2022 Omaha Inspire Magazine: Celebrating Women's Leadership

HEATHER CARSON

About Inspire

The first Inspire: Celebrating Women’s Leadership Awards Ceremony was held on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022, at the CHI Health Center Omaha. Each year, the event honors outstanding women in 10 different categories. These women are recognized for their inspiring professional achievements and their dedication to making the Omaha community a great place to live and work.

This year’s recipients were selected from almost 400 nominations submitted by the public. The Inspire Advisory Board chose five finalists for each category and named one as the overall winner for the category. Read more about these special women who are making an impact — award winners, finalists and nominees are featured in this publication. Finalists’ information was submitted by their nominators and the finalists themselves.

Kristi Andersen

Becky App Beatriz Arrellanes

Valentina Arriola

Jennifer Attanasio

Laurie Baedke

Telecia (Leia) Baez

Kimberly Bailey

Demetria Ballard

Dr. Sara Bares

Lexi Bartels

Maryanne Beckman

Elizabeth Beninato

Sasha Berscheid

Nicole M. Bianchi

Kathy Bigsby Moore

Tara Birch

Leslie Bishop Hartung

Amanda Bogner

Jennifer Boomgaarden

Brandi Bothe

Lisa Bowen

Danielle Brandt

Amanda Brewer

Leiola Elizabeth Brodston

Alexis Bromley

Demeria Bruce

Lori Bruck

Katie Bruno

Maurine Bryan

Susie Buffett

Kim Bultsma

Bridget Bumgardner

Kashya Burrell

Katie Byrd

Danielle Carlson

Deb Carlson

Dr. Leah Marie Casanave

Cristina Castro-Matukewicz

Pastor Portia A. Cavitt

Chanda Chacon

Jene’ Chapman

Ashley Christensen

Jacqueline Christianson

Connie Claussen

Jennifer Colwell

Jeanne M. Coyle

Chelsea Craig

Cruz

Cuddy

2022 Inspire Award Nominees

Katie Cunningham

Tiffany Dahir

Jasmine Deane

Kinyarie Dethloff

Margarita Dickey

Cheri Dickmeyer

Jill Dudzinski

Erin Dunagan

Mary Ensz

Selene Espinoza

Leontyne Evans

Abby Fehr

Jordan Felise

Holly Fenn Emma Foland

Pam Font-Gabel

Rachel Fox

Dr. Deborah Frison

Linda Rivera (Perez) Garcia Melissa Gates

Angelina Giles

Jo Giles

Wendy Goldberg

Susan M. Goolsby

Jeana Goosmann

Stephanie Grade

Deb Grafentin

Melissa Graves

LaJoy Green

Angela Greene

Candace Gregory

Jeraldine Angie Gustin

Amanda Harrington

Meg Harris

Kelsey Haswell

Marisa Hattab

Naomi Hattaway

Dr. Mary Hawkins

Sheena Helgenberger

Trishonna Helm

Racquel Henderson

Dr. Laura Hickman

Anne Hindery

Breann Hines

Jane Hokanson Hawks

Mary Anne Hoover

Dr. Anne Hubbard

Sheila Hubbard

Kristin Hubby

Huerter

Hughes Jackson

Frances Hunter Sarah-Wonder Husman

Maxcine Jackson Molly Jackson

Catherine C. Jesus

Jessica Johnsen

Amy Johnson

Julie Johnson Rachael Johnson Ronicka Johnson

Candias Jones

Abby Jordan Julie Kalkowski Shani Katzman Nicole Kaufman Taylor Kendall Judy Kiagiri Alexis Kline-Stearns Jolene Knutzen Sara Kohen

Melissa Kopplin

Ashley Kuhn Jacqelle Lane Shannon Lang Julia Laursen Ann Lawless

Anne Lieben

Catherine Lippert Dana Livingston Itzel Lopez

Kristin Lowrey

Josefina (Josie) Loza Katherine MacHolmes Dr. Cris Macke Tracy Madden-McMahon Balkissa Mahamane Kelly Mann

Cheri Mastny Brandi Maxwell Haile McAnally Victoria McHugh

Alajia McKizia

Lannie McNichols

Dr. Kristine McVea Tamika Mease

Renee Mellican Aimee Melton Dr. Beth Merkel Monica Miller Sandra Miller

Lillian Miranda

Lucy Miranda-Gonzalez

Toody Moffatt Hanah Molloy Tricia Montague Paulette Monthei

Wendy Moore

Beth Morrissette Megan Moslander

Dr. Margaret J. Munnelly Deb Murray

Imani Murray Amy Nakai Jillian Negri Kimberly Norman-Collins Jill Orton

Nicole Osborn

Devin Owens Ariel Panowicz Jenifer Parker Dr. Emily Patel Yesenia Peck TaRae Peoples Heather Phipps Zedeka Poindexter Elizabeth Pooley

Maria Guadalupe Ramirez Cortes Lulu Rangel Jennifer Reyna Megan Rhodes Robin Richards Krystal Rider Tricia Riggins Kelly Rocha

Elizabeth (Liz) Rodriguez Lisa Rybar Pastor Chelsea Salifou Bobbie Salow Neema N. Samira

Maria Guadalupe Sanchez Salazar Kim Saum Mills Ann Sayles

Laurie Schlender

Susan Elizabeth Schnase Melissa Schroeder Denisha Seals

Dianne Seeman Lozier Dr. Julie Sebastian Cortney Sells Kate Shanmugam Shar Shelton

Eliana (Ellie) Siebe-Walles Sarah Singletary Walker Sarah Sjolie Equasha Smith Alaina Smith Lindsey Snipes Karine Sokpoh Esweidy Soto Juliane Soukup Sara Spanjer Lindsey Spehn Amanda Spencer Tara Sprakel Joan Squires Brea Stenger LaVon Stennis Williams Angee Stevens Ashley Stevens Dr. Maryanne Stevens Sharon Stoolman Betty Straub Misty Straughn Kimberly Talamantes Tammi Cisler Carmen Tapio Maranda Taylor Gina Tomes Jen Tran Sheila Turbes Sarah Videgla Dr. Renuga Vivekanandan Hannah Vlach

