Caroline Chang, MD, FAAD

Board-Certified Dermatologist & Practice Owner

“I love making my patients happy, whether it’s clearing their acne or making them look ten years younger,” says Dr. Caroline Chang, board-certified dermatologist and owner of RHODE ISLAND DERMATOLOGY INSTITUTE. “It’s very gratifying to be able to help people improve their confidence and self-esteem.”

In 2018, after a decade of studying and practicing medicine within the confines of traditional, insurance-based systems, Dr. Chang decided to open her own practice – with a distinct di erence.

Revolutionary Model

“We have a close bond with our patients. Our approach allows us to get to know them on a very personal level, and provide the best outcome possible,” says Dr. Chang.

That approach is known as direct pay or direct care, a revolutionary healthcare model removing insurance companies from the equation. Rhode Island Dermatology Institute (RIDI) is the first direct care dermatology practice in the state, and aims to restore and nurture the doctor-patient relationship.

“We provide the highest quality of care to our patients without the barriers of health insurance,” Dr. Chang says, explaining that in the direct care model patients contract medical services directly with their doctor. This means new patients can get seen sooner (within a week or two), appointments are easier to book (online encouraged), no referrals are needed, plus less wait time in the office and more time with the doctor. The office, which can be described as both a medical and spa space, is set up to make your visit streamlined and hassle free.

“Once you try it, you’ll never go back to a traditional o ce model.”

Personalized Care

“I focus on individualized care for both medical and cosmetic services,” says Dr. Chang. “I always put the patient first.”

Dr. Chang addresses every kind of medical concern from skin cancer screening, acne, eczema, and psoriasis to hair loss and rashes. She also offers cosmetic treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels, laser hair removal, laser skin rejuvenation, and even skin care products.

“It’s very important that patients choose board certified dermatologists for all procedures,” Dr. Chang says, explaining that she examines her patients’ skin at every appointment. “I’ve had a number of patients see me for cosmetic procedures in which I have spotted skin cancer. I am on the frontline of my patients’ health, providing comprehensive evaluations and offering the very best care of their skin.”

But Dr. Chang’s quality of care and o ce model aren’t the only things that set her and her practice apart – she also brings a unique background and artistic approach.

Extensive Education

An art enthusiast with a dedication for science-based medicine, Dr. Chang has a unique academic and medically trained background. “I apply my extensive background in both art history and dermatology to provide the highest quality care to all my patients.”

Dr. Chang graduated from Princeton University with a BA in Art and Archaeology. She spent two years conducting melanoma research at New York University Medical Center, where she established a comprehensive patient database used in studies to define the risk factors for and behavior of melanoma. After earning her MD from the NYU School of Medicine, she pursued her residency at Tufts Medical Center, where she served as Chief Resident and trained in dermoscopy, a non-invasive technique that allows for better visualization of the skin’s surface. Today, as an associate sta member at Rhode Island Hospital, Dr. Chang has over a decade of experience with providing customized care in both medical and cosmetic dermatology.

“I’m excited to continue offering the most innovative treatments, as well as providing the best evidence-based procedures,” says Dr. Chang of her hopes for this year. ‘It’s been a dream to not only own my own business, but also treat patients in a truly personalized and meaningful way.”

5586 Post Road, Suite 6, East Greenwich. 398-2500, RIDermInstitute.com

RUFFIN’ WRANGLERS® gives your pup more than just a leash walk – they give them an adventure! It starts when your dog is picked up and whisked away to a doggie oasis, the Ru n’ Wranglers® Ranch in Rehoboth. The fenced-in ranch boasts seven acres of grassy fields and trees, o ering plenty of space for your dog to run, play, and make furry friends. “Socialization, exercise, and freedom are crucial to your pet’s health, happiness, and your sanity!” says owner Blythe Penna.

Since 2007, the Ru n’ Wranglers® team has provided over 250,000 excursions. The “wranglers” handle the pick-ups and drop-o s, and supervise all the fun in between. “They have a better social life and exercise routine than most humans!” says Blythe.

