2021 NAWBO-Indianapolis Visionary Awards Luncheon by nawboindy

We celebrate you for leading the way, every day.

Congratulations to all of the Visionary Awards recipients. Every day, you help to lead us forward. PNC is proud to be the presenting sponsor and recognize success for women in business. Visit www.pnc.com/women

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Visionary Awards Program Welcome Kylie Conway, WISH-TV President’s Address Anne Hathaway—President, NAWBO-Indianapolis Board of Directors Special Remarks Joe Hogsett, Mayor of Indianapolis Special Remarks Karrah A. Herring, Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Officer Lunch Raffle Drawing Presenting Sponsor Insights Jennifer C Goss, Senior Vice President/Regional Manager PNC Bank Keynote Presentation Karen Mangia, Vice President, Customer & Market Insights Salesforce Awards Presentation Entrepreneur Scholarship Indianapolis Choice Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Member of the Year Corporate Partner of the Year Woman Business Owner of the Year

Closing Remarks Special thanks to our co-chairs: Sheena Lee, Janet Stiller and Christy Gormal NAWBO-INDIANAPOLIS

NAWBO-INDIANAPOLIS impacts, influences and propels Indiana to be a leading state for women-owned businesses. We accomplish this through our advocacy efforts, economic impact, diversity, influence, and membership size.

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When you’re ready to make a difference, we’re ready to help We are proud to support NAWBO Indianapolis. Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 510 East 96th Street Suite 500 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.848.2100

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products:

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PRESENTING SPONSOR

EXHIBIT HALL SPONSOR

ENTREPRENEUR SPONSOR

IN-KIND SPONSORS

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Unique perspectives. Common goals. Supplier diversity is about more than the products or services you bring to our company. It’s about working together to develop innovative solutions and strengthening the economic vitality of the communities we serve. DUKE-ENERGY.COM/SUPPLIERDIVERSITY

IU Health is a proud sponsor of the 2021 Visionary Awards We are committed to supporting NAWBO Indianapolis. We appreciate the tremendous work you do to help women business owners advance our community and taking the time to honor their success.

iuhealth.org

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LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

Anne Hathaway

President, NAWBO-Indianapolis Board of Directors Welcome to the 17th Annual Visionary Awards Luncheon! On behalf of the NAWBO-Indianapolis Board of Directors and each of our members, thank you for joining us today to support and celebrate the 2021 Visionary Award winners! This year’s theme “Be Intentional, Be Passionate, Be Recognized, Be YOU!” is a mantra that I hope each of you will adopt not only today but every day! In addition, the women we recognize today inspire us to BE MORE! They have created their own opportunities. They have been mentees and mentors. They have grown their businesses and have faced obstacles with grace, courage, and vision. We applaud their accomplishments and success. For over 24 years, NAWBO-Indianapolis has been a beacon of influence for women in the business world. With over 200 members and corporate partners, NAWBO-Indianapolis is one of the largest chapters in the nation and has propelled women business owners to grow and flourish by providing programming, advocacy, and exposure for our membership. While the number of women-owned businesses has grown rapidly over the past few years, there is still work to be done. NAWBO women empower each other to step outside their comfort zones, take risks, and achieve greatness. Together we can strengthen our community, create more entrepreneurial opportunities, and light the path for future generations of women business owners. NAWBO Indianapolis is a powerful resource, and we are grateful to our corporate partners and members who make it possible to continue the legacy of the women business owners who came before us. As we look to 2022, we are enthusiastic about the future of NAWBO- Indianapolis and our members and our corporate partners will Be Intentional about creating opportunities for additional growth and success. Congratulations to the 2021 Visionary Award nominees and winners! Anne Hathaway, President, NAWBO-Indianapolis Board of Directors

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2021 VISIONARY AWARDS EMCEE

Kylie Conway Anchor, WISH-TV

Kylie Conway co-anchors Daybreak Monday through Friday for WISH-TV’s News 8. While attending Indiana University’s School of Journalism, her first introduction to WISH-TV was as an intern. After graduating IU with a BA in Broadcast Journalism, Kylie has become an award-winning journalist.

Kylie has anchored, reported and produced throughout her career. She has

reported on massive wildfires, the arrest of FLDS leader Warren Jeffs, severe floods and many other stories of national significance.

Kylie is married and is the mom of two rambunctious boys.

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LETTER FROM THE GOVERNOR

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LETTER FROM THE MAYOR

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SUPPORTING THE VISION AND GROWTH OF NAWBO INDIANAPOLIS. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2021 VISIONARY AWARDS NOMINEES & WINNERS! KRIEGDEVAULT.COM © 2021 Krieg DeVault LLP. This constitutes attorney advertising. Krieg DeVault LLP, Indianapolis, IN, is responsible for this content.

Thank you for helping our community take one more step forward.

CON PDF 0618-0106

We are proud to support women in business for driving the change that makes each day better than the one before.