Dr. Gail Walling Yanney Salena Watson Danita Webb Joni Wheeler Kim Whittaker Elle Willis Tashiara Wilson Suzanne Wing Dougherty Suzane Winkler

Cali Wisdom Tricia Wise SuAnn Witt Kelci Wood Erica Worlledge-Rodencal Lecia E. Wright Rebecca Wright Sierra Yaksich

Josie Abboud

Ruth Hultgren-Henneman

2022 Inspire Woman of the Year Woman of the Year Finalists

Dr. Anne Hubbard is a retired physician — a pediatric ra diologist — who did clinical care and research for 33 years. She was a mentor to numerous women in their post graduate medical careers. She currently runs the Claire M. Hubbard Foundation that focuses on the environment, STEM education and Indigenous communities. The foundation works to connect as many of the funded organizations as possible to improve outcomes. She serves on the board of the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, the University of Nebraska Foundation and the Kiewit Luminarium. She also serves on advisory committees to the UNMC College of Public Health, the State Museum at UNL and the Picotte Hospital in Walthill, Nebraska. Dr. Hubbard has mentored many Native American children, three of whom are now in college.

Dr. Maryanne Stevens, RSM, took the helm as president of College of Saint Mary in Omaha on June 1, 1996. College of Saint Mary is the region’s only college for women. Dedicated to creating an environment to call forth potential and foster leadership, College of Saint Mary has developed several innovative programs under the leadership of Dr. Stevens, specifically, a residence hall allowing single mothers of college age to live with their children on campus; Marie Curie scholarships for low-income women majoring in science or math; the Latina and African-American Summer Academies for ninth and 10th grade high school girls and the development of a unique online doc toral program for educators. Dr. Stevens’ passion for the education and advance ment of women cannot be more evidenced than by her leadership of numerous capital campaign and scholarship initiatives that have allowed College of Saint Mary to take its rightful place in the regional landscape of higher education.

Affordability and transparency have always been important to Dr. Stevens. In 2013, all student fees were rolled into the tuition so students knew what they would pay. And in the fall of 2017, College of Saint Mary slashed undergraduate tuition by 33%, or approximately $10,000. The move was in accordance with the institution’s mission of providing access and affordabil

ity to women who seek higher education.

As a result, students borrow less and follow more direct — and cost-effective — paths to their careers. Since the tuition reset, students’ average annual loan borrowings decreased 43% from $11,224 to $6,357.

Dr. Stevens serves on several community and national boards, including the Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, Nebraska Educational Finance Authority, Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation, the Tri-Faith Initiative and the Associa tion of Catholic Colleges and Universities.

The Women’s Fund of Greater Omaha, the Aksarben Foundation, the League of Women Voters, Girls Inc., Essential Preg nancy Services, Women’s Center for Ad vancement, Mercy High School, Roncalli High School, the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) all have honored Dr. Stevens for her leader ship and dedication to the education of women.

Dr. Stevens joined the Sisters of Mercy in 1966 after graduating from Mercy High School. She has a bachelor’s degree in math and sociology from Misericordia University in Dallas, Pennsylvania, a master’s degree in theology from St. Louis University, and a Ph.D. in religion and education from Boston College.

For the past 30 years, Julie Kalkowski has consistently been able to create positive changes in Omaha through an inclusive, collaborative approach that connects people to the financial mainstream. It is an approach that has benefited the community, employers and especially, fami lies who are struggling financially. Graduates from the Financial Hope Collaborative at Creighton University are increasing their incomes, paying off debt and experiencing better health due to reduced financial stress. She lives in Omaha with her husband, Paul Farrand, and they have two wonderful daughters.

Lulu Rangel is the clinical director at Completely KIDS where she has grown her social work career over the last 10 years Her work in the therapy field started in 2018 after graduating and transitioning to a clinician role. She has been a licensed independent clinical social work since 2021. Her passion in the mental health field stems from the lack of cultural representation and availability there is in the com munity. She is proud to offer free therapy services through the mental health program to kids and families in our community through the wrap around services Completely KIDS offers. She is a proud daughter of Sergio and Estela, wife to Teddy, and, most importantly, mother to Ezra

As founder and CEO of for-profit and nonprofit enterprises, Carmen Tapio focuses on growing economic impact and helping people create and achieve the vision for their lives. Her mission as a servant leader is to create career pathways, economic independence, education, inspiration, access and community revitalization. She and her businesses have received accolades for growth, leadership, culture, ethics, and excellence. She serves on a variety of nonprofit and public company boards. She and her husband, Bob, live with their two dogs, Bella, and Lola, and enjoy traveling and gardening together.

Dr. Anne Hubbard CEO/President, Claire M. Hubbard Foundation

Carmen Tapio Owner/CEO, North End Teleservices

Lulu Rangel Clinical Director, Completely Kids

Julie Kalkowski Executive Director, Financial Hope Collaborative at Creighton University

REBECCA S. GRATZ

WINNER Dr. Maryanne Stevens President, College of Saint Mary

Sponsored by:

Excellence in Business (Large)

Sponsored by:

Finalists

Danielle Carlson • Boyd Jones, Marketing Manager

Danielle Carlson leads the marketing department at Boyd Jones, where she supports a team that strives to show the world that quality construction outcomes are within reach of all clients. She’s passionate about investing her time to offer exceptional leadership and direction to her teammates and incomparable service to Boyd Jones’ clients. Beyond her dedication to her role, Danielle is the team member who always steps up to go above and beyond — whether it’s leading a zero-waste initiative or planning youth engagement activities. Danielle is also an avid supporter of FurEver Home animal rescue, the Omaha Public Library, and the Oxford comma.

Cristina Castro-Matukewicz

Vice President Community Relations, Wells Fargo

As founder and CEO of for-profit and nonprofit enter prises, Carmen Tapio focuses on growing economic impact and helping people create and achieve the vision for their lives. Her mission as a servant leader is to create career pathways, economic independence, education, inspiration, access and community revitalization. She and her businesses have received accolades for growth, leadership, culture, ethics, and excellence. She serves on a variety of nonprofit and public company boards. She and her hus band, Bob, live with their two dogs, Bella, and Lola, and enjoy traveling and gardening together.

