P.O.W.E.R. Magazine Winter 2025

2025 WINTER ISSUE

MAZI MELESA PILIP FROM IDF PARATROOPER TO AMERICAN POLITICIAN REAL ESTATE QUEEN OF THE GOLD COAST KATHLEEN PISANI

MEET THE MEN WHO EMPOWER WOMEN

THIS GOLDEN BACHELORETTE’S JOURNEY WAS “CHOCK” FULL OF LOVE! JOAN

VASSOS

Legislator | District 10

Mazi Melesa Pilip Mazi Melesa Pilip

Mazi Melesa Pilip is currently serving her second term as a Nassau County Legislator for the 10th Legislative District, which includes the New York areas of Great Neck, Manhasset, New Hyde Park, Roslyn, and Plandome.

At the age of 12, Mazi immigrated to Israel with her family as part of Operation Solomon, a project to evacuate Jewish people facing violence in Ethiopia. She has described this as a transformative expe-

How has your background growing up in Ethiopia and Israel shaped your political views?

We all have struggles, challenges, and times in our lives that make us question who we are. I learned that family is critical and that unconditional love and support is the foundation of success.

Politically, my experiences shaped my ideals: on immigration you have to have a plan and it has to make sense. Education is the great equalizer in society and you must support it. Clean air and water are taken for granted and we must do all we can to protect this natural resource. In what ways did serving in the Israeli Defense Forces empower you as a woman?

The IDF brings together people of all backgrounds- Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Druze, and so many more. The training built my self-confidence, self-esteem, and inner strength. Being part of the IDF, where men and women work together and fight together, is a point of pride for me. Service motivated me and taught

rience, both because of the struggles in adjusting to a new country and the impact that being welcomed by female soldiers had on her. Mazi would later serve in the IDF’s paratrooper brigade as a gunsmith. Following her military service, Mazi earned a bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Haifa and a master’s degree in Diplomacy and Security from Tel Aviv University.

me the importance of responsibility. The IDF is a force for peace, character, and light. The key word in the IDF is “Defense” and I am proud that I wore the uniform.

As Nassau County Legislator, what issues have you worked on that you are most proud of?

I have taken on issues that speak to my heart: antisemitism and fighting all forms of hate, infrastructure, fighting the scourge of fentanyl, supporting our police, and tax relief. I have been very active speaking out to tackle all forms of hate and prejudice. On the issue of fentanyl, I have been sponsoring Narcan seminars and will be kicking off an awareness campaign to warn everyone about the dangers of this drug. Regarding infrastructure, I have been able to channel over $10 million dollars for road paving, bridge work, and water quality programs to the district. Last, but not least, I have voted to fully fund our police and continue to vote to stop any property tax increases.

What advice do you have for minority women who want to pursue a career in American politics?

My advice to any woman who wants to run for office is simply this- run. Develop your platform. Stand for something. Volunteer in the community, introduce yourself to organizations, and seek out your local political clubs. Listen more than you speak. Take advice and show loyalty to the causes and ideas that you cherish and respect. Volunteer on a campaign and see what it is like! Last, but not least, develop a thick skin and stay close to your friends. What does power mean to you?

Power is a force for good. It is an ability to make change, develop opinions, and help those in need. Power takes the shape of many things in our livespersonal, professional, and community-wide. I see power as a positive vehicle that inspires. All of us have the ability to bring power and purpose to everything we do. Use it for good and truth.

www.askarcnassau.com/504/ Legislators

Jill Fritzo

Owner | Jill Fritzo PUBLIC RELATIONS

How did you land your first client when you opened your agency?

When I left my old firm, I took my clients with me, so I was able to start Jill Fritzo PR with clients I had already been working with for years. When I was at my previous firm, I started as receptionist right out of college. I worked my way up and eventually was promoted to an assistant and then to a publicist. When I landed the publicist position, I was given a roster of the firm’s clients and then I built from that list for over 20 years. What is the most challenging part of working with celebrity clientele?

At the core of a celebrity is a human being. We have to always remember that. When you take away all the fanfare, a celebrity is a person who has struggles, important moments, highs, and lows. We have to navigate that, but with the

Business Insider described Jill Fritzo as “one of the most powerful publicists in entertainment.” Her client list, cultivated over her 30 years in the industry, reads like a who’s who of film, television, music, sports, fashion, theater, and pop culture. Whether clients are just starting out or are some of the biggest names in the industry, Jill’s laser-sharp instincts help them navigate the choppy waters of “celebrity” while protecting them, growing their visibility, and amplifying their voices, projects, and business ventures worldwide.

A graduate of Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications, Jill quickly landed an internship in MGM Studios’ publicity department. In 1993, she joined PMK, a prestigious PR firm, as an ambitious receptionist and worked her way up to executive vice president. After working at PMK for 24 years, she opened Jill Fritzo Public Relations in 2016.

With her many years working in the industry, she has gained valuable experience and relationships in the PR arena. Her deeply-rooted client, corporate, and media connections allow the JFPR team to navigate the many facets of celebrity and the entertainment industry with ease. The 24/7 pace of entertainment doesn’t stop, and Jill’s passion for her clients’ wide array of projects drives her each day.

awareness that they are in the spotlight, which takes another level of thought and strategy.

How has the PR industry changed since you first started your career?

To name a few things, the internet, social media, streaming platforms, podcasts, celebrity branding, and cell phones! All of this has made being reachable at all hours a part of the job.

Privacy for clients has become much harder too- things happen faster than we can control.

Tell us about the most difficult PR crisis you have encountered and you how you handled it.

There have been so many, and we always have to remain calm, think through our strategy, and come up with a very specific plan. Things move fast, but we have to be careful not to react

too quickly. Sometimes things need to settle before we make any moves.

As a leader in your field, how do you pay it forward to the younger generation first entering the industry?

I help my younger staff establish industry relationships, but aside from that I call what I teach them #LESSONS.

Learning the basic skills and knowledge of PR is a continuous process, but there are also lessons about how to handle a client and their personality, as each one is different.

What does the word “power” mean to you?

Power means the ability to effectively lead, inspire, influence, and advocate for others. My number one rule is to use your power with respect, dignity, and integrity.

www.jillfritzopr.com

Nicoletta Rasizzi BSN, RN

Founder

Did you always know you wanted to pursue a career in the healthcare field?

My passion for healthcare began early in life, rooted in a profound experience. When I was just nine years old, I lost my father to a heart attack. Together with my mother, I assisted in performing CPR under the guidance of paramedics over the phone with my sister. This experience shaped my dedication to the medical field and instilled in me a deep commitment to patient care.

Over the years, I developed a strong interest in integrative medicine, I am deeply committed to blending conventional and holistic medicine, recognizing that their combination is key to treating patients as whole individuals. Can you explain what IV therapy is and who can benefit from it?

Nicoletta Rasizzi is a distinguished registered nurse specializing in integrative and aesthetic medicine. As the visionary founder of Elysara Medical, she is dedicated to helping both women and men achieve optimal health. Nicoletta has an impressive career spanning over 15 years, marked by her innovative contributions to the field. Her expertise in IV nutrition therapy is complemented by her creation of SkinIV™ formulations, designed to enhance the effectiveness of non-surgical aesthetic treatments.

Nicoletta’s commitment to advancing medical knowledge is reflected in her work educating clinicians on cutting-edge anti-aging techniques and skin matrix support though IV nutrient therapy and supplementation. She is also pioneering the use of DNA-driven vitamin nutrient therapy to rejuvenate the body from within. Furthermore, she is a passionate advocate for women’s health, particularly in addressing endometriosis (long term management of care post-surgically) and infertility (optimizing the body prior to conception, IVF therapy, egg freezing, etc.) using IV nutrient therapy, diet, supplements, and emotional support.

IV therapy delivers essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream for fast, effective absorption. This bypasses the digestive system, allowing for higher concentrations and quicker results than oral supplements.

It is beneficial for patients dealing with:

• Nutrient deficiencies: Quickly restores essential nutrients.

• Fatigue and stress: Tailored blends with B vitamins and magnesium help boost energy and ease stress.

• Chronic conditions: Supports those with conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue.

• Immune support: High-dose vitamin C and antioxidants strengthen immunity.

• Recovery and preparation: Helps with post-surgical healing and IVF prepa-

ration by delivering nutrients essential for optimal recovery and readiness. What should someone look for when choosing an IV therapy provider?

When choosing an IV therapy provider, look for a reputable facility that prioritizes safety and quality care. Key things to consider:

• Qualified staff: Ensure licensed, experienced healthcare professionals with IV administration and emergency training.

• Clean environment: A good clinic follows strict sterilization and cleanliness standards.

• Personalized assessments: Top providers offer consultations to tailor treatments to individual health needs.

• Transparency in ingredients: The provider should disclose all ingredients

in the IV solution and use high-quality, trusted sources.

• Wide range of therapies: Look for a range of IV options (hydration, immune support, recovery) customized for your health goals.

• Follow-up care: Providers who offer follow-up show a commitment to longterm wellness, focusing on safe, personalized care over quick fixes. What management of treatments do you offer women for endometriosis after having excisional surgery?

As an endometriosis patient myself who’s undergone multiple surgeries, I know firsthand the gaps in post-surgical care and disease management. Early on, I had to research and educate myself to understand this condition, which remains widely misunderstood. I was fortunate to have incredible surgeons, Dr. Tamer Seckin and Dr. Amanda Chu at SeckinMD in Manhattan, who truly listened to me.

Dr. Tamer Seckin, who performed my first excision surgery in 2011, changed my life. After years of failed IVF and an “unexplained infertility” diagnosis – a label I believe falls short—he gave me hope. Just six months after surgery to treat my stage IV endo, I conceived naturally, and today, I have two beautiful children. Dr. Seckin’s expertise in this field is unmatched, and I’m confident that Dr. Chu, who trained under him, will carry on his teachings.

To address how Elysara Medical supports endometriosis patients post-excision surgery, I’d emphasize our unique approach to providing comprehensive, integrative care that is often missing in conventional healthcare.

Excision surgery is an important step for many with endometriosis, yet it typically addresses only the structural aspect of the disease. After surgery, patients are often left without clear guidance on managing the inflammatory, hormonal, and emotional challenges that persist. At Elysara, we understand that endo-

metriosis requires ongoing, multifaceted support beyond surgery, and our team provides a well-rounded approach to post-operative and long-term care. Elysara offers patients support through treatments like Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN), which helps modulate immune responses, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. This can be especially beneficial in controlling flare-ups that may still occur after surgery. We also provide Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), tailored to support hormonal balance, which is essential in managing symptoms and may reduce the likelihood of endometrial tissue regrowth or other hormone-related complications. Pelvic floor therapy and acupuncture are also an adjunct to our services. These treatments are done all under one roof.

In addition, our IV vitamin infusion therapy delivers essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream, which helps support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote healing at a cellular level. This targeted approach can be particularly effective in enhancing recovery, reducing fatigue, and maintaining energy levels.

Beyond medical treatments, Elysara emphasizes the importance of diet and lifestyle in managing endometriosis. Our team offers personalized dietary guidance and high-quality supplementation to address inflammation and improve hormone health, both crucial in post-surgical recovery. We also understand that emotional support is vital for endometriosis patients, who often endure years of physical and emotional challenges. Elysara creates a safe, supportive space for patients to discuss their experiences, while offering resources and compassionate care for mental and emotional well-being.

By addressing these multiple facets— hormonal balance, inflammation control, nutrient support, diet, and emotional health—Elysara Medical, along with other modalities offered, provides endometriosis patients with the comprehensive care they need after surgery, helping them regain control over their health and improve their quality of life.

Can you share a particular patient success story that you are particularly proud of?

One patient that stands out is Rosemarie, a breast cancer survivor who came to me with chemo-induced acne, a common reaction to detoxification post-treatment. I guided her with our Acne SkinIV™ protocol, combining NeoSkin laser and Jessner peels to treat her skin from the inside out. This approach focused on reducing inflammation and sebum production with nutrients, alongside topical care. She has gone to dermatologists that put her on antibiotics and prescription topical creams that did not work or irritated her skin more. After a year, her skin is now clear—no antibiotics needed. What does the word power mean to you?

For me, power signifies the empowerment and strength that both men and women can gain by taking control of their health through a holistic approach. It reflects our commitment to providing patients with the tools, knowledge, and personalized treatments to optimize their well-being on physical, emotional, and mental levels. I feel power in this context means feeling energized, resilient, and in control of one’s own health journeys. What our providers at Elysara aim to do is empower patients by combining conventional medicine with lifestyle modifications, supplementation, and preventive care. By doing this, we empower our patients to make informed choices that lead to improved vitality, long-term health, and quality of life.

www.elysaramedical.com

Cover Story

At age 61, Joan Vassos is breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring women and men to find love at any age.

JOAN Vassos

This Photo: Disney/Brian Bowen Smith | Cover Photo: Disney/Ramona Rosales

Attorney Maryse Selit

Dr. Maryse Selit is an attorney with extensive experience in media and corporate transactions. Maryse has advised execs, artists, entertainers, politicians, athletes, and Fortune 500 CEOs on commercial speech, corporate governance, contracts, restructurings, insurance/ reinsurance, intellectual property, along with litigation. Prior to practicing at the law firms of Proskauer Rose, Hogan Lovells and Reed Smith, Maryse was a pupil to notable Queen’s Counsel, Anthony Scrivener, at the Gray’s Inns in London. Maryse’s distinguished academic background includes law degrees from the University of London, William & Mary Law School, and NYU Law School, plus a diploma in comparative law from the University of Sorbonne in Paris on top of receiving a research scholarship to Cambridge University. Maryse is also the winner of the prestigious Sanctuary For Families Award for Outstanding Pro Bono Advocacy.

Who are your female role models?

Madeleine Albright was a true inspiration to me. As the first female Secretary of State, Madeleine was a trailblazer, a visionary, and a staunch supporter of human rights and democracy. Before entering politics, she was a brilliant lawyer who helped advance women’s rights in many important areas of the law. As Madam Secretary, she was tenacious and assertive in her use of tough diplomacy to strike relentless deals with world leaders. Yet, she was full of feminine flair and elegance. I especially loved her penchant for jewelry and her famous collection of pins that she used as a form of communication and expression. I consider it a great honor to have known Ms. Albright and called her a mentor.

My grandmother, Niranjala Devi Kuruppu, laid the foundation for much of my work today, as she was a trailblazer and an all-round amazing woman who helped advance women’s rights in her country. Her amazing feats, such as saving the life of an innocent death-row victim, fighting for birth control and abortion rights for women, founding organizations in Sri Lanka to house and feed poor women and their children, authoring several books, and being a successful actress in India, made me realize that anything was possible if you believed in yourself and worked hard to accomplish your goals.

What qualities do you possess that have made you so successful in a male-dominated field?

I learned from my grandmother to always find an alternate route and never let adversity or closed doors stand in my way. My parents could barely afford to send me to school, and I taught myself to read English when I was just four years old. Even as a little girl, I was a determined negotiator. I would collect all my pocket money and any monetary gifts I received and make loans to my dad. I then negotiated interest on those loans in the form of movie outings and other advantages. I have used those negotiation skills to successfully settle multi-million-dollar cases on behalf of my clients. How do you manage client expectations if the law is not on their side?

I am direct and honest in pointing out the flaws in each client’s case, but I work tirelessly to find caveats in the law and loopholes around it to create precedents on their behalf and, more often than not, manage to win even the unwinnable case.

What advice would you give to your 21-year-old self?

Be authentic, confident, and daring and never limit yourself based on what others expect. Never let your circumstances stop you from chasing your dreams, even when they may seem off-the-charts based on conventional wisdom and not what is “appropriate” or “expected” of women! Don’t be afraid to make a fool of yourself because, the only fool in the end, is the one who lets other fools stop them from living their authentic lives!

www.maryseselit.com

Rev. Joanne Angel BarryColon

As the owner of Wholistic Fitness NY, Rev. Joanne Angel BarryColon combines her expertise in fitness and physical training with her passion for spiritual healing and wellness. Wholistic Fitness NY focuses on weightlifting in combination with nutrition and holistic healing to help clients achieve their goals.

Joanne received her B.S. in Health, Nutrition, and Fitness from Empire State University in 2012 and is an expert in reiki, bodybuilding, chakras, crystals, astrology, numerology, and functional nutrition. Owner

How did you get started in your industry?

When I was 12, I was in a slimnastics class. The instructor did not feel well one day, and she asked me to teach the class. At that moment I knew my calling was to help women move their bodies and transform.

What are some of the biggest challenges you faced in your career?

Thinking I needed a master’s or Ph.D. to define my knowledge and wisdom. It wasn’t until I connected with Spirit that I realized I am the master and my knowledge comes from within and above. Another big challenge I faced was not seeing myself and my services as valuable, which led me to under charge and over give, unfortunately this was a huge lesson that led to closing my storefront of 22 years. It’s only recently that I know my worth and what I bring to the world. I value my spiritual gifts and wholistic services and my prices are now a reflection of it.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

I believe that many women don’t know how to incorporate balance and self-care as a practice. For many women entrepreneurs, it’s all work and no rest, play, exercise, or self-care, which in my

experience can lead to struggles with health and weight.

What does the word power mean to you?

Physical power means having the strength and determination to transform.

From a mental standpoint, power is about mind over matter.

Emotionally, power means I can transform any feeling into joy, happiness, and love.

Spiritually, power means I am connected to a force that’s greater than me. It’s knowing I have everything I need within me and being excited for all that I discover.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I have a few rituals that I do to escape and recharge:

• 10 to 15 minutes connecting with Spirit for daily insight to release what no longer ser ves me.

• Seven-minute chakra balance and reiki self-healing.

•10 minutes dancing it out, this helps me release any blocked energy.

• Daily strength training. What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

I do not keep books on my bedside table as my bedroom is a place for rest,

rejuvenation, and sleep. I am currently reading “Choose Joy: A Survivor’s Guide for Hope,” by Nancy Nance.

Nancy Nance was one of the six guest speakers at my Cosmic Evolution Summit in October and her talk was inspiring and her journey is empowering. I believe choosing joy is the highest level of forgiveness and freedom we can experience. Everyone has a mess that becomes their message and I am grateful for Nancy for sharing her message to choose joy.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What did you buy and why?

My most recent investment is on speaking summits. In the last three months I have dedicated my time to speaking on virtual stages to share my insight, wisdom, intuition, and revolutionized approach relating to mid-life women. Below are several of my topics that can be found on https://www.youtube.com/@WholisticFitnessNY:

• The Menopausal Portal

• From Silence To Self -Mastery

• Embracing Self-Acceptance

• Holistic Health Hacks: Mid-Life Wellness

• Revolutionize Health, Fitness, Nutrition and Wellness

• Breaking Free of Old Habits and Belief

wholisticfitnessny.com

and Artist

Betsy Shuki Owner

Betsy Shuki is an AAM board certified professional microblading & micropigmentation artist with more than 30 years of experience in the makeup industry. Her work includes television, editorial, advertisements, and bridal makeup. During her three decades as a makeup artist, Betsy has worked closely with a wide variety of clients to perfect her skills in eyebrow shaping, waxing, and sculpting. Inspired by beauty from a young age, Betsy would find herself sketching faces, eyes, and eyebrows, all while paying special attention to the eyebrow shape. Her sketching gradually grew into a fascination with cosmetology. Through perseverance and creativity, Betsy perfected her craft. Years later, this creativity led to her most recent artistic endeavor, microblading. Since receiving her certification from PhiBrow Academy in 2015, Betsy has obtained multiple certifications from various accredited organizations. She is now board certified with the American Academy of Micropigmentation and is a multi-licensed cosmetologist and tattoo artist in New York, New Jersey, and Florida. Following her first certification with PhiBrow in 2015, Betsy connected with notable plastic surgeon Dr. Scott Wells, which allowed her to hone her skill in a professional medical setting. As a trendsetter and a visionary, Betsy has utilized her certifications and decades of experience to create her own signature technique for eyebrow micropigmentation. Betsy has also used her microblading artistry for charitable work, offering her services for children and adults suffering from alopecia.

As a pioneer in the beauty industry, Betsy has featured in Glamour, InStyle, Vogue, Bustle, Maxim, Cosmopolitan, Avenue Magazine, Manhattan Bride, CosmoGirl, and multiple international publications. She has also worked with several publishing companies including Harper Collins and Simon & Schuster. She truly gives meaning to the expression, “love what you do.”

Betsy is now launching her brand-new eyebrow makeup line featuring her retractable eyebrow pencil with a lot more to come!

What are the benefits of permanent makeup?

PMU offers a variety of benefits that make it a popular choice for those looking to simplify their beauty routine:

1) Saves time when applying makeup

2) Long lasting results; PMU can last one to several years, depending on skin type and aftercare

3) Waterproof and smudge proof. PMU won’t smudge, fade, or run from sweat, swimming, or humidity, making it ideal for active lifestyles or humid climates

4) Enhance and shape the features such as eyebrows

5) Boosts confidence

6) Customized look; PMU artists can tailor treatments to match clients’ style, preferences, and natural features

7) Medically, PMU can especially be beneficial for alopecia or cancer patients that lose their brow hairs

Is there a major recovery time needed after microblading?

Microblading has a relatively low recovery time. Clients can typically expect an initial healing time of one to two weeks. After microblading, the brows may appear darker and thicker than the final result. Scabbing, flaking, or light peeling may occur over the next few days as the skin heals, and clients should use the aftercare ointment we provide. To protect the fresh pigment, clients should avoid getting brows wet, sweating, or using makeup or skincare on brows for 10 days. It can take up to six weeks for the color to stabilize and the skin to fully heal and go through cell regeneration. The color will soften and settle.

Most clients can go about their normal routine right after with minor advisements like avoiding heavy exercise, steam, and sun exposure. A follow up session is needed four to six weeks later as it is a layering process. What type of research should someone do before choosing an artist?

Choosing the right artist is crucial for safe and beautiful results:

1) Review the artist’s portfolio and social media pictures

2) Check qualifications and training; verify that the artist is certified and licensed; research their additional certifications as well as state or local license requirements

3) Read reviews

4) Ask about healing and aftercare process

5) Understand sanitation practices

6) Verify their knowledge of skin types

7) Ask about aftercare support and touchups; clients should feel comfortable asking questions Can microblading be reversed?

Yes, microblading can be removed although the process may take multiple sessions and involves some effort. Possible methods are saline removal, laser removal, and glycolic acid removal. Clients will also experience natural fading over time. Anyone interested in removal should consult a skilled removal specialist. Tell us about your new eyebrow makeup line.

My eyebrow pencils are super special to me for so many reasons. As explained, a solid eyebrow pencil will only enhance your microbladed brows and after years of searching for the perfect pencil, I decided to create my own! The retractable pencil is super thin as it can create hairlike strokes. The pencil is sweat/ water proof, smudge proof, vegan, cruelty-free, made in Germany, and can last up to 10 hours. It really is perfect for all brows, from dark to light, microbladed or not!

What does the word “power” mean to you?

To me it means empowerment, having the confidence, knowledge, and tools to make decisions and take action that aligns with personal values and goals.

www.betsyshuki.com

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PRESIDENT AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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SENIOR EDITOR

Ellen Gold

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Chris Ziminski

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

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CONTROLLER

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Professional Organization of Women of Excellence

Recognized/P.O.W.E.R. magazine is published quarterly by TJA Publishing, LLC.

All biographical information and photographs submitted by members, as well as questions and answers may be altered as necessary to fit our format. While every effort has been made to ensure that information is correct, errors may occur.

There is no guarantee of accuracy, timeliness, and completeness. We are not responsible for other’s opinions or views as expressed herein. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine does not discriminate based upon race, religion, and political views. P.O.W.E.R. magazine does not assume any responsibility for unsolicited materials. Advertisements do not constitute an endorsement of the product or services by P.O.W.E.R. Magazine. Copyright 2024 by P.O.W.E.R. magazine. All rights reserved. Content may not be reprinted or reproduced without permission from P.O.W.E.R. magazine.

At P.O.W.E.R., we ask our members to reflect on their own definition of power. For some, it means influence and leadership, while for others, it’s the ability to create change or achieve goals. Power is complex - it can be a force for good or misused and abused. As we navigate our own power and that of those around us, understanding the difference between good and bad is essential.