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2021 Table Sponsors and Exhibitors FULL TABLE SPONSORS

HALF TABLE SPONSORS

Anthem

Accent on Business

Business Furniture

Citizens Energy

Citizens Energy Group Cummins Eli Lilly & Company Etica Group Frost Brown Todd Gibson Hathaway Strategies Health & Hospital Corporation/ Eskenazi Health Indianapolis Airport Authority JP Parker Flowers Krieg DeVault LLP Lucidia IT Merrill Lynch Netlogx Phoenix Data Corporation PNC Relocation Strategies RJE Business Interiors State of Indiana, Department of Administration

Connor Fine Painting Gutwein Law Matchbook Creative Midwest Associates NAWBO-Indianapolis PNC Sapphire Strategy

EXHIBITORS Citizens Energy Group Indy Party Pops IUPUI School of Health and Human Sciences JP Parker Flowers Luxurious Getaways by Mira My Sherri NAWBO-Indianapolis

VISIONARY AWARDS COMMITTEE Janet Stiller - Co-Chair Christy Gormal - Co-Chair Sheena Lee - Co-Chair Anne Hathaway Lee Ann Richardson Rose Arbuckle Jessica Nickloy Abbey Szentes IUPUI Professor: Erica Ryan Shonkwiler Mariah Ake Reagan Barton Sarah Bratcher Rachel Crumrin Brittany DeWeese Grace Goodzey Carly Gundaker

NAWBO Foundation

Luke Hammond

PNC

Emily Jerger

Plate It Up Catering Profile by Sanford Sparkle & Shine Stephanie Grawbow Style Total Dynamic Organization Transformation Fitness and Wellness

Emma Kleinbach Lexi Malott Maddy Martin Marley Mccormick T’Audra McGhee Alejandra Meraz Hannah Poteet Jamie Smith Katie Stergar Kaity VanVorst Deshaya Green

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Congratulations NAWBO 2021 Visionary Award Recipients

Services:

Architecture Civil Engineering Building Envelope Inspection Surveying

Office Locations:

Certified WBE | DBE

Indianapolis | Avon Fishers | Fort Wayne Contact: 317.466.9520 EticaGroup.com

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Valuing diversity at Cummins Cummins provides innovative power solutions to our customers. For many years, diversity and inclusion have been a part of Cummins’ core values. We understand the importance of operating across cultures, functions, language barriers, and time zones to solve the technical and logistical challenges created by the complexity of a global business.

cummins.com diversityprocurement.cummins.com

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2021 Visionary Award Presenters Johna Cripe, Harmony Senior Relocation Services—presenting Entrepreneur Scholarship (2018 Winner)

Chelcie R, Hunter, DBELO, IndyGo— presenting Indianapolis Choice (2019 Winner)

Johna Cripe is a founding partner

Ms. Hunter joined the IndyGo

Services established in 2015.

Disadvantaged Business

move for her in-laws, Johna

In this position she is responsible

of Harmony Senior Relocation

team in February 2017 as the

After orchestrating the downsizing

Enterprise Liaison Officer (DBELO).

realized that other senior adults

for overseeing contractor

might also welcome assistance

compliance, vendor communication, planning and

with their own transition. Johna knows first hand

facilitiating networking and outreach events, and

and time-consuming, but is also an emotional job

small business community consisting of minority,

active board member of the Boomers and Beyond

businesses on the importance behind the IndyGo

National Association of Senior Move Managers.

of workshops, personal one-on-one meetings, and the

Prior to starting Harmony, Johna spent 25 years in the

believes that relationships bridge barriers related to

that downsizing is not only physically demanding

reporting. Chelci is accountable for educating the

for many seniors and their families. Johna is an

women, veteran, disability, and LGBTQIA+ owned

association, and a member in good standing of the

Supplier Diversity program. Chelci does this by means

marketing research industry, and for 13 of those years was the partner/owner of a qualitative marketing research company, Blue Sky. She led project

initiatives both domestically and internationally for key

clients such as Eli Lilly, Merck, MedImmune, Centocor and others. Johna has a Master’s Degree in Market

new Vendor Development Program iniative. She certified businesses receiving contract awards.

Chelci is passionate about breaking barriers, improving extraordinary economic growth of the Indianapolis

community, and increasing access for small business across the board.

Research from The University of Georgia.

NAWBO ASSCOIATION OF WOMEN BUSINESS OWNERS

Founded in 1975, the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) is the unified voice of over 10 million women-owned businesses in the United States representing the fastest growing segment of the economy.

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2021 Visionary Award Presenters Andrea Sloan GroundBreakers, LLC presenting Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Award (2019 Winner) Andrea Sloan is the President and Owner of GroundBreakers. For over 10 years, GroundBreakers has served clients in several

industries providing clean, safe,

and accurate hydrovac and jetting services. GroundBreakers has

earned the reputation for delivering superior services with unrivaled safety, efficiency, and productivity.

In 2018, Andrea had the opportunity to become the

President of GroundBreakers and in 2019 took over ownership of the company. She is laser focused on

expanding its service offerings in Indiana and providing services to surrounding states. Andrea is energized daily to work with the GroundBreakers’ team and excited about GroundBreakers’ outlook.

As a United states Army Veteran, Andrea is committed to her core values, and they are the guiding principles of her leadership of GroundBreakers.