Cristina Castro-Matukewicz is a first-gen eration college graduate and U.S. citizen. She received a bachelors in psychology and a MBA degree Cristina’s career started in the nonprofit sector in her home country of Colombia. After moving to the U.S., she continued developing as a leader through her work as a regional manager at the Girl Scouts. Currently, Cristina is a regional banking executive at Wells Fargo, overseeing philanthropic giving, leadership and community engagement and supporting diversity, equity and inclusion initia tives. Cristina is committed to her family, career and service to others through her extensive volunteer work and philanthropic mindset Cristina loves to travel and lives in Omaha with her hus band, Rod, and their daughters, Jordan and Marissa.

Tricia Montague • Deloitte — ESG Services Managing Director

Tricia Montague is a leader in Deloitte’s US ESG (environmental, social and governance) practice which is focused on converting community promises to tangible practices for our world Tangible examples of her leadership include: Presenting solutions to multiple cli ent boards and executive teams, hosting events on ESG in the metro as well as nationally for our clients, spearheading initiatives for the Girl Scouts and Special Olympics Tricia has mentored countless female leaders in the community. She was selected for Deloitte’s prolific Sense of Partnership Award and was selected as Deloitte’s top recipient nationally out of more than 400 nominees.

Sara Spanjer

Sara Spanjer has been a registered nurse in the healthcare and healthcare staffing industries for over 15 years. Her career path led her from patient care to healthcare staff ing. There, she went from recruiting to sales management; senior leadership over operations, clinical and compliance; and eventually executive leadership Sara was a recipient of SIA’s 40 Under 40 Award in 2021 for her contributions to the healthcare staffing industry. Sara is grateful for spending nine-and-a-half incredible years at Fusion Medical Staffing before deciding to embark on a new journey with GetMed Staffing in Omaha She enjoys the outdoors and traveling with her husband and three young daughters.

WINNER Carmen Tapio North End Teleservices Owner/CEO

Empowered women empower women.

Excellence in Business (Small/Medium) Finalists

by:

WINNER Tricia Riggins RG & Associates — Managing Partner

Tricia Riggins is the founding and managing member of RG & Associates, a certified public accounting firm based in Omaha. RG has flourished into a successful, mid-size firm providing businesses and their families with the highest level of quality services and care. Tricia is passionate and devoted to everyone around her, most importantly, her family and friends, clients, and employees. Her philosophy is that good things happen to those who take care of each other and employs this thinking in managing her business and daily living. Tricia graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha summa cum laude and appreciates giving back to the community across various charitable organizations in and around the Omaha metro. Her noblest achievements are being a mother, grandmother, animal lover, business consultant and continued leader of RG.

Nicole M. Bianchi

• Co-founder, Bravium HD

Nicole Bianchi is an international key note speaker, author, and award-winning entrepreneur. A founding partner at Bravium, Nicole works with executives, lead ers, and teams to craft their own small brave moves around the missed conver sations, gaining alignment or being more strategic, skills + action everyone needs to effectively lead. She proudly leads a butterfly movement in the city of Papil lion by installing social butterfly murals inspiring others to be the change they want to see. Her favorite time is spent with her husband Dave, and their children, Moe, Joe, and Nic.

Katie Bruno • Morey & Quinn Wealth Partners, Financial Advisor

Katie Bruno is a financial planner, small business owner, and community activist Katie is a certified financial planner profes sional and divorce financial analyst She holds several securities licenses and her Nebraska life and health insurance certificate. In 2021, Katie was selected as a recipient of the Midlands Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Award, honoring local entrepreneurs, executives and professionals. She is involved in a number of professional and community organizations including the Omaha Public Library Foundation, the Financial Planning Association of Nebraska, the Women’s Center for Advancement, and 100 Women Who Care Omaha. She is currently teaching retirement planning as an adjunct professor in the Heider College of Business.

Kelly Mann

Co-Founder & CEO, Auditminer

Kelly Mann is the CEO and cofounder of AuditMiner, a software company dedicated to streamlining and automating employee benefit plan audits She is involved in the startup ecosystem in Omaha: speaking to local universities, attending events, and promoting the startup community Kelly is also the president of a local CPA firm and an emerging thought leader in the accounting industry. She is a breast can cer survivor and a mom of three young children.

Kim Whittaker • FNTS, President Kim Whittaker is president of FNTS, a nationally recognized advisor in managed IT services. She has served FNTS since 1996 and was named president in 2017. She is a passionate leader with extensive knowledge in identifying trends, strategic solutions and new technologies that meet technical needs facing organizations today. As the company’s first female president, she volunteers with organizations that inspire young women to consider tech careers. Kim is a member of Microsoft’s Women in Cloud Advisory Group, the AIM Institute’s Board of Directors and the Nebraska Technology Collaborative. In 2020, Kim was named Tech Leader of the Year by AIM.

Excellence in Education Finalists

WINNER

Abby Fehr

Abby Fehr is the principal at Rose Hill Elementary. In her years in education, she has served children and families in various settings, including public schools and as a family teacher at Boys Town. Abby partners with staff, students and families to create a culture of joy, enthusiasm and hope Through a hands-on leadership style, she immerses herself in all the moving pieces of a day in the life of an elementary school. Abby is a very humble and selfless leader. She is the first to respond to a crisis or behavior problem with students. Her staff love and respect her because Abby is willing to go the extra mile, develop staff, support and care for her staff and to do everything in her power to make Rose Hill a great learning environment for all students. Abby has also worked hard to engage the Benson community by partnering with local artists to beautify her school and a mural was commissioned and finished this year on the playground wall. She also partnered with a local nonprofit to create an expanded community/school garden. Abby and her husband, Rob, are parents to Caleb and Ellie

Demetria Ballard founded a nonprofit in 2014 called the Chrysalides Project that provided pro gramming for over 150 girls in six years. The program delivers a curriculum which covers topics such as STD awareness, self esteem and confidence, relationships, and taking care of the body She was one of three TJ Maxx You Project’s Hero Women. She has also authored the Demi Nicole book series. She offers one-on-one coaching through the D. Nicole Girls Academy nonprofit organization.