Bad power is about domination and control, exploiting advantages to manipulate others for personal gain. It feeds on conflict and division, seeking to create competition and scarcity. Bad power diminishes and disempowers, making others feel small and insignificant. It often involves abuse of authority, misuse of resources, and a lack of accountability.

On the other hand, good power is about empowerment. It uses abilities, resources, and influence to make a positive impact. Good power recognizes the value and potential in every individual and works to help them realize that potential. It seeks to unite and uplift, bringing people together towards a common goal. Good power is about collaboration, shared success, and helping others thrive.

I created P.O.W.E.R. to celebrate women who use power for good, to be a force for positive change. In this issue, we tell the story of Joan Vassos, the Golden Bachelorette, who embodies the very essence of good power and the power of love. After facing the loss of her husband, she could have let grief and adversity define her. Instead, she chose to harness her inner strength and resilience to not only overcome her challenges but to find love again. Her journey is a powerful reminder that no matter what obstacles life may throw our way, we always have the power to rise above, to heal, and to rediscover ourselves. By sharing her story, Joan is inspiring countless women, especially those in their golden years, to realize that it’s never too late to find love, to pursue their dreams, and to reinvent themselves. She is a shining example of how good power can be

used to uplift and embolden others, showing us all that with courage, determination, and a positive spirit, we can overcome anything and live our best lives.

This issue also celebrates other women who have used their power to make the world a better place, such as Real Estate Broker Kathleen Pisani, Author and Speaker Minda Harts, and Politician Mazi Melesa Pilip. This magazine also includes a special section recognizing incredible men who ensure the power they have is channeled towards supporting the goals and dreams of the women in their professional and personal lives. Of course, we always feature our hard-working ladies who, day-in and day-out, cheer each other on, celebrate each other’s successes, and work through each other’s challenges. These women use their influence to create opportunities, to break down barriers, and to help others realize their potential. This is the power of P.O.W.E.R. - women coming together to support and uplift one another.

What we do with our power is up to us - we can use it to elevate others and drive positive change or abuse it to manipulate. As women, I encourage you to embrace unity and empowerment. Celebrate each other’s triumphs, offer help in difficult times, and use your influence to pave the way for success. By doing so, you embody the true intention of P.O.W.E.R. - women uplifting women to create a force for good in the world.

Tonia DeCosimo PRESIDENT AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lifetime

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Jennifer L. Welsch

Owner

Jennifer L. Welsch is the owner and operator of JLW Publishing Services. Her company assists with all aspects of publishing, including design, editing, proofreading, and layout. Jennifer founded JLW Publishing in 2024, inspired by customers reaching out to her for guidance at her previous job at a large publishing service provider. Currently, JLW Publishing is focused on supporting authors through the entire publishing process, from manuscript to print.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

It was by accident. I had recently moved and needed a job. I applied for a customer service position as a project director for a book manufacturer and as they say, the rest is history. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

First, when a co-worker passed, I was left as the sole person to run the department. Second, when I was blindsided and found out I would be without a job after 23 years with the same company. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

I feel some of the biggest challenges that women face today include gender inequality, work-life balance, gender-based violence, access to healthcare, social expectations, education access, and mental health stigma. What does the word power mean to you?

The word power can mean different things to different people. To me,

it signifies the ability to influence or control situations and people, but it can also reflect personal strength and resilience. Power can manifest in leadership, decision-making, or even in the courage to stand up for one’s beliefs. Additionally, it can represent a sense of empowerment that enables individuals to pursue their goals and advocate for themselves and others. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I often find solitude in nature, whether through a walk in the park or a hike. I also enjoy getting lost in a good book or binge-watching a favorite series, which lets me escape into another world for a while. What advice has helped you get to the next level?

One piece of advice that has really helped me is to always be open to feedback and actively seek it out. Understanding how others perceive your work and where you can improve is essential. Building a strong network and surrounding yourself with motivated, like-minded individuals has also made a significant difference.

They can offer support, share insights, and push you to excel. Lastly, setting clear, achievable goals has helped me stay focused and measure my progress effectively. What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

The book on my bedside table right now is “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern. I love it because the narrative is so enchanting, and the imagery is incredibly vivid. It’s a perfect mix of magic and mystery. What advice would you give to your younger self?

Enjoy the journey. Life is full of ups and downs. Celebrate the small victories and enjoy the ride, rather than just waiting for the end result.

Understand that mistakes are valuable learning experiences. Don’t be too hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned.

Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Some of the best opportunities come when you take chances.

www.jlwpublishingservices.com

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Karen E. West

How did you get started in your field/industry?

When money market mutual funds were coming into existence, I was offered a job with the Wellington Management Company. When Jack Bogle decided to start his own mutual fund company, he asked me to join him at his Vanguard Group, and I did. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Even a penny error in the price could be very expensive. I designed a control system where it was almost impossible to allow an error, which Vanguard then sold to other companies. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Most senior positions are held by men. Women are judged as too emotional.

Principal

and Fund Controller, Retired Vanguard Investment Co.

aren E. West previously served as a principal and fund controller with Vanguard Investment Co. Currently retired, Karen spent over 40 years in the financial industry. She served on the board of directors and has extensive knowledge of mutual funds, fiscal compliance, IRA’s, ETS’s, 401(k) plans, and financial investments. She received an associate degree from Goldey-Beacom College and is the chairwoman of the preschool and chair of investments for the Epworth United Methodist Church. Karen is also an ordained deacon with the United Church of Christ. During her career, she was the first female vice president of Vanguard and received both a Quality Award and the Vanguard Award of Excellence. She was featured in the book, “The Vanguard Experiment.” Karen enjoys church activities.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Power means giving people the power to make their own decisions until they prove they are not able to do that successfully, instead of deciding they are not capable with little or no evidence of that fact.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

Playing tennis was mostly how I recharged. It had been my passion ever since grade school. In fact Jack Bogle was invited to the U.S. Open by a broker firm to play against some professionals, and he sent me because he knew I was pretty good at it. However, I had never played on grass, and I drew playing against Ilie Năstase in the first round. I think I did pretty well, considering. I was always able to hold my own against male players.

Award

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

The advice to take on difficult roles that were not very appealing to others. Being the fund compliance controller was a lot more difficult than being the business expense controller.

What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

“Saved by the Light” by Dannion Brinkley. It describes the author’s two near-death experiences and was very inspirational to me. At age 15, I passed out in school due to high blood pressure and I have been on heart medication my whole life. What advice would you give to your younger self?

Know what you are capable of and don’t turn away from challenges of any kind. Don’t ever let anyone convince you not to try.

www.linkedin.com/in/karen-west-94466048

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Lifetime

CRISTIE HOPE

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

My career in real estate began when a tragic loss made me reevaluate my path. Real estate blends my love for homes and design with my natural desire to help people. Helping others find their dream homes has brought joy and purpose back to my life.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Women in real estate often encounter challenges like gender biases and the pressure to prove their worth in a competitive landscape. However, these obstacles foster resilience and empower women to innovate and lead. By building supportive networks and advocating for one another, women are paving the way for a more inclusive future in real estate. What does the word power mean to you?

To me, power represents the ability to transform dreams into reality. It’s about using my strengths to uplift others. In real estate, power means advocating for my clients and building relationships based on trust. Together, we can build a community where everyone thrives. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

Realtor®

Metro South

Cristie Hope is an accomplished Realtor® driven by a passion for helping people find their perfect homes. She is in the top 20% of agents at Keller Williams Metro South and received the Top 10 Agent Award of Alabama, as featured in Apple News and GritDaily in 2023. In her free time, she enjoys boating, camping, and spending time outdoors with her family.

Honestly, escaping and recharging isn’t something I get to do often, but I’m okay with that. My days are filled with running my real estate business, helping my husband manage our construction company, caring for our animals on the farm, and filling Mary Kay orders for my clients. It’s a full plate, but I thrive on the challenges and opportunities each role brings. I recharge by focusing on the things I love, whether it’s a quiet moment on the farm, brainstorming new ideas for my businesses, or just feeling grateful for the life I’ve built. My favorite time is family time. When our daughter gets to come home and hang out with us, that is my perfect down time!

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

The best advice I can give to a woman Realtor® looking to reach the next level is to focus on building genuine relationships. Real estate is not just about properties; it’s about people. Take the time to truly understand your clients’ needs and dreams, and always follow through with integrity and professionalism. What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey. I think what makes this book so impactful is its holistic approach to growth. As Realtors®, we wear many hats- business owners, advisors, negotiators, and often confidants. This book equips you with the mindset and tools to balance those roles with grace and purpose. What advice would you give to your younger self?

Slow down! Life isn’t a race! You don’t have to have it all figured out so soon. I’d remind myself to cherish the simple moments and not be in such a hurry to grow up!

I’d also say, you’ll face unimaginable loss, but those tragedies don’t define you. They shape you. Through the pain, you’ll discover resilience, faith, and a strength you didn’t know you had.

Most importantly, I’d tell myself to trust God’s plan even when life feels overwhelming. Every heartbreak, every setback, and every challenge will lead you to the woman you’re meant to be, a woman of purpose, passion, and unshakeable faith. You’ll find your way, and it will be beautiful.

www.chope.kw.com

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Dr. Susan K. Grunin

Author | SKG Creations

Aretired college professor, Dr. Susan K. Grunin is the author of the children’s book series, “Life Lessons and Tales of Little MisFit.” She has recently published, “Life Isn’t Always What It Seems” and “Life Isn’t Always Fair.” Both books earned the NABE Pinnacle Achievement Award. The third book of the series, Life Is Like a Fountain – It Has Its Ups (Opportunities and Successes) and Downs (Disappointments and Failures) will be published in early 2025. Susan plans for the series to include seven books in total. In addition to writing, Susan creates original oil paintings and photography, which are available for sale on her website.

During her career, Susan worked with children and young adults in various capacities including more than two decades teaching for the University of Virginia and other colleges and universities. She authored a textbook for the University of Virginia Graduate School. In addition, Dr. Grunin holds a coaching certificate and served as an executive coach and CEO of Think Strategic Consulting. She also held positions as a human capital consultant and a federal law enforcement officer for over 25 years, where she was the first female regional administrator in the Federal Courts - Federal Probation System. A future book about her Federal Law Enforcement experiences is planned.

Susan is a member of the executive board of the Gulf Coast Writers Association of SW Florida and a member of the Society of Book Writers and Illustrators. She and her husband, Howard, live in Naples, Florida with their Shiba Inu, Kona. They have two sons and one granddaughter.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I worked with children and adults for over 30 years, coaching and counseling and teaching. During that time, I noticed that children who had an adult mentor at a young age were more confident and successful as adults. As an executive coach and probation officer, I found that my conversations with successful executives often led to a discussion about a mentor who had influenced them at an early age in life. After retiring from executive coaching and college teaching, where I wrote a business textbook for the University of Virginia that was used in graduate business courses, I began contemplating writing a humorous book series for parents, grandparents, teachers, and coaches to use as a tool to bond with children. I thought that humorous tales would be the best medium and came up with a character who would demonstrate life lessons using humor and building self-confidence along the way. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

As a female in law enforcement and even in other fields, it was sexism and discrimination. What does the word power mean to you?

I like to think of power to mean self-actualization and knowledge used to effectively network and work towards the greater good of society.

Award

sites.google.com/gruninfamily.com/skgcreations/author-page?authuser=0

Lifetime

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Noella Keresoma

How did you get started in your field/industry?

In 2012, I graduated with a BSN from Loma Linda University and have worked as a critical care nurse for four different hospitals in California. Post pandemic, I started my own freelance business as a segue into creating a new graduate nursing education and consulting business.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

For nursing: learning to compartmentalize when you deal with traumatic cases and situations that involve life and death. For business: learning how to be persistent and stay positive when trying to build a client base. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

The stigma that a woman is not compassionate or nurturing because she is outspoken, ambitious, and unapologetic. The imbalance of women respecting each other, versus tearing each other down in order to find worth in a society that answers to outdated ideals. What does the word power mean to you?

1. A serious responsibility to have control or influence over oneself and others.

2. The privilege of choice.

Noella Keresoma founded Tapa Cloth Media in an effort to improve public knowledge of healthcare topics. She gradually expanded the company’s services to include writing, content creation, and copy editing. Having worked as a nurse for more than 10 years, Noella specializes in medical legal editing, but she also offers fiction editing services.

Owner and Editor Tapa Cloth Media

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

A change of scenery always helps me recharge, so vacations to new places are the best way for me to escape. When I can’t travel, surfing or working out helps me recharge.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

Never let your mistakes define you. Take each mistake and learn from it. Use it to improve your process, or help you notice a similar situation and allow you to pivot before making the same mistake. What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

“Toxic Positivity” by Whitney Goodman. I read it to help me cope with a society I find difficult to socialize in. It has helped me strive to be a more genuine person, and not stress about disingenuous people around me. What advice would you give to your younger self?

Take an investment class and learn to invest early, and how to invest your hard-earned money wisely, to produce gains for you. You’ll be both independent and successful, with a better understanding of the financial world around you.

www.tapaclothmedia.net

Lakeisha S. Davis is an author and public speaker in Chicago, Illinois. Her varied background, including an M.A. in Counseling from Chicago State University, qualifications as a licensed insurance agent, and a strong dedication to her faith, inspired Lakeisha to publish her first book and begin a career as a speaker and life coach. Her long-term goals include opening a nonprofit to offer counseling to people in need. Lakeisha’s first book, “Biological Clock: A Sweet and Simple Guide to Waiting on God’s Perfect Timing,” is available on Amazon.

Lakeisha Davis

Author & Speaker

How did you get started in your field industry?

I have always aspired to become an author and motivational speaker. I got into this field by journaling and writing casually. Whether at church, college, or my job, I would keep a journal and notebook. I just loved to write and read. After being inspired by so many authors, one day I decided to publish my own book to motivate and encourage readers with a simple concept. That’s how I became an author and hopefully a future motivational speaker/coach.

What are some of the biggest obstacles/challenges you faced in your career?

One of the biggest obstacles that I have faced as a published author is getting people to buy the book. I want readers to be inspired, and not give up on their dreams and their aspirations.

How do you achieve work life balance?

How I achieve work life balance is very simple: My faith in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, prayer and meditation daily, and incorporating self-care in my personal life. This keeps me from becoming overwhelmed and burnt out from my responsibilities.

What do you do to escape and recharge even for a few hours?

One of my regimens a few times a week is walking and enjoying nature, especially when the weather is warm (they call Chicago the Windy City). Walking helps me get focused and relaxed, before my daily work, tasks, and responsibilities.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

The advice that has helped me get to the next level is to keep God first, help others get to their dreams and goals, work hard, and stay humble!

What book is on your bedside table and why?

The book that is on my bedside table now is the Bible. It has been the foundation of my life which includes faith, aspirations, strength, finances, relationships, careers, decisions, and wisdom.

What does empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means to me growth, strength, confidence, perseverance, dedication, support, and achievement. www.linkedin.com/in/lakeisha-s-davisma-qmhp-6728153a/

Nikita Sandella

Nikita Sandella was named Miss New York 2024 in the prestigious Miss United States pageant. A native of Fairborn, Ohio, Nikita has previously won both Miss Fairborn and Miss Ohio. She obtained her B.S. in Liberal Arts from NYU in 2024. Nikita’s goal is to champion diversity in the pageant world and to increase literacy both in the United States and among girls in rural India.

What causes will you be focusing on this year? How do you lead in your community?

My favorite place to volunteer is the local veterans’ center. I’m so thankful to our veterans for what they’ve done for us. Also, I will be leading financial literacy seminars in schools next spring, but my favorite way to lead is through my bible study.

What message do you hope to give through your pageants?

I hope to inspire people to show up

Miss New York USA 2024

as their best selves- for their families, for their communities, and for this incredible country that we serve. Would you ever encourage other women to enter a beauty pageant?

It takes a certain personality to win a beauty pageant. You have to be resilient. You’ll have to practice your angelic walk for evening gown, talent, and more. But above all, you have to learn to inspire OTHERS to recognize THEIR resilience. Share your story on how you found the strength to change. That’s a real queen. Who is the person that has inspired you the most?

My mom. She’s my best friend and little princess! I call her “silly,” and she calls me “silly-billy.” I surprised her with tickets to Disney for Christmas this year. She would split the world in two to make me happy. I hope to make her struggles worth it by finding success now. Let’s do this.

www.instagram.com/nikitasahar88

Marissa Cherepanov

Marissa Cherepanov is the visionary CEO of No Girl Left Behind, an organization dedicated to empowering women and girls. She leverages her experience in coaching, advocacy, and public speaking to craft events that equip girls with the tools they need to know their worth and realize their dreams.

Given the obstacles you faced when you were young, your story could have turned out differently. How did you find the strength to turn your situation around?

Strength begins with hope. In my life, every transformational moment was fueled by someone who saw potential in me. It’s a profound reminder: we each hold the power to be that beacon for others. A single act of encouragement, a kind word, or a moment of positivity can change lives.

My journey has been rooted in resilience. I have always envisioned myself operating at my fullest potential, unshaken by life’s challenges. No matter where life took me, I stayed anchored to that vision and it became my strength.

Visionary CEO No Girl Left Behind

Is every No Girl Left Behind event the same, or do you tailor them to the location where it is hosted?

Photo: www.jjeanportraits.com

Under the direction of Founder and CEO Kiki Rozema, No Girl Left Behind is transforming the landscape of female empowerment. I joined Kiki in 2024 as Visionary CEO, bringing the organization’s life-changing events to the

United States. Together, we are driving a revolution in how women and girls are inspired, supported, and empowered. Each event is unique in design yet consistent in purpose: to ignite the inner strength of women and girls and help them unlock their full potential. Our core empowerment team of presenters and facilitators anchors the experience. How do you define the difference between good power and bad power?

True power is about gratitude, service, and a genuine desire to uplift others. The most impactful leaders measure their success by the growth and accomplishments of those they guide. Leadership is using knowledge and skills to help others rise, creating an effect that transforms lives and strengthens communities.

For me, the ultimate question is, “How do I become and remain a leader worth following?” True leadership isn’t about wielding power; it’s about inspiring growth, fostering collaboration, and building a legacy defined by the empowerment of others. If your actions and behaviors aren’t rooted in service, your power becomes ineffective. Leadership is never about you—it’s about asking, “Who can I empower? Who can I help?” www.nogirlleftbehindevent.com

Brenda Lynn Martin is a correspondent with “Positive Spin TV.” Affiliated with the nonprofit, The Unity Foundation, where Brenda also serves as a publicist, “Positive Spin TV” presents positive, innovative, and solutions-oriented news from around the world. Brenda has also organized and hosted charity events for causes close to her heart, such as Child Help, Loving All Animals, and many more. As a model, she has appeared on the cover of Emage Magazine and LIVE Magazine, as well as modeling for Chico’s. Brenda’s varied experiences have included working in healthcare, competing in beauty pageants, investing in real estate, and planning events.

How do you select the news stories you feature on your show?

I select my stories by reading on all social media platforms or by word of mouth. I look for inspiring stories to uplift others. Can you share a particular story that you have covered that has effected a positive change?

My favorite story so far is Buzzy Martin, a musician who helps incarcerated teenagers and those who are transitioning back to high school. He was in San Quentin teaching music to the inmates and they loved him. He also wrote

Brenda Lynn Martin

Correspondent, Model Positive Spin TV

a book about his work, called “Don’t Shoot! I’m the Guitar Man,” and has a movie deal in the works. The bottom line is music heals the soul. What future topics are on the horizon for Positive Spin TV?

Dogwood Animal Rescue will be a topic, and hopefully more animal rescues because they are important. One interview coming up is with a 100-year-old veteran. I am also going to interview a man named Mike Hammons. After a cancer diagnosis, he survived six surgeries along with

other treatments. I would love to interview P.O.W.E.R. Magazine as well!

As a model, you have to stay in great shape. Can you share some of your health and beauty tips with us?

To stay in shape, I work out daily and I eat right; no junk food and lots of water. I also take vitamins and see a holistic doctor. For my skin, I use castor oil and frankincense. I try not to sunbathe anymore. I listen to sound frequencies and I’m very spiritual. www.positivespin.world

Victoria Wieck

VJewelry Designer Guest Host ShopHQ

ictoria Wieck grew up in a sleepy coastal village in South Korea, surrounded by abundant natural beauty. One of her favorite activities was to watch the stunning sunset from her home, wondering what lay beyond the horizon. She would ask her mother endless questions about the world outside of her small town. Her mother read her stories and taught her how to read, but her curiosity knew no bounds. At school, she excelled in reading, writing, and art.

In 1972, her father moved his family to America, where he felt they would have greater opportunities to follow their dreams. Immediately after arriving in Los Angeles, Victoria had to adapt to a new culture, learn a new language, and make new friends. During those years, she often communicated through drawing when she didn’t know the right English word to use. Immigrant life as a young teen was difficult, but she embraced it with hope and optimism.

Victoria’s dream was to study literature or art in college, but her parents urged her to consider business instead. After making so many sacrifices for their children (giving up a comfortable life in South Korea and starting over) they wanted to be sure that their children would end up with secure jobs. She

worked full time while completing a B.S. in Economics from UCLA and a M.B.A. from USC.

After graduate school, Victoria was offered several jobs in New York but took a marketing job at a jewelry manufacturing company in Los Angeles to stay closer to her family. Much to her surprise, she ended up using her artistic talents a lot more than she ever imagined. Believing that there was a market for high quality, stylish jewelry at affordable prices, she formed her own company in 1989 on a shoestring budget. Over the next three decades, her jewelry career allowed her to travel to many places she’d only read about ever since she was a young girl.

Victoria’s jewelry designs are inspired by her extensive travels where she soaked in local history, cultures, and architecture. Today, she is a successful jewelry designer with her own TV show on Shop HQ, connecting with millions of viewers regularly.

Over a span of 30 years, Victoria has traveled millions of miles around the world and finds herself more curious than ever. She is an avid reader of thrillers, mysteries, science fiction, historical fiction, and self-improvement books. One day, her husband encouraged her to write a novel about her experiences traveling around the world, and the various human conditions that exist.

When she’s not on TV with her latest collections, she’s either writing or reading. Her first novel is called “Shattered Sky,” which is a science fiction/young adult thriller about a young girl who sets out on a mission to save her kidnapped sister, and experiences sacrifice, betrayal, and love in a post WWIII world, where survival necessities are scarce.

Victoria’s most recent book “Million Dollar Passion: How to Turn Your Idea into a Multimillion-Dollar Business” is available now. Take a look at our book corner, pages 70-71, for more information.

OF THE MONTH Women

Deborah Cassidy

Deborah Cassidy is the owner of Clean as a Whistle, a home cleaning service in Bradenton, Florida. She opened her business after the major accounting firm she had worked at for 20 years was forced to close. The customer service skills she learned there helped her reach and maintain a loyal customer base. The company name was inspired by Deborah’s father, who could always be located by his cheerful whistle. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

After getting laid off I did a lot of soul-searching about my next steps. I

Dawn M. Daubert

Dawn M. Daubert is a nurse unit manager at Brakeley Park Care Center in Oxford, New Jersey. She is a licensed practical nurse and a certified assisted living administrator. Her expertise lies in treating patients living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Dr. Annette Gadegbeku

Dr. Annette Gadegbeku serves as the senior associate dean of community healthcare and inclusive excellence at Drexel University College of Medicine. In this capacity, she oversees community health programs, in addition to specializing in primary care, family care, and women’s health. She has implemented programs for underserved, marginalized, vulnerable, and at-risk populations with a focus on trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and refugee health and works to advocate for community health. How did you get started in your field/industry?

I was not always sure that I wanted to be a physician. I was a 9th grade chemistry teacher and middle school girls’ basketball coach prior to med-

Owner | Clean as a Whistle

decided to start Clean as a Whistle and it did not take long before the business grew. I was nominated for the Small Business of the Year Award for Manatee County in Bradenton, Florida, but could not have done it without my team.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

I have seen a lot of changes in the economy. During 2018, people were cautious with their spending. I was very fortunate, especially since a cleaning company is a luxury. During the coronavirus we worked hard to make sure customers felt safe and comfortable. Clean as a Whistle always used disinfectant products before the coronavirus, but during that time we included wearing face masks and gloves at all times.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Some men do not feel a woman can do the job as well as them, and we have to prove that we can. Also, having young children and multitasking. What does the word power mean to you?

