Women in Business:
SUCCESS STORIES 2014 PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER DONNA K. ANDERSON
EDITORIAL Vice President and Managing Editor CHRISTIANNE RUPP Editor
MEGAN JOYCE
ART DEPARTMENT Production Coordinator
JANYS CUFFE
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Cover Photography
GEORJEAN PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO
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Sales & Event Coordinator
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ADMINISTRATION Business Manager
ELIZABETH DUVALL
ADVERTISING OFFICES Corporate Office:
3912 ABEL DRIVE COLUMBIA, PA 17512 PHONE 717.285.1350 FAX 717.285.1360
Chester County
From Our Publisher F Professionally, who are the people you surround yourself with on a regular basis? Are they encouraging? Are you seeing them succeeding and developing in their own careers? If you want to achieve more, surround yourself with people who believe in themselves, who are motivated to advance their own careers, and who are positive thinkers. They will be your inspiration. Whereas some women thrive on being in the limelight, others shy away from it. But the women included in Success Stories know the value of investing in themselves and, for some, stepping out of their comfort zones and sharing their stories. Although they come from a variety of backgrounds—self-employed entrepreneurs, business owners, and employees of area businesses or nonprofits—they are all confident, self-motivated, and assertive women. They are leaders in the corporate and nonprofit world. Leaders instill in others a hope for success and a belief in themselves. Positive leaders empower people to accomplish their goals. Success Stories, produced by On-Line Publishers, Inc., is an extension of BusinessWoman magazine, an award-winning publication online at www.businesswomanpa.com and in print … so you can read it anywhere, anytime. Beginning with a one-county senior publication in 1995, On-Line Publishers has come to produce a diverse line of publications and events focused specifically on the needs and interests of women, boomers, and seniors. We have gone from one edition of 50plus Senior News to publishing editions online and in print in six counties, as well as BusinessWoman magazine, b magazine, 50plus Living, and many other specialty publications. Through the combined efforts of a competent, creative, and engaged staff, we have brought more than 100 50plus EXPOs, PowerLunches, PA State Senior Idol competitions, and women’s expos to the region. I have been fortunate to have benefitted from the wisdom of men and women who took the time to offer suggestions and advice along the way. I, in turn, have enjoyed helping women in any way I can and take pleasure in seeing their successes. Whether you’re just beginning your career or have reached a level of success, I know when you read the stories you will be inspired. Perhaps next year you will consider being included so others may benefit from your experiences.
610.675.6240
Donna K. Anderson Publisher
Cumberland County & Dauphin County 717.770.0140 Lancaster County, Lebanon County & York County 717.285.1350 E-mail:
info@BusinessWomanPA.com
Website:
www.BusinessWomanPA.com
About This Publication A The following designations appear in this publication:
For advertising information:
717-285-1350 or info@businesswomanpa.com Women in Business: SUCCESS STORIES is published annually by On-Line Publishers, Inc., 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512, 717.285.1350. Copyright On-Line Publishers, Inc. 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use without permission of editorial or graphic content in any manner is strictly prohibited. Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles and letters are not necessarily the views of the Publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, BusinessWoman cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor does the editorial material necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. On-Line Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to revise or reject any and all advertising.
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: Designates those businesses that are majority woman-owned (51–100%). Because agents and independent representatives are virtually self-employed, they also may have this designation. This designation is for informational purposes only and does not constitute any type of certification. WBE: Designates those entities that have earned the Women’s Business Enterprise certification. The certification assists women in obtaining contracts available to them through federal, state, or local governments. A certain percentage of government projects are designed for women- and minority-owned firms and are required to actively seek out certified WBEs when purchasing opportunities arise. All profiles and advertisements have been accepted for publication on the assumption that the information contained in them is true and accurate and that all products or services offered in the advertisement are available to the customer according to the conditions warranted therein. BusinessWomanPA.com
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Table of Contents A Note from the Publisher .............................................................4
SAVE THE DATES! omen’s Expo
About This Publication ....................................................................4
March 22, 2014
10 Simple and Powerful Body Language Tips......................10
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Hershey Lodge, Hershey
Lopsided Leadership......................................................................17 Women’s Networking Groups ....................................................19 Profiles: • Archer-Simons Consulting Group Jeannette Archer-Simons.....................................................12
Lancaster County
omen’s Expo
• Creative Elegance Boutique Kathy McCauslin-Cadieux.......................................................6
May 17, 2014
• GeorJean Photography Studio Michelle Rinier..........................................................................12
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Spooky Nook Sports, Manheim
• Gift and Associates, LLC Jamie L. Beane..........................................................................16 • JAZ Design Company Adriane Ohrum ........................................................................16 • Launching Lives, LLC Sylvia D. Hepler ........................................................................13 • The Leadership Architect Group Dr. Lucía C.R. Murphy .............................................................13
Beauty Home Health & Wellness Shopping Fashion Finance Technology Nutrition and more!