“We know our clients’ dogs are their children. Our Wranglers are deeply invested in the dogs – there is no other team like them!” The staff get to know each dog, their preferences, what causes them anxiety, and what they love.

They ensure each dog has the experience they crave, whether that’s extreme ball chasing, lots of kisses, wrestling, running along trails, or just snoofing!

“We have dogs that have been with Ruffin’ Wranglers® their entire lives and are still at the ranch weekly,” says Blythe. “We are going to have to outfit a geriatrics SNIFF Mobile for those dogs and me soon! I had a vision for the company when I started it 15 years ago, but I really did not conceptualize where we are today.”

“I am so proud of our team of Wranglers and the leader of our pack, Austin Wright. There is absolutely no way we would be where we are today without our team’s dedication to Ru n’ Wranglers®,” Blythe continues.

“There is nothing like seeing pure joy in the eyes of a dog, and that is what we provide, joy...not bad for your daily gig!” To learn more, visit their website, and click “contact us” in the “Getting Started” section.

Attorney

Chloe Davis, Esq. is passionate about ensuring her clients’ legal rights.

Described by colleagues as “passionate, dedicated, thorough, and tenacious” she practices civil rights law at SINAPI LAW ASSOCIATES, LTD., a firm specializing in employment and civil rights litigation.

Chloe was inspired by political events in recent years. “During the Trump Administration, protests were taking place to challenge the erosion of civil rights,” she explains. “At the same time, news stories about unarmed Black men and women being harmed or killed by the police were increasingly surfacing. I finally decided that I needed to do more to help people directly.”

That spirit led to her role at Sinapi Law and to work with the RI National Lawyers Guild where she has been a Legal Observer and a board member since January 2017.

Chloe credits her law school training with making her the person she is today. “Roger Williams University gave me extraordinary opportunities, with inspiring professors and unique internships with judges, non- profits, and the AG’s O ce,” she says. “I finished fourth in my class with two years of clerkships lined up, my first year with the Rhode Island Superior Court, and then a year with Rhode Island Supreme Court Justice Francis X. Flaherty.”

At Sinapi Law, Chloe is responsible for the firm’s civil rights cases against police departments, municipalities, and agencies. That includes cases involving “violations of First (freedom of speech) and Fourth (excessive force and unreasonable searches and seizures) Amendment rights and cases against the Department of Corrections for violations of Fourth and Eighth (cruel and unusual punishments) Amendment and statutory rights, including disability discrimination stemming from a failure to provide necessary medical care and accommodations,” she explains. As for her employment law practice, in June 2022, Chloe secured a jury verdict and $2.1 million judgment for her clients in a case involving unpaid wages and worker misclassification. Challenging work no doubt, which she undertakes with enthusiasm and commitment.

From earning degrees in theater and navigating life as a young artist to becoming a massage therapist and founding award-winning Harmony on Hope Massage 10 years ago, one thread of Shannon Sexton Potter’s career has been connecting with people and hearing their stories. It’s what motivated her to launch her latest endeavor, UPRISEHER, a Providence coworking and togethering space for women.

“My personal mission is to create spaces for people to thrive,” Shannon explains. “I realized that so many women come from work experiences that are not only challenging logistically, but traumatic. I knew I could o er something better, something that was designed to help women (and their allies) embrace, honor, and synergize their complicated, beautifully full lives.”

Shannon completed the SEG Business Accelerator Program in 2019 and opened UpRiseHer a year ago while on maternity leave. For Shannon, who grew up with many siblings in a military family that moved every two years, this is the culmination of her life spent collaborating, adapting to unpredictability, and thinking creatively. She looks forward to new events and membership opportunities this year. “I believe women need to take up more space – and we have created a warm, collaborative, inspiring community to do just that.”

LISA RICCI-DISARRO & MARIA PESATURO RUSSO Owners

After working as VP of marketing and advertising in Florida for 20 years, Lisa Ricci-DiSarro’s life changed when she was in a bad car accident. She decided to move back home to RI, reevaluate her career, and be with her husband full-time (her biggest fan). Lisa and sister Maria had started BACK 2 BACK LUXURY CONSIGNMENT & RETAIL BOUTIQUE in 2020; not your average consignment store, it has a boutique feel with designer styles and something for everyone. Lisa commuted while running her photography business, LisaMPhotography. This was all possible thanks to Maria’s help.