Having confidence in yourself. Thinking positive, not giving up, and believing that you can do it.

www.facebook.com/cleanwhistlebradenton

ical school. I made up my mind when I shadowed a pediatrician and learned of family medicine and community health.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Medical school is a challenging and rigorous journey. As an African-American female (under-represented in the world of medicine) the challenges are great. I have experienced nuances, dichotomies, trials, and triumphs due to my layered intersectionality. What do you feel are some of the

biggest challenges that women face today?

We are judged and treated differently. We are overlooked for leadership positions and other professional development opportunities. There are few of us at executive levels. We do not receive the same level of mentorship and sponsorship. We often balance the management of our careers and our households, which can significantly impact goals and wellness. What does the word power mean to you?

To me, power means strength, resilience, impact. It also means opportunity. When one has power, they have the ability to make great things happen…not only for themselves but for others!

www.linkedin.com/in/abg-md

Physician, Senior Associate Dean Drexel University College of Medicine

Nurse | Brakeley Park Care Center

Alice Kay Locklear

Alice Kay Locklear is a professor of social work at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. She received her Ph.D. in Professional Leadership from Capella University in 2014. Her research encompasses cultural competency, mental health and substance abuse treatments, and community engagement. She has done extensive social work with the Native American population. How did you get started in your field/industry?

moral compass. Displays of these various conditions, along with building personal esteem, have been some of the biggest challenges/obstacles in my life as a Native American female. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Women face challenges of societal acceptance and are often expected to mold into dominant societal expectations while embracing the femininity without failure. These societal expectations demand a display of strength

and yet also call for the presence of weakness depending upon the circumstances.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is internal and develops from one’s life experiences. Listening to and sharing the life story awakens spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical life-sustaining capacities. Ethical compassion coupled with genuine concern transcends into that inspirational element of empowerment.

www.linkedin.com/in/dr-alice-kaylocklear-08700b36

Early one morning I had a nearly head-on collision with a vehicle that crossed over into my lane. The accident changed my life forever. I endured the weakest months of my life. Ultimately, social work called me to help others escape calamity. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Perseverance takes strength that comes from the core of one’s being. I was taught the importance of trust, hope, and faith. Individuals and situations will present dilemmas and unethical practices that lack a

Reneé T. Poppie

Reneé T. Poppie, a Realtor® based in Naples, Florida, is revered by clients for her keen attention, honesty, personability, reliability, trustworthiness, and wealth of experience.

Reneé’s venture into real estate came after she retired from her career in the insurance industry. This new path allowed her to showcase her passion and unwavering commitment to assisting others. Reneé excels in fostering meaningful connections, ensuring each real estate journey is marked by trust, understanding, and shared success.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Reneé’s hobbies include golf, pickleball, and yoga.

Aa

professional and the owner of Kidz Fusion Academy, a nonprofit childcare and education organization striving to meet the need of children spiritually, mentally, socially, emotionally, physically, and creatively. Amanda earned her associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Forsyth Technical Community College and hopes to expand Kidz Fusion Academy to more locations in the near future. Faith is important to Amanda, both personally and professionally, and she credits God with enabling her to help her community through her work.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

After 15 years of not working, I felt the need to re-enter the business world.

In 2020, my husband’s insurance agency opened a field office in the offices of Realty World J. Pavich RE. I thought that this was the perfect opportunity and challenge that I was looking for. After passing the exam, I became a licensed agent for J. Pavich RE in October 2020.

What are some of the biggest chal-

www.kidzfusionacademy.com

lenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

My prior career was in the insurance industry. I was entering a crowded field without any prior experience. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

The insurance industry is a male-dominated field. Women in the real estate industry do not face those same challenges. Real estate allows anyone with a strong work ethic a path to success. What does the word power mean to you?

Power means that I am in charge of my own destiny.

www.reneepoppie.com

manda Nowlin is

dedicated childcare

Amanda Nowlin Owner | Kidz Fusion Academy

Realtor® | Realty World J. Pavich

Parissa Eliassian

Parissa Eliassian is a Realtor® with Douglas Elliman Real Estate on Long Island. She received her master’s in Counseling Psychology from Long Island University and uses the skills she developed there to listen attentively, negotiate strategically, and communicate empathetically with her clients. Before becoming a Realtor®, Parissa worked in home design and construction with her husband. Together, they have four children. Parissa is dedicated to giving back to her community and volunteers frequently. Among other awards, she is ranked among the top 2% on Long Island Realtors and in 2024 she earned

the Gold Award from Douglas Elliman, recognizing her as a top 15% producer company-wide.

How did you get started in your field or industry?

I started working in this industry more than 20 years ago alongside my husband, assisting him with all aspects of building a luxury new construction. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Real estate is a very competitive

Diane Woodland-Dawson

Diane Woodland-Dawson is a bookkeeper and tax accountant with Woodland Associates. The business provides tax accounting for small businesses, in addition to handling all aspects of bookkeeping. How did you get started in your field/industry?

I have always enjoyed working with numbers. I enjoy meeting, working with, and helping people with their small businesses, from setting them up as a limited liability company to payroll, and doing their taxes at the end of the year.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Starting my business was quite a challenge. I was a single parent with two boys and lost my job due to downsizing. Fortunately, I was keeping books for two small companies at home. Word of mouth became my best advertisement. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Challenges for women-owned businesses are access to funding, economic

Leila Higginbotham

Leila Higginbotham is a home health aide operating independently in Ohio. She is certified through the Department of Developmental Disabilities and specializes in behavioral health and respite care. Leila’s childhood experiences in the foster system inspired her to become board certified through the Ohio Rise Program. Her new company, By Your Side, LLC, was recently approved by the state of Ohio to accept Medicaid. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I started helping others at a young age. I always considered myself “grandmother’s little helper.” I had five younger siblings, which gave me responsibilities. At times, I was also responsible for

caring for my grandmother. My passion for helping others led me to pursue several careers including dental assistant, nurses aid, and independent provider. I also provide respite services. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Being a mother and setting aside personal time to pursue my passions. I took a break from pursuing my career to raise my two children, Ji’Aire and Jerzey. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

industry and it takes a strong person with true ethical values to work in this profession with honesty, integrity, and commitment.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Real estate is still dominated by men. There are still many more men investing in real estate than women. What does the word power mean to you?

Dream, believe, and achieve. “All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them.”

www.parissaeliassian.elliman.com

Bookkeeper and Tax Accountant Woodland Associates

barriers, social expectations, training and education, fear of failure, balancing responsibilities, and a lack of adequate support systems. What does the word power mean to you? Power to me means the ability to grow my business and set an example of what we as women are capable of; being able to run a successful business and managing to raise a family. I have a son who grew up watching me and developed his own growing business, with his oldest daughter following in his footsteps. www.linkedin.com/in/diane-woodland-2344707a

Some people don’t believe that a woman can get the job done without being a major entity starting off. I feel that women starting out independently must really work hard and prove themselves by never quitting or giving up. I truly believe hard work will speak for itself. What does the word power mean to you?

Knowledge is key. The key to success is to educate yourself. My motivation is my granddaughter, Glori Kelly. I want her to know that if you educate yourself and put the work in, the sky is the limit. You can do anything you put your heart and mind to! Knowledge is Power! www.linkedin.com/in/leilahigginbotham-86a625194

Realtor® | Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Jana G. Hirsekorn

Jana G. Hirsekorn is the owner of Village Pet Pals. She founded the company in 2004, having retired after 37 years as a social work administrator. Jana and her husband John offer pet sitting and dog walking services on both a year-round and seasonal basis. She also trains service dogs and hunting/coursing dogs. Her love of animals also extends to her activism, through her support of the ASPCA and her fight for allowing condo owners to keep pets.

Additionally, Jana works to support victims of domestic assault through work with the YWCA,

Susan D. Obregon

Susan D. Obregon is a personal branding event strategist and creative professional who specializes in event planning for the corporate sector, weddings, and social events in San Antonio and nationwide. She founded her company, Timeless Moments by Design, in 2014. Susan provides beautiful and creative floral arrangements and design services, and is an ordained minister certified to officiate weddings. She also calls upon a rich network of relationships with suppliers, vendors, and venues to deliver extraordinary events. Susan feels that every great event starts with organized details executed brilliantly, creating an experience attendees will never forget. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

Natalie P. Alford

Natalie P. Alford uses her ministry work as an opportunity to provide counseling and coaching services. She also serves as an advocate and speaker in her community. Natalie received her doctorate in Education from the University of Rochester. In addition to ministry work, she also conducts workshops for the public.

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

My undergraduate degree is in Business Science, and I did not witness the presence of many Black women employed in this field. After graduating with my B.S. in Management Sciences, I was offered a position at AT&T in their Management Development Program,

Owner | Village Pet Pals

Harmony House Assault Shelter, and the Alpert Jewish Family Service. This cause is dear to her heart due to her experience of spousal abuse. Jana and John have both been anti-abuse responders and public speakers on human and animal rights for over 20 years in Southeast Florida.

Instagram: @villagepetpals

I have always loved the event industry. In more than 30 years of working for others, I acquired so much knowledge and experience that I finally made the decision to step out on my own. What are some of the biggest challenges/ obstacles you faced in your career?

Before the pandemic, I was ready to move my business into a brick and mortar location and hire staff. When COVID hit, the event industry stopped completely. I had to use all of my savings to stay afloat. The challenge was to stay

created to equip and place candidates in their third-level management positions. I excelled, but after a few years the program was discontinued.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

One of the largest obstacles I faced was the lack of respect for Black women serving in upper management positions. These attitudes were shared by both genders and among a combination of

positive, not quit, and build it all back up again.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Women are underrepresented in leadership roles across all sectors of business. Breaking through the “glass ceiling” is still a challenge. And they often earn less than men for the same work. What does the word power mean to you?

I believe POWER is having confidence in yourself, making your own decisions, and taking control of your life. It’s having financial freedom to support yourself and the strength to overcome challenges.

www.facebook.com/ timelessmomentsbydesign

ethnicities, including those who shared my ethnicity.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

While many women in general face big challenges today, one that stays at the top of “The List” of the biggest challenges is gender discrimination. Gender discrimination is unequal treatment and/ or prejudiced behavior towards women based on their gender.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means I exhibit confidence in all areas of my life, i.e. those who are among my family blood and extended, and within other aspects of my life.

www.linkedin.com/in/rev-dr-nataliep-alford-ed-d-m-div-28348025

Owner and Event Planner | Timeless Moments by Design

Minister | Natalie P. Alford Ministries, Inc.

Rebecca L. Feliciano

Rebecca L. Feliciano is a nurse at The Refuge- A Healing Place. She earned an A.D.N. from the St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Nursing and a B.S.N. from Wilmington University. Rebecca maintains several certifications, including med/surg, chemotherapy/immunotherapy, gerontology, and equine-assisted learning. Rebecca is both a charge and staff nurse, specializing in behavioral healthcare and psychiatric nursing. She is a proud Army veteran, having served during the Iraqi Freedom conflict. Rebecca enjoys spending time with family as well as riding and caring for horses.

Rhonda E. Hudson is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in individual and family therapy. She received both her Ph.D. and her MSW from Barry University in 2006.

Maria Livesay

Maria Livesay is the owner and operator of Maria Livesay Salon in Greenwich, Connecticut, established in 2007. Over the 18 years of its operation, the salon has built a loyal base of long-lasting repeat customers, thanks to Maria’s dedication to excellence and her personal touch. Maria attributes her success to maintaining a professional, positive, and passionate environment for her salon clients and team members. In addition to owning the salon, Maria is a master colorist and continues to serve clients “behind the chair.” With 30 years of experience specializing in hair color, she has worked at trade shows, been an educator, and made television appearances. She has also received awards for her business

success and has been recognized as one of the top 100 salons nationwide. How did you get started in your field/industry?

Nurse | The Refuge- A Healing Place

How did you get started in your field/industry?

My parents were both nurses. At 16, I began working at a nursing home as a nurse assistant on weekends. I cared for seven patients. That prepared me for my 40-year career.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Taking care of people was innate and natural for me. To help a person at their most vulnerable time was simple. I soon learned my co-workers felt very differently about nursing. For me, it was not just a career or a well-paying job, but who I was. Many others felt that nursing paid the bills. Few knew nursing is a calling. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

The best nurses in my life are those who defend patient care over a position or title. It is difficult to lead with heart. If a woman has lost the desire to care for others, she has lost the innate purpose that sets us apart from men.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

To be set apart. To be refined. To be clothed with purpose and resilient. To reflect the goodness and righteousness of God.

www.therefuge-ahealingplace.com

Deciding to leave the corporate world, to follow my passion and talents! My parents always told me you have to love what you do.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

When I bought the business, this was a new adventure. I was also a first-time mom with a six-month-old daughter. What do you feel are some of the

biggest challenges that women face today?

Maintaining a healthy personal and professional work life balance and managing the fear of failure. What does the word power mean to you?

Being a light to those you lead and care for, whether you’re motivating or encouraging their strength and talents or nurturing and supporting them in times of weakness and setbacks. Being mindful to have empathy, patience, and healthy solutions of development to help those you lead to shine their brightest. Power is also being in control of your own happiness!

www.marialivesaysalon.com

Owner and Operator | Maria Livesay Salon

Rhonda E. Hudson

Licensed Clinical Social Worker West Tennessee Healthcare

Stephanie Strawbridge

Stephanie Strawbridge has over 25 years’ experience in funeral services and grew up in the industry, learning the business from her parents. She is the funeral director at Strawbridge Memorial Chapel, a funeral home in Cleveland, Ohio. She is responsible for offering comfort and compassion to families and oversees all funeral services and the staff. Stephanie earned a B.S. in Business Management from Central State University in 1992 as an honors graduate. She has worked in and around the funeral industry since 1989 and became a licensed funeral director in 2007. Stephanie served as the board vice president of the Mount Pleasant NOW Development Corporation and sits on

Owner, Funeral Director

the Southeast design review committee. She is a member of the Greater Cleveland Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., El Hasa Court No. 47 (DOI-PHA), where she also serves as the imperial deputy for the Desert of Ohio, Bethel Chapter No. 58 Order of Eastern Star, and still has a lifetime bond with her Kappa sweetheart sisters from Central State University (Delta Zeta Chapter).

In recognition of her accomplish-

Strawbridge Memorial Chapel ments, Stephanie had been honored as the first African American woman to open a funeral home in Cleveland, Ohio. She was selected as Business Woman of the Month by Iota Phi Lambda and recognized by Who’s Who in Black Cleveland. Stephanie is passionate about her work and feels honored to be able to serve the families in her community. Stephanie wrote a workbook titled, “You’re Gone; Now What?: Everything “They” Didn’t Tell You About Planning a Funeral.” In the workbook, Stephanie explains how to prepare and plan ahead, and arms the reader with the basic tools needed to be ready for a loved one’s or even your own funeral.

www.strawbridgememorialchapel.com

Michelle Renee Castro Model

Michelle Renee Castro began modeling in 2023 after retiring from her career as a respiratory therapist. She is a native of Dallas, Texas, and is thrilled with her new turn her life has taken.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I discovered John Casablancas International online program, graduating December 8, 2023. I then attended The Model and Talent Expo 2024 at The Dallas/Ft Worth Airport Marriott from June 19-23. I later modeled in The

Impact Fashion Showcase benefitting the Halliburton Foundation for Mental Health.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

My biggest challenge is my excitement, because I am doing something that I love. I enjoy working with people from different backgrounds and learning their stories. I believe in helping others and collaborating for our mutual benefit while serving our community.

Christine P. White

Christine P. White is the chief program officer at the National FFA Organization, which handles agricultural education and outreach. She received her M.S. in Educational Leadership from Capella University in 2004. She was inspired to pursue a career with FFA due to early involvement with the organization. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

My journey in the agriculture and education field began with a passion for youth development and agriculture. Through roles in teaching, program development, and leadership, I gained experience that eventually led to my current position, where I help shape programs that empower students to lead and succeed in agriculture and beyond.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

The biggest challenge women face today is being both feminine and businesslike in a world that wants to see one or the other. Combined, they can be a force of nature. Women can be feminine and strong-minded.

What does the word power mean to you?

To create something unique and expressive in the world, that can make a statement and influence others with the same hopeful vision.

www.stardomu.com/talent/michelle-renee-castro

Chief Program Officer | National FFA Organization

Some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career include navigating the complexities of scaling impactful student programs, ensuring equitable access to leadership development opportunities, and balancing innovation with tradition. Additionally, advocating for agriculture education and managing a diverse range of stakeholders while maintaining FFA’s mission has required strategic foresight and adaptability. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

As a female nonprofit executive, I see the biggest challenges women face today as balancing professional ambitions with societal expectations, overcoming gender bias in leadership, and gaining equal access to resources and opportunities. Women often juggle family, career, and systemic barriers, requiring resilience and advocacy for equality. What does the word power mean to you?

To me, “power” means the ability to influence or create positive change, guide others toward shared goals, and use resources responsibly. True power involves empathy, integrity, and the capacity to uplift and empower others for collective success.

www.ffa.org

Jasmin Reese Interior Designer | Jasmin

Jasmin Reese is an interior designer and the principal of Jasmin Reese Interiors. The company offers luxury residential design services, and Jasmin is well-known for her use of bold colors and classic accents. She was recently awarded the Luxe Red Award for a Wow Factor Room for her region. Jasmin received her B.A. in Fine Arts from Rhode Island College and has an associate degree in Interior Design from Harrington College of Design. Her work has been featured in “Modish: The Book of Great Design,” as well as several magazines.

Laura Massey

Laura Massey is an accomplished nurse and is currently serving as the chief nursing officer with Texas Presbyterian Hospital in Plano. She is a certified pediatrics nurse, including pediatric and neonatal transport. Her expertise also includes critical care nursing and emergency services. Laura received her D.N.P. at the University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences in 2023. She has been honored for her work several times, including the 2024 Nurse of Note Award.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I originally went to school for fine art. While in school I worked at lighting and high-end furniture stores, where I was able to get a taste of the industry. I decided to pursue luxury residential interior design afterwards.

Handling the stress of demanding clients while also growing a design team used to be my biggest challenge. It was a fine balance to juggle personalities while also trying to grow my business. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

How did you get started in your field/industry?

My grandfather and one of my good friends in high school had cancer. After seeing the positive impact the nurses had on both of them, I decided to pursue nursing. After nursing school, I began my career working in a children’s hospital in the pediatric intensive care unit. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Balancing work, family, and

Rebecca Genteline

Rebecca Genteline is a procurement coordinator for the United States Army. She received her MBA from DeVry University and is also a Lean Six Sigma green belt and a licensed contract planner. Rebecca is responsible for quality assurance and contract management. How did you get started in your field/industry?

I got started because I applied for a job in civil service as an office administrator. My director saw my potential and he gave me projects to manage and allowed me to perform “other duties as assigned.” I just

worked my way up from there. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

I feel the biggest challenge women face today is harassment. This isn’t just from men and it’s not just sexual, there are issues between women, too. The second biggest issue women face is the gender wage gap. According to a SHRM 2024 survey, women in the

Time management. Making time for exercise, friends, or just a massage seems extremely decadent when you have so much work in front of you! In the end it’s about managing expectations and carving out time for yourself from the beginning. www.jasminreeseinteriors.com

returning to school full-time to advance my education. I have always had amazing support from my family, which helped lead to my success in balancing all and advancing my career.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

I think balancing a full-time career and family can be one of the most challenging, especially as you advance to an executive position that requires more of your time.

www.linkedin.com/in/ laura-massey-12753850

U.S. earn 83 cents for every dollar earned by men. While I don’t face this issue, I also know how to negotiate my salary because I will always fight for my worth.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is one’s ability to influence. When used properly, great movement occurs. Everyone has power, and we can use it in each of our roles respectively. I even have the power to change my own thoughts and actions.

www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccagenteline-0494767b

Chief Nursing Officer | Texas Presbyterian Hospital

Reese Interiors

Johnnie J. Holmes

Johnnie J. Holmes is the CEO and president of In His Presence, which produces Christian spiritual television for the Dayton, Ohio area. Johnnie conducts TV broadcasts for the organization, serves as a gospel soloist, and performs ministry work in local shelters. She received her master’s degree from Canterbury University in 1994 and her B.A. in Business Management from Tuskegee University in 1982. In 2024, Johnnie received the Trailblazer Christian Award.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Inadequate healthcare, the lack of strong female leadership in the home and in our businesses, and the increase in homelessness.

What does the word power mean to you?

Month WOMEN OF THE

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I began singing when I was five. As a teen, I formed the gospel group, Stairways to Heaven, and was granted the privilege to sing with artists around the country. While attending Sawyer College, I was hired by the CBS affiliate WHIOTV to work in their engineering department. Over my 35 years there, I elevated to several management positions.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Some of the biggest challenges in my career were people not seeing other individuals as equals. Their differences were looked down upon and their views were overlooked as being irrelevant. I recall women being paid less than men doing an identical job.

Elisabeth Bernhardt

Elisabeth Bernhardt is the owner of Imagine Design & Graphics. Located in San Diego, California, the company serves clients nationwide. Elie earned a B.A. in Graphic Design from San Diego University and received a Digital Design Diploma from The Art Institutes. She is skilled in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. With over 15 years’ experience, Bernhardt is a creative designer/operations professional who has helped countless independently owned franchises, businesses and individuals with logos, business cards, forms, postcards, large format, and other branded

The word power to me means humility, service, and love for others. It means empowering others to live their best life righteously and using their power to uplift and press forward, knowing that all things are possible if we truly believe in what we’re seeking. Purposeful, Omnipotent, Wise, Empathetic, Righteous. www.linkedin.com/in/johnnie-jackson

Dunia Alvarez

R.N. Resident Care Manager

Clarkston Cascadia

St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center

Dunia Alvarez is the R.N. resident care manager at Clarkston Cascadia/St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center, where she also serves as a triage nurse. She obtained her R.N. from Walla Walla Community College.

supporting collateral. How did you get started in your field/industry?

I was always creative and was encouraged to find a field that would use that skill. After getting a B.A. in Graphic Design, and some jobs not in the field, I found a job at a company that catered to car dealerships as a junior graphic designer, editing forms and helping with promotional products. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The mindset change from designing at school to designing in the real

world, listening to the customers while educating them on what will work best for their project. In school, budget didn’t matter and you were free to design as you wanted, no customer input.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

There is still a perception of what women should be in business and the assumption that we are less knowledgeable, and not as effective or influential.

What does the word power mean to you?

Strength of character, the security in knowing that you can do this. www.imaginedesigngraphics.com

Owner, Graphic Designer | Imagine Design and Graphics

CEO, President | In His Presence

Doris Iheagwam

Doris O. Iheagwam is a social worker with Platinum Community Care, where she focuses on helping asylum seekers access essential services. In this role, she connects individuals and families with the resources they need to establish stable lives, while also advocating for vulnerable populations.

Inspired by an Introduction to Social Work course during her undergraduate studies, Doris chose to pursue her M.S.W. at New York University. Her studies included internships with the Educational Alliance, Jewish Board of Family and Children Services, Brooklyn Kindergarten Society, and Stanley S. Isaacs Beacon Center’s Take Action program. After graduating, she was hired by the American Red Cross as a family activities worker, and continued on to work with the New York City Board of Education, among other positions.

Ms. Doris Iheagwam holds a B.A. in Sociology from CUNY Brooklyn College. She has taken courses in social work at Fordham University such as Human Behavior and the Social Environment, Social Policy, and Practice. She has taken a course in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy at the University of South Carolina. She has also taken an Introduction to Human Service course at Robertson College. She has co-led parenting workshops and has given a presentation on Suicide Prevention to teaching staff in public schools.

Photo: Jjulia M. Cameron, Pexels

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I got started in the field of social work when I was an undergraduate student at Brooklyn College. I took an Introduction to Social Work course, and I was interested in learning what social workers do.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Some of the biggest challenges/obstacles I faced in my career was working with a difficult client. The client may have emotional or behavioral problems, and you want to make sure that they are getting services. What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed?

The advice I would give to women in my field or profession is to continue to do your best. Social work is challenging when working with families. Women should be able to take care of the families and themselves.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power to me means strength. When you have power, you become strong. You have the privilege to do what you want. Power also means influence. When you influence people you can change a situation that can work for you and them.

www.linkedin.com/in/diheagwam

Carol Henning-Franczyk

MSW, MBA

Vice President Broken Wings Literacy Center

Carol Henning-Franczyk is the vice president of the Broken Wings Literacy Center. Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the nonprofit organization serves the needs of children living in poverty-stricken environments and strives to enhance every child’s opportunity to receive educational support and mental health services.