• LMS Commercial Real Estate Donna Deerin Ward ..................................................................7
E October 4, 2014
• Martin Insurance Agency Liz Martin....................................................................................14
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Lebanon Expo Center, Lebanon
• Mary Kay Theresa LaCesa.........................................................................16 • Monarch Media Solutions, LLC Maureen Royer .........................................................................14 • Revelation Photography Cindy Strupp .............................................................................16 • Steiner-Houck & Associates, LLC Sandra Steiner-Houck ..............................................................8 • Strategic Consulting Partners Jasmine Gould ............................................................................9 • Women’s Institute for Gynecology & Minimally Invasive Surgery Julie Drolet, MD........................................................................15 • Zimmerman’s Automotive Judy Zimmerman & Jacquie Hower .................................15 BusinessWomanPA.com
Cumberland County
omen’s Expo November 8, 2014 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Carlisle Expo Center, Carlisle FREE advance guest registration online! ($5 at the door) To reserve booth space, for guest registration, or for more information, go to:
aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com Talk to us about sponsor or exhibitor opportunities! SUCCESS STORIES 2014
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It isn’t easy, but the respect and love you will develop for yourself will far outweigh anything else life hands you.
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Kathy McCauslin-Cadieux Owner Creative Elegance, Inc.
2129 Market Street Camp Hill, PA 17011 717.737.5400 717.737.5788 – Fax ceb@comcast.net www.creativeeleganceboutique.com
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Kathy McCauslin-Cadieux is the proud and honored owner of Creative Elegance Boutique in Camp Hill. For 27 years, Kathy has had the pleasure of pampering and spoiling women with their fashion and accessory needs for any occasion. Any woman who is fortunate enough to own her business will say the same thing: “It was the best thing I ever did and I would never have it any other way.” Kathy’s business story is truly a Cinderella tale. She started with two children in grade school and $100, working out of her home with an idea for designing jewelry. She made $278 at her first craft show and never looked back. It’s been a wonderful journey evolving into fashion, shoes, accessories, gourmet foods, and baby gifts. She has even tried men’s clothing but soon learned where her strengths lie—Kathy always views mistakes as stepping stones that needed to be done to get her to where she is today. After 27 years, she is still learning every day! If you haven’t treated yourself to a visit to Creative Elegance yet, Kathy hopes you’ll take the time to do so in 2014. It is located in a 200-year-old mansion that houses 17 rooms of creative fun. Creative Elegance specializes in Brighton, shoes, unique sportswear, and special-occasion dresses.
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The store is decorated in an upscale look, but its pricing is a moderate range. The best thing about Kathy’s business is the incredible women who work with her. Their positive and fun energy is second to none. In 2014, Kathy is committed to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s “Woman of the Year” campaign after recently losing her sister and best friend to multiple myeloma. She watched a beautiful woman live 15 months with the most excruciating bone pain imaginable. The style and dignity with which she handled this journey taught Kathy more about life than anything else she has experienced in 58 years. It is with her life-and-death lesson that Kathy is excited to “pay it forward,” and she asks for your financial support. Please stop by the store, enjoy your fashion experience, and be part of the LLS and Creative Elegance battle against cancer. To anyone who is on the fence about venturing out on their own, Kathy says, “Do it!” Put your business idea deep in your heart and never let go. It isn’t easy, but the respect and love you will develop for yourself will far outweigh anything else life hands you.
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photo by GeorJean Photography
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When you take an interest in people instead of just the deal at hand, great things happen and everyone is satisfied.
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Donna Deerin Ward Partner/Director of Development & Sales LMS Commercial Real Estate 120 North Pointe Boulevard, Suite 301 Lancaster, PA 17601 717.519.3915 ddeerin@lms-pma.com www.lms-pma.com
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If anyone had asked Donna Deerin Ward what she wanted to be way back in elementary school, the answer would have been a brain surgeon, or a politician, or an attorney. She never aspired to be a developer or to own a commercial real estate business; but, as they say, life is what happens when you are busy making other plans. In 1985, while a sophomore at Penn State, her father was looking for a location for Giant Foods. Donna was a longdistance runner, so he asked her to scout some land during her workouts. To her surprise, Donna located the perfect parcel of land, which they developed into a small shopping center. Encouraged by this success, Donna earned her Pennsylvania real estate license; worked at Commercial Realty Specialists, Inc.; and by the time she graduated in 1987, her career had taken off. After her father established the Lanecor Group of PA, Donna “officially” joined him and, shortly thereafter, they created LMS Commercial Real Estate in 1991, where she worked with him until his unexpected death in 2012. In the beginning, Donna didn’t realize how hard it was “supposed to be” to break into the commercial real-estate world. They did not have cell phones or personal computers— just fax machines with rolls of shiny paper that curled and faded. They personally created all the tools needed to succeed
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(research, marketing materials, databases, etc.), and their communication was either through personal meetings or phone calls. Back then, businesses succeeded by knowing the market and making personal connections. Donna built business relationships with Susquehanna Bank, Kmart, Giant, CVS/pharmacy, and Walmart. Many of her current professional associates are people with whom she has worked the past three decades. When you take an interest in people instead of just the deal at hand, great things happen and everyone is satisfied. The network you cultivate can help solve problems, introduce new resources, or just keep a pulse on the business environment. And now, 29 years after that fateful run, Donna has learned that luck is really just hard work, and creating your own opportunities will lead to endless possibilities. Donna and her brother/partner continue to run LMS Commercial Real Estate with 38 fulltime employees, two offices, and 12 sales agents. They honor their relationship-building philosophy by allowing enough flexibility so that both they and their employees can take care of their families, pursue their passions, and find balance in their lives.
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photo by GeorJean Photography studio
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From concept to reality, Sandra and her award-winning team work with each client to create the interior of their dreams.