In additional to her professional work, Andrea is a board member on HVAF, Helping Veterans and

Families. She also serves on the Indiana Construction Roundtable Diversity and Inclusion committee. She is an active member of NAWBO-Indy since joining in 2016.

GroundBreakers is a certified WBE, and VBE with the City of Indianapolis, WBENC, and WOSB with the

Small Business Administration. The company is an active member with the Indiana Subcontractors

Association (ISA), Indiana Construction Roundtable (ICR), Indiana Constructors, and CCS.

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Carol Curran, Phoenix Data Corporation— presenting Member of the Year Award (2019 Winner) Carol Curran is both a successful entrepreneur and champion for women everywhere. As someone who desires to live in a world where there are more women-owned businesses, Carol dedicates most of her time to connecting women to one another and creating opportunities for women to thrive throughout Indiana and beyond. Having started Phoenix Data Corporation in 2001, Carol leveraged her expertise in the technology industry, all while completely self-funding her firm’s growth and success. After the realization of her firm’s needs in niche industries, Carol accumulated numerous contracts with the State of Indiana, health care and logistics partners, and the United States Department of Defense. In addition to her professional work, Carol is highly involved within many boards and multiple health associations in Indianapolis. Carol is the past president of the Indianapolis Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and current president of the NAWBO-Indy Foundation, as well as an advisory board member for Enterprising Women and a member of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. Carol is also an active member of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association, Women in Defense, and has served on the National Advisory Board of Key4Women as part of KeyCorp’s focuses on women in business. At the end of the day, Carol stands by her core values of “courage, commitment, compassion, and character,” and introduces those traits to everyone that she does business with. Carol is a tireless advocate for women business owners, as well as women everywhere – making her an individual that others seek out to become.

2021 Visionary Award Presenters Deborah D. Oatts Nubian Construction Group—presenting Nubian Leadership Corporate Partner of the Year Award Deborah D. Oatts President & CEO

Deborah entered the male-

led Nubian’s supplier diversity outreach efforts on the Banker’s Life Fieldhouse project; Northview Middle

School renovation; and The Salvation Army’s, Joan

& Ray Kroc Corps Community Center (South Bend).

Deborah has served on the Super Bowl Emerging Deborah entered the male-dominated construction industry by dominated construction industry forming Nubian Transport Management in 1994. Since then, Nubian’s Business Team and Indy’s Super Cure Team. She is armNubian has more than 27 years of success in construction bytransport forming Transport dump truck hauling for commercial and public works projects, committed to empowering women, assisting fellow Management Since including projectsinfor1994. the Indiana Department of Transportation and the City of Indianapolis. Under Deborah’s leadership, Nubian W/MBEs, and mentoring youth as they reach their then, Nubian’s transport arm has successfully transitioned from its origins as a traditional dump truck

fullest potential. Deborah also served on the NAWBOcompany into27 a construction joining the more than years of management success firm, ultimately Turner Aviation and Trotter Construction Joint Venture Landside Team Indianapolis Board of Directors and as its 2013 – in as construction truck a WBE Associatedump Construction Manager on the New Indianapolis

Airport Project. Since that time, the company has served as theBoard President. Deborah supports Oasis of 2014 hauling for commercial andOutreach publicPartner worksforprojects, M/WBE the Construction Management team of Shiel Sexton and projects Powers & Sons the Indiana IndianapolisDepartment Convention Center and Dollars for Scholars Program, the Center for including foronthe ofexpansion projectHope

participated on the XBE Diversity Supplier Team for the IU Health Bloomington project. Nubian Construction Group currently as Diversity Coordinator for the 16 Tech Innovation Leadership District project Development, and has received multiple Transportation andworks the City of Indianapolis. Under in Indianapolis. business and community leadership awards and

Deborah’s leadership, Nubian successfully transitioned

Deborah sits at the helm of Nubian to assure that all business facets are executed with excellence honors.and Deborah received her Bachelor from its origins as a traditional dump truck company precision. Nubian’s business development, strategic planning, project administration, supplier diversity Organizational Leadership from Indiana management, economic outreach, and public involvement fall under her direct leadership. Nubian’s into a construction management firm, ultimately commitment to supplier diversity engagement can be seen in some of Indiana’s most notable projects. Wesleyan University. joiningtothe Aviation and Trotter Construction In addition thoseTurner mentioned above, Deborah has led Nubian’s supplier diversity outreach efforts on the Banker’s Life Fieldhouse project; Northview Middle School renovation; and The Salvation Army’s, Joint Team as Bend). a WBE Associate Joan & RayVenture Kroc Corps Landside Community Center (South

of Science in

Construction Manager on the New Indianapolis Airport

Deborah has served on the Super Bowl Emerging Business Team and Indy’s Super Cure Team. She is committed to empowering women, fellow W/MBEs, mentoring Project. Since that time,assisting the company hasand served asyouth as they reach their fullest potential. Deborah also served on the NAWBO-Indianapolis Board of Directors and as its 2013 – the M/WBE Outreach Partner the Dollars Construction 2014 Board President. Deborah supports Oasisfor of Hope for Scholars Program, the Center for Leadership Development, and has received multiple business and community leadership awards and Management team of Shiel Sexton and Powers & Sons honors.

on the Indianapolis Convention Center expansion

Deborah received her Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan project and participated on the XBE Diversity Supplier University.