Since the 80’s, Carol has dedicated herself to improving the lives of children and families. She served at the Philadelphia Department of Human Services (DHS) as a supervisor of the city’s Family Preservation Program where she led the effort to secure the systemic resources needed to keep vulnerable families together. She also served as vice president of Northeast Family Preservation in a pivotal role to promote family preservation in the Pennsylvania, New York, and DC policy arenas. She continues to be a vigilant advocate for strong standards to ensure the quality of the social work field and is particularly dedicated to strengthening and honoring the contributions of clinical social workers nationwide.

In addition to advancing the family preservation movement, Carol helped to create the Domestic Violence Program at DHS. She has served as a group counselor for Rehab After Work and as a rape counselor and trainer for Women Organized Against Rape at Episcopal Hospital. She also worked as a psychotherapist at Dr. Robin Lowey & Associates, providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families.

Carol has served on the boards of several nonprofits and has valued the opportunity to advance the field through her volunteer work. She served on the Pennsylvania Society for Clinical Social Work (PSCSW) Board from 2015-2020 where she was legislative chair, on the board from 2015 – 2017, and board mem-

Photo: Seven Shooter, Unsplash

ber at large from 2017-2020. As legislative chair, she was tenacious in advocating for the passage of HB1415 and SB 1078 - bills targeted to strengthen policies for professional social workers. Carol was also PSCSW’s co-film discussion coordinator. Her goal was to present and discuss a film once a month. Carol is affiliated with other organizations such as the Philadelphia Theater Company; Quintessence Theater; NASWPA-Southeast Division; and the American Diabetic Association.

Active in Toastmasters International, an organization promoting effective presentation skills, Henning-Franczyk is currently the vice president of education for We the Speakers, and vice president of membership for Positively

Charged, two local Toastmaster clubs. She previously served as the president and the vice president of membership of We the Speakers. Henning-Franczyk was area director for several corporate clubs and two community clubs and is currently district 38 recognition chair for (2024-2025). She is also committee person of her ward/division (21-43) in Roxborough, the reading captain for the Northwest area of Philadelphia and is very active politically.

Carol received her MSW from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Social Research and Policy and studied under Dr. Harry Aponte and the Family Institute and remained active after graduating, serving on the steering committee for the Career Transi-

tions Program and played a vital role in leading the University of Penn Alumni for several years in recruiting volunteers for the Penn Relays. She earned the title of Ambassador at the University of Penn School of Policy and Research for her work in mentoring students. She obtained an MBA from the University of Phoenix, where she is vice president of alumni, received a Life Achievement Award, and was featured on the cover of The University of Phoenix Alumni magazine for April 2024.

In her spare time, Carol enjoys playing piano, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

www.brokenwingsliteracycenter.com

Terran Mitchell

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I chose education so I could give back to the next generation. After all, it was my teachers who assisted in developing my outlook on the world and my confidence in myself. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Many students have no desire to become more than their environment. It is my duty to light the fire in them to prove society wrong. Many times, parents don’t know how to help the child and the resources available. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

A woman’s value is far greater than rubies. Rubies are formed by

Educator | Houston ISD

Terran Mitchell is a teacher and coach with the Houston Independent School District. She received her Master’s degree from Texas Southern University in 2012. Throughout her 17 years of teaching, Terran has focused on health and physical education classes. She also worked as the director of athletic training operations and recruitment for the TSU Athletic Training Program. In 2012, Terran established a nonprofit organization which aims to support young adults by bridging the education gap.

extreme heat and pressure. Women forge through the pressures of relationships, children, careers, and everyday hurdles. We have broken out of the typical housewife mold and now sculpt the path we choose for ourselves. But today’s culture tells young ladies that in order to be successful you must alter your body, devalue yourself, or compromise your character and integrity. What does the word power mean to you?

It is the ability to speak life into a person that can cause them to be encouraged, to be positive, and to drive them to achieve better for themselves.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

In order to recharge, I like to meditate, play brain games, or

have a fun night of karaoke with friends.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

Some advice that helped me get to the next level is, “Only worry about the things you can control.” What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

The book that’s on my bedside right now is “Your Next Five Moves: Master the Art of Business Strategy,” by Patrick Bet-David. I like that I am continuing to evolve as a businesswoman and this book helped me improve my business strategies and mindset. What is the best $100 you spent recently?

The best $100 I recently spent was on a gift for my father’s birthday. I enjoy bringing joy to those that I love.

www.linkedin.com/in/terranmitchell-9929b657

Margarita Pirin Cortes

Margarita Pirin Cortes is a tax preparer with D & T Tax and Accounting, LLC, where she assists individuals and small businesses with their taxes. She is also responsible for office management, including daily operations, client satisfaction, and team supervision. She prides herself on maintaining professionalism and confidentiality regardless of challenges such as peak tax season or shifting regulations. In her free time, Margarita enjoys reading and traveling.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

From an early age, I had a natural interest in numbers and organization, which later translated into a fascination with financial systems. As I pursued my education, I discovered a passion for accounting, particularly the intricate processes of tax preparation and compliance.

Kris Hoff

Kris Hoff is an accomplished hospitality professional, coordinating tours of Milwaukee, Detroit, and the surrounding areas through Happy Times Tours and Distinctively Detroit Tours. A former paralegal, Kris leveraged her talents for research and organization into a career as a tour operator, and eventually founded her own company.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I was unfulfilled working as a paralegal and knew that I needed a major change. Spotting my talent for logistics, problem-solving, creativity, and creating seamless customer experiences, a friend encouraged me to consider a front office position at a local tour operator. Something clicked. I thrived on the challenge of researching destinations, coordinating itineraries, and

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Staying updated with the constant changes in tax laws and regulations. Additionally, balancing the complexities of diverse client needs while managing tight deadlines tested my ability to remain organized and effective under pressure. Overcoming these challenges has strengthened my skills and enhanced my commitment to excellence.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Workplace inequality. Women often encounter unequal pay, balancing career and family, and managing caregiving responsibilities alongside professional growth.

What does the word power mean to you?

To me, power means having the confidence, resources, and knowledge to make decisions that impact your life and the lives of others positively. It is also about resilience and the capacity to overcome challenges while lifting others up. It may also reflect my strength in balancing responsibilities and continuously learning.

www.linkedin.com/in/margarita-cortes-336b27a8

Owner | Happy Times Tours and Experiences, Distinctively Detroit Tours

ensuring needs were met. I realized that my true calling is behind the scenes, bringing travel experiences to life.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The COVID-19 pandemic hit tourism hard. Many of us lost jobs. I opened my own company in June 2020, with the goal of getting some of my former employees back to work. I created virtual tour experiences that allowed us to survive the pandemic. By going to local businesses, recording behind-the-scenes videos, and packaging them with the

purchase of the businesses’ products, I found a way to not only keep the company afloat but also support the communities that supported us. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Gender inequality remains a pervasive issue in today’s world, particularly within the business industry.

Female entrepreneurs find that their ideas, skills, and capabilities are not taken seriously in male-dominated spaces. This makes it difficult for women to establish credibility, secure important partnerships, and garner the support needed to grow their ventures.

www.happytimestours.com www.distinctivelydetroit.com

OF THE MONTH Women

Alla V. Koudriavtseva

AEntrepreneur, Interior Designer AllaVK International Design Company

lla V. Koudriavtseva is an entrepreneur, involved in products ranging from the Alfa Male energy drink, California Blaze CBD pain relief cream, and an upcoming perfume product. Additionally, she is the proprietor of Golden Sunset Limousine and of AllaVK International Design Company, where she handles building, remodeling, and interior design for luxury residential properties.

Alla’s most recent work is Dark Hexagon Theory and Research, combining psychological research and spirituality into a new framework of understanding.

What advice would you give to women entering your field?

To be patient, persistent and ready to put in extra work. There will be significant resistance and a high level of competition, and even though women have acquired a lot of rights over past decades, you might still experience unfavorable treatment and strong gender bias. There is nothing wrong with reaching out to like-minded professionals and getting advice. Expand your network.

Also don’t forget personal fitness and exercise in order to look good despite long work hours.

Erica R. Whitfield

Erica R. Whitfield is the cardiac PACS coordinator for Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, where she is responsible for imaging and medical documentation in the cardiology department. Her job includes onboarding new staff, implementing new hardware and software systems, coordinating medical coding and charts, and handling EKGs. Erica obtained her B.S. in Radiology from the University of South Alabama in 2009 and is also a radiologic technologist and cardiac cath lab technologist. How did you get started in your field/industry?

Hurricane Katrina led me unexpectedly into the medical field, where I found my true calling.

Who is your role model?

My parents and loved ones had significant influence in my life. Throughout different periods of my life, I was inspired by the successes and journeys of others. My son also influenced me. He is very intelligent. What strategies have helped you succeed?

Being flexible. I had to work extra hours (especially while attending university, obtaining degrees in psychology and health sciences simultaneously, and balancing work). You have to keep moving forward to overcome negative resistance.

I began as a radiology tech with a bachelor’s degree, transitioned into the cardiac cath lab, and eventually became our facility’s cardiac PACS coordinator.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

One of my biggest challenges was learning to prioritize myself. By saying ‘no’ to overextending and ‘yes’ to self-care, I’ve grown both personally and professionally. When my cup is full, I can better support and uplift others. What do you feel are some of the

www.thedarkhexagon.com

biggest challenges that women face today?

Women today face significant challenges, including judgment, shame, and guilt, as well as the difficulty of overcoming these emotions without access to adequate tools and resources. Even when these tools are utilized, women often face further judgment. What does the word power mean to you?

True power lies in surrendering the familiar to embrace the extraordinary. By trusting yourself enough to let go and act with purpose, you empower not only yourself but everyone around you to rise to greatness.

www.wearememorial.com

Cardiovascular Clinical Systems Specialist Memorial Hospital at Gulfport

Sarah Warden Lead Preschool Teacher | Little Hills Learning Center

Sarah Warden is the lead preschool teacher at the Little Hills Learning Center in Maryland Heights, Missouri. She received her associate degree in Child and Family Development from St. Louis Community College in 2023. Sarah’s philosophy is that all children are gifted, they just open their gifts at different times.

What advice would you give women entering your field?

That each child is unique and to celebrate and embrace their differences.

Who is your role model?

My role model is my mother,

Dr. Debi Lawson

Dr. Debi Lawson teaches fifth and sixth grade at Washington Elementary School in Sacramento, California. She received her Ph.D. in Education Curriculum and Instruction from Northcentral University in 2017. How did you get started in your field/industry?

who not only worked in special education for over 30 years, but put herself through graduate school while raising both my brother and me.

Name one strategy that has helped you get ahead.

The strategy that has helped me the most in my field is knowing that all children are gifted, and my role is to make sure that they have the tools that they need to open their gifts when the time comes.

What goals do you hope to achieve?

My professional goals for this year include creating and imple-

Becoming a teacher was not my first career choice. During high school, I wanted to be a nurse, then I became drawn to social work. During college, I took a class on tutoring elementary students in reading and this jump-started my love of education.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

An elementary classroom is such a magical place even with the challenges. It is difficult to balance

the expectations of the district with the needs of our children. We have limited time to teach all the subject areas and support SEL and wellness. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Finding the balance between home and career. As a working mom, I find that I must place a lot of intention behind how I spend my time so that I am present with my family and my career. Women

menting a new preschool curriculum and making sure that my students are ready to start kindergarten in the fall.

www.littlehillslc.com

Emelia J. Lake

Management and Program Analyst Marine Corps Logistics Command

Emelia J. Lake is a management and program analyst with the United States Marine Corps. She received her Doctorate of Business Administration from South University.

must work harder to find space and belonging at work and home. What does the word power mean to you?

My power comes from my capacity and desire to make choices for myself. Power is my strength to become the first in my family to go to college and complete my doctorate. Power is also my awareness and choice to rest as I need to.

www.linkedin.com/in/debilawson-b5a2ab233

Marsha Goodman

Marsha Goodman is a bookseller with Barnes and Noble, where her position includes supervisory and management responsibilities. She received her M.A. in Art Education from Brooklyn College. In addition to retail, Marsha is a fine artist, working in oil paints and with a variety of subjects, though she specializes in landscapes. She is a member of the Oil Painters of America and has been featured in the book “How Did You Paint That? 100 Ways to Paint Flowers and Gardens.”

www.koshart.artspan.com/home

Donna Gingery

Donna Gingery is a special education teacher in the Robbinsdale Area School District. She holds a BA in Theatre Arts, MA’s in Educational Leadership and Special Education, and a K-12 administrative license. Donna was inspired to teach by her experience growing up with learning disabilities, and a desire to help students navigating those challenges.

Donna is also passionate about the performing arts, having co-written and directed the musical “Motown Magic.” She serves as the drama theater liaison for the International Thespian Society. Notably, she accompanied students to the White House, where they showcased their talent in front of Michelle Obama.

Most recently, Donna has writ-

Special Education Teacher | Robbinsdale Area School District

ten and published “Red’s Adventures: The Egg Pie,” a children’s book that draws from her experience overcoming learning disabilities. How did you get started in your field/industry?

I felt that my potential was not being realized, and I wanted a more meaningful path. With the encouragement of a relative, I explored the possibility of specializing in special education. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The main obstacle was discovering my true identity as a person.

Elizabeth G. Tolliver, Ph.D.

Dr. Elizabeth G. Tolliver is a mental health counselor in Omaha, Nebraska and dedicated single mother to her eight-year-old son and two dogs. When not running her private practice, Adaptive Counseling Services, LLC, she appreciates enjoying life as it comes. Elizabeth received her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Northern Colorado in 2018 and has been in human services for 15 years. As a counselor, Elizabeth focuses on social justice, feminism, and LGBTQIQA+ advocacy. She has appeared in the Washington Post and on Wired.com to speak about her perspective on grief and looks forward to similar opportunities in the future.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

Amazing counselors and mentors in my life with diverse perspectives on the family system, theoretical approaches, and social justice. It is the support of these incredible folks who fostered my skillset and knowledge base to become a mental health practitioner.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Feeling like a failure when I left academia. However, I quickly realized I was spreading my wings and giving voice to parts of me

I realized that self-reliance, assisting others, and striving to do my best were crucial. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Juggling a career, nurturing a family, and simultaneously developing an independent personal identity. This involves overcoming feelings of guilt for wanting to excel and be the best version of themselves.

What does the word power mean to you?

It is a profound sense of self-assurance and inner strength that lets you work fearlessly. It allows you to lead by example, demonstrating to others the value of their own strength.

www.strivepubandco.com/ donna-gingery

Therapist Adaptive Counseling Services, LLC that had been silenced. I no longer advocate quietly for issues that mean the most.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Comparing our challenges to others. Too often we will help or give grace before extending it to ourselves. We are just as deserving and worthy of connection, grace, and a break! Sometimes we need a reminder.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power means seeing the flames, feeling the heat, fearing the fire, and walking into it anyway. I think women do that every day, in just about every facet of our identities. www.linkedin.com/in/adaptivecounselingomaha

Owner,

Danita Parker

Guidance Counselor

The Academic Partnerships, LLC

Danita Parker is a guidance counselor with The Academic Partnerships, LLC. She obtained her M.A. in School Counseling from Kean University. She is experienced in counseling students of all grade levels and offers both workshops and educational consulting services.

Nicki Hilderbrandt Moorer

Consultant

Nicki H. Moorer Healthcare Consulting

Nicki Hilderbrandt Moorer is an independent consultant in the healthcare sector. She advises medical clinics on back-end IT policies.

Theresa M. Tremmel-Anderson

Theresa M. Tremmel-Anderson, already established in the industry as the head of Theresa Tremmel Trucking, founded Tremmel-Anderson trucking in 2001. Her daughter Crystal, named a partner when she turned 18, has used her ambition and drive to establish herself firmly in the trucking industry. Theresa’s son Chad was also made partner, in addition to obtaining his CDL and operating a dump truck. He continues to demonstrate his passion by driving daily on job sites.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I went into business with my mother at 16 years old. She changed

Dr. Jo Lamm

Dr. Jo Lamm is a wellness coach with a background in clinical psychology. In addition to coaching, she teaches yoga, Pilates, and mindfulness, and has authored numerous poems and articles. Through TulaSoul, Dr. Jo offers retreats, holistic healing, spiritual coaching, workshops, and more to women seeking to become embodied, empowered, and enlightened. Dr. Jo uses her personal history, intuition, and unique perspective to craft healing programs that emphasize compassion and resilience. Among many other awards, she was recently named the Holistic Therapy Provider of the Year by Corporate Live Wire. How did you get started in your field/industry?

I knew at age 12, when I was

WOMEN OF THE Month

her company name to Bonnie Tremmel & Daughter. At 19, I decided to buy my mother out and become the sole owner. That is when Theresa Tremmel Trucking was born. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Being able to find the balance in life. Being an inspirational leader. Being a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, a best friend and so

hospitalized with anorexia, that I would become a psychologist, and that decision never wavered.

After 13 years in private practice,

I decided to open a holistic women’s business to offer new services. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Opening a private practice as a psychologist was challenging since I had to independently learn marketing, insurance onboarding, billing, etc. When I opened my women’s wellness business, I was confident knowing my private practice was so successful.

much more. Accepting that society’s “norms” aren’t for every person. It’s okay to not follow expectations. What does the word power mean to you?

I think of self-dedication and sacrifice. It means I have the strength to be a leader, a teacher, and mentor to those who show the same drive. That word also helps keep me focused on what God’s mission is for my business and my life. It reassures me that my choices, my dedication, and my sacrifices taught my children and others great lessons. With empowerment and God, you can do anything..

www.tremmel-andersontrucking.com

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Women continue to face discrimination, lower pay, and sexual harassment in the workplace, particularly women of color. Plus, we have too many expectations placed on us, too few resources, and not enough time to practice self-care.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power means assertively using our voice, speaking our truth without apologizing, being authentic without caring about others’ judgments, nurturing and loving our bodies as they are, expecting respect and kindness, forgiving gracefully, and loving oneself and others unconditionally. www.tulasoul.com

Wellness Coach | TulaSoul

Owner | Tremmel-Anderson Trucking

TRENDS Tonia's

Chocolate and Wine Pairing for 2 Gift Set

This chocolate and wine pairing gift set for two makes the perfect Valentine’s Day gift! It includes a 16-piece box of all-natural chocolates made to pair with wine, wine pairing suggestions, and a copy of the book “Dare to Pair: The Ultimate Guide to Chocolate & Wine Pairing.” This is just one of many decadent gift ideas from P.O.W.E.R. member Julie Nygard - A.K.A. “The Chocolate Therapist.” Check out The Chocolate Therapist’s other great Valentine’s Day, corporate, or personal gifts at www.thechocola tetherapist.com. They ship nation wide!

FASHION

Introducing The Sculptura P.OW.E.R. Dress

Sculptura is in the business of body-sculpting fashion. They develop beautifully crafted garments that subtly transform the human form by accentuating the body’s contours, not just compressing them. They recently launched the first-ever Sculpt-It-YourWay Shapewear Clothing Line, starting with dresses. With five curve-loving styles to choose from, it is hard to pick my favorite!

www.sculpturacouture.com

FITNESS

AXV

vibration plate Imay look silly doing it, but I love my AXV Vibration plate! I keep this unique exercise machine in my office and stand on it for about 10 minutes per day. It delivers wholebody vibrations to help with muscle recovery, fat processing, strength and stability, and lymphatic drainage.

Sculptura P.O.W.E.R. Dress

At the age of 61, Joan Vassos is breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring women and men to find love at any age. This school administrator from Rockville, Maryland is a pioneer as the first-ever Golden Bachelorette, proving that it’s never too late to embrace new beginnings, write new chapters, and fall in love again.

After losing her husband John to cancer in 2021, Joan faced the daunting prospect of rebuilding her life after 32 years of marriage. When she finally felt ready to put herself out there again, she struggled with dating apps and trying to meet men organically. Just when she was losing hope, she decided to try to find love in a highly unusual manner; on TV in front of millions of viewers. America first fell in love with Joan during the inaugural season of “The Golden Bachelor.” However, her time on the show was cut short. Joan self-eliminated after choosing to return home to support her daughter who was suffering from postpartum depression.

Joan later returned to the small screen to become the first-ever Golden Bachelorette, and has since captivated audiences with her authenticity, strong family values, and zest for adventure. Her journey has proven that love can bloom even after the darkest hours, inspiring others who find themselves alone later in life to have the confidence to put themselves out there.

Cover STORY JOANVassos

A testament to modern women’s multifaceted lives, Joan seamlessly balances her roles as a mother of four children and grandmother of three. With a computer science degree from the University of Maryland, she has carved out a meaningful career in education, currently working in Alumni Relations and Annual Giving at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland.

Joan represents a powerful shift in how society views love and relationships after 60, proving that these golden years can be an exciting new time filled with possibility. Through her vulnerability and courage on national television, she’s shattered the notion that romance belongs only to the young. As she continues to share her journey, Joan isn’t just living her own story – she’s empowering countless others who might be hesitating to begin dating. Her message is clear: your best adventures might still be ahead, and it’s never too late to open your heart and mind to new beginnings.

P.O.W.E.R.’s Founder Tonia DeCosimo recently sat down with Joan and got the inside scoop on her exciting journey. Here is what she learned:

Who or what convinced you to go on national TV to find love?

I see people saying that it’s too hard to find love at this age. They make an effort and don’t continue the effort when things are discouraging. Because it’s hard to find people at the age of 61. The pool of people is very small. I came from a place of feeling worried that my future didn’t look as bright as it did before my husband passed away. We had planned a life together, and that was the only life that I ever had in my mind, and then when he passed away, all of a sudden, I had this blank slate. It was like a black hole was in front of me and I had no future, and that was really scary. So, my motivation was to fill that black hole- to not have to live with that the rest of my life. Did you think it was possible to fall in love in such a short period of time?

I was a bit of a skeptic. But Bachelor Nation has had many successful seasons. They also had a few not so

successful seasons, and I knew that I could have been in either one of those categories. I also went on the show not thinking that I needed to be engaged. It’s different looking for love at this age because I don’t have a biological clock and I’m not looking to build a life with somebody by buying our first house, having children, and working on our careers together. It’s something very different. So, getting married wasn’t necessarily my goal at the end of this eight-week period. It was to find somebody that I want to explore what life would look like with them. I was very surprised, probably like a lot of people are, when you actually fall in love that quickly, and I did. And it’s not what I expected, it’s not what I even went on the show attempting to do. I was skeptical like a lot of people. How can you fall in love that quickly? But, when it’s right, it’s right, and I knew it was. What does it feel like to become famous overnight?

It feels a little surreal. I don’t feel like I’m famous at all. I go about my daily life like I always did. Being “reality famous” and being “famous-famous” are two different things. I don’t have a particular talent. I don’t have an acting career. I’m not a singer. I’m not a corporate executive. I’m not out in the world doing some great philanthropic thing that makes me famous. I just went on TV and dated. So, I don’t feel like I have the right to be particularly proud of this fame. I didn’t earn it. I kind of lucked into it, so I feel like a bit of an imposter when it comes to being famous. We know you love Chock, but can you tell us one thing that annoys you about him? Nobody’s perfect, right?

We act like an old married couple. It’s been a couple of months, but we were lucky enough to have several “happy couple visits” that were scheduled for us. We had five of them, and they each lasted four or five days, so we spent a lot of time away from the mansion, but still not out in the real world. This is where we really got to know each other. It was secluded and it was just the two of us. I call it the “safehouse.” That got us to the point where we are now, where we are super comfortable out in public. So, he has definitely had a glimpse into my imperfections. He loves to tell this story

about when he took my phone charger. It’s a huge pet peeve of mine - I just want my charger plugged into the same outlet, so that I can find it in the morning. He took my charger one time and he’s like “I’ve never seen that side of you.” So, I think it’s more my faults that are coming out than his. The other weird thing that, once again, makes me look bad, is that he’s a hand-holder. And I don’t know if it’s an East Coast thing or if it’s just the family I grew up with. I felt very loved in my family, but we weren’t a touchy-feely family. So, when we’re walking down the street, he’s always holding my hand,

and it feels so weird to me. I’m always pushing him away like, “You don’t need to hold my hand all the time.” And he’s like, “I like to!”