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Sandra Steiner-Houck President Steiner-Houck & Associates, LLC
P.O. Box 656 Mount Joy, PA 17552 717.492.4093 info@steinerhouck.com www.steinerhouck.com
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Sandra Steiner-Houck, CKD, NKBA member, and ASID Allied member, is recognized as one of the foremost kitchen and bath designers both nationally and internationally. Sandra has been transforming space into creative, purposeful designs for more than 32 years. A challenging situation becomes her inspiration. Sandra is the president of Steiner-Houck & Associates, LLC, Studio of Design, an interior-design firm specializing in luxury kitchens, bathrooms, and high-end residential and commercial interiors. Epic – A Michael Allen Salon (featured on the cover) is one of Sandra’s recently completed commercial designs. Epic is designed in a metropolitan style and is technology run with the latest in software. Steiner-Houck & Associates strives to achieve timeless sophistication in every design with the versatility to design in any style. From concept to reality, Sandra and her award-winning team work with each client to create the interior of their dreams. Their one-of-a-kind designs are truly a reflection of the client’s personality and are always designed with the greatest respect to their architecture. Sandra received her Associate of Arts degree in interior design from Bauder Fashion College in Florida in 1981. She went on to specialize in kitchen design and received her credentials
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(CKD, Certified Kitchen Designer) several years later. Her professional achievements have led to her biographical inclusion in Marquis’s Who’s Who of American Women, Who’s Who in the East, Who’s Who in the World, and Who’s Who in Science and Engineering. Sandra is currently serving on the North American Design Council for Moulding & Millwork as well as the Thermador National Design Council. She has served on the panel of judges for the NKBA National Design Competition for three separate years. She has been the recipient of a 2002 International Design Award and has also received more than 34 national design awards. Many of her projects have been published in national books and magazines, such as Southern Accents, Interior Design, The Bathroom Idea Book, Women’s Day, American Homestyle & Gardening, and Kasmar’s Designer Books. Sandra periodically does speaking engagements and writes articles for industry publications. Sandra Steiner-Houck guides a team of talented professionals, encouraging them to “look outside the box” as they collaborate to conceptualize, hand draft, and execute the dreams, desires, and needs of their clients. She controls the level of detail and quality on all of their projects to ensure that the end result meets or exceeds both the client’s and the firm’s expectations. BusinessWomanPA.com
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Although helping to run a small business isn’t always easy, it is the best learning experience I could have ever asked for.
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Jasmine Gould Director of Business Development Strategic Consulting Partners 836 Tamanini Way Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 703.528.1072 jasmine@yourstrategicconsultant.com www.yourstrategicconsultant.com
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Jasmine Gould is a promising young professional working as the director of business development for local PA business Strategic Consulting Partners. Following in the footsteps of her successful mother, Monica Gould, Jasmine joined her family-run consulting business after graduating from George Mason University with a degree in global affairs. Before joining the company in 2012, Jasmine had the opportunity to travel and study in numerous countries across Southeast Asia. In 2010, she participated in a grassroots, advocacy, and peace-building program for two months in the Philippines. She worked with many nonprofit organizations focused in poverty reduction, environmental action, and peace-building. Jasmine also served as an intern research assistant to a legislative councilor of the Democratic Party of China in Hong Kong in 2011. “After working in Asia at the grassroots level in a developing nation like the Philippines and also in politics in a modern global powerhouse like Hong Kong, I knew that I wanted to continue to do more work overseas,” said Jasmine. After having such moving international experiences, Jasmine wanted to help to grow the family business into a successful, global management-consulting firm. “It seemed like the perfect opportunity to help take our family business to the next level,” said Jasmine. BusinessWomanPA.com
Jasmine heads up the Arlington, Va., federal headquarters for SCP. Her role in the company is focused primarily in finding business opportunities and partnerships with the federal government, as well as building a strong network of local businesses in the DC metro area. SCP’s company focus is upon providing customized leadership development, training, strategic planning, and specialized IT services. Recently, as part of Jasmine’s business-development efforts, SCP won an international “Women in Transportation” project for the Department of Transportation. This project gave SCP the opportunity to conduct field research interviews with high-level women leaders in the transportation sector in the Asian Pacific Region. Jasmine was given the chance to participate in the interviews that were conducted in Malaysia and Vietnam in July 2013 as the Asian culture specialist. “I am extremely grateful and blessed to have had the opportunity to travel the world and work alongside such an inspirational boss and mother,” said Jasmine. “Although helping to run a small business isn’t always easy, it is the best learning experience I could have ever asked for.” As SCP continues to thrive, Jasmine remains dedicated to expanding their business practices across the country and world. WBE SUCCESS STORIES 2014
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Simple and Powerful
By CAROL KINSEY GOMAN, PH.D.
BodyLanguage Tips
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ince writing The Silent Language of Leaders three years ago, and The Nonverbal Advantage a couple of years before that, I’ve spoken to more than 200 business, university, association, and government audiences—and, in the process of preparing to address these very savvy professionals, I’ve discovered even more about the role of body language in business success. Here are my 10 simple and powerful body-language tips for 2014: Before an important meeting, breathe through your mouth. Right before you enter the meeting room, take a deep breath and exhale through your mouth. (If you are unobserved, make a soft “ahh” sound.) Doing so releases the tension in your neck, shoulders, and jaw that can make you look rigid or aggressive.