Team for the IU Health Bloomington project. Nubian Construction Group currently works as Diversity

Coordinator for the 16 Tech Innovation District project in Indianapolis.

precision. Nubian’s business development, strategic planning, project administration, supplier diversity management, economic outreach, and public

involvement fall under her direct leadership. Nubian’s commitment to supplier diversity engagement can

be seen in some of Indiana’s most notable projects. In addition to those mentioned above, Deborah has

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2021 Visionary Award Presenters Janet South DECO Coatings, Inc—presenting Woman Business Owner of the Year Award (2019 Winner)

then NAWBO National Presidents’ Assembly. She

serves on Indiana Subcontractors Association (ISA)

Education Committee. Immersed in the construction industry, she is active in public policy for job training

Janet South has served as

focused on technical education pathways for those

Coatings, since its incorporation

to the National Protective Coatings Society, Indiana

an industrial coating/painting

been recognized for mentoring, business, promoting

protective high-performance

business practices, and philanthropic efforts. In

President and owner of DECO

who are wired to work with their hands. She belongs

in 1995. DECO Coatings is

Fabricators, and Indiana Constructors. Janet has

contractor which applies liquid

women in business, women in construction, best

coatings to extend the life of infrastructure by

addition, Janet supported Operation Iraqi Freedom

30,000 sf-controlled environment is QP3 Certified to

and their family members in Washington, D.C. and

What began with a paint brush & roller knocking

her critically wounded Marine during his extensive

with 12 overhead cranes from 3-ton up to 10-ton

caregiving program.

reducing corrosion. DECO’s manufacturing style

and Operation Enduring Freedom wounded soldiers

comply with DOT and military coating specifications.

San Antonio, Texas from 2004-2011 while assisting

on doors evolved into an industrial 2-acre campus

recovery. She continues efforts through a veteran’s

capacity. Janet has treated the company like a

cruise ship rather than a row boat. Janet oversees

company operations, finances, reviews and directs proposal preparation, and contract negotiation.

Janet lives in Greenwood, Indiana with her husband, Kirby. They have 3 adult children, 3 grandchildren, and 7 grand dogs. Janet is the passenger on

their Harley Davidson motorcycles. One is named

Janet is a certified WBE, DBE, ACDBE, and two

Therapy and the other is The Hulk…yes, it is green.

of NAWBO-Indy since she joined in 2007 and

and experience adventure: no interstate and no map.

national certifications has been an active member

Janet and Kirby love to pack for motorcycle trips

was appointed to serve on the Board of Directors

THANK YOU TO OUR 2019 VISIONARY AWARDS JUDGES Duchess Adjei Head of Global Communication at Beckman Coulter Life Sciences

Connie Harris Outreach Coordinator for Merchants West and Owner of Elevated Events

Julianne Carson Director of Central Indiana Women’s Business Center

Danielle Shockey Chief Executive Officer at Girl Scouts of Central Indiana

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2021 Visionary Award Winner

NAWBO-INDIANAPOLIS ENTREPRENEUR SCHOLARSHIP Mira Cassidy Mira Cassidy LLC

Mira is a luxury travel advisor, travel journalist, and motivational speaker.

Since she was small, the constants in her life have been her love for travel,

the gift of writing, and telecommunications. As a teen, she studied at the local Youth Video Institute. This

opportunity allowed her to interview and meet many influential people such as Nick Cannon, Vivica A. Fox, Susan L. Taylor, Jimmy Jam, and many others.

Sadly, Mira was in a relationship for nearly 18 years where physical, emotional, mental, and sexual violence

persisted. However, with a combination of faith, resilience, hard work, and her ability to rediscover self-worth, she was able to break free and reclaim her identity. As a survivor of domestic violence, Mira works to uplift

women by booking luxurious women’s empowerment retreats. She also specializes in destination weddings, honeymoons, vow renewals couple’s retreats, and fun family vacations to Disney.

Look for Mira in Cuisine Noir Magazine, a digital and print publication that highlights influencers and

trendsetters in food, drink, and travel. Other works of writing available by Mira are her books Let Mia Tell It, based on her story of survival, Bounce Back from Tragedy, and Breaking Toxic Cycles.

NAWBO-INDIANAPOLIS ENTREPRENEUR SCHOLARSHIP AWARD CRITERIA This scholarship is awarded by the NAWBO-Indianapolis Foundation to an outstanding member with 51% ownership of her business for at least three years. The scholarship assists with educational programs to improve business management skills, obtain access to new markets, or recognize and capitalize on opportunities for growth and expansion. The scholarship awarded is up to $1,200, which can be used in the next year. Funds raised today will go toward future scholarships.