“I am thrilled to have my sister with me as my partner on this latest phenomenal journey,” says Lisa, and Maria echoes the sentiment: “I have always had my baby sista’s back and we make a great team. We’ve never failed at anything.” Maria, a cosmetologist, juggles six days a week with both careers. “My sister and I have been through everything together. This is just one more journey. We are so grateful for our mom and sister Karen and whole family; it’s a real family a air!”

690 Oaklawn Ave., Cranston, 401-919-5623, Back2BackConsignment.com, LisaMPhotography.com

“I enjoy solving problems, building plans, and helping execute them,” begins Carrie A. McPherson, a Financial Advisor with BEACONPOINT WEALTH ADVISORS, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. “In a nutshell, people hire me to help them make educated decisions regarding their financial and investment questions and serve as an unbiased opinion when looking at the big picture.”

Carrie brings nearly 15 years in the finance industry and certifications as a Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist®, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®, and most recently, Chartered Special-Needs Financial Consultant®. Carrie’s personal experiences with divorce and growing up with a mother struggling with mental illness makes her especially empathetic and connected to her clients. She loves working with women in particular, helping them feel empowered to make choices regarding the money they’ve worked so hard to earn.

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to work with a professional that will help them feel more comfortable and confident about their finances,” says Carrie, who reveals plans for some fun events this year – “because finances don’t have to be boring!” she says.

Nicole Bibby

Owner national dance competition and choreography awards. Nicole and her dancers also get involved in charitable causes. “It’s important for us to give back to the community and spread our love for dance.” She also credits her success to sister-in-law Jamie Giusti (o ce manager) and instructors: Grace Bressner, Lauren Difede, Talia Laurito, Jodi Lyn-Papa, Aliya Land, Katie Murphy, Teresa Pearson, and Karen Pare.

Though she didn’t know it at the time, when a young Nicole Bibby earned a top score auditioning for Dance Artistry’s company and received a photographed prize with the words “Today’s Dream Is Tomorrow’s Reality,” her future career was already set in motion. This spark helped light the fire to eventually open her own dance studio.

DEFYING GRAVITY SCHOOL OF DANCE, which opened in 2008 with 25 students, is the product of a lot of family support. After Nicole obtained a marketing degree from Salve Regina University, her husband Je motivated her to carry out her dream. Jumping into action, Nicole’s mother Gina Giusti helped her find the original location in Cranston, and her dad and brother Je and Jefferey Giusti – both contractors – turned the vacant unit into her dream studio. Sister Brittany Iafrati taught classes alongside Nicole.

Nicole was the Salve Regina University Dance Club President and earned several regional and national dance title winnings. Through her skilled instruction and choreography, Nicole helps students chart their own bright futures in dance. This year, she launched an All Out Performance event, alongside her former dance teacher Kelly Cannone, providing dancers with feedback before entering competition season.

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BRITTANY IAFRATI, FNP

Now, with 160 students and having relocated to East Greenwich (which allows Nicole to be closer to home and her two kids Juliana and Je rey), Defying Gravity School of Dance boasts numerous regional and

“I think the most rewarding thing is seeing my young students grow into beautiful young adults when they graduate,” says Nicole. “We are all one big family at Defying Gravity.”

Striving to deliver only the best noninvasive cosmetic procedures, BEL VISO MEDICAL SPA opened in 2017 and last year alone completed over 3,500 procedures and treatments. “I could have never imagined this much growth in such a short period of time,” shares owner Brittany Iafrati, FNP. In those five years, Brittany has also built up a staff of four nurse practitioners, three medical estheticians, two receptionists, and one manager – all dedicated to helping clients look and feel their best.