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When making a formal presentation, move and then pause. Human beings are drawn to movement. If you move when you speak, you’ll get people’s attention. It can be especially effective to move toward the audience before making a key point and away when you want to signal a break or a change of subject. You can also use space to reinforce your ideas. For example, if you’re presenting three issues, talk about each of them from a different physical position.
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Or if you have “bad” news and “good” news, you can present each from different sides of the stage or platform. (Just be sure to make your closing remarks while standing on the “good” side.) But don’t move while making a crucial comment. You have the most impact when you combine movement with physical pauses in which you stand absolutely still to highlight your most important points. To look decisive, rotate your palms down. In essence, gestures with palms exposed show that you are open and willing to negotiate on a particular point, while palms turned down indicate that you are closed to negotiation. But people also automatically pronate their hands when they feel strongly about something. In fact, a definitive gesture of authority when you speak is placing both hands, palms down, on or right above the conference table.
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If you want to be taken seriously, speak up early. When you hang back in a meeting, only to offer your opinion toward the end of the conversation, your input is more likely to be discounted. By speaking up early, you establish yourself as someone who is “at the table” and ready to participate. Then, later, when you present your insights and suggestions, they will be better received.
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To know when people want to leave, watch for seated readiness. People often signal that they are ready to end a conversation by assuming the position of someone ready to rise. (They may move to the edge of the chair or lean forward with hands on the arms of the chair or hands on knees.) If you are aware of someone assuming these postures while you are speaking, you should respect that signal by quickly finishing what you are saying.
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To sharpen your negotiating skills, notice how fast you can make or break rapport. While seated at a conference table across from your counterpart, push back from the table and lean away from him or her. You’ll most likely see your counterpart react in kind by backing away from you. Now lean forward and put your hands on the table (with your palms showing), look him or her in the eyes and smile. Watch as the interaction warms up and is much more friendly and open. That’s how fast your body language can help you build or break rapport.
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When you want your team to collaborate, start marching. Ensemble marching, singing, dancing, and drumming are all examples of activities that lead group members to act in synchrony with each other. Stanford University conducted research that showed that synchronous activity motivates members of a group
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Small, nonverbal changes can make a big difference in how people perceive and relate to you.
to contribute toward the collective good. Across three experiments, people acting in synchrony with others cooperated more in subsequent group economic exercises, even in situations requiring sacrifice on a personal level from the group. To sound dynamic, widen your stance. Your voice comes from your entire body, not just your mouth. Your body helps you become a more dynamic speaker when it is grounded— feet planted firmly on the floor, hips-width apart, with your weight evenly distributed. A broad stance like this calms your nervous system, allows you to breathe with ease, and amplifies your voice. (This tip comes from Rhoda Agin, a speech and voice therapist.)
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To stay in control, back up. Research at Radboud University, Netherlands, showed how backward motion was a powerful way to enhance cognitive control.
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The researchers found that when people encounter a difficult situation, getting them to step back (literally) boosted their ability to cope. To increase team productivity, keep your body language open. People are constantly monitoring their leader for emotional cues. If your body looks closed, depressed, or angry, these postures (and their corresponding emotions) will be subconsciously picked
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up and mimicked by your team. It’s a process called “emotional contagion”—and it can also work in your favor. If you keep your posture relaxed, inclusive, and open, your team will respond by being more cohesive, positive, and productive. By the way: These 10 tips are simple, but don’t underestimate their power. Small, nonverbal changes can make a big difference in how people perceive and relate to you.
About the Author Carol Kinsey Goman, Ph.D., is an executive coach, changemanagement consultant, and international keynote speaker at corporate, government, and association events. She’s a panelist for The Washington Post’s “On Leadership” column, a blogger on Forbes.com, and the author of The Silent Language of Leaders: How Body Language Can Help – or Hurt – How You Lead. www.ckg.com
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Jeannette Archer-Simons President/Consultant Archer-Simons Consulting Group 6280 Withers Court Harrisburg, PA 17111 717.635.8354 203.671.9773 – cell jeannetteas@comcast.net www.linkedin.com/in/jeannetteas
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Jeannette Archer-Simons has been building strong organizations for 25 years. She was “hooked” after serving as a volunteer member of a board when the organization experienced a financial crisis. She was determined to help that organization get out of debt by developing a strong fundraising program and better management of finances. Three years later, they paid off $1 million of debt and were back on track. “I love solving problems and teaching others how to prevent them from happening in the future,” said Jeannette. “Working together to build strong organizations is good for the people it serves and builds better communities.”
photo by GeorJean Photography studio
Michelle Rinier Owner GeorJean Photography Studio 2258 Fruitville Pike Lancaster, PA 17601 717.569.7663 michelle@georjean.com www.georjean.com
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Michelle Rinier knew she wanted to do something she loved for the rest of her life. The art of photography was just that. After graduating from Manheim Central High School, she attended Rhode Island School of Photography. Wanting to return to her roots in Lancaster County, she was offered a job at GeorJean Photography Studio. George and Jean took her under their wings and taught her the industry. When Jean decided to retire, Michelle was able to purchase the business, proving hard work pays off. Michelle married her husband, Heath, and brought him into the business. Keeping with the mom-and-pop atmosphere,
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Jeannette spent 18 years restructuring and growing successful Girl Scout councils across the country. In 2008, she decided to start her own firm. Archer-Simons Consulting Group is focused on strengthening organizations. Jeannette often serves as an interim executive to identify weaknesses and opportunities, create plans, and develop the board and staff to overcome the challenge. From working with boards of directors to develop strategy and effective business plans, to providing strategies and training to increase fundraising and revenue streams, Jeannette is an expert at breaking down the problem and engaging people in solving it together.
