are made. Team members say Jean not only pauses to ensure a thorough understanding, but also follows-up individually to answer any additional questions. For many upand-coming women in the company and industry, Jean truly leads by example.

Jean also embraces the company’s Mission Statement, which includes a commitment to being a contributing member to the community. She had already been volunteering with Junior Achievement of Central Florida prior to joining Massey and continued to con-

tribute her time to teach classes. Later, she joined the Board of Directors and held a variety of roles for several years, including Secretary and Chair. Jean has also been involved with the United Arts of Central Florida and served as their treasurer and Chair. Additionally, Jean has o ered support to the Kids House of Seminole, Autism Speaks and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

Today, Jean serves as Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Orlando Ballet. As a mother of two teenage daughters, Jean hopes to be an inspiration for women who question if it’s possible to hold a high-level executive position at a large company and also support causes you are passionate about in the community.

MAYNARD COOPER & GALE

(L-R) Mya Hatchette, Shareholder; Sharen Abner, Shareholder; Karen Brown, Shareholder; Aimee Hitchner, Of Counsel; Leigh Williams, Of Counsel.

Maynard is a full-service law firm of more than 300 attorneys across a national footprint, which as of April 2022, now includes Orlando. Swann Hadley Stump Dietrich & Spears, P.A., an AV-rated, longstanding fixture in Florida’s legal, business, and political scene, merged into Maynard. This union serves as the latest market extension for Maynard, with the new Central Florida location serving as the fourteenth o ce in Maynard’s national practice.

With the merger, Maynard also gained five talented female attorneys, further diversifying and enriching the Firm.

Joining Maynard’s Real Estate practice from Swann Hadley are Sharon Abner, Karen Brown, and Leigh Williams. Their combined experience covers commercial real estate and complex residential transactions, sophisticated financing for banks and developers, formation of corporate

entities, and asset and stock acquisitions and sales. Aimee Hitchner joins the Firm’s Trust, Estates, Fiduciaries & Family Business practice bringing almost 20 years of experience counseling clients on asset protection and leaving a legacy.

In addition, Maynard welcomes Mya Hatchette, a former Litigation CoChair with another Central Florida firm. Mya has enjoyed a decorated, twentytwo-year legal career, practicing in real estate, business, fiduciary, and healthcare litigation, while also developing a niche practice in complex title and contract disputes. Mya will lead the Firm’s Florida Management Committee, focusing on continued growth throughout the State of Florida.

Moving forward, Maynard will build on the synergies and collective strength generated by these additions, broadening and deepening the Firm’s work within the

real estate, banking, and finance sectors.

Additionally, the Firm will look to expand opportunities in prominent, national practice areas such as Government Solutions, Insurance, and Securities and Financial Services Litigation. With expertise and experience coming from other Maynard o ces in Nashville, TN, Huntsville, AL, San Francisco, CA, and Washington D.C., the Firm will look to compellingly create opportunities within the Hospitality, Technology, and Aerospace and Defense sectors.

Maynard serves clients across the United States and globally from its o ces in Alabama (Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery), California (Los Angeles, San Francisco), Florida (Miami, Orlando), Georgia (Atlanta), Iowa (Des Moines), New York (New York City), Tennessee (Nashville), Texas (Dallas), and Washington, D.C.

MARGARET NEWMAN THORTON & SILVIA HAAS

COO and CEO, respectively | OCA, A Special Place for Special Needs

Thirteen years ago, Silvia Haas and Margaret Newman Thornton gathered on a park bench with a group of women they call the “founding sisters.” Their goal was to provide support for families with children with special needs. That first meeting took place with 18 other parents to discuss their children’s current needs and envision a future where they could have a place to “work, live, and play.” It was this meeting that launched OCA, which stands for Opportunity, Community, Ability.

The goal that each person can and should contribute to their community anchored the mission to enable individuals and families with autism or other disabilities. “We started with summer

camps, then added after-school recreational care,” said Thornton, COO.

Haas, now CEO of the thriving organization, keeps the focus on ability. “Each year, we add programs because we respond to the needs of our participants,” said Haas. For instance, when participants started aging out of programs, the team added Adult Vocational Training.

They developed strong partnerships, like with Central Florida Dreamplex, a therapeutic provider with whom they share a building. Having expanded facilities is a game-changer for them and the families they serve. They’ve been able to increase programming by seventy-five percent. Haas coaches the OCA Eagles, their Special Olympics soccer team, who

have been invited to the USA games four times, winning gold in 2018. In 2015, Haas was runner-up for Central Floridian of the Year and, in 2021, won OCA second place in The Victory Cup Initiative. Thornton, a licensed mental health counselor and Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, focuses on developing the programs needed to support families with a foundation of evidence-based practices and scientifically proven success. Her passion for Early Intervention helped expand their programs to serve birth through adults.