Dr. Mary Hawkins

President, Bellevue University

Dr Mary Hawkins joined Bellevue University in 1995 as vice president for enrollment and outreach and was named the university’s fourth president in 2009. Since her arrival, Bellevue University has changed dramatically in enrollment, geographic reach, scope of programs and services, and in the strong national, international, corporate, and community partnerships it is developing. During her tenure, Bellevue University has experienced record enroll ment growth and has been consistently recognized as one of the nation’s best institutions for working adults and military person nel Dr Hawkins is credited with establishing Bellevue University’s “Real Learning for Real Life” applied learning approach that helps undergraduate, graduate and doctoral-level students master indemand professional skills and knowledge

Dr. Beth Merkel

Director of the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, College of St. Mary

Dr. Beth Merkel is a leadership professor who believes that love and compassion play as much of a role in leadership as do spreadsheets and process analyses. Dr. Merkel spent many years as a successful entrepreneur and training and development consultant before completely switching careers for new adventures in the world of higher education. She earned her doctorate in leadership studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln She is the director of the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership program at the College of Saint Mary.

Dr. Maryanne Stevens

President, College St. Mary

Dr. Maryanne Stevens, RSM, took the helm as president of College of Saint Mary in Omaha on June 1, 1996 College of Saint Mary is the region’s only college for women. Dr. Stevens serves on several community and national boards, including the Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, Nebraska Educational Finance Authority, Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation, the TriFaith Initiative and the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities.

Demetria Ballard • Omaha Public Schools — Counselor, McMillan Middle School

Rose Hill Elementary, Principal

by:

Lulu

PRIMROSE SCHOOLOFLAVISTA 8202 S. 97TH

LA VISTA, NE68128 (402)517-1153

PrimroseSchools.com/Schools/La-Vista

PRIMROSE SCHOOLOF LEGACY 17440 WRIGHTSTREET OMAHA, NE 68130 (402) 334-3337

PrimroseSchools.com/Schools/Legacy

PRIMROSE SCHOOL AT WEST MAPLE 16015 EVANS STREET OMAHA, NE 68116 (531)999-1229

PrimroseSchools.com/Schools/West-Maple

Excellence in Public Service Finalists

Sponsored by:

Ann Lawless

Chief Program Officer, Completely KIDS

Robin Richards • Vice President

Board of Education, Ralston Public Schools

WINNER

Gina Tomes

Bethlehem House, Family Life Director

Gina Tomes serves as the program director at Bethlehem House and has served in every capacity there since its inception in 2005. As a dedicated human services professional, Gina spearheads programming and housing for women who are pregnant, homeless, experiencing crisis and choose life. Bethlehem House serves as a national flagship program for maternity homes in our nation. Gina serves on a national advisory board helping create causal evidence for maternity homes and empowering other cities to launch similar styles of housing and programming for families in need. Gina advocates for her clients tirelessly and lovingly, courageously conquering their goals and dreams.

Ann Lawless is the chief program officer at Completely KIDS, where she has worked for 20 years. Ann loves her job because she believes so deeply in the work that Completely KIDS does for children and their fami lies. Her creativity and innovative programming has influenced the lives of thousands of children and families across the organization over the last 20 years. Ann is married to Tony Almeida and they have two amazing boys, Eddie and Stevie.

Robin Richards received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in education. She then went on to become certified in diversity, equity, and inclusion through Cornell University and will finish a master’s degree in public policy from Colorado State University in December. Robin has been employed by Omaha Performing Arts, the Nebraska Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts. She serves as the vice president of the Ralston Schools Board of Education and is running for the Nebraska Legislature in District 12. She and her husband, Shane, have been married for 18 years and have two sons, Jack and Keegan

Dreamweaver Foundation, Executive Director

Cheri Mastny is the executive director of Dreamweaver Foundation and her passion for people, especially elder adults, is evident. After beginning an adventure in healthcare, Cheri quickly found her way into the post-acute care/skilled nursing setting, spending 10 years as a director of sales and marketing. When the opportunity came knocking for Cheri to work with seniors, she could not turn it down. She and her husband Matt reside in Fremont, Nebraska with their three children, Charli, Graeme and Briggs, and her two Golden Retrievers, Dixi and Dash. Cheri volunteers at Archbishop Bergan Catholic School as a youth coach and is active in her parish, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Hannah Vlach

Executive Director, Restoring Dignity

Hannah Vlach started Restoring Dignity with the desire to find a way to reduce unnecessary suffering. Restoring Dignity brings different communities together, namely refugee and non-refugee commu nities. Her aim as the leader of Restoring Dignity is to create sustainable, community led initiatives that eliminate acclimation barriers. Over the past four years, she and the team at Restoring Dignity team (75% of whom are former refugees) have directly impacted the lives of over 17,000 refugees in the Omaha area. Her hobbies in clude writing songs on the guitar and piano, taking care of her houseplants, running and bike riding with her two kids

Cheri Mastny

Restoring courage. Facilitating healing. Empowering families.

For 25 years, Project Harmony has been working to end child abuse and neglect. But we can’tdothis alone. Be apart of our vision of asafe and promising futurefor all children.

Find Opportunities to Get Involved

Help us end thecycles of abusebysupporting the wellbeing of children and families throughout our area. ProjectHarmony.com

Community Volunteer

Sponsored by:

WINNER

Dr. Anne Hubbard CEO/President, Claire M. Hubbard Foundation

Dr. Anne Hubbard is a retired physician — a pediatric radiologist — who did clinical care and research for 33 years. She was a mentor to numerous women in their post graduate medical careers. She currently runs the Claire M. Hubbard Foundation that focuses on the environment, STEM education and Indigenous communities. The foundation works to connect as many of the funded organizations as pos sible to improve outcomes. She serves on the board of the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, the University of Nebraska Foundation and the Kiewit Luminarium. She also serves on advisory committees to the UNMC College of Public Health, the State Museum at UNL and the Picotte Hospital in Walthill, Nebraska. Dr Hubbard has mentored many Native American children, three of whom are now in college

Finalists

Rev. Portia A. Cavitt

Pastor, Clair Memorial United Methodist Church

Rev. Portia Cavitt, pastor of Clair Memo rial United Methodist Church. Pastor Cavitt has the heart of a community servant. She faithfully volunteers with seven non-profit boards and serves as president of the North Omaha Area Health (NOAH Free Clinic), the Great Plains Black History Museum and is the first female president of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance (IMA). She is often seen volunteering in four OPS schools (Lothrop, Wakonda, Mount View and Nathan Hale). Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, Pastor Cavitt was addressing food insecurity with a 39-plot garden, Clair Cares Food Pantry and distributing vegetable boxes and Hy-Vee bakery items weekly She was even instrumental in securing locations in North Omaha to hold vaccine clinics.