PAST RECIPIENTS

2019 Maria Santiago, M.Santiago Group

2018 J ohna Cripe, Harmony Relocation Services

2017 Denise Herd, Herd Strategies 2016 C assandra Faurote, Total Reward Solutions

2015 Michelle Coy, Eclipse Staffing 2014 Tiffany Thompson, DaMar Staffing Solutions

2013 Sola Adelowo, ImageCube

2012 Jessica Nickloy, Etica Group

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2021 Visionary Award Winner

INDIANAPOLIS CHOICE Jennifer L. Ping, Krieg DeVault

Jennifer Ping serves as Executive Director of Governmental Affairs in the firm’s Governmental Affairs and Public Advocacy Practice Group. She brings more than twenty years of experience in government relations to the firm and focuses her practice on federal, state and local legislative and executive branch lobbying and procurement consulting, political consulting, government regulatory consulting, and grassroots and grasstops consulting. Throughout her career, Ms. Ping has been active in helping to shape Indiana’s governmental landscape. She was the first female elected as chairwoman of the Marion County Republican Party and served as campaign chair and finance chair for the Sue Ellspermann for Lieutenant Governor. For 10 years she served as vice chair for the Marion County Republican Central Committee and vice chair of the 7th Indiana Congressional District for the Indiana State Republican Party. Ms. Ping also was the Chairwoman for Women for Pence Coalition for Indiana Governor Mike Pence. Prior to joining Krieg DeVault, Ping served as principal of Bose Public Affairs Group, and Tabbert Hahn Ping Global Strategies where she assisted clients in several capacities, including lobbying and legislative monitoring, issue management, administrative and regulatory affairs, government procurement contracts and other client advocacy matters.

INDIANAPOLIS CHOICE AWARD AWARD CRITERIA The Indianapolis Choice award honors one outstanding individual who serves as a powerful advocate for NAWBO-Indianapolis and woman-owned businesses throughout the state. Recipients of this award have a demonstrated history of helping woman-owned businesses reach their full potential while improving the overall business climate via contracting opportunities and/or advocacy efforts. Both NAWBO members and non-members are eligible.

PAST RECIPIENTS 2019, Chelci Hunter, IndyGo 2018 Billie Dragoo, RepuCare 2017 Kimberly Dunning, Vectren Corp. 2016 Dr. Sue Ellspermann, Ivy Tech Community College 2015 Ronalda Minnis, Duke Realty 2014 Richard Wise, Citizens Group 2013 Gregory Wilson, City of Indianapolis 2012 Brenda Jackson-Morrissey, Stewart & Irwin, P.C. 2011 Amie Peele Carter, Baker & Daniels 2010 Joyce Rogers, Esq., Ivy Tech Community College

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2021 Visionary Award Winner

EMERGING ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR Mel McMahon Stone, Indiana Originals Mel McMahon Stone is an entrepreneur, podcast host, radio and television

personality, and local business activist. She co-founded Indiana Originals, a

website promoting and branding independent, Indiana-based businesses in 2014. In 2020, she co-founded Indiana.Gifts, an online gift shop featuring

products made by Indiana companies. Earlier in 2021, Indiana Originals became Indiana Owned and expanded membership to Indiana-based franchise owners. She attended Indiana University for undergrad and Keller

Graduate School of Management for her Master’s. She has several certificates as well and the student loan debt to go with it. In addition to her duties running her company, she is also the Executive Producer of the WIBC

Radiothon for The Salvation Army, a WISH Influencer for Make-A-Wish, and a licensed foster parent. She is a past board member of the Indiana Chapter of the TEARS Foundation, the Better Business Bureau of Central

Indiana, her high school alumnae association, and Hoodox, a documentary streaming service featuring Indiana filmmakers.. She acts as a consultant to several nonprofits and local small businesses and is a proud member of the 2013 IBJ Forty under 40 class, NAWBO, and the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce. The best part of her

day is anytime she gets to be with her husband and their children, especially working in their garden or baking.

EMERGING ENTREPRENUER OF THE YEAR AWARD AWARD CRITERIA

PAST RECIPIENTS

The Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year award is presented

2019 Andrea Sloan, GroundBreakers, LLC

to a NAWBO-Indianapolis member under the age of 40 who

2018 Michelle Farley, Edify Hair Group

represents the organization’s mission and vision in all facets of business ownership including innovative leadership and community involvement.

2017 A rin Lindauer, Transformation Fitness and Wellness 2016 A manda Parker, Collective Alternative 2015 R osemily Geyer, Geyer Fire Protection 2014 K elly Lynn, Kelly Lynn Photography 2013 T iffany Thompson, DaMar Staffing Solutions