Is there any advice you would give to women who are starting over and are reluctant to trust or open up again?

The last time I dated I was very young. I was in my twenties, and I found John and created this whole life. But at the age of 61, it’s a different kind of story, because dating seems a little undignified. You feel like maybe you look foolish. And I also felt kind of selfish; at this age, you should be in a support role to the generation that is coming up. At this point I have grandchildren. And I have children that are in their working years, and in their family development, and buying homes. I felt like going out and wanting to date was selfish, and I wasn’t doing what I was supposed to be doing, which is being in this support role. My life should be winding down while theirs is winding up and I should be helping them wind theirs up. So, I felt selfish. I want to say to everybody who has the same feelings I did; get rid of those feelings! You have a right to have a second life! The way that I finally got rid of those feelings was when I went on “The Golden Bachelor” and met these 21 other amazing women who had the most incredible stories and had gone through a lot in life. When they were saying they felt the same as I did, I would tell them, “Why would you think that, you have this whole life ahead of you.” But I wasn’t thinking that for myself. I was not feeling good about it. So, my advice is to shed the things that are holding you back and think about your life. I’m 61, and I had a wonderful 32 years of marriage with my husband John. And I think, if I’m lucky, I could have another 32 years with somebody else. Why deny that to yourself? I know that it’s hard to find someone - the pool is pretty small. But, think about the risk vs. the reward, and the reward could be so great. Do you believe in dating apps? They’re successful for a lot of people and I encouraged my kids to try them. I used Match.com and it felt like a job to me. I felt like I needed to be on my phone so much, being witty and flirty, to try and get to know people over text messages. I found that very hard. It felt

like a job, and at the time I had a job, and I was worried that I was going to get fired because I spent so much time on my phone because otherwise you would fall behind. It felt like a burden to me.

The night I filled out the application to be on “The Golden Bachelor,” I had gone out to a restaurant with my friend. I always made a point to sit at the bar, because then you’re more approachable. I really wanted to meet somebody out in the wild, face-to-face, rather than trying to do it over an app and then finding out they’re not the person you thought they were when you actually meet.

I remember saying to my friend, that I need to get back out there. My head was telling me, “You’re not getting any younger, you’re not getting any prettier. Life is going to pass you by if you keep waiting.” My heart wasn’t ready, but my head was trying to talk my heart into it. So, I was looking around the restaurant and I realized that everyone there was a couple. Even if I saw a man alone across the bar, I would assume he was married, because everybody our age is married. I realized there was no good way to meet anyone organically, so I thought a dating app was my best option. Except, I turned on the TV that night and they were doing a casting call for “The Golden Bachelor” and I decided to fill out the application. The rest is history.

What do you think is one of the biggest mistakes that women make when trying to find love?

I think you need to be very honest and open about what you need from a relationship. It is not fair to make a guy guess - you’re just going to end up wasting a lot of time. I think you should put everything out there right away. I did that when I went on “The Golden Bachelorette.” I told them I wasn’t leaving Maryland. I have family here, and that is something I’m not willing to budge on. I’m willing to go back and forth, but I will always have a home here. I didn’t want anybody coming on the show thinking I would move to where they live. I will make compromises, but I am not going to move. Do not be what you think they want you to be. Be yourself, because otherwise you’re not going to end up in the right place, with the right person. Or you’re going to be doing all the compromising. What’s next for you? Any exciting career plans?

I don’t know. I never expected to be here. You usually think about your career and about your future at a much younger age, so thinking that I have opportunities at this age feels very strange to me. So, I don’t really know what’s next. I like talking about being this age, and about finding love, and about life changing, and that it’s not too late. So maybe I could do a podcast or write a book.

Although I am not sure if I have enough content for a book because I had a good life before this. Generally, books start out with someone who has struggled. And, thankfully, I had a nice family, I grew up in a middle-class home, I went to the University of Maryland. I had parents who loved me and a husband who I created a great life with. So, I’m not sure if that’s a great basis for a book, expect that my story derailed when I was 58, when I lost my person and the one I was going to spend my future with. I think that’s where my story starts, and that’s only three years ago, so I’m not positive that I have a lot to talk about yet.

I do know that I love talking about what life looks like for me now, because it creates hope for people. I went on this show saying, “I only know how to be myself; I hope it’s good enough.” But, I really didn’t want the show to be about me. I wanted it to be about everybody like me- everybody this age or even older - trying to find love or start a new chapter in their lives. It’s scary, but I want to

inspire people to take that leap of faith, because they might end up with something great.

What does the word power mean to you?

When I think about power, I think about strength, not in an aggressive way, but in an influential way. Power means you have the ability to influence people to change or to grow. I’m not sure if I’m worthy of the word power, but I do hope the show helped people empower themselves. I hope it made them feel like they had the ability to change, and maybe I had a little bit of power in making them realize that.

When is the wedding?

Everybody wants to know that! There will be a wedding. Chock is my man, and I am his woman. There is no question that this is a done deal! But, planning a wedding after this very busy year sounds a little overwhelming to me right now. I really just want to be a regular couple because we haven’t had much time to do that. I want to go out to dinner with friends, go to parties, travel a little, or even just sit home, make dinner, and watch Netflix, without having to worry about a huge event to plan. I need maybe another six months or so of just being regular people. Maybe by summertime, I’ll be a little more in the mood to start planning.

Tell us one thing that people still don’t know about Joan. I hate to toot my own horn, but I think people don’t know that I’m actually pretty smart. I have a degree in computer science with a minor in math, and I think I’m a quick learner.

I can do calculus, not that anybody at this age ever needs you to do calculus!

Did you do your own hair and makeup for the show?

I did not do my own makeup. I had the most amazing makeup person named Gina, and I love her to this day. I did do my own hair. Sometimes my call times were very early, and I would have to be with Gina by 6am, so I would get up at 5am, take a shower, do my hair, and see her. After the makeup was done, I got my wardrobe and was off to a date.

How do you stay in such good shape?

I did get fairly lucky in the fact that I haven’t gained a ton of weight later in life. But, I do try to work out every day. I do YouTube videos for arms and abs, and I walk my dog.

Do you have a favorite saying or cliché?

I tell my kids that people treat you the way you allow them to treat you. And I try to live by that. I think it’s important to know that you deserve to be treated well, and you have to require it. And if you require it, people respect it.

Who is your favorite designer?

Chanel, hands down. I can’t even think of anybody that compares to Chanel, from the quilted bags to the Chanel suit, to the pearl buttons. It’s just iconic. Everybody can describe the Chanel style.

Who would you like to see next on “The Golden Bachelor?”

I have a lot of ideas about this. Everybody is looking towards Charles, who won everyone’s heart, and Mark, who is already known by a lot of people. But, there are a lot of men who people don’t really know very well. Such as Greg. He is super smart, has the quickest wit and is so much fun. He is not on anybody’s radar. Dan is also a great and funny guy. Then there’s Gary…there are so many other great men as well. I can say something positive about every single guy and why they should be the next Bachelor. What would you like to say to your fiancé right now?

Chock, you changed my life. You gave me hope, and you gave me a future that I’m looking forward to. Can you share a last piece of advice for women?

Don’t give up. You deserve to have a life. That goes for young and old. Finding love is not easy; you’re finding the person you’re going to spend the rest of your life with and it’s a big decision. Even though it requires work, the reward is so worth it.

TikTok- @joanvassos Instagram- @joan_vassos

You can find the entire Zoom interview with Tonia DeCosimo and Joan Vassos on the P.O.W.E.R. website

Men Who Empower Women

In this issue, we have a special section which features men who empower and uplift women. These men have been influenced by the women in their lives and in turn, have made it a point to help make a positive change and empower the women around them. P.O.W.E.R. appreciates the contributions of these outstanding men who represent a variety of industries. We hope you enjoy reading about them.

Joseph Saladino

Town Supervisor | Town of Oyster Bay, New York

On January 31, 2017, Joseph Saladino was sworn into office as the 70th Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor and immediately took action to increase governmental accountability, transparency, and integrity. He was responsible for cutting property taxes in 2018 and freezing property taxes from 2019 to 2025, putting nearly $10.4 million back in the pockets of homeowners.

Supervisor Saladino also instilled fiscal discipline and landmark reforms, laying the groundwork for the future. Without raising property taxes, his administration turned a multi-million-dollar deficit into a $100 million surplus. This financial turnaround was accomplished while also increasing services, upgrading parks, and repaving over 40% of Town roadways.

Supervisor Saladino has prioritized enhancing ethics, transparency, and accountability in government. From the creation of an independent inspector general’s office to the appointment of an independent board of ethics with real and meaningful oversight, the Town has safeguards in place and disclosure requirements for contractors, vendors, and employees to prevent misdeeds and conflicts of interest. Supervisor Saladino and the Town board were recognized by both Reclaim New York and the Empire Center for proactively improving transparency and providing residents unprecedented access to government.

Prior to serving as Town Supervisor, Saladino served residents in the New York State Assembly for six terms and was one of the original sponsors of New York State’s Property Tax Cap and STAR Rebate Checks. He led the fight for the complete hy-

draulic containment and remediation of the Grumman-Navy plume, the largest and most highly-concentrated plume of dangerous chemicals in a sole source aquifer anywhere in the nation. Saladino authored legislation that paved the way for the remediation initiative launched by New York State. His ongoing commitment to the environment is demonstrated in his environmental initiatives aimed at protecting the Town’s natural resources and drinking water, open space, and wildlife refuges on both the North and South Shores. On his watch, the Town of Oyster Bay earned recognition as a Climate Smart Community and was named a leader by NYSERDA for helping

assist residents with obtaining residential solar panel permits.

Supervisor Saladino is an outdoorsman, mountain climber, experienced fisherman, and boater who has studied marine resources and has brought this background to the government, protecting our waterways and preserving clean and plentiful drinking water. He is a musician and enjoys jamming with his band at local restaurants throughout the Town of Oyster Bay. He attended Tulane University and holds a Master’s Degree from the New York Institute of Technology, where he graduated summa cum laude. Joseph and his wife Halina reside in Massapequa and are the proud parents of three daughters.

When did you first realize you wanted to be involved in local politics?

In 1966, I campaigned alongside my father for New York State Assemblyman Frank McClosky. Four years later, I joined him on the campaign trail as he ran for and was elected to the Oyster Bay Town Council. My father’s passion for improving our community was driven by the desire to create a better place for his children. While other kids idolized sports stars, I admired the dedicated public officials serving both in Washington, D.C., and in our local government. These formative experiences inspired me to follow in my father’s footsteps and dedicate my own career to public service. This past May you held a ceremony to honor 10 “Women of Distinction” from Oyster Bay. Why do you believe honoring women is important?

It is essential to recognize the incredible work and achievements of the women in our communities. Let’s face it—while caring for their families, managing their households, and often supporting relatives, women also excel in demanding careers. That makes them true superheroes. I believe women deserve this recognition, and by honoring their contributions, we provide powerful examples for young people to follow. As a father to three daughters, what have you done as both a parent and as a Town Supervisor to empower them as women in your community?

Our daughters are remarkable women, which comes as no surprise, given that they were raised by an incredible mother. My wife, Halina, has balanced a high-responsibility career while caring for three daughters in every way, instilling strong

morals and values, and remaining their closest confidant—a balance that’s not easy to achieve. Halina has provided them with a blueprint for success, serving as an inspiring role model. Today, our daughters hold master’s degrees and have achieved great success in their own right. And the best news; my wife and I are excited to welcome a grandchild in early 2025.

Who were some of the most influential women in your life?

My grandmother Jesse was a trailblazer during the suffragette movement in the 1910s. While working at the Brooklyn Navy Yards, she led a team of women in the commanding officer’s office, managing the high-pressure task of getting naval ships built during World War I. While preparing paychecks for enlisted men, she noticed that new recruits were being paid more than the women in the office. When she confronted the commanding officer about this, he explained that the women would not receive equal pay because they were not enlisted. Unwilling to accept this, Grandma organized the women in her office, applying significant pressure on the commanding officer. Her leadership paid off, and in 1917, she became one of the first women from the New York Metropolitan area to be enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Grandma taught our family the true meaning of strength, resolve, and determination, and she showed us the importance of never giving up. Is there anything exciting on the horizon for the Town of Oyster Bay, Long Island?

The Town of Oyster Bay is thriving, with a long list of achievements that re-

flect our commitment to both preserving our suburban quality of life and driving economic growth. Private investment is pouring into the Town, from Massapequa to Bayville, with Hicksville at the heart of this transformation. A major $111 million private investment is bringing nearly 200 new residential units, along with vibrant retail and dining options, to the area. This is just one of many exciting projects underway.

Looking ahead, Town-funded initiatives will further improve transportation access, enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and beautify key areas. Additionally, waterfront redevelopment in Oyster Bay is on the horizon, reinforcing our vision for a vibrant, inclusive community.

Our administration is dedicated to ensuring that young people, families, and retirees can all find a place to call home in the Town of Oyster Bay, with ample recreational opportunities to enjoy. We continue to invest in senior centers, parks, athletic fields, roadways, and sidewalks while tackling important environmental initiatives like cleaning up the Grumman-Navy plume and building the region’s largest shellfish hatchery. These environmental efforts will ensure a better tomorrow for generations to come. What does the word power mean to you?

Power means the ability to make a difference. It allows us to help people, restore our community, and ensure that future generations can enjoy the resources, facilities, and benefits that the Town of Oyster Bay is known for. Power, when used appropriately and responsibly, is a crucial tool for achieving good works and fulfilling the needs of our residents of all ages. It means having the influence to advocate for necessary changes, protect our environment, and create opportunities that uplift everyone in our community. True power lies in listening to the voices of our neighbors and turning their concerns into meaningful actions that improve their quality of life.

www.oysterbaytown.com

How does your background as a former professional basketball player and as a licensed Realtor® help you succeed in your current role as co-owner of City Publications of Long Island?

My background equipped me with unique skills to drive success at City Publications of Long Island. Basketball taught me teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking, while real estate sharpened my negotiation skills and ability to build lasting relationships. Both careers instilled a competitive drive and adaptability, which I channel into creating impactful, results-driven marketing campaigns. These experiences enable me to guide clients toward growth with dedication, strategy, and a personalized approach.

What are the benefits and challenges of working so closely with your wife, Nadine, on a daily basis?

It has been both rewarding and uniquely challenging. Nadine and I complement each other’s strengths, bringing different perspectives and skills to the table, which enhances creativity and decision-making. On the flip side, differences

Travis Jackson

Owner | City Publications of Long Island

Travis Jackson, in partnership with his wife Nadine, heads City Publications of Long Island, specializing in tailored direct mail marketing and digital advertising solutions for businesses across Long Island. Together, they offer personalized campaigns designed to grow businesses, reach targeted local audiences, and drive measurable results. Travis is also a licensed Realtor® and Notary Public with Realty Executives Powerhouse. Prior to becoming a Realtor®, he played professional basketball for five years.

City Publications of Long Island demonstrates a commitment to empowering women through partnerships with Pure Mammography and the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. These collaborations align with their mission to support women in the community by making preventative healthcare, like mammograms, more convenient and approachable and by removing barriers to essential services. It also reflects the organization’s dedication to championing women, enhancing their well-being, supporting their journeys through health challenges, and helping them to take proactive steps in their healthcare journey.

in opinions can lead to tension, but we navigate these moments with mutual respect and a focus on solutions. Who was the most influential woman in your life and how did she inspire you?

My mom instilled the values and qualities that shaped who I am today. Her resilience and work ethic inspired me, giving me the strength and confidence to step into leadership roles. She’s always encouraged me to be the best version of myself, pushing me to strive for excellence. Why is it so important to you to partner with businesses that empower women?

Supporting women in business strengthens communities and creates more opportunities for growth and equality. Women bring unique perspectives and leadership styles that drive success. By collaborating with businesses that champion women, I can contribute to creating an environment where talent and hard work are valued above all else, regardless of gender. It’s about helping build a more inclusive future for everyone.

How do you try to empower the women that work for you and the women clients you serve?

We work hard to create a supportive environment where the women on our team can grow professionally and have equal opportunities to succeed. We make sure they have a platform to share their ideas and make meaningful contributions to the success of our company.

For our women clients, we create marketing campaigns that showcase their unique strengths and align with their business goals. We understand the challenges women entrepreneurs may face and work closely with them to develop strategies that boost their market presence and drive real growth. What does the word “power” mean to you?

To me, “power” is about leading with purpose and making a difference. It is not about physical strength or dominance. We have the opportunity to have a positive impact. Power is rooted in confidence and the willingness to act while inspiring others.

www.citypubnationwide.com/long-island

Rob Esposito believes in the power of women. The seeds of his business, Relocators, were planted by the enterprising spirit of his mother and grandmother. Esposito’s grandmother owned and rented apartments during the Depression and when she fell ill, his mother had the daunting job of emptying her home. Throwing generations of treasures into dumpsters didn’t sit well with her. In response, she founded Sisters in Charge to manage estate sales, a relatively unknown industry at the time.

In 2008, Esposito, inspired by his mother’s success, expanded on her idea. He started Relocators, offering small delivery services and cleanouts for his mom’s clients. He saw first-hand the emotional toll that transitioning out of a home takes on people, which led him to buy his first box truck. Since then, he has built Relocators into a thriving business with six locations in New York and Florida. The company specializes in local and long-distance residential moving, home clean-outs and junk removal, professional estate sales, online auctions, and secure storage. Relocators is also a top vendor handling restoration pack-outs by assisting restoration companies, major insurance carriers, and adjusters.

The influence of Esposito’s mother and grandmother is evident in his approach to his work ethic. Having grown up observing their entrepreneurial drive, he recognizes the value women bring to his team, where they fill three out of four management roles. Esposito is committed to fostering an environment where they can thrive and prosper.

Esposito regularly appears on podcasts and speaks to groups about entrepreneurship and how to lead and grow businesses. He recently secured a five-book deal and the first book “Nobody Move (Without Reading This)” was just published. The book, with a prologue written by rockstar Dee Snider from Twisted Sister, aims to ease the stress of moving by providing a psychological perspective and practical advice. Esposito hopes to make it a valuable resource for real estate professionals, therapists, and attorneys to personalize and give to their clients. Relocators’ new commercial featuring Snider was filmed by Emmy-winner Mike Amoia, and caught the attention of the media, prompting early pre-sales announcement of the book. It is an exciting time for Relocators.

With Esposito at the helm, Relocators has grown tremendously since its humble beginnings. Looking ahead, he plans to expand, focusing on involving his female managers in the process. His vision for the next decade includes employee ownership and further establishing Relocators as a leader in the moving and downsizing industry.

ESPOSITO ROB

Author Entrepreneur Owner

What leadership strategies have been key to your success?

Diplomacy - Never burn bridges. Even in situations where a conclusion cannot be reached, I make it a point to remain cordial.

Stewardship - I protect and safeguard the company’s reputation, assets, and long-term success.

Culture – Culture is something we value, and I try to make it something people are drawn to.

Growth - Most small businesses get to a place and settle. Contentment becomes complacency. You’re either growing or failing.

How does Relocators ease the stress for women who often take on the difficult responsibility of moving?

Relocators’ entire culture is based on helping people through the challenging times in their lives. The logistics of losing a parent, divorce, death, downsizing, etc., often falls on women. We are super communicative and understanding. We give advice and work to protect our clients from unforeseen issues that we know all too well may arise.

What inspired you to write your book and what are the biggest takeaways you hope readers gain from it?

I wanted to help people going through one of the most stressful experiences. The book is relatable, psychological, and life-changing. The stress of moving is hardly talked about, especially from a psychological standpoint. I foresee preparing millions of people for a major life event they aren’t even aware of by having real estate professionals, therapists, and attorneys give copies to every client about to experience a move.

www.usrelocators.com | www.nobodymovebook.com

Michael Caulo

Michael Caulo is a dynamic health and fitness professional with over a decade of experience transforming the lives of women and men through innovative wellness coaching, nutrition guidance, and fitness training. Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Michael is the founder and president of Lifestyle of Fitness, Ltd., a health and wellness brand that has served over 34,000 clients worldwide. Under his leadership, Lifestyle of Fitness has grown from a grassroots venture to a thriving, internationally recognized brand, earning accolades such as Lux Life Magazine’s Best Health Coach (2018) and Most Innovative Health & Fitness Brand (2019).

Michael’s work has reached an audience of more than half a million people through his popular podcast, blog, and social media channels, where he shares insights and inspires others to become their best selves. Alongside corporate partnerships, branded appearances, and content features on platforms like ESPN, LiveStrong, and BodyBuilding.com, Michael brings an energetic and supportive approach to health, rooted in his passion for empowering others.

Throughout his career, Michael has guided thousands of individuals, from everyday clients to elite fighters, toward achieving their fitness and lifestyle goals. With certifications across multiple specialties and a rich professional background in areas like Muay Thai coaching and wellness programming, Michael is committed to making sustainable health solutions accessible and achievable for all.

In what ways does your martial arts background shape your approach to your fitness and wellness coaching?

This is a unique marriage I’m grateful to create with martial arts infusing my health coaching. There are so many parallels to draw from martial arts and compare to life. For example, a “fight camp,” or the training period leading up to a fight, creates a mixed emotional bag, from fear to pure joy and everything in between. In my experience, allowing all of these feelings to exist in my coaching really opens a connection to the person I am working with, to foster a safe environment with vulnerability. This allows honest conversations, reflection, and adjustments to best serve all involved. The fitness aspect also has a positive impact. I always tell everyone you don’t have to be

a fighter to look like one or get hit in the face to feel empowered in your body. In your opinion, how does fitness and wellness help empower women?

Empowerment is such a key word here, especially with the mental side. While exercise and wellness have a physical and aesthetic benefit, the biggest change I see time and time again in the women we work with is confidence. Digging deeper, it’s not just confidence in themselves physically but the confidence to be the best version of yourself, knowing you can reach for what may have felt impossible. What key piece of advice would you give to women, specifically, who are first starting out on a fitness journey and are unsure where to start?

Don’t be afraid to weight train, but

get a coach or trainer at the beginning to make sure you have a solid technique and avoid injury. I can’t emphasize this enough with the female clients my team and I work with. Weight training won’t make you bulky by itself, but more than anything it will increase your functional strength. In the long term, this will help when bone density becomes more of a factor later in life.

What does the word “power” mean to you?

To me it is what one invites into an environment. For example, power is the impact you can have when you walk into a room and everyone feels safe or calm. If you embrace true power, you don’t need to bring anyone down, but build them up and not be fear-driven in any decision being made.

www.lifestyleoffitness.com

Founder and Board-Certified Health Coach

EDUARDO BEZERRA DE LIMA

PHOTOGRAPHER

Eduardo Bezerra de Lima is a photographer and videographer whose work covers a variety of topics. Though his background is in film and advertising, he was forced to change careers when his home country of Peru was rocked by the Covid pandemic. Currently living in Florida, Eduardo focuses on photography of custom luxury products, such as cars, though his portfolio also includes striking portraits, breathtaking scenery, and socially-conscious art.

In what ways is your work different from other content creators and photographers?

I come from the film world, specifically advertising. For 15 years I was an assistant director, so I worked closely with various departments in the filmmaking process. I had a lot of mentors to choose from. I worked with some of the best professionals the planet has to offer; directors of photography, set decorators, art directors, and more. Amazing professionals from India, Argentina, and France taught me to see and to create in so many different ways. I also have a very particular background from working in Peru where we had to do magic with reduced budgets and a crazy culture and political system. What is the most creative project you have completed?

I haven’t done it yet. I have five movies in mind, two of which I have been planning for 20 years. They have been molded and changed through my experiences and the knowledge I have gained. I’ve done some pretty fun and creative things in my life- I’ve filmed over 500 commercials, some in amazing places like the middle of the Amazon, but the best is still yet to come.

How do you empower women in your photography or content creation?

Some of my biggest mentors in life, professionally and academically, have been women. I’ve always learned from the women in my life, such as my mother, my wife, my mother-in-law, and many female friends. Professionally, I’ve had two mentors that were women, from whom I learned so much about filmmaking and production. Most importantly, my biggest mentor has been my wife. She has many health struggles, but she is the strongest and wisest woman I know.