Holly Fenn • Senior Sales Trainer, BTC Committee Member, Fusion Medical Holly Fenn is a senior sales trainer at Fusion Medical Staffing, but she is more widely known at Fusion for her community outreach efforts She is one of the primary drivers for the company’s Be the Change (BTC) committee, a group committed to directing Fusion resources to positively impact the community Holly is passionate about the BTC committee’s efforts and takes special pride in recognizing Fusion’s veterans each Veteran’s Day. She works tirelessly to fulfill Fusion’s core purpose — to ensure everyone she touches has a better life.

Shannon Lang • Junior League of Omaha, Community Impact Council Director

Shannon Lang started her volunteer career with the Junior League of Omaha to socialize, but she quickly fell in love with volunteering and non-profits She founded Catalyst Consulting to help nonprofits bridge gaps in their organizations. She developed Kitchen Connections for the Junior League of Omaha, a program where youth aging out of the foster care system are paired with a League mentor and they cook together, learning basic kitchen skills, nutrition, meal planning, food safety, and more. She is also the founder of the No More Empty Pots Guild and continues to serve as president and as a board of directors member. She serves on the Fontenelle Forest Guild Board, and is a liaison between individuals or corporations looking for volunteer opportunities and the nonprofits in need of volunteers. She was born and raised in Omaha and continues to call it home with her husband Andy, and their twins, Beck and Ruby.

Karine Sokpoh • Managing Attorney, 402Legal

Karine Sokpoh is the managing attorney for Sokpoh Law Group, LLC, dba, 402Legal. The firm represents individuals, busi nesses in various immigration, international law, trademark and corporate matters. Karine is the founder and president of the Midlands African Chamber, Inc., the only Black chamber of commerce in Nebraska. In that capacity, Karine helps empower, connect and champion diverse businesses. She has received many honors, including the Reisman Award, Global Leadership Africa Summit Award, University of Nebraska at Omaha CPACS Alumni Award for Excellence in Public Service and Visionary Award from the Nebraska Lawyers Foundation. She was also named one of the 2019 Midlands Business Journal 40 under 40 award recipients. She has also been recognized by the Nebraska State Bar Association as an Outstanding Young Lawyer. Married to Dominique Kouassi, Karine’s proudest accomplishments are her two daughters, Dominika and Cyriana.

CongratulationsToAll TheAward Nominees

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UnitedWayoftheMidlandsishonoredtosponsortheCommunityVolunteerAwardand celebratewomenwhoaretrueleadersintheirfield.Wearegratefultoallofthenominees forsharingtheirtime,talentsandsupporttomakeadifferenceinourcommunity.

Finalists

Laurie Baedke • Creighton University, Director of Healthcare Leadership Program

Lulu Rangel • LICSW, LIMHP, Clinical Director, Completely Kids

WINNER WINNER Dr. Kristine McVea

Sponsored by:

OneWorld Community Health Center, Chief Medical Officer and physician

Dr. Kristine McVea, chief medical officer at OneWorld, is driven by her passion for the organization’s mission to serve the underprivileged, ra cial and ethnic minorities. Her work has made OneWorld’s patient outcomes stand among the best in the nation. She is board certified in internal medicine and pediatrics and has practiced at OneWorld for 25 years. Dr McVea belongs to several professional organizations, holds positions at University of Nebraska Medical Center and is an active volunteer with the local Mayan community.

Laurie Baedke, MHA, FACHE, FACMPE is a faculty member, program director of the ex ecutive MBA in healthcare management, and assistant dean of physician leadership education at Creighton University. Professionally, she has served on four national committees for ACHE, and just completed her second, six-year appointment to the ACHE of Nebraska and Western Iowa Chapter board of directors. She has served a variety of civic and community orga nizations, including a former appointments to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation board of directors and the Leadership Omaha Cur riculum committee, and a current appointment on the Omaha Bridges Out of Poverty board of directors executive committee.

Dr. Sara Bares • UNMC, Infectious Disease Physician, Associate Professor of Medicine

Dr Sara Hurtado Bares is an associate professor of medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. An accomplished clinician, educator, and researcher, she cares for patients with HIV and other infections, teaches students in all levels of their medical training, and conducts clinical research. In the last few years, Dr. Bares has coordinated local and national responses to multiple epidemics including HIV, COVID-19, and, most recently, monkeypox. Dr Bares has received numerous awards for her teaching activities and was most recently honored with the national HIV Medical Associa tion Research Award.

Lulu Rangel is the clinical director at Completely KIDS where she has grown her social work career over the last 10 years. Her work in the therapy field started in 2018 after graduating and transitioning to a clinician role She has been a licensed independent clinical social worker since 2021. Her passion in the mental health field stems from the lack of cultural representation and availability there is in the community. She is proud to offer free therapy services through the mental health program to kids and families in our community through the wrap around services

Completely KIDS offers. She is a proud daughter of Sergio and Estela, wife to Teddy, and, most importantly, mother to Ezra.

Dr. Renuga Vivekanandan

Creighton University School of Medicine, Assistant Dean for Strategy and Accreditation and Chief, Infectious Diseases

Dr Renuga Vivekanandan is the division chief of the Infectious Disease Department at Creighton University and CHI Health. She also serves as an associate professor of Internal Medicine in the Division of Infectious Disease She has served as the director of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program and Hospital Epidemiology for more than eight years at CHI Health-Creighton, where she oversees 14 hospitals within the CHI Health system. Her expertise has been recognized locally by Creighton University and nationally, as she was appointed to the national Big East COVID-19 Task Force.

‘Shine with confidence’

BY MIKE WATKINS SPECIAL FOR ARÊTE AESTHETIC REJUVENATION

Heather Carson always wanted to create an atmosphere where women would feel comfortable, listened to and well-informed.

This desire motivated her to open Arête Aesthetic Rejuvenation in 2017.