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they make a great team. GeorJean Photography Studio photographs weddings, seniors in high school, families, pets, corporate, location, commercial, and even has a photo booth to rent. Owning a home business was great for when she started her family. She could be at work and walk down the hall to be with her kids. Michelle has been in the photography business for more than 20 years and has seen the industry change drastically. What keeps Michelle going is her passion to provide quality portraits that capture that moment and will later be looked upon with fond memories.
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Sylvia D. Hepler President Launching Lives, LLC 4902 Carlisle Pike, PMB 297 Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 717.761.5457 sylvia@launchinglives.biz www.launchinglives.biz
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As a career-development specialist for managers and executives, Sylvia Hepler’s personal mission is to take a stand for her clients’ desired transformations. Her coaching credentials and professional background of nonprofit executive leadership, public speaking, writing, communitybased health program startup, retail sales, and teaching equips her to support people as they upgrade their job performance, seek a promotion, and plan/navigate a career transition. “Ever since I opened my business in 2008, I’ve been committed to showing clients what is possible and guiding them to achieve it,” Sylvia says. A self-starter, problem solver, and lifelong learner, Sylvia prefers to
serve professionals who resist the status quo. She is most energized working with those who celebrate growth and eagerly choose a path to greater success. “My goal is to help people to exceed their expectations for their careers,” she says. As a volunteer, Sylvia is a member of the board of trustees for the National MS Society – Central PA Chapter. In addition, she co-chairs the mentorship program affiliated with the Harrisburg Regional Chamber of Commerce, participates in the West Shore Chamber’s Women in Business Roundtable, and actively contributes to the grant-making committee of The Foundation for Enhancing Communities’Women’s Fund.
Dr. Lucía C.R. Murphy Managing Principal The Leadership Architect Group 590 Centerville Road #162 Lancaster, PA 17601 717.892.2001 DoctorMurph@comcast.net www.TheLeadershipArchitectGroup.com
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Dr. Lucía C.R. Murphy, the Leadership Architect, knows the feeling of stepping up to a big challenge, butterflies in tow. You know that feeling, too: Perhaps you’re to lead a team that doesn’t buy into a traditional leader-vetting process. Maybe others are looking to your leadership, but the “models” you’ve experienced don’t fit. How can you know if you’ll succeed? Confidence is born of good design. Deep success comes from masterful design. Lucía, a.k.a. “Doctor Murph,” is an acclaimed executive shadow coach and innovative facilitator at The Leadership Architect Group, guiding leaders across their goal lines in style. Author of the book LeaderSpeak: 7 Conversations that Create Sustainable Success, Lucía
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is a sought-after speaker who has shared her wit and wisdom on television, radio, and broadcast programs. With a Ph.D. in ISD/human performance technology from Penn State and a master’s of finance from SMU as well as brand marketing experience at Xerox, Frito-Lay, and Campbell Soup, Lucía has rich expertise in principles that produce results. She’s brought strategic alignment to many, including leaders in companies such as Hershey Foods, HealthQuest, and Nationwide Financial. A successful woman business owner, an avid runner, and an accomplished woman of laughter and energy, Lucía lives in Lancaster.
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Liz Martin President/Owner Martin Insurance Agency 10 Colonial Avenue Millersville, PA 17551 717.872.7756 liz@martininsurance.com www.martininsurance.com
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Liz Martin is the fourth-generation owner of her business that she purchased from her uncle in 1996. The 11 team members at Martin Insurance Agency represent many insurance companies for all types of business: insurance, home, auto, life, health, and disability. Based in Millersville, Martin Insurance Agency provides services in a tri-state area: Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. Liz values her team members and more than 5,000 loyal clients. In 2006 Liz won the Athena Award, which recognizes women who promote women in business and their local community.
In 2009 she was named one of Pennsylvania’s Best 50 Women and Business and in 2011 was the first woman to be awarded the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce Small-Business Person of the Year Award. “I am extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to work with an outstanding team of dedicated insurance professionals and to provide insurance services for many wonderful people and businesses,” Liz said. “At the core of our business are our values: respect, integrity, teamwork, professionalism, fun and humor, and commitment.”
Maureen Royer President/Owner Monarch Media Solutions, LLC 300 North Baltimore Street Suite 2 Dillsburg, PA 17019 717.458.3063 maureen@monarchmediasolutions.com www.monarchmediasolutions.com
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Maureen Royer, president and owner of Monarch Media Solutions, LLC, hadn’t planned on starting her own company. But, after almost 10 years working for other agencies as a media buyer and media director, she decided to live her dream. “It was an epiphany, literally!” says Maureen. With a fiery passion and more than 15 years of experience in media, both in sales and as a media buyer, Maureen founded Monarch Media Solutions in 2012. Her firm is founded on the core value of creating unique, custom-tailored media strategies to deliver results with the client’s best interest at heart. Their ultimate goal for every client is to grow business, cut ad costs, and increase the
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effectiveness of advertising. “But beyond this concrete objective,” Maureen explains, “lies a softer one in which we also strive to create lasting client relationships and offer unique advantages.” Based in Central Pennsylvania, Monarch Media Solutions, a certified Pennsylvania Small Diversified Business, is also rooted in the local community and has decades’ worth of relationship building within the media market. But they are not limited to the local area. Monarch’s services reach from coast to coast and provide media solutions for clients locally, regionally, and everywhere in between.