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2021 Visionary Award Winner

MEMBER OF THE YEAR Gayle Ross, Ross Business Solutions As a Principal and Founder of Ross Business Solutions, Gayle is dedicated to fully understanding the needs and desires of her clients. At the heart of what she does is build wealth for business owners. For many, as much as 90% of their wealth is tied to a single asset – their business. Gayle believes that the best investment a business owner will make is in them and their business. Her passion is to ensure they are building their business in a manner that maximizes value and is transferrable at the time of exit or transition. Gayle’s caring heart and incredible passion for helping others sets her apart and aids in finding unique solutions to best fit her clients’ needs. Gayle’s love and passion for entrepreneurship began in college where she volunteered for the Small Business Development Center helping new business owners craft and implement their business plans. Her professional career includes 15 years as an outside sales consultant in the corporate recognition arena, as well as co-owner of an architectural woodworking business where she concentrated on sales and administration. In addition, Gayle has devoted several years as an instructor of the NxLevel® Entrepreneurs Training Guide, helping business owners reach the next level of success. Experience in both corporate America and as a small business owner, Gayle knows how to solve big business problems on a small business budget and help business owners build their business with the end in mind. In addition to her professional work, Gayle currently serves on the Membership Committee of NAWBO, where she has been a member since 2009. Other volunteer activities include member of Indiana Consultants and Advocates Network (ICAN,) as well as a volunteer at Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding Center in Zionsville. Gayle received her MBA from Indiana University, Kelley School of Business and her BS from Ball State University.

MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD AWARD CRITERIA

PAST RECIPIENTS

The Member of the Year award honors one outstanding

2018 Beth Rovazzini, B&W Plumbing and Heating Co., Inc.

member who has elicited powerful change and strengthened the presence of NAWBO via her support of the vision and ongoing engagement with the organization.

2019 Carol Curran, Phoenix Data Solutions

2017 Audrey Taylor, netlogx

2016 Ellyn Ludden, Team Summit

2015 P enny Lutocka, Houlihan Valuation Advisors

2014 Ann Fisher, HR Alternative Consulting 2013 Janet South, DECO Group, Inc.

2012 J ennifer Ping, Bose Public Affairs Group

2011 L ynn Zettler, LifeAction Coaching, Inc. 2010 Deb Walton, Indy City Gift Baskets

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2021 Visionary Award Winner

CORPORATE PARTNER OF THE YEAR AWARD The Indianapolis Airport Authority owns and operates Indiana’s largest airport system in the Indianapolis metropolitan area. In addition to the Indianapolis International Airport (IND), its facilities include the Downtown Heliport, Eagle Creek Airpark, Hendricks County Airport-Gordon Graham Field, Indianapolis Regional Airport and Metropolitan Airport. IND generates a $5.4 billion total annual economic impact for Central Indiana – without relying on state or local taxes to fund operations. More than 10,000 people work at the airport each day, and 22,600 area jobs have a connection to the airport. In 2019, IND served more than 9.5 million business and leisure travelers. IND is consistently ranked, year after year, as the best airport in North America and the nation, based on ease of use, passenger amenities, customer service, local retail offerings and public art. The airport is home of the world’s second largest FedEx operation and the nation’s eighth-largest air cargo facility. IND is committed to becoming the airport system of choice for both passenger and cargo service.

CORPORATE PARTNER OF THE YEAR AWARD AWARD CRITERIA The Corporate Partner of the Year award honors one outstanding Corporation who supports the organization and serves as a powerful advocate for NAWBO-Indianapolis and woman-owned businesses in Indiana. The Corporate Recipient of this award has a demonstrated history of helping womanowned businesses reach their full potential while improving the overall business climate via contracting opportunities and/ or advocacy efforts. Limited to sponsors who are monetary contributors of the NAWBO-Indianapolis Corporate Partner Program. 26 | 17TH AANNUAL VISIONARY AWARDS LUNCHEON

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2021 Visionary Award Winner

WOMAN BUSINESS OWNER OF THE YEAR

Kristin Cooper, The StartUp Ladies

Kristen Cooper is the CEO and Founder of The Startup Ladies. The Startup Ladies is a professional membership organization that identifies, educates, connects and increases investment in women entrepreneurs starting up scalable businesses. Founded in 2014 by Cooper, the for-profit membership organization is committed to increasing the number of women who startup scalable companies and funding them. She is also a columnist for the Indianapolis Business Journal and writes about: startups, tech, women in business, and the LGBTQ community.

Cooper has a background in building technology and raising money. Most recently, B she served as Vice President of Operations and Corporate Development at b Sticksnleaves, a software development firm. She helped the company scale by developing new collaborations with growth-stage and mature businesses, and expanded collaborations with women and minority entrepreneurs who wanted to build new technology products. Additionally, she developed relationships with investors throughout the country to identify more funding opportunities for Sticksnleaves’ clients. Prior to Cooper has a background in building Sticksnleaves, Cooper served as a non-profit fundraiser for nearly twenty years. As Executive Director of Corporate President of Operations and Corpora Partnerships & Membership Sales and Events at the Indy Chamber, she, among other things, was responsible for launching the highly successful Women in Business series. Before fundraising in the economic sphere, She helpeddevelopment the company scale by de she was the Director of Operations at the Riverview Hospital Foundation, and held Major Gifts Officer positions at businesses, and expanded collabora Butler University and the University of California, Santa Barbara.