I’d like to say I empower women by just being there, by not taking the power of femininity for granted. I try to embrace that view and help women professionally or personally when I can. My sensibility and way of viewing the world has been nurtured by women and I can step out of my masculinity to think about things differently. What changes would you like to see in terms of opportunities and representation for women in your field?

We need more women directors, we need more women photographers, we need more women camera operators. I worked with an extremely talented

female director in Peru. She was an A.D. for about 10 years and when she made the leap to directing commercials, she was basically the only woman. She was an amazing story teller and incredibly funny but very few people gave her a chance. She taught me so much, but I saw the challenges that she faced and I see those same challenges for women in every industry. I believe in equal opportunities and I believe that women do bring a different viewpoint to the table. We should learn from and embrace that. What does the word power mean to you?

Power is the ability to apply your skill and knowledge to achieve your innermost desires. It is having the resilience to keep going. I don’t believe in stepping over people for it, but I do believe in being wise enough to navigate whatever life throws at you. Sometimes we put so much emphasis on the objective being money or success in business, but power can mean beating an addiction, power can mean becoming the person you admire, power can be having the faith you need to help others.

www.chichoandthecamera.com

Steven Goldsmith

Partner

With over 34 years of experience as an attorney, Steven Goldsmith has dedicated his career to helping those in need, including many women seeking justice through workers’ compensation claims. Since 1996, Goldsmith and Tortora has represented clients who have suffered workplace injuries and guided them through the legal process to secure the benefits and support they deserve. His compassionate approach and strong advocacy have helped countless individuals, ensuring their rights are protected and their voices heard.

Steven’s commitment to empowering women extends beyond his professional practice. He is a long-time supporter of the National Organization for Women’s Safety Awareness, a charity founded by his wife, Lidia Szczepanowski. For nearly two decades, he has been an active participant in promoting the organization’s mission to raise awareness about violence prevention and provide resources for women’s safety, contributing to a safer and more equitable environment for women everywhere.

What led you to focus your career on the specialty of workers’ compensation?

I applied for an internship during my third year of law school and it was with a workers’ compensation firm. So, I literally stumbled upon it. Fortunately, I loved the practice and made it my career. Can you tell us some of the most common workplace injury scenarios that occur with women, in particular?

A majority of the women that I represent suffer injuries while employed in the healthcare industry. These types of jobs are extremely physical and many cases arise from their day-to-day duties. Many women may be apprehensive to file a claim against their employer, so can you share some reassurances about

A proud graduate of SUNY Binghamton, Steven earned his law degree from Touro University Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center in 1990. Since then, he has built a career that not only demonstrates legal expertise but also showcases his leadership and management skills. From overseeing all aspects of his firm to representing clients in complex legal matters, Steven has continually demonstrated his commitment to fairness, justice, and advocacy for all.

Steven also brings his leadership skills to his community, currently serving as the vice president of the Board of Managers of the Westhampton Landings Condominium Association. He and Lidia have been proud residents of Dix Hills, New York, and have owned their unit at Westhampton Landings since 2016. As avid boaters and active members of the community, they are committed to making a positive impact in their local neighborhood.

Through his legal practice, community involvement, and advocacy for women’s safety, Steven exemplifies a life dedicated to service, empowerment, and meaningful change.

the protections in place for workers’ compensation claimants, and how you support them through this?

Perhaps the most important reassurance is that it is illegal for an employer to terminate an employee for filing a WC claim. It would be discriminatory to terminate solely for filing a claim. The same protection is afforded to all employees. Tell us about a particularly meaningful case or time when you helped empower a woman or women.

We had the opportunity to represent many flight attendants in recent “uniform cases.” Their new uniforms were literally making them ill. We were the first firm to win such a case and it was groundbreaking.

How has your work for the National Organization for Women’s Safety Awareness made a difference for women in your community and nationwide?

Working with NOWSA has been very gratifying over the years. NOWSA has helped hundreds of women and to be a part of that has brought me a sense of accomplishment not measured by money. What does the word power mean to you?

To me, power means influence. A powerful woman has the ability and confidence to effect change- namely, betterment for women in every aspect of their lives.

www.gntcomplaw.com

Jeffery Greener, a partner at Rivkin Radler, LLP, has been practicing law for over 25 years. Jeff’s practice encompasses estate and business succession planning, developing asset protection strategies, and assistance with elder law issues. Having considerable experience in special needs and long-term care planning, Jeff also counsels clients on a broad range of legal and financial issues relating to Medicaid, eligibility for government benefits, retirement distributions, real property transfers, probate, and estate administration.

Jeff has extensive experience in estate administration, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) audits and other tax controversies, business formations and dissolutions, and the creation and maintenance of corporate, partnership, and limited liability companies. He also counsels nonprofit organizations, including public and private charities. Additionally, Jeff is experienced in structuring start-ups, obtaining exemptions, and advising on compliance and governance issues.

A frequent lecturer on the topics of estate, retirement, and business planning, Jeff has served as a board member and as chairman of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. He currently is serving as Deputy Mayor of the Village of Kensington, New York. Jeff is a member of the board of American Friends of Israel Navy Seals.

Partner

Jeffrey Greener

For what reasons would one need an estate attorney?

Estate attorneys help clients protect, preserve, and pass on their wealth. People concerned about how their assets will be distributed after their death need an estate attorney. Especially in instances of blended families, or where a child requires ongoing medical or psychiatric care, an estate attorney can create the documents that will make sure your assets go to your intended heirs and protect the child’s interests. An attorney can minimize estate taxes, navigate complicated estate laws, and clearly define your wishes in your estate plan, thereby minimizing legal battles after you’ve passed on. What qualities should someone look for when choosing an estate attorney?

It’s important that you feel comfortable with your estate attorney since the relationship could last your lifetime and perhaps beyond, as your estate attorney will likely also assist your heirs. A good estate attorney is both knowledgeable and compassionate. They should want to help you further your own goals instead of imposing their goals on you. They should be adept at developing customized estate plans since no two clients have the same financial and family situation. Finally, it’s important that your attorney be responsive.

How often should estate plans be reviewed and updated, and what

life events might trigger the need for changes?

It’s a good rule of thumb to review your estate planning documents every three to five years, but any time there has been a major life event, such as a marriage, the birth of a child, a divorce, an inheritance, or retirement, it is critical to update your estate plans.

Some widows can be especially vulnerable when their husband passes away, specifically in cases where their husband handled the finances. How do you help these women through the financial legalities and empower them for the future?

The first thing I do is caution them about falling prey to fraudsters who are adept at targeting widows. Next, I assess their financial knowhow and desire to manage their own finances. If a widow is incapable or unwilling to make financial decisions and pay bills, I first try to enlist the support of an adult child. If that isn’t possible, there are professionals who, for a fee, can take care of money matters. I can also recommend a financial adviser to help manage an investment portfolio. What is the difference between good power and bad power?

Someone who wields good power uses their influence to benefit others. Bad power entails advancing one’s own interests at the expense of others.

www.rivkinradler.com

As a surgical oncologist specializing in diseases of the breasts, Dr. Dwight De Risi has had the opportunity to treat over 40,000 patients in tandem with a team of dedicated doctors, nurses, technicians, plastic surgeons, physical therapists, and an incredible office staff. He is dedicated to tailoring treatment protocols to each patient while helping them navigate a harrowing and life-changing diagnosis.

In 2000, Dr. De Risi founded the Lean on Me Breast Cancer Network, a nonprofit organization that provides support for new breast cancer patients by pairing them one-on-one with volunteers who have survived similar diagnoses. In addition to training over 80 volunteers

Dr. Dwight De Risi

Oncologist

You’re known for your compassionate and dedicated approach to breast health. Can you share how you put patients at ease during such an anxious time?

First and foremost, you must instill trust in each patient. The key to this is showing you care about their condition and their future. You need to explain everything regarding their diagnosis and treatment options in easy-to-understand terminology, and you must always make sure that no matter their condition, when they leave the office, they take with them the light of hope.

Empowerment comes from making informed decisions. How do you ensure your patients fully understand their treatment options and any potential risks or benefits?

I work with my team of physicians, and together we tailor the treatment protocol to each individual patient’s situation. All options are presented to the patient, including risks, benefits, and

to provide peer support, the organization also offers education seminars, updates on emerging research and treatment strategies, weekly group support sessions, and care packages for patients.

Among the organizations that have honored Dr. De Risi for his work are the American Cancer Society, the American College of Surgeons, the Sass Arena Foundation, Susan G. Komen, Glen Cove Cares, New York College of Holistic Medicine, Network Magazine, The David Award, Beth C. Tortolani Foundation, and the Islanders’ Hockey Fights Cancer night.

Married for 52 years, Dr. De Risi and his wife have four children and seven grandchildren.

potential complications, usually with literature describing the details discussed. Then, a decision is made based on what makes the most sense at the end of the consultation. These are very trying times for everyone. Are there any precautions or lifestyle changes women can implement to lessen their chances of developing breast cancer?

I spend a great deal of time discussing viable options with each patient, including ways to lessen their chances of developing breast cancer. A few items that top the list include exercise, eating more fruits and vegetables and less red meat, minimizing alcohol intake, and stopping smoking. Vitamin D3 and turmeric taken daily are a great addition to the supplements.

Can you share any new developments or treatment options that show promise?

The best is yet to come. I am predicting with the exciting new advancements in diagnosis and systemic therapies that

surgery of the breast will be a treatment of the past. There are new blood tests that can pick up breast cancer five years before a mammogram. The newer systemic therapeutic medications are now very targeted to each individual type of cancer and are working so well that many patients with extensive disease before treatment have a complete pathologic response with no residual cancer identified at time of surgery. What does the word “power” mean to you?

Knowledge is power. Never make any life-changing decisions until you completely understand your options. Always use reliable and reputable sources. Never compare your disease to any others, as each cancer is different. Keep focused, maintaining the strength and courage to get through every day, and never look negatively on any obstacle encountered. Never forget the power of prayer. www.nycancer.com/people/dr_dwight_de_risi

DDr. Arthur W. Perry, MD, FACS

Plastic Surgeon

Perry Plastic Surgery

r. Arthur Perry is a distinguished plastic surgeon with a private practice in New York City, where he teaches cosmetic surgery trainees from Columbia and Cornell Universities. After receiving his M.D. from the Albany Medical College of Union University in 1981, Dr. Perry served as a faculty member for Rutgers, the University of Pennsylvania, and Columbia University. His resume also includes numerous contributions to medical journals and textbooks.

For 10 years, Dr. Perry was the Governor’s appointee to the New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners, a tenure which earned him the Distinguished Service Award for Outstanding Contributions to Plastic Surgery from the New Jersey Society of Plastic Surgeons. In 2024, the American Cancer Society named him as the Medical Honoree for the creation of a skin cream designed to decrease damage from radiation therapy.

Dr. Perry has appeared on the Discovery Channel and on “The Dr. Oz Show,” and has been a guest on “Good Morning America,” “Oprah,” “Red Table Talk,” “Tamron Hall,” and other programs. For 19 years, he has hosted “What’s Your Wrinkle” on WOR radio. He has been quoted in USA Today, The New York Times, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, and other media.

Dr. Perry’s line of scientifically proven, nontoxic, and fairly-priced skin care products are available on Amazon.

Can you tell us the most important factors to consider when choosing a plastic surgeon?

The single most important criterion for choosing a plastic surgeon is certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This ensures that the doctor has a certain knowledge base. Beyond that, look at their medical school training and current hospital affiliations. Check the State Department of Health for any disciplinary action and the number of malpractice suits. Finally, ask to see photos of the doctor’s other patients and be sure that the aesthetic goals of the doctor coincide with your desires. How has your experience as a New Jersey government regulator shaped the way you practice?

During that time, not only did I make the rules that govern doctors, but I also analyzed complaints against doctors and decided whether discipline was needed. I

learned so much about medical practice and how society interacts with physicians. I am a much better doctor as a result.

What sets your skincare line apart from the others on the market?

When working for the New Vitality Corporation, I had carte blanche to create the best skincare line available. I read thousands of papers and developed a very effective, very simple line of products. After the company was sold, I created my own unique brand of skincare with that knowledge and patented my powerhouse NightThyme serum. I consider my preservative- and sulfate-free CleanThyme soap to be my most unique product, with three patents awarded. It can even remove most makeup!

How do you think your personal approach and honestly empowers your female clientele?

Since I fully understand the spectrum of beauty from skincare to surgery, I offer

a comprehensive approach for women who want to regain their past beauty, or simply want to look better. I have always had the attitude that I am an educated advisor for my patients. I give my advice and opinion, but in the end, I listen to what she wants. Whether a woman wants small or large breasts or wants to keep that cleft in her chin that her mother also had – these are decisions that the patients should make, not the plastic surgeon. I spend two full hours with patients before surgery giving them enough information to make good decisions. What does the word “power” mean to you?

Power is the ability to control one’s destiny. Whether it is an educational or societal goal, or a personal health decision, having power is the ultimate expression of freedom. My mother taught me that.

www.perryplasticsurgery.com

EElisha Wellerstein

Attorney

lisha Wellerstein is the founder of Wellerstein Law Group, PC, an elder law firm with four offices across New York City and Long Island. Specializing in estate planning and Medicaid planning, Elisha is committed to helping seniors— particularly senior women—live out their lives with dignity. By preserving their income, assets, and legacy, he ensures that his clients can remain at home and receive the care they need without financial strain.

Born in Israel to Brazilian parents, Elisha moved to New York at the age of three. Growing up as one of eight siblings, including six accomplished sisters, he was inspired by the women in his family who balanced careers in law, accounting, speech therapy, nursing, special education, and entrepreneurship—all while nurturing their families. His mother raised eight children as an undocumented immigrant and ran a daycare from their home. At 40, she went back to school to earn her master’s degree and continues to work.

Within his firm, Elisha fosters a supportive environment where women thrive—his head paralegal, leading a team of six, and his office manager are both women who have been integral to the firm’s success for over eight years.

Family is at the heart of Elisha’s life. He and his wife Leah have a blended family including seven children and one grandson named Archer. The family shares a love for animals, caring for three dogs, two cats, and two horses.

Through your work preserving assets and ensuring seniors can remain at home, you’re directly improving the lives of many women. Can you share a particularly meaningful example of how your work has empowered a female client and her family?

Mrs. Thompson (name changed), an 82-year-old widow, had lived in her Brooklyn home for over 50 years. After her husband passed away, she found herself struggling with daily tasks due to arthritis and early signs of dementia. Mrs. Thompson was concerned about the rising costs of in-home care and feared that she would have to sell her home and deplete her savings to afford the assistance she needed. She also wanted to preserve her assets for her two daughters and grandchildren.

I sat down with her and her daughters to discuss her situation in detail. I

guided her through the complexities of Medicaid planning in New York, and we developed a comprehensive estate plan tailored to her needs. By restructuring her assets legally and ethically, Mrs. Thompson became eligible for Medicaid-covered home care services. This allowed her to receive the assistance she needed without financial strain or the risk of losing her home. She could maintain her independence and dignity, living comfortably in the place she cherished. Do you feel women attorneys are equally respected in the legal field or is there more work to be done in this area?

I believe that women attorneys are generally respected by their colleagues and other professionals. Over the years, the legal field has made significant progress toward gender equality, and many women have risen to prominent positions, showcasing their expertise and

leadership. However, some senior clients may still hold outdated views on gender roles, which can affect their interactions with female attorneys. This isn’t reflective of the profession as a whole but highlights that there’s still work to be done in changing societal perceptions. What does the word “power” mean to you?

To me, power is the ability to control one’s own destiny and to hold oneself and others accountable. It’s the capacity to effect change and help shape the world into a place that reflects our highest ideals. Power is the ability to positively impact people’s lives. Most importantly, power embodies responsibility—the responsibility to make the world around us a better place and to bring God’s light into this world.

www.wellersteinlawgroup.com

Jared’s Leads is a marketing agency based in San Diego founded over 17 years ago by Jared Knapp. They have generated $122M+ in client revenue and have partnered with companies like Universal, Hilton, Victoria’s Secret, Buick, and many more.

Jared’s Leads have been recognized twice by Inc. 5000 (#728) as one of America’s fastest-growing companies and are proudly accredited by the Better Business Bureau.

Their expertise lies in delivering premium data, advanced lead generation, and customized marketing solutions. Whether you need exclusive leads, AI-powered tools, or full-funnel marketing strategies, their systems are built to deliver results.

Let Jared’s Leads help take your business to the next level.

At Wholistic Fitness NY, we offer personalized fitness, nutrition, and wellness services both on-site and virtually. Led by Rev. Joanne Angel Barry-Colon, a health and wellness expert with over 40 years of experience, we help women over 40 get strong and embrace the power of weightlifting. Our customized prescription plans combine fitness, nutrition, and holistic healing modalities to help you achieve your goals and revolutionize your overall well-being.

Spiritual and physical transformations

Holistic training

Bodybuilding

Numerology

Chakras

Reiki

WHOLISTIC FITNESS NY wholisticfitnessny.com

Tonya Shaw

In-Home Aide Health Worker

Personal Assist Healthcare

Tonya Shaw is a home health worker with Personal Assist Healthcare. In addition to healthcare tasks, Tonya focuses on empowering her clients as they contend with illnesses or injuries. She describes home healthcare as not only her job, but her calling. Her mother’s love of caring for others, both personally and professionally, was a key factor in Tonya’s career choice. Tonya’s mother, Debbie, sadly passed away in spring of 2016 after a battle with cancer. Losing her mother was a difficult time for Tonya, particularly since her father had passed just months before, but she takes comfort in the knowledge that they are proud of her.

“Everybody called her mama,” said Tonya of her mother. She remembers Debbie as a loving woman who loved bluebirds and would give anyone the shirt off her back. Her motto was “you don’t have to be great to start something, but you have to start in order to be great.”

Rev. Joanne Angel BarryColon OWNER

Finding Love after Forty in 2025

Not Everybody Gets to Choose from 21 Eligible Men All at Once and be a Golden

Bachelorette

I’m super excited that P.O.W.E.R. chose me to connect with you beautiful women and help those of you looking for love to push through all the limiting beliefs that keep you stuck!

My online course, The Never Too Late to Love Soulution, helps women reignite their inner light for the self-love, courage, and the confidence needed to step back into their own POWER.

In working with me you’ll find clarity on why you’re struggling to get back out there in the dating world and find your very own special someone.

YOU deserve love!

FRANCESCA M. CAPUTO

Five reasons why you may not get the results you’ve been hoping for:

1

A long-ter m relationship requires a solid and long-term relationship with yourself first and foremost. Have you spent the time truly getting to know yourself, or do you just go from one relationship to the next? Doing the same old things over and over thinking you will get different results will drive you crazy. Are you sitting in the same restaurants and bars? Or are you HOME ALONE? Do you keep choosing the same TYPE? Venture out of your comfort zone and start to date someone you never thought you would! Remember “Variety is the spice of life!”

2

Moder n day dating is somewhat different, WE help you figure out what is best for you, there is NO one size fits all scenario. We’re all individuals.

3

Know that it truly does not matter how beautiful, how tall, short, thin, plump, or how rich you are. What attracts people to one another is so much deeper than the surface, It is your HEART. Our hearts hold memory....... what does your heart need to heal and let go of?

4

Your mindset needs to shift.

Being at PEACE, (DEEP peace within yourself!) I teach you the ways to meditate and pray to get you what your heart desires. To truly connect with yourself and live and love your best life!

5 pages.francescacaputotolivelove. com/fmc-landing-page

Click the link below and mention you are a P.OW.E.R. woman for a free consultation or to join our Facebook Community Group

P.O.W.E.R.

Patricia J. Merrill

Patty Merrill Counseling and Education Services COUNSELING Owner Crowley, TX

Yadira Leal Faherty

National Emergency and Response GOVERNMENT

Disaster Case Manager Boerne, TX

Diane Merrill-Wigginton Jeweled Dagger Publishing LITERATURE Author Kalispell, MT

Doris Iheagwam Platinum Community Care

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Worker Brooklyn, NY

Coralie Huges Jensen CHJ Author LITERATURE Author North Andover, MA

Joan Nichole Rose Rise Up NONPROFIT Owner Addison, TX

Maxine Schnall Wives Self Help Foundation

LITERATURE Author Fort Lauderdale, FL

Judy Diana Chamberlain Villecco

Diane Chamberlain

LITERATURE

Author Williamsburg, VA

Kylee R. Knoblett

Buffalo Wild Wings HOSPITALITY

Assistant General Manager Greenfield, IN

Michelle A. Varga Body Mind Soul Studios/ Varga Inc. HEALTHCARE Artist Eugene, OR

Lita Neumann

Lita Neumann Music

MUSIC

Singer, Songwriter, Music Teacher Altadena, CA

Tiffany Moore Moore Affordable Credit

FINANCIAL SERVICES CEO Milwaulkee, WI

Berea “Bree” Thompkins Family Onward NONPROFIT Founder, CEO Los Angeles, CA

Elie Bernhardt Imagine Design and Graphics

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING Owner San Diego, CA

Rose M. Johnson

Rustic Rose Assisted Living HEALTHCARE Owner

Centennial, CO

Jean L. Tenuta JT SCIENCE COMMUNICATION

Medical Science Liaison, Medical Writer Kenosha, WI

Theresa Tremmel Anderson

Tremmel-Anderson Trucking

TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS Owner Ixonia, WI

Background Photo: Filip Bunkens, Unsplash

Janet DeMaria Skadoosie

APPAREL AND FASHION Owner Placerville, CA

Allison Hart Bling on Things, LLC APPAREL AND DÉCOR CEO, Artist Nashville, TN

Lisa Evergin Department of Defense GOVERNMENT

Army Community Service Director Daegu, South Korea

Wanda Roush

Ella’s Pearl Publishing LITERATURE Author Fallston, MD

Jessica Johnson Golden Pedestal Properties, LLC REAL ESTATE

Property Manager Springfield, MA

Gwendolyn Miller

Ms. Gwen’s Early Learning Childcare CHILDCARE Educator Thomasville, GA

Sarah Roughton Olympus Nails BEAUTY

Nail Technician Belton, MO

Kara Hungate

Kara Hungate Design INTERIOR DESIGN Designer Cleveland Heights, OH

Blakely Dimsdale

Tier 3-D Consulting, LLC CONSULTING

Independent Consultant Covington, GA

Marla Massengale USA Supreme Miss BEAUTY CEO Greenville, SC

Rosemary Woods

Bible Way International MINISTRY Pastor Richmond Hill, GA

Judith E. Grey Miami-Dade County Public Schools

EDUCATION

EDUCATOR Pembroke Pines, FL

Lechaun Milton GTA Independence HEALTHCARE CNA East Hartford, CT

Alida Quinones

Elon Management

REAL ESTATE

Property Manager

Saint Petersburg, FL

Sherrie Shahat

Bayada Health Services HEALTHCARE

Home Health Aide Hoboken, NJ

Marissa Cherepanov No Girl Left Behind Event, Inc. NONPROFIT

Visionary CEO Keizer, OR

Chantelle Crowell Z Children’s Books LITERATURE Author Charlotte, NC

Michele Wallace Campanelli

Author OUTSTANDING

Michele Wallace Campanelli is an American writer, singer, and celebrity who launched her professional writing career in the early 1990s, focusing on short stories and fiction novels. Her work has received widespread acclaim, with nine stories landing on bestseller lists, two of which reached the coveted #1 spot on The New York Times bestseller list. Michele’s short stories have been showcased in over 30 internationally acclaimed anthologies.

Captivating readers worldwide, Michele has written both novels and nonfiction work, reaching an audience of over 57 million. She is affiliated with prestigious publishers such as Simon & Schuster, Chronicle Books, Fireside Books, Fictionwise, Whiskey Creek Press, Wee Creek Press, Florida Today Newspaper, Woman’s World Magazine, Adamsmedia, McGraw-Hill, Multnomah Books, Red Rock Press, HCI, America House Publishing, and Sloth Dreams Books & Publishing.

In addition to having her work recognized on adult and children’s bestseller lists, Michele is a two-time recipient of the prestigious Seal of Excellence Award. She is also a dynamic business leader, serving as CEO of Regal Entertainment Services, LLC and as the social media director for the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra.

Michele earned an M.S. in Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and is a candidate for an Ed.D. in Education from Trident University. In her leisure time, she enjoys cruising, traveling, and singing.

www.michelecampanelli.com

Donna Richter

Author

Donna M. Richter is an author and writer with Noble House/Dorrance Publishing. She has written children’s books and mystery books. She has also authored “My Life’s Poetic Stories,” a collection of poetry that she hopes will inspire and move her readers.