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Julie Drolet, MD Urogynecologist/President Women’s Institute for Gynecology & Minimally Invasive Surgery 1600 Sixth Avenue Suite 117 York, PA 17403 717.840.9885 717.840.9313 – Fax www.WomensInstituteforGyn.com
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It has always been Julie Drolet’s belief that medical care should be personal to each woman. As a board-certified ob-gyn and female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery physician, Julie has been committed to women’s health issues for the last 25 years. Along with her subspecialty in urogynecology, she also specializes in minimally invasive procedures, offering women an alternative, which is part of the success of the Women’s Institute for Gynecology. Julie holds certification from the Royal College of Canada as well as the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She first
arrived in York in 1997. Those first few years were the building blocks for the foundation of a very successful practice. After many years of long hours, delivering more than 7,000 babies, Julie was able to transform her business into a gynecologyonly practice with the help of her nurse practitioners and dedicated staff. After 25 years of on-call nights, she finally discovered sleep. Julie encourages all women to be proactive about their gynecological health. Her practice, Women’s Institute for Gynecology & Minimally Invasive Surgery, LLC, is dedicated to “care for women by women.”
Judy Zimmerman Walter Co-Owner, CFO
Jacquie Hower Director of Operations
Zimmerman’s Automotive 2234 South Market Street Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 717.766.7656 jawalter@zimmermansauto.com jacquie@zimmermansauto.com www.zimmermansauto.com
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Judy Zimmerman Walter’s father, Norman Zimmerman, started Zimmerman’s Automotive in 1958. She joined the company full time after high school: pumping gas, cleaning floors, opening garage doors, and keeping records. Judy eventually became more involved with the business and decided to stay with Zimmerman’s Automotive as it grew and changed, becoming an owner in 1996. Judy has served on the West Shore Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors as vice president of economic development; was selected as one of the Best 50 Women in Business in Pennsylvania in 2007; was awarded the Les Ginanni Business and Community Connection Award in 2011; and serves on the Upper Allen Township Planning Commission and on several national automotive boards.
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Judy resides in Upper Allen Township with her husband, Jeff. She is the proud mother of three adult children and grandmother of one with two more expected in 2014. Jacquie Hower, Judy’s daughter, is third-generation management of Zimmerman’s. Her love for cars and business led her to return home after college to help lead Zimmerman’s into the next generation. Jacquie is president of the board of directors of Children’s Family Center in Mechanicsburg. She also is active in the Mechanicsburg Chamber and P.L.A.Y. Jacquie resides in Newberry Township with her husband, Dan, and their toddler son.
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Jamie L. Beane
Adriane Ohrum
Senior Accountant Gift and Associates, LLC
Social Media Consultant JAZ Design Company
930 Red Rose Court, Suite 200 Lancaster, PA 17601 717.393.3876 jamie.beane@giftassoc.com www.giftassoc.com
P.O. Box 35 Rossville, PA 17358 866.702.0399, ext. 3 adriane@jazdesignco.com www.jazdesignco.com
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Jamie L. Beane has been with Gift & Associates for 10 years and manages the Lancaster office, one of three locations. The firm was founded in 1985 by Stephen Gift and his passion for helping small-business owners succeed. Built on this premise, the firm has grown steadily, and Steve takes pride in developing employees who share his vision. Providing tax and bookkeeping services are just one piece of the total package. “I truly enjoy watching my clients’ businesses grow. Crunching the numbers plays a role, but building relationships is the most rewarding part of what I do,” Jamie explains. Gift & Associates offers a full range of bookkeeping, tax, and accounting services to small to medium-sized businesses in Central Pennsylvania.
Upon discovering how few Vermont innkeepers had websites for their bed and breakfasts in 1999, Adriane Ohrum’s husband, Jason, began building websites to suit their needs. Beginning as the accountant for the company, Adriane’s involvement with JAZ Design Company has evolved over the last 12 years. They have since grown from a handful of clients to more than 100, ranging from small, family businesses to multimillion-dollar corporations. Adriane’s current efforts focus on helping clients achieve leadgenerating activity through social media with a specific concentration in Facebook Business Pages. Her strategies helped a recent client achieve a 70 percent increase in business in only four months. As a partner with HubSpot, JAZ Design Company offers Inbound Marketing solutions, helping clients monetize their leads while accurately tracking lead performance.
Theresa LaCesa
Cindy Strupp
Independent Sales Director Mary Kay
Owner/ Photographer Revelation Photography
York, PA 717.871.4599 tlacesa@aol.com www.marykay.com/tlacesa
1935 Spring Road Carlisle, PA 17013 717.249.9374 • 717.701.2448 revelationphoto@comcast.net www.revelationphotostudio.com
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Theresa LaCesa joined Mary Kay 13 years ago. Mary Kay is a global leader in skin care and color cosmetics, celebrating 50 years in September 2013. Theresa had given up her job in the corporate world to stay at home with her kids. Being a stay-at-home mom was great, but Theresa had this feeling of wanting more. Theresa thought that she would “dabble” in this business to have fun, time away from the house, and a little extra spending money. She had no idea that Mary Kay would be her future. Theresa is a senior sales director, earning seven free cars and numerous company awards. She specializes in helping women create a professional image so that they feel confident both personally and professionally.