new technology products. Throughout her career, Cooper has been instrumental in raising millions of dollars for nonprofit organizations and Additionall developing sales and marketing strategies to creatively engage donors and clientscountry in growing mentors torevenue. identifyShe more funding oppo women entrepreneurs building tech enabled businesses throughout the state of Indiana. She also is a very public advocate of the LGBTQ community in the hopes of eliminating discrimination permanently. Cooper holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication degree from the Pennsylvania State University. Cooper is the recipient of: the 2020 Indiana Prior to Sticksnleaves, Cooper serve Historical Society, “Outstanding Woman of Inspiration”award, 2020 Indy Hackers Community Member of the Year Award, 2018 winner of Techpoint’s Community Champion Mira Award and IBJ’s Women of Influence Award Partnerships in 2016. Director of Corporate &

BUSINESS OWNER OF THE YEAR AWARD AWARD CRITERIA The Woman Business Owner of the Year award honors one outstanding NAWBO-Indianapolis business owner who has built a successful and sustainable business. Recipients of this award have a demonstrated history of driving business forward and creating job growth. They assertively break through barriers and overcome challenges and actively support other women business owners. They seek out opportunities to give back to their communities.

other things, was responsible for lau

fundraising in the economic developm

Hospital Foundation, and held Major

PAST RECIPIENTS

California, 2019 Janet Sounth,Santa DECO Barbara. Coatings Inc. 2018 D ebra Kunce, CORE Planning Strategies

Throughout her career, Cooper has b

2017 Mary Beth Oakes, Choreo

organizations and developing sales a

2016 Jeryl Mitsch, Mitsch Design, Inc.

growing revenue. She mentors wom

2015 E laine Bedel, Bedel Financial Consulting, Inc. state of Indiana. She also is a very p 2014 Jill Hall, Reprodiscrimination Graphix eliminating permanent 2013 Jennifer Foster, Foster Results

the Pennsylvania State University.

2012 K aren Cooper, Smart IT Staffing, Inc.

2011 MCooper ichele Meyer, Consulting is theCSCI recipient of: the 2020 I

award, 2020 Indy Hackers Communi 17TH ANNUAL VISIONARYChampion AWARDS LUNCHEON | 27 Community Mira Award

When local businesses thrive, we all win.

We’re proud to be named the #1 SBA Lender in the region1. But what really makes us happy is helping people start and grow their businesses. Because we know when local businesses thrive, our communities thrive. So let’s get to work, together. Give Penny Lewis a call at 317-686-5302 or visit your neighborhood branch. SBA loans subject to SBA eligibility, credit application, and approval. Huntington is the #1 SBA 7(a) lender in the region made up of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, West Virginia, and Western Pennsylvania from October 1, 2008 to September 30, 2020. Source: U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

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Marcia Barnes

Founder, CEO & Visionary

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We'll We'll find find the the right right fit fit for for you. you. Customized RPO solutions for every business.

wwww.RepuCare.com | 317-208-0650

Financial planning that can meet tomorrow’s challenges.

When you’re unsure of the economic future, moving forward can seem difficult. But with the right guidance, every step you take can move you toward your financial goals. Our experienced Wealth Advisors provide the resources and insights you need to feel comfortable as you look to your financial future. Gain a personalized plan that can adapt to your changing needs and help you build sustainable wealth. Your Regions team will provide the foresight and comprehensive solutions to support you every step of the way.

Peace of Mind | Protecting Your Legacy Personalized Planning See what our Wealth Advisors can do for you. Call 317.221.6261 or visit regions.com/embracelife.

Investment, Insurance and Annuity Products: Are Not FDIC Insured | Are Not a Deposit | May Go Down in Value | Are Not Bank Guaranteed Are Not Insured by Any Federal Government Agency | Are Not a Condition of Any Banking Activity

© 2021 Regions Bank. Banking products provided by Regions Bank, member FDIC. Only banking deposit products are FDIC insured. Some products and services are made available through Regions Asset Management, a business unit within Regions Wealth Management. | Regions and the Regions logo are registered trademarks of Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark of Regions Bank.

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Platinum Corporate Partners

Gold Corporate Partners

Gold In-Kind Partner

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Silver Corporate Partners

Silver In-Kind Partners

Bronze Corporate Partners

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McGuire Sponsel is proud to support the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Indianapolis. Partnering with more than 350 local and regional CPA firms, McGuire Sponsel is a leading specialty tax

! s n o i t a l u Congrat

consulting firm. McGuire Sponsel’s team offers trusted and proven solutions within: Fixed Asset Services R&D Tax Credit Services Global Business Services Credits & Incentive Services

mcguiresponsel.com

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SPONSEL CPA GROUP congratulates NAWBO INDIANAPOLIS and its 2021 Visionary Award recipients.

CHEERS TO THE VISIONARY DYNAMOS OF NAWBO! Connor Fine Painting is proud to

Awards to celebrate the accomplishments of women

e ln em oW

sponsor the 2021 Visionary

ONG STR n e om w

business owners. We are passionate about NAWBO's mission and are champions of women-led organizations.

Connor Fine Painting is a maintenance painting contractor on a mission to make central Indiana a more beautiful place safely and responsibly with paint. Learn more about how we can help you protect your greatest assets so you can focus on your next visionary idea.