“From the very first day I was introduced to the cosmetic industry I fell in love,” says Brittany, who holds a BS from URI and a master’s degree from Purdue University. She worked in the ICU and Endoscopy units at Rhode Island Hospital before finding her calling as an aesthetic nurse injector, and has since trained with top injectors in New England to become an expert of facial anatomy and injectable treatment protocols.

“My parents always taught me to dream big and there isn’t anything in this world you can’t do if you work hard.” When not working hard making those dreams come true in the office, Brittany is committed to family time. “I spend every spare moment with my husband, who is my rock, and our two beautiful boys. They push me to do better every day.”

Brittany relishes every part of the job, from performing procedures that enhance (rather than change) clients’ natural features, to sharing her wealth of knowledge about the aging process. She and her “Bel Viso Family” set a high standard for customer service. “We check in on our patients post procedures and continuously ask for feedback so we can continue to be the best.”

With plans to expand into a larger facility, Brittany and team continue to put patients’ best interests and safety first. Her motto for Bel Viso from day one has been: “Do the right thing, do your best, and always show people you care.”

SHANNON CASEY Director

Sitting at the helm of the ARTISTS’ EXCHANGE, Shannon Casey looks very much at home. She joined the womenrun non-profit art center owned and operated by Gateways to Change, Inc. in 2007 as an art teacher and since 2019 has been its director. “I never thought I would be running an arts organization, but I certainly am happy doing it.”

Shannon started her career in social services and education, and is an artist herself, working mainly in ceramics and fiber. Creative and civic minded, she is also secretary for the Cranston Arts Commission and a board member for Revive the Roots in Smithfield.

She credits her colleagues for making the work so fulfilling. “As a team of primarily women, we are able to work collaboratively and seamlessly. My sta often called me their fearless leader, keeping everything running smoothly through even the worst circumstances,” says Shannon. “Our team is a group of close friends more than anything and I could not do what I do without the rest of the strong women by my side.”

Mindy brings a passion for sustainable fashion, knack for creative design, and personable approach to her boutique consignment shop URBAN THREAD. “We are a tight-knit community of friends, fashion lovers, and artisans,” she says. “Buying consignment is a sure way to mitigate the problems with fast fashion and its detrimental e ect on the environment.”

Featuring a curated collection of unique pieces, the shop is by appointment to consign, and Mindy looks forward to o ering styling services and hosting events this year.

17 Brook Street, Providence, 401-654-6935 same uniqueness as a tiger’s stripes. Marketing and advertising are usually referred to as an art, but there is also a science to it. A career professional with over 25 years of industry expertise, Cathy Corelli o ers a unique approach to advertising and marketing businesses throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. any one industry, although I am passionate about cars, which is one of the reasons I tend to gravitate towards automotive dealers.” she says with a smile.

CC Media Partners’ focus is always on the client and making client messages stand out from their competition. If you’ve ever wondered why a tiger is CC MEDIA PARTNERS identifiable image, it’s simple: No two tigers have the same stripes –they’re like human fingerprints, their stripe pattern is unique to each individual tiger, making them identifiable in the wild. Your marketing initiatives will have the

Cathy uses strategic media buying and marketing that combines an exceptionally strong core competency o ering inhouse graphic design, copywriting, and commercial production for TV and radio, including OTT. She has a diverse portfolio that includes comprehensive marketing campaigns for all forms of media advertising, including social media, and website development. CC Media provides in-house graphic design, plus TV and radio commercial production.

Current clients range from regional automotive groups and lawyers to retail and healthcare. “We don’t specialize in

In today’s business world, you need a partner to handle marketing your business with the same personality and drive as if it were their own; with more than 25 years of experience and longstanding client partnerships that prove her track record, Cathy and her long-term key creative team partner, Rose Cantor, provide personal attention and expertise, instilling confidence while confirming their dedication to your business. “Our success is based on your success, and we are honored to be a part of it!” Cathy is also a supporter of Big Cat Rescue, RISPCA, and the President of Executives Association of RI.