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Cindy Strupp began her love of photography after taking a high school photography class. She earned her art degree at Messiah College. Cindy started her photography business part time while raising her children, and it grew into a fulltime studio. After 25 years and a lot of changes in the photography industry, Cindy is still passionate about her art and continues to offer highquality photography for portraits, weddings, and events. She has also taught photography for both high school students and adults over the years. Cindy’s studio, Revelation Photography, is a member of the Professional Photographers Association of PA and the Carlisle Chamber of Commerce. She credits her great team of assistant photographers and great clients, family, and friends for her success.
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By MADDY DYCHTWALD
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magine you were an alien from a far-off planet, light years more advanced and enlightened than planet Earth. Your mission: to explore and observe earthlings and their stewardship of the planet. One of the first things that might strike you is that even though there are two genders on the planet and the population is almost evenly divided between the two, most of the leaders of companies, governments, even local communities are oddly of just one gender: men. When you report back on this striking phenomenon, your superiors are baffled. You hear questions like: “You’re telling me half the planet’s population is
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women and yet they hold less than 20 percent of all leadership positions, across the board?” You answer in the affirmative. The next obvious question they raise is: “Are men of a superior intellect?” You tell them no. They ask: “Are men far better educated?” “Quite the opposite,” you explain. “In the last decade, in many places on the planet, women have become more educated than men, graduating from college in higher numbers and even attending graduate school in equal numbers to men. It’s just been their tradition on Earth that men are in charge.
“It may be a remnant of their culture from a time when power was often determined by physical strength, and men are generally physically stronger than women,” you continue. “However, that no longer matters in an increasingly knowledge-based economy like Earth’s. “If they don’t seriously encourage half the talent pool for key positions of power and leadership, they are not taking advantage of all their natural resources. Such a pity ... and a bit lopsided, too,” you finish. Like it or not, that is where we stand right now. It’s true: Things have improved dramatically for women over time. Just about a
century ago, women couldn’t vote, couldn’t own property, couldn’t even open a bank account in their own name. That and a lot more has changed. Just look to the workplace to see some of that change. Today women in the U.S. make up nearly half of the U.S. workforce. (This happened for the first time ever in 2010.) Forty percent of working wives today out-earn their husbands. And young women are on fire, hired for 53 percent of entry-level positions. But, according to McKinsey and Company, women do a great job of “getting to the belly of the pipeline” for advancement, but then “fall of a cliff, to only 35 percent of
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Diverse faces at the leadership table make for stronger, more successful companies.
director-level professionals, 24 percent of senior vicepresident-level professionals, and a mere 19 percent of C-suite professionals.” Although women have done a great job of entering the workforce and advancing to middle management, taking on positions of power in equal numbers to men is still an elusive goal. The good news is that everyone—men and women alike—recognizes that this is an important goal to reach, not just to create gender parity as an end game, but because gender parity results in more diverse voices in decisionmaking, often leading to more creative solutions and a better ability to take on the challenges of the 21st century. In a McKinsey study done on behalf of The Wall Street Journal Executive Task Force for Women in the Economy 2011, when asked, “Almost nine in 10 CEOs agree that tapping female talent is important to ‘getting the best brains and competing in markets where women now make most of the
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purchasing decisions.’” It also makes good economic sense for companies to include women on boards. According to research from Credit Suisse, conducted over several years through 2012, those companies that include women on their boards have a higher average return on equity. So what can you do to be part of the solution? Here are a few action steps you can take right now to start changing the game and effectively move into leadership positions in your organization: 1. Level your playing field by finding a sponsor, not just a mentor. The McKinsey study referenced earlier found that, in general, men are promoted based on promise, while women are promoted based on performance. On the surface, you may want to scream, “That’s not fair!” But on closer examination, what becomes clear is that men are more adept at creating strong relationships with senior-level executives who are willing to
take them under their wing, acting as both an advisor/coach and an advocate within the organization. Women need to do this far more regularly and effectively. 2. Just say “yes.” Raise your hand to job promotions and tough assignments as well as line-management positions, which can often lead to promotions. In addition, studies point to the fact that men are quick to apply for promotions, even if they don’t have all of the qualifications, while women will look at a job description, see one characteristic or qualification they may not have, and feel unqualified to apply. As the Nike folks have been saying for years, “Just do it.” 3. Stand out. Don’t be afraid to showcase your unique talents, abilities, and successes. We all know that there is value in fitting into your corporate culture, but standing out is also critical. Go the extra mile to stand out, and let others know about your accomplishments in