Having just celebrated her fifth anniversary, she provides a service that helps people attain their “highest human potential” — the Greek meaning for Arête — and she said she owes her success to her loyal patients.

“As we age, we are continually changing,” she said. “Lifestyle medicine treatments allow patients to shine with confidence as the years pass by. Self-care and self-love are important choices. Feeling good in your skin fosters confidence and a sense of well-being.”

Years as a nurse allowed Carson to work in many medical specialties. She’s been in the aesthetics field for the past 10 years, but before that, she worked in oncology, cardiology, dermatology and plastic surgery.

She said lifestyle medicine encompasses treatments like those administered at Arête Aesthetic Rejuvenation focus on preventative healthcare and self-care.

“At Arête, our focus is on skin rejuvenation treatments, including injectables, collagen induction therapy, laser and chemical treatments for the face and body,” said Carson, who has degrees in biology as well as nursing (MSB, BSN and RN).

“I enjoy researching and going to conferences to further my understanding and bring in the newest, most effective treatments.”

As an example, Arête recently purchased the Alma Opus after attending the Business of Beauty conference in Scottsdale,

Arizona. The device is the newest on the market for skin repair and restructuring of skin elasticity.

Among her injectable treatments are neuromodulators like Botox or Xiomin, the first and only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved nonsurgical treatment that contours and improves the appearance of a double chin

Located in Regency, visits with Heather are by appointment only. Scheduling is done online (www.aretemedspa.com) or by calling 402-637-4202. Inquiries and appointments can also be made via Facebook and Instagram.

“It’s important to me that patients feel like they receive quality treatment time in a relaxed environment,” said Carson,

who lives with her significant other, James, and their golden retriever, Mila. She has two adult children — Chase, who served in the Navy, and Hadleigh, a senior at the University of Arizona. “No one wants to feel rushed through an appointment

“As a first-time female business owner, I have learned so much over the years A large part of that wisdom and knowledge has been from influential female mentors Those women have helped shape who I am, and I am eternally thankful.”

Laura, who has been coming to Arête for the past 5 years, learned about Heather and the business through mutual friends.

She said she keeps coming back for services — mostly Botox treatments — largely because of the relationship she’s fostered with Heather.

“I had never been to an aesthetic spa before, so I was curious just to see what it was all about,” Laura said. “Heather’s great. Amazing. She’s very caring, listens; she is a partner in helping me get the results I want to see in my skin care. I trust her. She’s very truthful and isn’t always trying to sell me something.”

Laura said she keeps coming back because she likes what she sees and how she feels after each visit.

“If you’re interested or curious, I suggest you go and meet with Heather for a consultation,” she said. “She’s an excellent partner in listening to what your concerns are and finding treatments to make you feel the best about yourself.”

Lifestyle med spa Arête helps patients feel, look their best

MATTHEW PFLUG

Heather Carson, who holds degrees in biology and nursing, opened Arête Aesthetic Rejuvenation in 2017.

Self-care and self-love are important choices. Feeling good in your skin fosters confidence and a sense of well-being.

Heather Carson, owner Arête Aesthetic Rejuvenation

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Inspire Scholarship

Sponsored by:

WINNER

Valentina Arriola

Little Sister in the BBBSM program

Valentina is the second youngest out of five siblings and a senior at Mercy High School. She is a second-generation im migrant and does everything to the best of her abilities. She works twice as hard as a way to represent her family and the people of Mexico. She is also the first in her family to get into college At school, she participates in eight clubs. In the span of two months, she had jumped more than 30 places in class rank. Her interests revolve around protecting human rights for everyone, showing important matters through art, and learning about new religions and cultures. She loves to show her support for the things she believes in and helps those in need, which she does through one of her clubs, Operation Others, which consists of helping those in need such as homeless and large families in need.

Finalists

Vanessa Cruz Student, College of St. Mary

Vanessa Cruz is a junior psychology major and theol ogy minor at College of Saint Mary in Omaha. Cruz, who is fluent in English and Spanish, is seeking her degree to help all ages “work through their trauma in a language they understand” as a therapist. Cruz has volunteered as part of outreach programs at St. Paul’s Methodist Church in south Omaha, helping Spanish-speaking adults learn how to use computers and help care for children. She worked at a low-income eye clinic and volunteered as an interpreter for patients who were referred to specialists. She also offers free childcare to mothers in an online mothers’ support group.

Eliana (Ellie) Siebe-Walles

Scouts BSA Troop 1885, Eagle Scout Born and raised in Omaha, Eliana Siebe-Walles is cur rently an undergraduate Regents Scholarship student at the University of NebraskaLincoln. There, they are a part of the Honors Program, a major in German and history, and minor in archeology. In 2020, they achieved the Eagle Scout rank in Scouts BSA, the second female to do so in Nebraska. In their free time, Eliana participates regularly on the UNL’s speech team, as well as their church youth group Motive, and the German Club.

Cali Wisdom • Student, Millard North High School

Cali Wisdom is a fearless and confident youth leader involved in numerous activi ties She is currently a junior at Millard North High School where she participates in Student Council, Spanish Honor Society and Varsity Golf. Outside of the school, Cali has worked to increase awareness for people with disabilities by raising and donating to Special Olympics of Nebraska.

Rebecca Wright

Scouts BSA Troop 1885, Eagle Scout Rebecca Wright graduated from Millard North High School in 2020 and is now a junior at the Univer sity of Wisconsin-Madison. She is majoring in genetics and genomics, and French with a certificate in data science while also working in an epigenetics lab on campus. After graduating, Re becca hopes to return to Omaha to enroll in a Ph.D program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center Rebecca was a founding mem ber of one of the first Scouts BSA troops for girls in 2019 and is a member of the national inaugural class of female Eagle Scouts. She has worked at summer camp for five years and is an assistant scoutmaster with her troop.