Donna holds an A.A. in Literature and enjoys crocheting and reading in her free time.

Who or what influenced you to start writing?

I began writing at the age of seventeen. I believe I’ve inherited my writing from my grandfather. I wrote my first poem when I should have been doing my homework. I continued writing poetry through adulthood and here I am today, still writing. Do you have a favorite scene or passage in your book that is especially meaningful to you?

There is an interesting scene

from a poem I wrote about teenagers growing up, and how this compares to other everyday struggles. What do you hope readers will learn from your book?

I encourage my teenage readers to express their feelings throughout their teenage years and beyond. They should be encouraged to express themselves in any given situation. Communication is of the utmost importance to everyday life.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power to me means to be in charge of oneself. It means feeling important, being strong, being a leader, and holding my head high when I need to.

What’s next on your reading list?

Books on my reading list are literature, mysteries, science fiction, comedy, and fashion. www.linkedin.com/in/donnarichter-3122b6b3/

Tiona H. Sapphire

“Kasimir: The Volkov Mafia”

Kasimir Volkov is the head of the Volkov Mafia and, through bloodshed and brutality has earned the title Beast of Boston. When the monster everybody fears encounters a female whose beauty is equally addictive and dangerous, he vows to possess her by any means necessary. Though she fights him at every turn, she will submit to his will. Aaliyah Ivanov will not be tamed by anyone, let alone a man. But she will do anything to maintain her freedom, even if that means becoming the tamer of the beast.

Denise Deburst Gines

“The Seventh Day”

Julie Nygard

“Dare to Pair: The Ultimate Guide to Chocolate & Wine Pairing”

“Dare to Pair” is the bible of chocolate and wine. It includes everything you need for a chocolate and wine pairing adventure including over 40 wines with two suggest chocolate pairings each, information about the growing regions and flavors of many grapes, how to taste wine, how to eat chocolate properly, and how to put the entire concept together. Websites, references and recipes are also included to make finding your perfect pairing easy. “Dare to Pair” isn’t just a book, it’s an experience.

Author Denise DeBurst Gines discovered that God is looking for an encounter with us every day, even in the small things we do. Still, we are so busy, and we don’t grasp the opportunity to recognize and acknowledge Him. He wants us to experience His different characteristics by understanding what His names reveal. Each name personifies a different aspect of his character.

God created and completed His work by the seventh day. In doing so, He provides every resource we need to be successful in living out our God-given destiny. We live in the Seventh Day, a day that is blessed and sanctified, where we only need to learn to access the undeniable resources that He has already provided.

Once we understand that we are no longer in a day of waiting for things to happen to us, something powerful can happen through us. When we seek God’s truth and desire to honor our covenant with Him, we have access to all of God’s promises.

“The Seventh Day” shares personal stories of what it means to experience God in His different characteristics. Each name of God carries a different perfection of character which is willing and able to fulfill His promises to those who believe and trust Him.

Alkebu-lan

“Seven Generations”

“Alkebulan: Seven Generations” brings a family’s history to life, revealing seven generations of resilience, love, and endurance. Passed down through the ages, these true stories now stand at the forefront of their identity today.

Victoria Wieck

“Million Dollar Passion: How to Turn Your Idea into a Multimillion-Dollar Business”

Barbara Gibby

Details all the tools necessary to innovate, scale, and dominate your chosen industry.

After leaving the corporate world to spend more time with her family, Korean-born entrepreneur Victoria Wieck started her jewelry company with no experience, investors, or inside connections. Despite many challenges along the way, she grew her business, without sacrificing that family time, to over $500 million in retail sales. In “Million-Dollar Passion: How to Turn Your Idea into a Multimillion-Dollar Business,” Victoria shares the low-cost, immediately actionable business strategies that can help first-time or experienced entrepreneurs, innovators, inventors, creatives, or anyone with a dream of self-made business success to innovate, scale, and dominate their chosen industries.

“Uncle Ted: A G.I.’s Journal of World War II”

Barbara Gibby’s passion for documenting the lives of family members is only surpassed by her unerring sense of history. In this exciting narrative, she faithfully follows Uncle Ted from the day he was drafted into the army in 1941 to the end of WWII. During this young G.I.’s tour of duty he had several assignments. He served as a gunner with the Air Corps in B-17s as well as driving a fast truck for the Red Ball Express, which was the hot line transportation outfit that delivered vital supplies to the front lines in Europe. But in November 1944, Ted was on his way to England, and only one month later, parachuted into the Siegfried Line at the Belgium-German border. As soon as he touched the ground, he found himself in one of the bloodiest battles of the European Theatre of War, The Battle of the Bulge. For the next five months he would chronicle the worst, terror-filled experiences of his life and this is his story, a true reflection of an American G.I.

Robert Esposito

“Nobody Move Without Reading This”

Corner BOOK

Moving-it’s one of life’s greatest stressors, right up there with death and divorce. With 25.6 million Americans making the leap in 2023 alone, the whirlwind of logistics, emotions, and change can feel overwhelming. But what if you could transform this chaotic transition into an empowering journey?

In “Nobody Move,” Robert Esposito draws on over 17 years of experience in the moving industry to guide you through one of life’s toughest challenges. This book isn’t just a collection of tips; it’s a comprehensive roadmap that bridges the emotional and logistical hurdles of moving. Esposito’s engaging insights reveal how to face the stress of relocating with clarity and confidence, providing proven strategies that have helped countless individuals navigate their own transitions.

Packed with relatable anecdotes and practical advice, “Nobody Move” equips you to handle the unexpected twists of moving day and beyond. Whether you’re seeking closure on a past chapter or excitement for what lies ahead, Esposito invites you to embrace change, recognize your unique experience, and find joy in new beginnings. Join the journey and let “Nobody Move” be your trusted companion as you tackle the intricacies of moving-because every ending is just the start of something new. Are you ready to take the first step?

Background Photo: Chandler Cruttenden, Unsplash

How has your faith guided your journey as a minority woman in a male-dominated field?

Jesus Christ is my foundation and source of strength. I’ve faced numerous challenges as a woman of color in the legal field. It’s a rarity to see us as attorneys, specifically, practicing criminal law. The founding fathers stated that all men were created equal, however, obviously they did not intend those principles to apply to women, especially women of color. I’ll continue to advocate for my clients to move the justice system closer to fulfilling a promise never intended for us. Black women make up less than 4% of the legal profession. I’m hopeful more minorities will consider the legal profession, whether as a prosecutor, defense attorney, or even a judge. In what ways do you use your professional platform to give back to the community?

I’m guided by the principle, what comes from the heart goes to the heart of the jury. From the moment I’m retained, I zealously advocate for my

Kaysia Earley

Founding Attorney

AChristian attorney whose moral compass is grounded in faith, Kaysia M. Earley founded Earley Law Firm, PLLC, and practices both civil and criminal litigation. She earned her B.A. in Political Science at Howard University, and her J.D. at St. Thomas University School of Law. Kaysia has tried over 100 trials to verdict, ranging from first-degree felonies to misdemeanors, and won dismissals in over 300 criminal cases.

Kaysia is a revered and compassionate attorney, representing clients in pro bono criminal and civil cases and is actively involved in her community as a lecturer at her church, local homeless shelters, detention centers, and universities, on topics relating to criminal law, trial practice, and oral presentation skills.

In addition to practicing law, Kaysia is a regular guest legal analyst on several television programs. She is a loving wife to her husband of 20 years, and the proud mother of four children.

client’s constitutional rights. I also educate my clients about their constitutional rights during police encounters. Commonly referred to as the “T.R.A.P.S. Attorney,” I created the T.R.A.P.S. cards, a quick reference teaching civilians how to invoke their rights. You are known for your legendary cross-examination techniques and have even been compared to Johnny Cochran! How does your husband fare against you when you argue?

I truly married my best friend and supporter. We are approaching our 20th anniversary, and I’m blessed to have a partner who’s been with me from my toughest challenges to celebrating my greatest successes. Simply put, he believes a happy wife makes a happy life. However, I’ve learned over the years, marriage is teamwork, therefore, I must remember, a happy spouse makes a happy house. For the sake of argument, no pun intended, I win before we begin!

What does the word “power” mean to you?

Power means seeing mistakes, past indiscretions, and poor choices as lessons learned. While working at a shoe store during my senior year of college, I discounted products for my friends and family. I knew it was against store policy; however, I did not think it was criminal. I figured it wasn’t a big deal, totally disregarding the magnitude of my actions. I was eventually arrested and charged with felony embezzlement.

Fast forward 20 years later, I successfully transitioned from being in jail to practicing law and representing children and adults facing similar criminal charges. I’ve tried over 100 trials and secured hundreds of dismissals. My accomplishments extend beyond the courtroom. I’m a legal analyst on various court shows and news stations and host various shows ranging from legal panels held at universities to fashions shows. I wholeheartedly credit my faith as the foundation for my success. www.earleylawfirm.com

With over two decades of experience in the interior design industry, Laura Parsons is the principal designer and visionary behind Pure Design, a premier interior design firm specializing in creating bespoke, luxurious residential spaces. Based in Naples, Florida, Laura brings a wealth of expertise and a refined aesthetic to each project, crafting personalized designs that reflect both the client’s desires and the unique beauty of South Florida.

Originally from Massachusetts, Laura relocated to Naples with the intention of staying through the winter season. However, the area’s charm, community, and endless opportunities quickly won her over. What began as a seasonal escape soon blossomed into a full-time commitment, and over the years, Laura has established a deep connection to the area, becoming a trusted name in Naples’ residential design scene.

At Pure Design, Laura and her team are dedicated to curating custom interior solutions that enhance the beauty, function, and overall experience of each home. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating spaces that are both sophisticated and livable, Laura delivers designs that seamlessly blend timeless elegance with modern luxury.

Laura Parsons

Did you always know you wanted to be an interior designer?

Spending summers in Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and Newport is where the passion for antiques, fine art, and beautiful textiles began. While I did not know this would be my lifelong career, I knew it felt natural and had a sort of calming effect on my soul. I can’t help but think it was all just meant to be. What trends are you currently seeing in luxury interior design, and how do you incorporate these trends into your work while still making each design unique to the client?

I’m not one to base my designs on trends. They tend to be fads that fade away and then you are stuck in this space that does not truly feel like you. I find it best to keep it timeless and add in bits of whimsy that feel like the individual client. We continue to refer to quiet lux-

TOP INTERIOR Designer

ury – trying to encapsulate a space that is defined by quality – favoring subtle, refined spaces over flashy design. Being based in Florida, we incorporate organic materials that will elevate both traditional and modern interiors.

Can you share an example of a design project you encountered that presented unique difficulties and walk us through how you addressed and overcame those challenges?

During every project, there are going to be hiccups. It does not matter how much you plan and prepare, the best way to approach this business is to expect the unexpected – do not dwell on the problem and be quick to pivot.

How does your own home reflect your personal design style, and what are some of your favorite elements you have incorporated?

My home is forever evolving. I love to layer and add new textures and natural elements while maintaining a level of classic simplicity. For example, I have a mural wallcovering depicting a garden in subtle shades of cream, grey-blue, and soft sage surrounding a dramatic limestone mantel in my living room. I recently decided to add grass cloth to the other walls to add texture and depth. It makes the space feel evocative yet inviting, something every living room needs. As for accents throughout my home, some of my favorite pieces are unique vintage finds from shops in New England and across South Florida.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is confidence in knowing who you are and what you stand for. www.puredesignofnaples.com

Principal | Interior Designer

Joe’s Quick, Easy & Mild Jambalaya

Ingredients

2 tbsp. olive oil, divided

3 links turkey sausage

1 1/4 cups diced green pepper

1 1/4 cups diced celery

1 1/4 cups diced onion

2 large cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp. salt, divided

2 chopped tomatoes

1 3/4 cups chicken stock

2 tsp. smoked paprika

1 tsp. oregano

2 bay leaves

1 tsp. dried thyme

2 tsp. garlic powder

2 tsp. onion powder

1 tbsp. of lemon juice

1 cup quick-cooking brown rice or white rice

1 1/2 cups shredded chicken

Directions

Heat a large skillet to a medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp. of olive oil. Add turkey sausage and cook until brown on both sides.

Add remaining olive oil along with green pepper, celery, onion, garlic, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Reduce the heat to medium and sauté until vegetables are slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes.

Add chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, remaining salt, smoked paprika, oregano, bay leaves, thyme, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and rice. Mix thoroughly to combine everything. Add lemon juice. Bring the mixture until to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook until rice is cooked all the way through, 15-20 minutes. When the rice is done, add the chicken. Stir and then cover. Let sit for 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

This dish refrigerates and freezes well for future meals.

Pasta with Mead Sauce

Ingredients

1 pound linguine or other long pasta

Two large yellow onions, sliced thin

½ cup (1 stick) of butter

Two large chicken breasts, dried and sliced into bite-sized piecestry subbing 1 can artichoke hearts (halved or quartered depending on the size) for a vegetarian-friendly alternative

Directions

¾ cup all-purpose flour

2 tsp. each dried dill, tarragon, thyme, marjoram, and oregano (or sub Herbes de Provence)

About half a bottle white wine. Black pepper & salt to taste

Combine flour and half of the herb mixture in a shallow bowl. Add salt & pepper to taste, then stir.

Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture and set aside. Work in batches to make sure all pieces are coated.

Melt ½ cup (one stick) of butter in a large saute pan (not non-stick) and add onions. Allow to brown over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent too much sticking.

Remove the onions and put the pan back on the hot stove (do not wipe out). The pan should still be hot and may smoke slightly. Add chicken and brown, stirring occasionally. Some pieces may stick to pan.

Remove the chicken and put the hot pan back on the stove. Do not clean the pan or turn the stove off. Deglaze the hot pan with about ½ cup of mead; pour your liquid into the hot pan and scrape the crispy bits off the bottom with a wooden spoon or metal spatula, being careful of the steam.

Reduce heat and add the rest of the herbs, the onions, and the chicken. Stir, then add ½ cup mead and allow to simmer, covered, over low heat.

Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions. Check a piece of chicken after about five minutes to see if it’s cooked through. Continue simmering until all chicken is thoroughly cooked to 165°. Add mead as needed. Once chicken is cooked, uncover the pan and allow the sauce to thicken. You can add any leftover flour, a teaspoon at a time, if you want a thicker sauce.

Serve over pasta

Taco Pasta Salad

by Susan Obregon

Ingredients

1 pkg. (16 ounces) spiral pasta

1 lb. ground beef

2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar

¾ cups water

1 envelope taco seasoning

1 large green pepper, chopped

1 medium onion, chopped

Directions

1 medium tomato, chopped 2 cans (2-1/4 ounces each)

sliced ripe olives, drained 1 bottle (16 ounces) Catalina or 16 ounces Western salad dressing

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Add water and taco seasoning, simmer, uncovered for 15 minutes.

Rinse pasta in cold water and drain, place in a large bowl. Add beef mixture, cheese, green pepper, onion, tomato and olives, mix well. Add the dressing and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Slow Cooker - Turkey Chili

Ingredients

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 lb 99% lean ground turkey

1 medium onion, diced

1 red pepper, seeded, stemmed, and chopped

1 yellow pepper, chopped

30 ounces tomato sauce

30 ounces petite diced tomatoes

30 ounces canned black beans, rinsed and drained

30 ounces canned red kidney beans, rinsed and drained

Directions

16 ounce jar deli-sliced tamed

jalapeno peppers, drained

1 cup frozen corn

2 tbsp. chili powder

1 tbsp. cumin

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional toppings: green onions, shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream/Greek yogurt

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place turkey in the skillet and cook until brown. Pour turkey into slow cooker.

Add remaining ingredients, stir, and season with salt and pepper.

Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours. Serve with toppings, if desired.

Spicy Cinnamon Brownies Recipes P.O.W.E.R.

Ingredients

1 pkg (4 oz.) BAKER’S Unsweetened Chocolate or similar

3/4 cup butter or margarine

2 cups sugar

3 eggs

Directions

Heat oven to 350°F.

1 tsp. vanilla

1 cup flour

1 tsp. cinnamon ¼ tsp. chili powder ¼ tsp. cayenne

Line 13x9-inch pan with aluminum foil, with ends of foil extending over sides. Spray foil with cooking spray.

Microwave chocolate and butter in a large microwaveable bowl on HIGH 2 min. or until butter is melted. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Stir in sugar.

Allow mixture too cool before blending in eggs and vanilla. Add flour and spices; mix well. Pour into prepared pan.

Bake 30 to 35 min. or until toothpick inserted in center comes out with fudgy crumbs. (Do not overbake.) Cool completely. Use foil handles to remove brownies from pan before cutting.

Adapted from the Baker’s Chocolate One-Bowl Brownies recipe, with thanks to Aaron Sanchez

Darcy Knapp-Fricks

President, Co-Owner

Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd.

Knapp Sisters Cattle Company

D&S Investments

Darcy Knapp-Fricks serves in a variety of industries including real estate, investments, ranching and self-storage. She is the president and co-owner of Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd., started with her sister, Shelly Knapp, in 1999, which specializes in land rentals. They also own D&S Investments. She provides, maintains, and manages rental properties and real estate.

In addition, Darcy and Shelly own The Knapp Sisters Self Storage which consists of five self-storage building facilities. The facility is a AAA business with the largest of the five being climate controlled. They are open seven days a week. Their business was rated the #1 U-Haul dealer in the state of Texas and #3 U-Haul dealer in the U.S.

Darcy and her sister are members of the Texas Self Storage Association, the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, the Arlington

Historical Society, the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. Darcy attended the University of Texas at Arlington and Texas Wesleyan University. She was featured in an article regarding her family donating land to make a historical park. In her spare time, she enjoys time spent on her ranch in South Texas and travel. Darcy’s advice to others is to always go with your gut feeling; it will not steer you wrong. There is nothing too big or too small for you to accomplish. If you believe in yourself and whatever your plans are, you can be successful. She feels strongly that you should never let anyone take your dreams away from you. When she got the idea to build the self-storage facility, she had made up her mind that it was going to be different from others. Even though she knew nothing about the storage business until then, Darcy listened to her gut that told her to go with it, and it has been a success.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

The real estate company that my sister and I own together was inherited from my grandfather and my father. As a result, it just made sense to create a rental business, since most of the property was residential. My grandfather was instrumental in the development of Arlington, Texas, and retained a lot or two out of all the developments that he created. These were residential neighborhoods with small homes that we put together to create Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd., along with other purchases we made over the years. We then used them as rental properties.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The oil and gas industry has been very challenging. It has been a learn-as-you-go experience with these companies. My grandfather was an attorney by trade, but his passion was real estate. In the process of closing real estate deals, he retained all the mineral rights to every real estate deal that he had a hand in. He said that eventually technology would catch up, and it did. My sister and I inherited those mineral rights to properties that we never knew anything about. This became a blessing when the Barnett Shale (one of the largest onshore natural gas fields in the U.S.) came into play in Texas. That opened a whole new field for us, but the learning curve was difficult. How do you achieve work/life balance?

I have a ranch in South Texas that I escape to whenever I have a free weekend. It is in the middle of nowhere with river front property that is spring fed. Being there is an amazing experience.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I get back to nature. I have a hanging bed on my back porch. After a long work day, I make myself a cold drink, relax on my back porch, and watch the wildlife in my wooded back yard. What advice has helped you get to the next level? Always go with your gut feelings. What does empowerment mean to you?

Being empowered means being able to move forward with the knowledge and experience that gives you the self-confidence to do whatever you dream of doing.

Who is one of your favorite designers? Free People.

What is your favorite meal? Fajitas.

How often do you cook?

I cook three to four times a week. Name your favorite makeup products. Estée Lauder.

What is your favorite perfume?

AMPERSAND from Tiffany & Co.

If you are having a dinner party, who is the first guest on your invite list (besides your children)?

My best friends.

www.knappsistersselfstorage.com

Photo: Texas winter, Jonathan Cutrer

Whether you’re in the process of moving or are trying to clear some space in your home, you need a place to store your belongings with the peace of mind of knowing your items are safe and secure. Knapp Sisters Self Storage is an AAA, top-of-the-line facility in Mansfield, TX offering climate and non-climate-controlled storage units. We are also a Top 100 U-Haul dealer with trailers, trucks and vans for all of your moving needs! From a state-ofthe-art alarm system, to key-fob entry, to 24/7 security and surveillance, your things are protected with us.

Barbara Koenig-Pfannkuche

Electronic Engineer (Retired) | Chicago Board of Education

Barbara KoenigPfannkuche is retired after 40 years from her position as an electronic engineer. She spent most of her career with the Chicago Board of Education teaching electricity, electronics, and appliance and computer repair. She also taught electronics engineering to college students and inmates in the jail system. Barbara specialized in drafting and design. Born in Chicago, Illinois, she earned an A.S. in Electronics from DeVry University in 1957. She was honored as the first woman to attend and graduate from that university. She was the first female permitted to take electric workshop and shop courses in her high school. Barbara received a scholarship to the Art Institute in Chicago. She obtained a B.S. in Industrial Education Electronics from Chicago State University in 1975. Over the course of her career, Barbara has worked for Pierce Wire Recorder, Chicago Aerial Industries, Hammond Organ, Union Thermal Electric, Victor Adding Machines, C.P. Clare, and E.P.L.

In the 1950’s, Barbara was a model. During her career, she engineered cameras for government planes. She also helped work on the early fax machine before transitioning into education. In her retirement she enjoys travel, farming, gardening, and snow skiing.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION OF WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE RECOGNIZED

WHAT IS P.O.W.E.R.?

P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized) is both a women’s organization and a magazine.

P.O.W.E.R.

ORGANIZATION

P.O.W.E.R. is an organization and networking website designed to empower hardworking women from different backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities. The women of P.O.W.E.R. work in various industries and professions and represent those who have achieved success as well as those looking to advance their careers. Through networking on our website, webinars, special events, and other unique opportunities, P.O.W.E.R. connects like-minded professional women, facilitates networking opportunities, and helps women gain the recognition they deserve. P.O.W.E.R. believes that by collaborating with like-minded professionals and building positive relationships, there is nothing women can’t achieve together!

P.O.W.E.R. MAGAZINE

P.O.W.E.R. publishes a print and digital quarterly magazine featuring our amazing P.O.W.E.R. members as well as celebrities and “icons.” The pages are full of inspirational biographies and empowering information. The publication also features lifestyle articles keeping you up-to-date on the latest trends in fashion, health, and beauty, and includes book suggestions, delicious recipes and so much more!

YOUR P.O.W.E.R. MEMBERSHIP!

As a P.O.W.E.R. member you have exclusive access to services that can assist in taking your career to the next level.

Awards Gala/Charity Event

Join P.O.W.E.R. members for a red carpet evening celebrating women. This exciting night is filled with live entertainment, great food and drinks, and fun raffle prizes. Mingle with other P.O.W.E.R. members and some of the celebrities and icons that have graced P.O.W.E.R. Magazine’s pages. A portion of the proceeds of the event go to a breast cancer charity.

Travel Club

The perfect way to mix business with pleasure.

Join President and Editor-in-Chief Tonia DeCosimo and fellow P.O.W.E.R. members on exciting getaways that may include important keynote speakers, educational components, and fun activities.

If you are interested in being interviewed to get your story on social media, consider an in-person interview, podcast, press release, video, or possibly a Times Square billboard display through P.O.W.E.R. We can help get you the additional exposure you deserve to take your career to the next level.

P.O.W.E.R. TALK TV

Set up your in-person interview through P.O.W.E.R. Talk TV. Allow others the opportunity to visually get to know you and your business.

P.O.W.E.R. TALK RADIO

Our podcasts are pre-recorded audio interviews which give our members the opportunity to convey a message or story. This is a great way to increase your exposure and market reach.

TIMES SQUARE PHOTO RECOGNITION

Your photo, name, and company name are displayed on a famous Times Square billboard in NYC. Times Square is considered the busiest area in Manhattan with approximately 330,000 people passing through daily, many of them tourists. Over 460,000 pedestrians walk through Times Square on its busiest days. It is also the hub of the Broadway Theater District and the world’s entertainment industry. It is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing an estimated 50 million visitors annually. This is a great way to attract attention and high visibility for yourself and your company.