a way that isn’t boastful but is clear. Be sure to recognize that many of the skills that are most desired in today’s workplace include listening and collaboration, two skills at which women, in general, excel. Use this to your advantage. Most importantly, realize that it is vital for the future success of your organization (and perhaps your planetary identity) that you have the opportunity to take on a leadership role. Remind those you report to (and their bosses) that you’ve got the drive to be a leader, and that diverse faces at the leadership table make for stronger, more successful companies. You owe it to yourself and to future generations of women and men to do so. • Maddy Dychtwald, co-founder of Age Wave and author of several books, including Influence: How Women’s Soaring Economic Power Will Transform Our World for the Better. www.maddydychtwald.com and on Twitter @Maddy_Dychtwald
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Women’s Networking Groups Many of the women featured in Success Stories attribute some of their success to attending networking events. Grow your business, collaborate with others, or learn something new by taking advantage of the networking opportunities available in the region. Get connected, discover ideas, find support—be inspired. American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) Camelot Chapter 6 p.m. 3rd Monday of the month The Radisson Penn Harris Hotel & Convention Center, Camp Hill Tania Srouji, President www.abwacamelot.com Continental Yorktowne Chapter 6 p.m. 4th Tuesday of the month The Roosevelt Tavern 400 W. Philadelphia St., York 717.891.7808 Lancaster Area Express Network 7:15 – 9 a.m. 3rd Wednesday of the month Lancaster Country Club 1466 New Holland Pike, Lancaster Julie Welles 727.207.8424 julie@sparkmission.com www.LAEN-ABWA.com Lebanon Valley Chapter 6 p.m. 4th Wednesday of the month Marabelle’s Restaurant 1352 Cumberland St., Lebanon Penny Donmoyer 717.383.6969 www.abwalebanonpa.com Penn Square Chapter 11:45 a.m. – 1 p.m. 2nd Thursday of the month Hamilton Club 106 E. Orange St., Lancaster Donna Anderson 717.392.8285 donnatroptan@yahoo.com Women @ Work Express Network 11:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. 2nd Thursday of the month Heritage Hotel 500 Centerville Road, Lancaster Virginia Klingensmith vklingensmith@ unioncommunitybank.com Yellow Breeches Chapter 6 p.m. 4th Wednesday of the month Comfort Suites 10. S. Hanover St., Carlisle Jofa Kauffman jofa@paonline.com BusinessWomanPA.com
Central PA Association for Female Executives (CPAFE) 1st Wednesday of each month Refer to the website for location. Cathy Jennings, President 717.713.7255 info@cpafe.org www.cpafe.org Executive Women International Harrisburg Chapter 5:30 p.m. 3rd Thursday of the month Rotating location Cynthia A. Sudor 717.469.7329 casudor@gmail.com www.ewiharrisburg.org Harrisburg Business Women 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 2nd Tuesday of the month Best Western Premier Central Hotel & Conference Center 800 E. Park Drive, Harrisburg Cathy Jennings 717.713.7255 info@harrisburgbusinesswomen.org www.harrisburgbusinesswomen.org Insurance Professionals of Lancaster County (IPLC) 5:45 p.m. 3rd Tuesday of the month Heritage Hotel 500 Centerville Road, Lancaster Krista Reed 717.945.4381 kristathompson101@comcast.net International Association of Administrative Professionals Harrisburg Chapter 5:30 p.m. 3rd Monday of the month Holiday Inn Harrisburg East Lindle Road, Harrisburg Helen E. Wallace, CAP-OM, President Jodi Mattern, CAP, Webmaster jodi4psu@gmail.com www.iaap-harrisburg-pa.org
Hershey Chapter 5:30pm 2nd Tuesday of the Month Hershey Lodge 325 University Drive, Hershey Wendy Snavely, CAP-OM, President Meagan Bair, CAP-OM, PresidentElect 717.508.1710 mbair@hersheypa.com www.hershey-iaap.org
Professional Women’s Business Network (PWBN) 8:30 – 10 a.m. 1st Monday of the month Park City Diner 884 Plaza Blvd., Lancaster Maria Quaranta 717.271.1250 mariapwbn@yahoo.com www.pwbn.org Shippensburg Women’s Area Networking (SWAN) Noon 1st Wednesday of the month Rotating location Lisa Mack 717.609.3781 lisamack.re@gmail.com
Red Rose Chapter 5:30 p.m. 4th Tuesday of the month Woodcrest Villa 2001 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster Barbara Tollinger btollinger@normandeau.com www.iaaplancaster.com White Rose Chapter of York 6 p.m. 3rd Wednesday of the month Normandie Ridge 1700 Normandie Ridge Drive, York Dorothy Keasey 717.792.1410 djkeasey@comcast.net Mechanicsburg Business Women 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 3rd Wednesday of the month Rotating location Abeer Srouji Allen info@mechanicsburgbusinesswomen.org www.mechanicsburgbusinesswomen.org Pennsylvania Public Relations Society 5:30 p.m. Last Thursday of the month Joan Nissley, President 717.861.8720 jnissley@pa.gov www.pprs-hbg.org
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Women’s Business Center Organization (WBCO) 11:30 a.m. 2nd Tuesday of the month September through April Alumni Hall, York College of PA Mimi Wasti mwasti@ycp.edu Women’s Independent Networking Group (WING) Noon 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month Out Door Country Club 1157 Detwiler Drive, York Lisa Barshinger 717.747.6393 info@wingofyork.com Women’s Network of York 11:30 a.m. 3rd Tuesday of the month Outdoor Country Club 1157 Detwiler Drive, York Theresa La Cesa tlacesa@aol.com www.wnyork.com
A friendship founded on business is better than a business founded on friendship. ~ John D. Rockefeller
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