LEARN MORE AT CONNORPAINTING.COM OR CALL 317.423.0000 COMMERCIAL | INDUSTRIAL | INSTITUTIONAL | RESIDENTIAL

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2021-2022

NAWBO-INDIANAPOLIS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Anne Hathaway President

Stacy Carey Director

Janmarie Connor Director

Janet Stiller Director

Beth Rovazzini Director

BOARD ADVISORS

Christy Gormal Vice-President

Dr. Jamyce Banks Secretary

Stephanie Sponsel Treasurer

Jen Lisak Golding Parliamentarian

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Jessica Nickloy Past President

Lee Ann Richardson

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Tammy Butler Engaging Solutions

Billie Dragoo RepuCare

Jennifer C. Goss PNC Bank

Amy Johnson Frost Brown Todd

Deborah Oatts Jamie Samuels Nubian Construction Eli Lilly and Group Company 17TH ANNUAL VISIONARY AWARDS LUNCHEON | 34

Lawyers who make a diﬀerence. Celebrating the diverse women leaders who share their challenges, successes and perspectives.

Taftlaw.com

Flexibility is Key to Long-Term Success. Leaders are facing three major challenges: inspiring company culture, establishing and maintaining trust, and managing a remote workforce. Success will require flexibility, staying on your toes, and the ability to dance. May we show you how?

DaMar Staffing of Indianapolis 317.566.8320 • DaMarStaff.com Where People and Careers Meet

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We’re All Citizens. Citizens Energy Group is a proud sponsor of the NAWBO – Indianapolis and the Visionary Awards. We celebrate all of this year’s winners. Congratulations! We believe our success depends on valuing diversity in our workforce, business partners, and communities.

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CELEBRATE OUR COMMUNITY IS TRULY SOMETHING TO

Indianapolis International Airport (IND) celebrates women and those who support them. As winner of “Best Airport in North America” nine years in a row, we work hard to reflect and support our community’s diversity. You see it in our leadership at the Indianapolis Airport Authority and in our commitment to providing meaningful opportunities to certified disadvantaged-, minority-, women-, veteran-owned business enterprises (D/M/W/VBE) and Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) in all airport-related services. Find out more about IAA’s supplier diversity program at http://supplierdiversity.ind.com. Learn more about job opportunities at the IAA at www.ind.com/careers.

Barbara Glass Board President

Tamika Catchings Board Member

Maria Wiley Marsha Stone Sr. Director of Audit & Sr. Director of Compliance, Procurement Commercial Enterprise

Ellen Hurley Associate General Counsel

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Kathy Davis Board Member

Rachel Stevens Sr. Director of Human Resources

Holli Harrington Sr. Director of Supplier Diversity & Diversity Officer

Partnering with diverse suppliers Through Supplier Diversity Development, Lilly aspires to work with more small and diverse-owned businesses to be more reflective of the diverse business community. Our Supplier Diversity Development program is focused on three key areas: » Commitment to seeking out and working with small and diverse suppliers » Community engagement » Meeting annual compliance goals as a federal government contractor and achieving our annual small business spend goals. To learn about Lilly’s commitment to diverse suppliers and the services we purchase, visit www.lilly.com/suppliers/ supplier-diversity.

www.lilly.com

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Marketing that means something. Matchbook is a full-service Indianapolis-based agency, providing expertise to clients working to create impactful change. mtchbk.com

We don’t just believe it. We live it. Our team works for, and cares about, our causes and each other. Experience an elevated agency. Let us tell your story. We focus on what matters for your company – and what works.

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Supporting the Vision of

and Congratulating the www.hhcorp.org

NAWBO-INDIANAPOLIS

2021 VISIONARIES

www.eskenazihealth.edu

Visit http://purchasing.hhcorp.org for current bid opportunities 17TH ANNUAL VISIONARY AWARDS LUNCHEON | 45

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Helping Women Grow Their Businesses We proudly support the NAWBO Visionary Awards Luncheon

syb.com | (317) 238-2824

BECOME A MEMBER Why NAWBO-Indianapolis? The goal of NAWBO-Indianapolis is to motivate, inspire, and inform its members and to assist them in introducing their products and services to the public and private business sector. Members realize the benefits of networking with local and national members, educational opportunities, public policy representation and local, national, and international affiliations. After joining NAWBO, your name and business information will be posted not only on the Indianapolis website, but on the national NAWBO website for people to search for various products and services. The benefits are endless! For more information, visit www.nawboindy.org.

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Investing in you. Investing in our future. Anthem, Inc. is a proud sponsor of NAWBO. We celebrate, support, and, most importantly, invest in women leaders. As we see it, partnering with women-owned and women-led businesses is a vital step toward advancement, innovation, and community impact. Let’s drive the future of healthcare together. Go to antheminc.com to learn more and partner with us.

“As a leading health company serving diverse communities across the U.S., Anthem knows how important it is to foster a workplace where everyone can lead and thrive. We support NAWBO’s mission of empowering women business owners because we understand how vital they are to strengthening our communities and growing our economy, all while empowering and paving paths for future generations of women leaders.” Gail K. Boudreaux, President and CEO

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