LAURIE MORGAN Founder & CEO

MESSINA Director of Sales

From candy striper to recently obtaining her Master of Science in Nursing, Laurie Morgan’s experience in the medical field spans over 25 years. She’s worked in hospitals, nursing homes, and group homes, with patients as well as students, and today helps clients navigate medicallegal cases through LAW LEGAL NURSE CONSULTING. “I have always been someone to find a problem, and then fix it,” Laurie says. “Medical records are so extensive today and my goal is to help my attorney clients help their clients.”

Westerly, 401-360-6167, LAWLegalNurseConsulting.com

MICHELLE PARENTEAU President

“Fabulous, fun and sassy” is how colleagues describe Director of Sales Damaris Messina. Her personality is well suited for her role as Director of Sales at the 175-room ALOFT PROVIDENCE DOWNTOWN HOTEL, located in the Innovation & Design District in Providence. Her goal? “To create a never boring space at Aloft where both her customers and team can thrive, be their best version of themselves, and have fun,” says Damaris.

A graduate of Marriott’s Emerging Leaders program, Damaris earned both her BS and MBA from the International Hotel and Tourism School at Johnson & Wales University. She began her career with Marriott in 2006 on the pre-opening team of the Renaissance Providence Downtown hotel. She joined the Marriott GLOBAL Account Sales Organization in 2013, quickly demonstrating great success. Her passion for the hospitality industry, love for Providence, and innate ability to build long-lasting customer relations have led to great success – Aloft was nominated as the 2022 opening hotel of the year by Marriott International.

Michelle Parenteau is making waves in the Ocean State and beyond. The president and principal at MICHELLE LEE DESIGNS, who pairs a solid work ethic that utilizes local vendors with a confident use of color and materials, has landed the Johnstonbased interior designer on the pages of regional magazines, clients from coast to coast, and national recognition as June 2022’s Sherwin Williams Designer of the Month.

Michelle traces her enthusiasm for decorating to childhood. “As an only child raised by a single parent, I had to develop my imagination in order to occupy myself. My bedroom was drab and dated. The wallpaper was made of foil – a hideous trend in the 1970’s – and lacked color and textures,” she explains. At the age of seven Michelle asked if she could renovate her bedroom and shares that she got busy choosing window treatments, carpeting, and of course, new wallpaper. “I dove into reading fashion magazines and home magazines to hone my color skills. My love of the ocean and the color blue originated that day.”

That draw to blue continues to this day and has become a trademark of Michelle’s work. Whether installing aqua tiles in a kitchen, customizing restaurant bar stools with bright cyan trim, or accessorizing a space with azure pendant lighting, the abstract artist – who is happy to lend her skills to customer’s wall decor – brings a nod to nature in almost all she does.

“I enjoy getting to know my clients and finding out about their lives and tastes. Once I understand what makes them happy, I go about designing a space that will be thrilling to them.”

Since taking the leap to start her own business in 2004, Michelle has steadily built a long list of residential and commercial clients, colleagues, and friends. “I am proud that I had the courage to open my own business with the belief that I could make a difference.”

CAROLINE MULLANEY Admissions Director

“I’m proud to be working at a school that remains a leader in giving all students and families a sense of belonging, regardless of their race, gender, and economic status,” says Caroline Mullaney, Admissions Director at GORDON SCHOOL. While she didn’t originally consider a career in admissions, Caroline now can’t imagine doing anything else. She loves that every day is di erent. One moment she might be taking a family on a tour of campus, chatting with a future kindergartener, planning an event with middle schoolers, or explaining the value of Family Individualized Tuition – but always, Caroline’s number one job is making everyone feel welcome. “Feeling like we belong plays such a big role in our experience,” she explains. “I’m grateful that I get to help families find a sense of belonging at Gordon, and grateful that I found it here myself.” This fall, Caroline is excited that they will be launching

ATABEY SÁNCHEZ-HAIMAN

Artist & Gallery Owner the Gordon Family Table, making lunch community-inclusive for everyone: students, faculty, and sta . “Food will connect to our curriculum, our equity and sustainability e orts, and help link our community together.”