Visionary Finalists

WINNER

Ashley Kuhn President, Blair Freeman Group

Ashley Kuhn has helped to start one of the now largest real estate develop ment companies in Omaha. During her time at White Lotus Group, she oversaw over $700 million in real estate development, grew the staff from 1 to over 450 and led the acquisition of the majority ownership in a construction company. She cofounded a 100% woman-owned/100% Black-owned construction and owners representation company, Blair Freeman. After becoming the only Black woman Class A contractor in the state of Nebraska, she has been leading the initiative known as NEXT Step Fund with the help of local philanthropy, around sup plier diversity and the engagement of MBE and WBE contractors and suppliers on construction jobs throughout Omaha. Ashley believes in giving back through service. She currently serves on the board of directors for Greater Omaha Chamber (executive committee), Lozier Foundation, CREW Metro Omaha (past president), Union for Contemporary Arts and Omaha Girls Inc (president-elect). She is a Girls Inc. mentor and voting member of I Be Black Girl (IBBG). She is married to Kristopher Kuhn and has three beautiful children, Jayla, Alivia and Kristopher II.

Wendy Goldberg is a founding board member and the Executive Director of Tri-Faith Ini tiative. For more than 15 years she has worked with clergy, lay leaders, social sector and non profit organizations, community leaders, and local educators to make interfaith cooperation a social norm Wendy leads from her value of courageous living. She is deeply passionate about how we can understand ourselves and our neighbors better, adapting to meet the needs of our community. Wendy is chair of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce’s Commitment to Opportunity, Diversity, and Equity (CODE) Advisory Council, on the advisory board of The Journal of Interreligious Studies, a LeadDiversity and Racial Equity Institute’s Racial Equity Workshop alum, and a 50 Over 50 honoree.

Julie Kalkowski • Executive Director, Financial Hope Collaborative at Creighton University

For the past 30 years, Julie Kalkowski has consistently been able to create positive changes in Omaha through an inclusive, collab orative approach that connects people to the financial mainstream. It is an approach that has benefited the community, employers and especially, families who are struggling financially Graduates from the Financial Hope Collaborative at Creighton University are increasing their incomes, paying off debt and experiencing better health due to reduced financial stress. She lives in Omaha with her husband, Paul Farrand, and they have two wonderful daughters.

Beth Morrissette

Parlay Consulting Firm, Founder & CEO Beth Morrissette started Parlay Consulting Firm to strengthen Omaha’s diverse organizations’ ability to serve our community rather than being an employee or volunteer of only one She believes that nonprofits, government entities, and for profit companies should have best-inclass leadership, talent, and guidance. Beth leverages her and her team’s expertise into experiences to develop healthy, high-functioning organizations from the boardroom to the frontlines. She parlays her work experiences into her service on the board of education for Westside Community Schools

Joni Wheeler

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska, Vice President of Talent and Enterprise Solutions

Joni Wheeler is executive vice president of talent and enterprise solutions at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) She is passionate about people leadership and transformation and is able to follow her passions in her role at BCBSNE and as the founder of Ignite Nebraska Ignite Ne braska is a paid apprenticeship program lighting the way to life-changing careers. Joni is dedicated to creating a more equitable world where future generations, includ ing her own children, Destiny and Isaiah, and grandchild, Isaiah Jr., can thrive, free of the challenges of today

Lifeisajourney andIbelieve thatnothinginlifeiswasted People come into your life and you show up in other people’slives when theyneedyou themost and when you need them the most. If you’repaying attention,thenyou understand that.

Ihavealwayshad women leading me and thathas madea differenceinmylife.I think the most important thing we can do whenwementor women is give them avoice.

Wendy Goldberg • Tri-Faith Initiative, Executive Director & Co-Founder

Sponsored by:

~Dr. MaryanneStevens ~

~CarmenTapio~

Sponsored by:

Finalists

Brea Stenger • Lutz Accounting Intern

Haile McAnally • MSForward

WINNER Alajia McKizia

Freelance Artist and Curator

Alajia McKizia is a multi-disciplinary artist and curator. She is a 2022 Populus Fund grantee and was a 2020 Inside/ Out fellow at the Union for Contemporary Art. She is the curator of Juneteenth Joy Fest, a Black Arts & Cultural Festival in North Omaha, and Sunday Soul, a five-part performance series honoring women artists. She has created many interactive community art projects throughout Omaha, as well as participated in group exhibits and performances at The Bemis for Contemporary Art, Kaneko, TugBoat Gallery, Amplify Arts and more. Alajia focuses on building community through free and healing focused programming op portunities, hoping to highlight Omaha’s culture in the way it deserves.

Brea Stenger is a full-time accounting major with a minor in management at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln She is a Huskers Traditions Scholarship recipient and has been consistently named to the UNL Dean’s List. She has been a part of several philanthropy events to support organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association, the ALS foundation, Madonna Rehabilitation Center and more. She also participates in the Younker’s Teen Ambassador program. She plans to pursue her master’s in accounting and a career as a CPA.

Emma Foland • Leo Club

Emma Foland is a senior at Bennington High School. She is very active in her high school and the Bennington community. She’s president of the BHS Leo Club (a service or ganization that gives back to local residents), participates on the varsity golf team, the unified bowling team, the quiz bowl team, is a National Honor Society member, a member of the French Club and French National Honor Society, multicultural club member, circle of badgers member, and on the athletic and principals advisory councils. She enjoys volunteering her time at the Ben nington Public Library and as a Nebraska representative for the Be Strong Campaign which promotes kindness, resilience and inclusion among teens. She maintains over a 4.0 GPA while giving more than 250 volunteer hours back to her community. After her May 2023 graduation, she hopes to play golf in college while studying to become a high school guidance counselor.

Haile McAnally is a young leader who has been involved with the nonprofit MSFoward since 2001. She owns a local gym where she regularly works with people with MS and other health challenges. She volunteers to help those with neurological diseases achieve physical goals while also promot ing a sense of community and positivity. She also just received the title of Mrs. Nebraska United States of America and will be representing Nebraska and Omaha on a national stage in March. She is involved with many other community-enhancing activities, and is married to an active duty Navy sailor.

Melissa Schroeder • Community Volunteer

Melissa Schroeder is the reigning na tion’s Ms. Grand and four-time state title holder with a passion for helping others.

She has a goal of combining her passions of volunteerism, disability advocacy and animal welfare by opening up an animal sanctuary benefiting those with chronic illnesses and disabilities through animal therapy. Over the last year, she has completed over 700 service hours, and has helped raise over $500,000 in physical and monetary donations to various charities. Melissa loves being active in her community and has several initiatives involving veterans rights, supporting local businesses, and advocating for oth ers. Melissa is a proud Gold Presidential Service Award recipi ent and looks forward to continuing to serve and advocate for her community.