The future is now their focus. The goal is going beyond day programs to create a place for participants to live where they can contribute their abilities and impact the community.

5165 ADANSON ST. | ORLANDO, FL 32804 | PHONE: 407-808-7837 | GOOCA.ORG

VERBELEE NIELSEN-SWANSON

Founder and President | Oxford Eyes

“I went to get my glasses adjusted and came out owning a new business,” says Verbelee Nielsen-Swanson, recalling the day she founded Oxford Eyes, a boutique eyewear shop that opened in 2018 in Orlando’s Lake Ivanhoe District.

As spontaneous as it sounds, optical retail is a perfect fit for Nielsen-Swanson. As a lifelong wearer of glasses, she’s genuinely passionate about eyewear and sees frames as a powerful form of self-expression, “Why have them be boring?”

For years, Nielsen-Swanson saw a need within her community. She noticed that Orlando was missing an optical boutique specializing in unique, handcrafted eyewear. As the daughter-in-law of a retired Optometric practice owner, Nielsen-Swanson had a connection to the optical team. “His last remaining

partner had sold the practice, and the optical manager had given her notice. I wanted to keep this incredible optical team together, so we established Oxford Eyes.” With over 90 years of combined experience, she built on their optical industry knowledge and her own experience as a past health care administrator to create something unique.

Together, they curated a world-class collection of independent, handcrafted frames. The team also added an onsite finishing lab and created a warm and welcoming interior filled with reclaimed wood and antiques.

Nielsen-Swanson’s business formula is working. On its fourth anniversary, Oxford Eyes has been recognized for three years as the Best of Orlando and, recently, one of the finest optical shops in the USA by Envision Magazine.

When asked about her success, Nielsen-Swanson is quick to credit others. “Our team’s ability to provide a oneon-one connection and complement customers’ unique personalities is a key strength of the business. We’re also blessed to have so many who believe in our commitment to excellence.”

Throughout her life, Nielsen-Swanson has worked to give back to her community. She is on the board of various organizations, including the Ivanhoe Village Board, Harbor House, and Immediate Past President of the Florida Executive Women. Lifting others is a big part of her life’s work, “We are all influential - live your life with courage and compassion, and you can’t go wrong. I face each day with a positive attitude; stay committed to helping the community and do my best to add a little sparkle.”

KIM PEARSON

Owner and Chef | Pearson’s Catering

The Pearson’s Catering family is honored to have been chosen the 2021 Best of ORL caterer by Orlando magazine’s readers. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for this opportunity. It is not only humbling but immeasurable, coming amid COVID and the impact the pandemic has had on all of us for almost two years.

As a chef and caterer, I most enjoy people savoring the food that I have created. Food is love and it brings comfort to all. A well-thought-out menu is a magical transformation of raw ingredients into a sensory delight that is remembered long after an event has passed.

From the beginning, our mission has been to create unique and memorable dishes from scratch. This commitment

to high standards in the kitchen, blended with our core values of business integrity and kindness to all have earned Pearson’s Catering a loyal following.

We o er Full Catering which includes not only the food, but alcohol, bartenders, sta ng, linen, china, etc. We have been able to serve up to 500 guests a day at family gatherings, working lunches, cocktail parties, workshops, special presentations and holiday cocktail parties. Entering a new phase, Pearson’s Catering now has the capacity to handle big-event productions serving 1,000plus guests. Among them, we are hosting all Jacksonville Jaguars Home Game Tailgating Events, providing all the staing, food and full bars. We also catered the Georgia Florida game with over 2000 guests.

I started my culinary career at The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta in Buckhead after graduating with honors in culinary arts from Johnson & Wales University. An earlier bachelor’s degree in clothing and textiles from Florida State University sent me into the retail industry before I focused on how I wanted to create an impact on the world.

I spent several years honing my culinary skills at numerous restaurants and assisted with the launch of Florida Hospital Celebration (now AdventHealth Celebration) in 1997. I catered my first event in 2008. As the business grew, my husband Dan Shier left a 15-year career in sales and management to join me in growing Pearson’s Catering.

I can’t wait to see where the journey takes us.

CAROL SIZER HOLLADAY

Founder and Co-Owner | The Pinery

The Pinery in Ivanhoe Village comfortably dwells among dual worlds. It is intensely personal yet welcoming to one and all. It is brand new yet as old as the pineapple fields that predate this urban landscape. It is upscale yet relaxed and community focused.

Orlando native Carol Holladay built The Pinery within the Lake House apartments, a luxury address on the shores of Lake Ivanhoe, to be a place of refuge in which to explore the state’s endless bounty.