45 Maxfield Avenue, Providence, 401-434-3833, GordonSchool.org

Atabey Sánchez-Haiman’s art invites the viewer to take a pause from stresses and negativity and in that pause, feel calm and cheerful. Bright and colorful, with a signature palette of yellow, orange, and red, her pop art is instantly recognizable as a GIRAFFES AND ROBOTS original.

Born in Puerto Rico, the Brown graduate has made a significant impact on the local art scene. Her studio gallery, the Gira es and Robots Pop Art Studio, is an immersive experience where you feel as if you are stepping into one of her paintings or illustrations. There is a seemingly endless collection of bright and a ordable options, from unframed and framed prints to large-scale artwork and very limited edition whimsical pieces, each created to bring a pop of positivity. In the great tradition of pop art, Atabey’s work is designed to be approachable and fun.

And like notable pop artists, her work has become quite popular in RI and beyond. Her iconic Providence Landmarks and Building series o ers an unexpected twist on the familiar. Two images from this series are part

A first-generation Cape Verdean immigrant and proud owner of THE BUCKET NUTRITION, Lo Sena grew up helping her father run the family business. When he passed, she felt lost, but channeled her grief into doing good for her community. With a degree in communications and career in healthcare, Lorraine learned what her Pawtucket neighbors needed. “Beyond weight loss shakes and energizing teas, I created a safe place for my community and that makes it all worth it. I love helping people be their best self!”

863 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, 401-362-9547, FB/IG: thebucketnutrition of the art collection of The Graduate Hotel in Providence, where you can find a Gira es and Robots framed print in every one of their 300 rooms. Her popular works are constantly evolving with new imagery and focus, making each edition unique. A new series featuring Brown University buildings has recently been acquired by the art curator of the Brown Arts galleries to be included in the University’s Campus Collection, an exciting milestone in the career of this Brown alumna. She has done custom pieces for schools, doctor’s o ces, boardrooms, schools, kitchens (her food themed pop art is definitely worth a look), living rooms, nurseries... even bathrooms! Atabey has recently ventured into the surface pattern design world and collaborates with interior designers, homeowners, and businesses to create custom pieces that literally and figuratively brighten up any environment. sema@floweredsky.com, Providence, 401-837-8447, FloweredSky.com

Atabey’s simple yet powerful art continues to leave its uniquely positive mark everywhere it goes and once you see it, you will certainly agree with her slogan: Pop art is good for you.

“Istanbul is like a layered mosaic of cultural, historical, architectural, and spiritual influences,” begins Sema Gurerk of the city where she grew up, and which continues to be a source of inspiration for her life and work. Today, Sema owns FLOWEREDSKY DESIGNS, a jewelry line of delicate geometric designs rendered in sterling silver, gold-filled metals, and gemstones. Sema continues to expand her expertise in metalworking, and this year she is excited to expand her Keum-boo line, featuring ancient Korean gilding techniques.

FRANCHESCA FERNANDEZ CEO

Having been in the embroidery and printing business for over 15 years, Franchesca Fernandez turned her talent into a thriving business when she opened MAKSERVI EMBROIDERY & PRINTING. Learning the ins and outs of the industry from the company her father owns in the Dominican Republic, Franchesca shares, “I started in my basement taking custom orders, primarily for gifting, and then I naturally started getting business clients who needed embroidery and printing to establish their brand.”

As a Latina woman, Franchesca shares, “This is my American dream. I only had my skills, my perseverance, and ambition.” Now, she has numerous clients who put their trust in her, a Cranston base, and a reputation of high-quality, a ordable embroidery and printed work. Franchesca is known for her creativity and patience to create the perfect finished project. “It fills me with joy to start a project that begins with words and ideas and then to see the product in the customer’s hands.” This year she looks forward to increasing production capacity to serve more clients, new and old.