Local banking exec finds inspiration in family, giving back to community

BY NICK CAVALLARO SPECIAL FOR UNION BANK & TRUST

Every successful career begins with inspiration — a spark of empowerment that drives an employee forward as they seek to do bigger and better things.

For Carrie Weiler, that spark came from her cousin, Kate, a business executive in the Omaha metro.

“She’s someone I always looked up to,” Weiler says. “I always valued her work ethic.”

Now vice president of treasury management for Union Bank and Trust in Omaha, Weiler credits her cousin with inspiring her to reach her own career goals.

When Weiler and her husband moved from a small town in northwest Iowa to the Omaha area in the early 2000s, the change in environment was intimidating, she said.

“Omaha was a little bit scary,” she says. “But Kate took me under her wing.”

While helping her familiarize her cousin with the area, Kate also introduced her to local nonprofit groups aimed at community improvement

“Watching her involvement with these organizations, I saw her passion for helping others,” Weiler says “To see her help out in her community while also being an executive and raising a family — that really inspired me.”

Weiler began her career as a teller at a local bank while earning a degree from Bellevue University. From the outset, she wanted to move up.

“I wanted more,” she says. “I knew I wanted to be in sales.”

After moving up through the ranks at a few different financial institutions, Weiler found her home at Union Bank and Trust in October 2013.

Headquartered in Lincoln, Union Bank and Trust has more than 30 locations across Nebraska and Kansas Weiler says she

was attracted to the company’s experienced leadership team — including a female president and CEO, Angie Muhleisen.

“Angie being president of the company also inspired me,” Weiler says. “She really sets an example from the top.”

The culture at UBT also sets it apart from other financial institutions, she says. The sense of community among her colleagues helps every member to flourish.

“You get to know your coworkers,” Weiler says. “They really become a family to you.”

The close bond with her team also empowers Weiler to grow and bring new ideas to the table

“If anyone at UBT has an idea, we can bring it to Angie, and we will find a way to make it happen,” she says.

In her current leadership role with treasury management, Weiler works directly with business owners to help find solutions to their everyday problems.

For example, a business owner might be spending a lot of time writing checks. Weiler will help them by setting up electronic payments to improve efficiency.

By connecting them with the right products and services, she helps their business to thrive.

The job is highly rewarding, she says. “I help find solutions for our customers so they can focus on their business.”

When it comes to leading a successful career, the job is only part of the equation, Weiler says.

Like her cousin Kate, Weiler believes in giving back to her community.

“Helping our community is a huge thing for me,” she says. “It’s really important to give back.”

And most importantly, Weiler says, you have to make time for family.

Weiler and her husband have three children and recently became grandparents. Making family a priority has helped keep her career in focus, Weiler says. “Family comes first.”

For those just beginning their careers, whether in banking or any other industry, Weiler’s advice is simple: Don’t give up.

“You’re going to make mistakes, but that’s OK,” she says. “Push yourself — don’t let anyone hold you back.”

UNION BANK AND TRUST

Carrie Weiler, vice president of treasury management for Union Bank and Trust in Omaha, says family and community involvement are keys to career success.

Leadershipfrom the core

Leaders are people who achieve the unexpected and have the vision and integrity to create an impact that matters in their organization and their communities.

Deloitte is proud to recognize the finalists of the Inspire Awards, including our own, Tricia Montague, Omaha Managing Director, Deloitte &Touche LLP

www.deloitte.com

“Myprofessorsinthe education program have gone above andbeyond to make sure that Iwas fullypreparedfor therealworld. They taught me howtobeaprofessionaland aleader, howtohandleadversity,and even grew my passion forteaching whichIdidn’t know waspossible.”

Maddie Davis'22 Elementary educationmajor w/ earlychildhood endorsement

Congratulations

Alajia McKizia Freelance Artist &Curator Educational Programs Manager at Big Garden

• Finalistfor Young Leaders

•

TheBig Garden is anon-profitwith the mission to cultivatefood security by developing community gardens,creating opportunities to serve and providing education on issues related to hunger

Inspire. Encourage.Share.

Doing good in acommunity is harder than it looks. It takes commitment, vision, and the spirit to inspireothers. Thank youfor helping to makeour community abetter place.

Congratulations to Cristina Castro-Matukewicz, Senior Vice President of Community Relations, forbeing selected as afinalist forthe 2022 InspireAwards.

wellsfargo.com/donations ©2022WellsFargo Bank,N.A. IHA-7392232

Women’sLeadership Finalists

WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

VISIONARY AWARD EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SER VICE AWARD

COMMUNIT Y VOLUNTEER AWARD

EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARD INSPIRE SCHOLARSHIP AWARD EXCELLENCE IN HEALTHCARE AWARD EXCELLENCE IN SMALL BUSINESS AWARD

EXCELLENCE IN LARGE BUSINESS AWARD

YOUNG LEADER’SAWARD

YOUNG LEADER’SFINANCIAL GIFTS

2022 Inspire Advisory Board Members

Mattie Scheeter Director of Sales Omaha Convention & Visitors Bureau

Becca Sudbeck GM, Brand and Creative NFM

Pamela Bourne Attorney Woods Aitken

Ava Thomas President and Publisher Omaha World-Herald

Deb Denbeck President / CEO Partnership 4 Kids

ttie Scheet

Jay Warren-Teamer Director, Diversity and Inclusion Blue Cross and Blue Shield Nebraska

Terri Campbell VP, Alumnae and Donor Relations College of St. Mary

Heather Dickinson Account Executive Omaha World-Herald

Katie Lakin Owner Little Mango Children’s Boutique

Cindy Gonzalez Senior Reporter Nebraska Examiner

Claudia Bohn Communications & Public Relations Director Methodist Health System

Carol Ash VP, Marketing Union Bank & Trust

Heather Carson Owner Arête Aesthetic Rejuvenation

community

Our people are inspired by you people

Understanding your goals and dreams drives us to do everything we can to help you reach them — and more. So what’s next for you, your business, and your family? We can’t wait to help you make it happen.

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Carrie Audrea

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