Every plank of wood and piece of art, every morsel of food and craft cocktail has a story that enriches the dining experience. “The Pinery is a celebration of Florida,” Holladay says of the 150-seat dining spot that opened in June 2021.

The Pinery was born amid a pandemic that knocked the world o its axis and, even more extraordinarily, a breast cancer

battle that threatened to derail all of Holladay’s dreams.

Just weeks after leaving her job as a manager of the Tap Room at Dubsdread, and before she had a restaurant to open, she found a lump in her left breast and was eventually diagnosed with cancer.

She is a wife, a mother, a cancer survivor, and now an entrepreneur. She is an unshakable best friend to a lucky circle of people that includes her interior designer Janel Dagon, beverage director Nicole Barney and social media director Lindsy Hardin-Deal.

She has handpicked this mostly female team, alongside her irreplaceable business partner, developer Robert Finfrockone of the few men in the inner circle- to create a space where guests feel welcome and employees feel valued.

The Pinery owes its future to Florida’s

past. Guests step inside to see a stunning Southern design element called pecky cypress. The wood comes by its texture naturally and The Pinery’s pecky cypress comes from the home of Orlando business trailblazer Lisa Hawley, who opened the Orange Blossom Playhouse in 1961.

Another artifact of Orlando history is a bronze barrier that began life as a mezzanine railing in the First National Bank of Orlando in 1928.

The pineapple-heavy art was carefully curated by Holladay and her team and opens a window on Central Florida’s past as an agricultural giant. Yes, there really was a pineapple farm on Lake Ivanhoe.

“Every detail of The Pinery is a wonderful mix of Florida; from our menu and decorative details to the warm hospitality that will greet you at the front door,” Holladay says.

LINDA GUZMAN BROKER & OWNER | LIV Realty II | Lake Nona Orlando

As a mother I know the importance of family, stability, financial obligations, and the meaning of a good community.

With more than 10 years in the Real Estate industry my passion for making a di erence in my community is driven by my desire to be of service. As a Multi-Million Dollar Agent, ranking Top 500 Real Estate Producer, Top 10% Zillow Premier Agent, and Top Producer, I strive to serve with quality customer service and negotiate the best terms to ensure the client’s legal rights and assets are being protected while providing a smooth process along the way.

Creating an empire from scratch and keeping a consistent business flow with a high level of referrals is a blessing. Thank you to my clients and agent partners who support and trust my business. Successfully coaching and mentoring real estate agents to multi-million-dollar producers speaks life into everything that I do. As the Founder of Lipgloss and Real Estate we support, empower, and connect people throughout the country with 2 conferences a year. Community involvement and being of service is what makes me who I am today.

I truly believe your business plan begins with your mindset. Be sure to love yourself, be okay with yourself when you mess up, and put the phone down and be with your family. To have a healthy mind you have to start from within.

10783 NARCOOSSEE ROAD #113 | ORLANDO, FL 32832 407-574-4404 | WWW.LIVREALTYHOMES.COM

INFO@LIVREALTYHOMES.COM

FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA: LIV REALITY AT LAKE NONA

FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA: LIV REALTY AT LAKE NONA

ALLISON ANGERT MILLER, DDS

Owner

& Founder | Pediatric Dentistry of Winter Park

From her early days in dental school, Dr. Allie Miller quickly embraced the pediatric patients. Dr. Miller loved having the ability to shape a child’s experience into a positive one. After several years of clinical practice, her dream of creating her own pediatric practice came into fruition with Pediatric Dentistry of Winter Park. This state-of-the-art facility combines a fun atmosphere for kids with an outstanding team of clinicians and support sta who really know how to make children feel at home. The road has been long but worth it! Dr. Miller, a Winter Park native, graduated as Valedictorian from Winter Park High School, earned her undergraduate degree as a Harrison Scholar at the University of Virginia, and completed her dental degree at the Virginia Commonwealth University. There, she met her husband, Navy veteran Dr. Clay Miller. Dr. Miller went onto complete her pediatric dental training as Chief Resident at Medical College of South Carolina. Dr. Miller enjoys treating kids of all ages, including those with special needs. Her training in conscious sedation and hospital dentistry allows her to o er comprehensive care to her patients. She is laser certified to o er her infant patients tongue and lip-tie releases, aiding in breastfeeding and improving their dental development. As a mother of three, Dr. Miller understands each child’s approach to the dentist is di erent and strives to provide the best possible care.

2001 LEE ROAD | SUITE A WINTER PARK, FL 32789 PHONE: 407-755-3136 | PEDIATRICDENTISTOFWINTERPARK.COM