1102 Pontiac Avenue, Cranston, 401-654-3851, MakserviUS.com @makservius

The Leading Ladies Of Stonelink Property Management

by hospitable and hardworking people, taught me the importance of going the extra mile when providing customer service,” says director of property management Adeliz Rodriguez, who was promoted to her current role last April and now leads a team of eight. “We all work together creating new processes, solving issues, learning, and providing support.” Recently promoted from legal coordinator to property manager, Becky Phelps manages 32 properties. “This career can be stressful, but it’s extremely rewarding.” takes her job seriously, keeping everything spotless and ensuring residents come home to a neat building. On the customer service end of things, o ce administrator Yeissy Fuentes shares, “I always do my best to make residents leave satisfied.”

According to Laurence Mann, who enjoys engaging in community outreach and displaying her creativity as communication and marketing manager, at Stonelink, “It feels like a family – you are heard and respected for everything you do.”

The women of STONELINK PROPERTY MANAGEMENT not only make up a key component of the team but have also played a huge role in the company’s growth and expansion. One of the region’s largest and fastest-growing full-service property management companies, Stonelink is also active in the local community, volunteering at the nonprofit We Share Hope.

“Growing up in Puerto Rico, surrounded

As director of accounting, Jennifer Sunderland brings two decades of experience to the fast-paced yet methodical property management field. Thriving in her supportive role is business administrator Lisa Gargaro, who keeps the Stonelink o ce running smoothly.

Assistant bookkeeper Yanis Rodriguez also leads the cleaning department with a steadfast and organized work ethic. Paola Correa, part of the cleaning department,

The Leading Ladies of Stonelink Property Management are an integral part of the company’s success, and they’re looking forward to a bright future in 2023. These women have demonstrated that they can achieve anything when working together as a team to drive them and the company to greater success.

15 Circle Street, Rumford, 401-223-2838, StonelinkPM.com

RUTH MULLEN Managing Director

Ruth Mullen found her professional fit in Rhode Island after relocating from New York City in 1977. Now, having worked for PARSONS CAPITAL MANAGEMENT since 2008, that passion continues to this day. “I was introduced to the world of investments in the difficult decade of the ‘70s through the Trust and Investment division of what is now part of JP Morgan Chase, where I learned a lot about how to do things and how not to do them,” says Ruth.

With over 40 years of investment management experience, Ruth worked for Ocean State Asset Management and New England Trust Company before joining Parsons. While living and working remotely, she continues pursuing her ideals of giving back to the community and making the world a better place for all, through serving on several local non-profit boards and committees. With the help of mentors, colleagues, and clients she’s encountered personally and professionally, Ruth has developed her dedicated work ethic. “My enduring lessons have been to listen to people, put client interests first, never stop learning, and never give up.”

10 Weybosset Street, Suite 1000, Providence, 401-521-2440, ParsonsCapital.com

Family is the heart of DR. DAY CARE.

Founded by Dr. Mary Ann Shallcross Smith, today Dr. Day Care is led by Mary Ann’s daughter, Amy Vogel. As the new CEO, Amy has taken on the leadership role. Dr. Day Care’s nationally accredited learning centers have locations across RI. “Families need to know their child is in a safe, secure learning environment.” In addition to being a small business owner, Dr. Mary Ann Shallcross Smith is a State Representative (District 46).

1201 Douglas Pike, Suite 4, Smithfield, DrDayCare.com

Jennifer Jones Rashleigh

Artist

“My work as an artist is about the process of observing the world acutely, distilling natural details into their salient poetic eloquence,” says Jennifer Jones Rashleigh, owner of CÉDIAN PAINTING: STUDIO-GALLERY.

Her portfolio of water and wildlife paintings dazzle visitors with her detailed, dynamic, and tactile art. “I work with acrylic in every capacity,” Jennifer explains, “diluted washes, translucent gel coats, brushed, poured, thrown, knifed, dragged opacities, and thickly pulled impasto textures that lift o the canvas.” But stretched canvas isn’t all Jennifer works on – she is widely known for her hand-painted pillows, which allow the viewer to experience art in a new way: “I encourage my clients to run their eyes and hands over the artwork,” she says. “Something generative occurs when we as humans look at and touch something simultaneously.”