PRESS RELEASE

A press release is a written public announcement covering your business and personal accomplishments designed to enhance your exposure and market reach. This newsworthy communication is distributed to print, radio, broadcast and social media sites. A press release can include your photo or company logo as well as a hyperlink to your company website so readers can instantly learn who you are and what your company offers.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Website: www.powerwoe.com email: info@powerwoe.com Phone: 516-365-3222 or 631-393-6760

Facebook: @POWERWOE X: @powerwoe instagram: @power_woe

P.O.W.E.R. PUBLICITY

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Abigail Williams Talaera TEACHER RELATIONS AND CUSTOMER SUCCESS MANAGER

Adele Ciccaglione Freelancer FREELANCE WRITER AND EDITOR

Adriana Bellezza Unhinged PODCAST HOST, ADVOCATE, MODEL, MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER

Alexandra L. Vickery Vickery Immigration FOUNDER, IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY

Alice Marie Ray Ktron Enterprises CEO- RETIRED, COMPUTER CONSULTANT

Alicia Pozsony Alicia’s Power Your Life OWNER, COACH, SPEAKER, AUTHOR

Alisha Herman Mind-body Massage HEALER

Alla V. Koudriavtseva AllaVK International Design Company ENTREPRENEUR

Amanda Frost Breakaway Construction OWNER/OPERATOR

Amanda Nowlin Kidz Fusion Academy OWNER

Amandalyn M. McKendree Jewel of the South Photography OWNER

Amity Santa Lucia

Amity Santa Lucia MODEL, ACTRESS

Amy Nicastro-Clark Parents are the Key FOUNDER, WELLNESS LEADER

Amy S. Miller

Premier Nutrition DIRECTOR OF IT STRATEGY AND PLANNING

Angel Silva Nuskin OWNER

Angelina Brooks Brooks Cleaning Services, LLC OWNER

Ann Rogers-Councill Soloray LLC SUPERVISOR

Anna Buck Luzerne County Community College ESL ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Anna Stone

Glendale Community College ADJUNCT PROFESSOR

Annette V. Hampton Alpha Community Development Corp.Christian Stronghold Church EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Annika V. Brown New Dimensions Consulting MASTER LIFE COACH

April Shane-Wilson Rentokil N.A. AREA SALES MANAGER

April L. Gorman The Melting Pot Candle Company OWNER, CREATOR

Ashley M. Lloyd Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida DIRECTOR

Athena Ballou Aspen & Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty BROKER ASSOCIATE

Aurelia Dalla Ragione Aurelia Network DIRECTOR, TV HOST

Aurora Threats

Borealis Entertainment, LLC CEO

Avarea Alexander Heartstar Ministry FOUNDER, DIRECTOR, LICENSED MINISTER

Barbara Devers

Freshwind Empowerment Conference and Seminars, Inc. OWNER, FOUNDER

Barbara M. Panther Gibby

Barbara Gibby, Psychologist PSYCHOLOGIST

Bernadyn L. Nettles Bernadyn Nettles ENTREPRENEUR, MODEL, ACTRESS

Beth A. Barnes CGRB P.C. LAWYER

Blakely M. Dimsdale Tier 3-D Consulting, LLC CO-OWNER

Blaque V. Diamond

Basic Blaque, LLC CEO, SOCIAL WORKER, AUTHOR, PARENT COACH

Bonita Jenkins

Augusta Technical College SPECIAL POPULATIONS COORDINATOR

Brenda Jean Hubbard A Splash of Pizzazz CRAFTER

Brenda Lynn Martin Positive Spin TV CORRESPONDENT, MODEL

Bronwen Donnelly Meredith Landing Real Estate, LLC OWNER, PRINCIPAL BROKER

Brook L. Larkins Naval Sea Systems Command CHIEF OF STAFF

Canvass L. Reed

Candi’s Locx Shopp, LLC OWNER

Carolyn A. Meeker

Staffmark Investment Group MARKET MANAGER

Carolyn Necole Greene

Proverbs Horizon Learning Center OWNER, DAYCARE PROVIDER

Carri Lawrence Chronic Brands CEO

Catherine J. Kacprzycki Research Scientist RESEARCH SCIENTIST

Chantelle Crowell Z Children’s Books AUTHOR/EDUCATOR

Chaunacey Hill Chaunie Crafts CEO

Chong Kim Chong Kim, LLC PRESIDENT, AUTHOR, FILMMAKER

Christine L. Orr

Grayson County MOTOR VEHICLE OFFICE MANAGER

Christy Davis General Operations Solutions PRESIDENT

Clara Belle Lingenfelter Lingenfelter Paws for Service LEAD DOG TRAINER, ARTIST

Colleen Cannon Women’s Quest FOUNDER

D. Anne Jones Face to Face Fine Art

Commemorative Expressions FOUNDER, DIRECTOR AND PRINCIPAL ARTIST

Dana M. Shelton

Stone Pigman ATTORNEY

Danealle Moran-Orcutt Danealle Moran-Orcutt SINGER

Danette R. Lopez Museum Wonders CURATOR, OWNER

Danielle Spencer The Whistleblower Experience w Danielle AUTHOR

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Debbie A. Kaitschuck AIM Athletics OWNER, HEAD COACH

Debi Lawson

Washington Elementary TEACHER

Deborah Ann Nabors

Deborah Ann Nabors AUTHOR

Deidra A. Louis Crescent City Schools SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST

Denise DeBurst-Gines Lasting Legacies, LLC OWNER

Dev White Freelancer ACCESSORY STYLIST

Dr. Jo L TulaSoul

ENTREPRENEUR, HOLISTIC COACH, YOGA TEACHER, AUTHOR, WOMEN’S CIRCLE FACILITATOR

Elizabeth G. Tolliver

Adaptive Counseling Services, LLC OWNER, THERAPIST

Ellen Radle Bailleaux Merz Aesthetics MEDICAL AESTHETICIAN, LASER TECHNICIAN, COPORATE ACCOUNT MANAGER

Ellen Thea

Medicine Heart Enterprises FOUNDER, HOLISTIC COUNSELOR

Emelia J. Lake Marine Corps Logistics Command MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAM ANALYST

Emily Compagno News Anchor NEWS ANCHOR

Erica R. Whitfield Memorial Hospital at Gulfport CARDIOVASCULAR CLINICAL SYSTEMS SPECIALIST

Evelyn D. Hemphill

Evelyn the Advocate, LLC CEO

Gayle L. Barff

GaylesEpicArtDesigns OWNER, AUTHOR

Gina K. Weekley

Weekley Connection CEO, CO-FOUNDER

Glenda Baker

Parallel Productions Owner, Film Producer, SONGWRITER

Glenda Smith Walters

Glenda Smith Walters AUTHOR

Grace B. Boykin

Grace Boykin Media, LLC VICE PRESIDENT

Gwendolyn C. Miller

Ms. Gwen’s Early Learning Childcare DIRECTOR

Haley A. Epps

Compass Realty Group BROKER/AGENT

Helene Tonique

Laurent Miller Post 208 American Legion PRESIDENTIAL SERVICE/PATRIOT

Iris A. Kiser

IAK Here’s Help, Inc. OWNER

Jan Kirstein Rigor

Jan Kirstein Rigor ARTIST, TEACHER, AUTHOR

Jane Seymour Actress ACTRESS

Jane Leslie Gordon

Jane Gordon, PLLC CEO

Janet Cash Aflac INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT

Janet Stern

Janet Stern FINE ARTIST

Janice Burt

Janice Burt

INTERNATIONAL KEYNOTE SPEAKER, AUTHOR

Janice Ferebee Ferebee Enterprises International, LLC FOUNDER & CHIEF WOMAN WARRIOR

Janis L. Burgin Jb Art Studio ARTIST, EDUCATOR

Jasmine Hawkins Hawkins Divine Print OWNER

Jennifer A. Flinn

Jennifer Flinn, R.N. RN- TRAVEL NURSE

Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg Entrepreneur and Author ENTREPRENEUR AND AUTHOR

Jessica Johnson Golden Pedestal Properties, LLC CEO

Jessica S. Chapman Benchmark Human Services EMPLOYMENT CONSULTANT

Jessie White Vision Staffing OWNER, CEO

Jillian K. Jones Double Take Investments CO-FOUNDER

Jillian M. Bullock

Jillian Bullock Enterprises CEO, AWARD-WINNING FILMMAKER, SPEAKER

Joan Albright Albright Holistic Centers HOLISTIC CAREGIVER

Joanie Helgesen The Harp Lady HARPIST

Johnnie J. Holmes In His Presence CEO, PRESIDENT

Joytika Mala

Valley Medical Center CLINICAL SUPERVISOR

Judelyn Cadavona-Bala

Kaiser Permanente DEPARTMENT MANAGER

Julia J. Minerva

Massage Fitness Works & More FRONT DESK MANAGER

Julie Nygard The Chocolate Therapist OWNER, AUTHOR, SPEAKER

Kara Hungate

Kara Hungate Design INTERIOR DESIGN ARTIST

Karen Cotton

Karen Cotton, LLC

MUSICIAN, AUTHOR, JOURNALIST

Karen Ward Nonprofit NONPROFIT

Karen P. DeVaughn

Return to the Source OWNER

Karen R. Mertes

Fulfill Your Destiny, Inc. FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT, AUTHOR, SPEAKER, COACH

Kathleen Pisani

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s ASSOCIATE REAL ESTATE BROKER, SALES MANAGER

Kathleen Adele

Cunningham

Kathleen Adele Cunningham AUTHOR, CREATOR

Kathleen E. Foster Bethel Park School District TEACHER, ADVISOR, CONSULTANT

Katie Eastman

Dr. Katie Eastman FOUNDER, PSYCHOTHERAPIST

KatieJo Clinkingbeard Plum Creek HOSPITALITY MANAGER

EMPOWERED EMPOWERED

Kelly Sevier

Venom Magazine OWNER, MODEL, MICROBIOLOGIST

Kendra W. Bassett EmpowerEQ EDUCATION RESEARCH

Kiana N. Wooten Tigerlily Foundation ANGEL ADVOCATE

Kimberly A. Gorka Children’s Palace Preschool and Childcare OWNER

Kris Hoff Happy Times Tours, Distinctively Detroit Tours OWNER

Kristin Kay Johnson The Shepherd’s Haven AUTHOR, FOUNDER

Kyera D. Williams

Business in a Bag, LLC CEO, FOUNDER

LaLisa Leveau

Iconic Xperience, Inc. CEO, LOCTICIAN

Lashundia Carson Alcorn State University PROFESSOR, DEAN

Lastenia S. Paniagua Tutti-Frutti OWNER

Latisha Guthrie Paw-rrific Relief, LLC. OWNER, BAKER

LaTisha Wells The Modern Day 31 MINISTER TEACHER

Laura Pappas Wines for Humanity WINE ADVISOR

Laura Lee Wolery Laura Woley RETIRED DOCTOR, ENTERTAINER, ARTIST

Lauren Daniel Colliers SENIOR CLIENT SERVICES COORDINATOR

Lavanya Potla Wissen Infotech Private, LTD BIOINFORMATICS SENIOR CONSULTANT

Lechaun Milton GT Independence CNA

Linnea “Nae” Heintz Emerge Therapy Services THERAPIST

Lisa Vasquez

The Modern Menopause Consultancy FOUNDER/CEO

Lisa M. Lewis Bronstein Properties AFFORDABLE HOUSING MANAGER

Lori A. Gardner Syncon, LLC. LEAD PMA/AFSO

Lorinda G. Morgenthaler Soap Lake School District PARAPROFESSIONAL

Lorraine R. Carrio Liberty Company Insurance Brokers EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Lynda M. Dodds Lynda Miriga OWNER, CEO

Mandy M. Refvik Refvik Technologies, Inc COO

Margaret Jane Tarr

Margaret Jane Design Group, LLC CEO, PRINCIPAL

Margarita Pirin Cortes D & T Tax and Accounting, LLC TAX PREPARER, OFFICE MANAGER

Marianne B.C. McCown

Marianne McCown AUTHOR

Maribeth C. Hartwick Westwood Regional Veterinary Hospital ASSISTANT MEDICAL DIRECTOR, VETERINARIAN

Marie Layinu

Marie Notary NOTARY

Marie Michelle Jeannite

Miami Beach Senior High TEACHER, MODEL, WEDDING CONSULTANT

Marion Myers ADAP ENTERPRISES EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

Marissa L. Cherepanov No Girl Left Behind Event, Inc. CEO, VISIONARY

Marla Massengale USA Supreme Miss CEO

Marsha Goodman

Barnes & Noble SUPERVISOR

Melisa E. Natapraya MK Elite Fitness MASTER FITNESS TRAINER, CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH, RETIRED

Melissa Velasco

Hollywood High Chronicles Book Series

AUTHOR, PROFESSOR, STAGE MANAGER, CHOREOGRAPHER

Melissa J. Boothe LKS LEGAL ASSISTANT

Merolyn Rodrigues HTTS Floral and Event Design CEO, FLORAL AND EVENT DESIGNER

Michele Wallace Campanelli

Michele Wallace Campanelli AUTHOR

Michele A. Lawson

Soul Vintage of Harlem ENTREPRENEUR

Michele D. Meza

Luksi Consulting OWNER, COACH, AUTHOR

Michelle Tu Global Parents for Eczema Research PROGRAM AND OPERATIONS MANAGER

Michelle A. Varga Body Mind Soul Studios/ Varga Inc. OWNER

Michelle D. Jones Miami-Dade County Public Schools SCIENCE TEACHER

Michelle Renee Castro Model and Talent Management MODEL

Mijan Owens International Music and Arts Connection FOUNDER, INTERNATIONAL RECORDING ARTIST

Miriam Galarza Payes Real Estate Group REAL ESTATE BROKER

Nanci A. Aronson Sunshine Senior Placement NUMBER ONE SENIOR ADVISOR

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The Phoenix Code 616 CEO

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Nicki H. Moorer Healthcare Consulting CONSULTANT

Nikita Sandella United States National Pageants

MISS NEW YORK, 2024, UNITED STATES

Nilofer Qureshi University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine

PROFESSOR EMERITUS, BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES (RETIRED)

Pam Duke

Nau-T-Girl Jewelry DESIGNER, ARTIST

EMPOWERED EMPOWERED

Pamela W. Coleman

Pamela W. Coleman, M.D. CLINICAL PROFESSOR OF SURGERY- UROLOGY

Pettina L. Velez

Art by Pettina AUTHOR, ILLUSTRATOR, ARTIST

Phyllis Elgin

How I Knead You OWNER, LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST

Phyllis D. Harrell Alliance for Community Peace CEO

Priscilla Gambino-Williams SC Realty Team AGENT

Rachel Emily Conti Dignity Health REGISTERED NURSE

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Rhonda Weber

Quality Reassurance, LLC OWNER, FOUNDER

Rita A. Grabowski

Engraving After 6 OWNER

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Sade Haley Self Made Queen CEO

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Angeion Group PROJECT MANAGER

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Be A Butterfly, LLC FOUNDER, LIFE STRATEGY COACH, SOCIAL WORKER

Background

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Shalini Thyagaraja MindSpace CEO, FOUNDER

Shanekqua Roxanne Vivian Coates

Fly S.I.C. CEO

Sharron L.

Braziel-Marshall

Sharron Nursing Academy CEO, RN

Shelley Liberto

Coremark International MARKETING AUDITOR, VISUAL MERCHANDISER, SALES REP

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Jennifer’s Classy Cuts & More OWNER/OPERATOR

Sherrie M. Shahat

Bayada Health Services HOME HEALTH AIDE, PRESCHOOL TEACHER

Shirley Ann Tracy Wordwrights CEO, EXECUTIVE EDITOR, AUTHOR

Siedah L. Spencer-Ardis Focus Therapy Clinic OWNER, CLINICAL DIRECTOR

Singus E. Henderson Davis Exec. Trans. CO-OWNER

Somone M. Wyatt Department of Veterans’ Affairs CONSULTANT

Stephanie Duca Stephanie’s Dog Training OWNER, TRAINER

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Stephanie Oakey Health Career CERTS AUTHOR, LEAD STUDENT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

Stephanie D. Sanders KRS Renovation, LLC OWNER

Sumi Komo

Alexander Technique Moving Art DIRECTOR, INTUITIVE COUNSELOR

Susan L. Wagoner Person 2 Person Ministries, Inc. PRESIDENT, FOUNDER, COUNSELOR

Tabitha White

Affordable Paralegal Services OWNER, PARALEGAL

Tammara Tillman Lex Enterprises, Inc. OWNER, AUTHOR, ADVOCATE, HIP-HOP ARTIST

Tammy L. McLaughlin

Stone County Recovery Center/ Dynamic New Visions CPS

Tamye M.

Diaferio-Longoria Paying It Forward CEO, FOUNDER

Taneia D. Roberts

The Doll House Bundles Collection OWNER

Tempest S. Tadday Heart Survivors Against Mental Health CEO, FOUNDER

Terry-Anne Dedrick Terry Dedrick, Artist at-Large ARTIST, STORYTELLER, CAREGIVER

Theresa Dozier-Daniel WOE CEO

Theresa Poh-Pardun PA-C RN Remote Rescue 911 PA CRN AND CCMHC

Tiffani Chidume

Auburn University ASSOCIATE CLINICAL PROFESSOR

Tiffany Rector Cytiva PRODUCTION 2

Tonya L. Shaw

Personal Assist Healthcare IN-HOME AIDE HEALTH WORKER

Tosha Martin Babydoll Martin CEO

Trina J. Hill

Tapestry Wellness Institute NUTRITIONIST, DIETITIAN

Troineshia Marie Webb Aspen Dental DENTAL ASSISTANT, AUTHOR

Valerie Ann Roland Ross Dress For Less LOSS PREVENTION

Valerie D. Johnson West Oak Lane Kids, LLC EDUCATOR, SPEAKER, AUTHOR

Vincenza Carovillano BeYoutiful People FREELANCE MAKEUP ARTIST

Virginia A. Klinger City Gal Transportation OWNER

Wanda Collins Raventek PROJECT MANAGER

Yaya Diamond Red Hot Reality Ent., LLC OWNER, CEO

Yolanda M. Riley Jackson Hewitt

TAX PREPARER

Yolonda C. Gayden YCG Publishing Company AUTHOR

Zsakia L. Bostic

STL Fine Sista, Inc. CEO

Be Strong, Give Strong

By Danielle Taylor Founder and President YOLO Strong Foundation

We believe that children undergoing chemotherapy should have the right to attend preschools without compromising their susceptible immune system! We believe that children who are medically fragile should receive the appropriate funds for essential medical devices! We believe that underprivileged non-communicative Autistic children should have access to iPads with special software to assist them in communicating!

Team YOLO is made up of mothers, sisters, aunts, godmothers, and friends. We are professionals, teachers, nurses, accountants, executives, and housewives. We compete in obstacle course races to raise money for local sick children. We are dedicated, passionate, determined, ambitious, caring, influential and humble women from Long Island, New York. We started as a team of three and now we are a community of over 70 powerful women!

We are lucky. Our children are healthy. Not all families are as fortunate. Because of this, we push ourselves mentally and physically to compete in obstacle course races to raise awareness and funds for other less fortunate. We run through freezing water, climb cargo nets and walls. We carry sandbags, crawl through the muddiest trenches, and jump through fire (all with a smile). Through private do-

nations and with help from sponsors, we can raise money to assist these sick local children and their families. “Team YOLO” has built partnerships with sponsors, such as Lifetime Fitness, Synergy, Lululemon, Sterling Bank & Apple Bank.

In spring of 2017, “Team YOLO” was invited to take part of the studio audience of “The Ellen Show” in Burbank, California. In August 2017, Joe Girardi (former NY Yankees Manager) highlighted the impact “Team YOLO” is making in a press release.

In 2017, with much anticipation and excitement, “Team YOLO” became an official not-for-profit, 501(c)(3), “YOLO Strong Foundation.” We believe our power is in our hearts and in our numbers. YOLO Strong Foundation is just getting started! www.yolostrong.com

Kathleen Pisani

Associate Real Estate Broker

Kathy Pisani is a well-known associate real estate broker specializing in Jericho, Laurel Hollow, Muttontown, Oyster Bay Cove, Syosset, Woodbury, Brookville, Cold Spring Harbor, and all of Long Island’s Gold Coast. A longtime resident of Syosset, she has unparalleled knowledge about the region’s property values, neighborhoods, and school system.

Since 1995, Kathy has demonstrated her dedication as one of the finest professionals and represented the top 3% of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty. Year after year, Kathy is honored by RealTrends as a top agent in her field. She continues to devote her long and very successful career to providing premium services to her clients, both buyers and sellers.

TOP REAL ESTATE Broker

Kathy is married and a mother of three grown children, all graduates of Syosset schools. Her extensive knowledge of the Syosset School District and its local markets has been invaluable. Her experience, dedication, integrity, and network of resources all add up to positive results and success again and again.

Over 90% of Kathy’s clients are referrals from satisfied customers or repeat clients. Kathy’s client relationships often require the utmost privacy during and after the transaction, which she is able to provide. Joint efforts of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty and Kathy Pisani made for a successful inauguration of the Syosset/ Muttontown office in 2005. This office has proven to be a tremendous success throughout the past decade. Kathy promises to dedicate her talent, energy, and creativity to give you the personal service you deserve.

What makes you stand out from other agents in the extremely competitive field of real estate?

• Experience and consistent success for the past 28 years, plus a deep-rooted knowledge of local and surrounding areas in Long Island. I am an expert in my specific neighborhoods. Having three children gave me an understanding of the schools and what they can offer. Market trends, property values, and knowing the tempo of all surrounding neighborhoods is a significant advantage.

• Extraordinary client relationships - giving customized advice and service. This means understanding every client, meeting their unique needs, and equipping them with custom-made solutions.

• Having a strong marketing and digital presence as well as a strong professional network is imperative.

• Lastly, client referrals. Word of mouth is the most powerful tool for gaining new clients.

Other than relying on their agent, how can a buyer get a good feel for a neighborhood or community before they place an offer on a home?

Take a school tour within the district. Explore amenities and businesses nearby, conduct an area tour to the local shopping areas, houses of worship, parks, gyms, and restaurants, along with access, walkability, and transportation to these amenities. Visit the area at different times and on different days of the week.

What are three easy improvements a seller can make to their home to make it more marketable?

1. Curb Appeal. Your first impressions are imperative and curb appeal sets the stage for a buyer’s experience!

2. Hiring a landscaper to cut the lawn, trimming all mature specimen plantings, adding fresh mulch, and staging the front entrance with flowers or shrub pots as well as a fresh door mat and newly painted or stained railings. The front door should also be freshly painted or replaced as this could be a focal point.

3. A fresh coat of paint in neutral tones like white or gray can make floor plans feel bigger and brighter. Deep cleaning after painting as well as decluttering will allow buyers to imagine themselves living in the home.

If we asked your best friend to describe you in three words, what would they say?

Dependable, genuine, powerhouse. What does the word power mean to you?

The ability to guide clients, motivate my team in the branch, and inspire trust. As a branch manager I have the power to shape my agents’ approach and foster a positive success-oriented environment. This means setting standards, sharing a vision, and being there 24/7 with the guidance that encourages everyone to strive for excellence. Harnessed effectively, power can be a tool to build trust, foster growth, and lead with integrity in the competitive real estate markets. www.danielgale.com/advisor/kathleen-pisani

“The Real Estate industry continues to be a strong performing investment in 2023 and 2024. Rentals, single and multi-family residences, as well as new construction present great opportunities to build equity and wealth.”

— Kathy Pisani

Global

19 Tappentown Lane, Brookville, NY MLS# 3564021. LP $1,998,000.

9 Woodmont Road, Melville, NY MLS# 3490392. LP $1,395,000.

2166 Belle Sonia Court, Muttontown, NY MLS# 3505863. LP $3,288,000.

106 Sterling Court, Muttontown, NY MLS# 3469082. LP $1,799,900.

8 Parkview Drive, Muttontown, NY MLS# 3555266. LP $2,388,000.

6 Moraine Court, Muttontown, NY MLS# 3552370. LP $1,998,000.

5 Somerset Place, Syosset, NY MLS# 3541397. LP $1,998,000.

11 Greenwood Lane, Woodbury, NY MLS# 3491617. LP $2,188,000.