In February, Jennifer reopened Cédian Painting: Studio-Gallery in the heart of Historic Tiverton Four Corners. Working together with colleague Ashley Ainsworth, both artists share exhibition space while painting from studios that open to the gallery. Patrons access finished work and creative process. “I prefer a working studio,” says Jennifer. “Art means more when you can deconstruct processes: sketching, underpainting, value studies, layering.” Jennifer encourages, “When you see how art is assembled, it’s easier to understand the work.”

Shifting careers after 9/11 from Art Historian and US Fulbright Scholar, Jennifer started painting and never looked back. “I’m grateful for the two decades I spent researching and teaching art history,” she explains. “It informs my thematic and aesthetic choices and method.”

“The response to my growing body of water and wildlife painting has been exhilarating,” she confesses of her birds, fish, botanicals, and beach scenes. Discover Jennifer’s inspiring art for yourself at Making Waves, a Pillow Painting Demo April 7 from 5:30-7pm at the gallery. Join upcoming classes Tuesday evenings 6-8pm May 2, 9, 16 & 23. Come to the Gallery Grand Opening Saturday June 17, 5-7pm, or stop by the studio, open weekly Wednesday-Saturday, 11am-4pm.

MARISSA LOVELY & GINA PEZZA General Manager | Executive Chef

General Manager Marissa Lovely and Executive Chef Gina Pezza bring unmatched experience, discipline, and drive to their roles at VANDA CUCINA, an authentic Italian restaurant inspired by owner Dino Passaretta’s mother.

Marissa holds a BS in Business Administration and worked in service and hospitality at a premier cigar lounge in Providence for 10 years before joining the team at Vanda when they first opened in 2019. Gina has a BS in Food Management as well as an Associate’s in Culinary Arts, and consistently brings the Passaretta family recipes to life. Together with her talent, Marissa’s leadership, and Dino’s vision, Vanda has made its mark on the culinary scene in Rhode Island.

“They both have immense pride, accountability, and loyalty to their careers, which has only grown over their five years as leaders,” says Dino. But their biggest source of inspiration is their

JOAN M. CAINE, CFA® Managing Director

Joan Caine is a Chartered Financial Analyst® and has been in the investment management business for over 35 years. She currently manages portfolios for institutional and high net worth individuals at PARSONS CAPITAL MANAGEMENT. With her knowledge of the institutional and retail investment worlds, Joan provides personalized investment advice. “I believe it is important that my clients become engaged and informed on the wide range of investment options available,” says Joan, “so that we can confidently develop a customized and e cient investment strategy best suited to their individual needs, goals, and risk tolerance.”

Beginning her career as a NASDAQ analyst, Joan later managed a bond fund for a deferred compensation plan provider established by the Ford Foundation. She then served as the Chief Investment O cer for the State of RI’s Treasury Department managing customers, who feel more like family. “Both of their love and passion continue to inspire and bring joy to so many. I have great teammates in these two and am ever thankful for them.”

1 the state’s $7 billion pension plan. Joan’s community service included serving on boards for Providence Public Library, RISD Museum Associates, and VNA Care New England. Currently, Joan serves on Lifespan’s Investment Committee.

10 Weybosset Street, Suite 1000, Providence, 401-521-2440, ParsonsCapital.com

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If you enjoy listening to the kind of soulful singing that transforms the vibe of even your living room into a cocktail bar, Providence-based ALEXUS LEE needs to be on your radar. Known for her commanding stage presence and a four-octave range, this singer-songwriter can be found performing on stages around Rhode Island and beyond.

Alexus’ love of making music started early. “When I was eight I started taking piano and violin lessons with my mom, but even before that I was writing songs.” Today, Alexus still starts the process at the keyboard. “I start by fiddling around on the keys and once I come up with a progression I like, I start to sing.”

Her favorite show to date? The Sinclair in Cambridge, November of 2019. Says Alexus, “I had the amazing opportunity to open for Mac Ayres. I played a 40-minute set, entirely of originals – the crowd was alive and singing my songs with me, my parents were in the balcony – it was just a perfect night.”

Hear Alexus Lee perform at the Leading Ladies party on March 23 at Aloft Providence.

AlexusALee.com