THE PREMIER
AWARDS GALA
MAJOR SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
On March 22, at the Heritage Club at Bethpage, 60 of Long Island’s most accomplished women were honored at Herald Community Newspapers’ Fourth Annual 2023 Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards, presented by RichnerLIVE, for their professional and community contributions. At the event, 450 people were in attendance to recognize some of Long Island’s most intelligent, dynamic and charitable women.
Each year we continue to make progress towards gender equity and inclusion — although we still have much work to do — and I am encouraged that the women in our communities are leading the way.
As part of the evening’s festivities, we are proud to have supported the work of Girls Inc. Long Island with a portion of the ticket proceeds, allowing this great nonprofit to provide the resources to continue to encourage the future Premier Business Women of Long Island to be strong, smart and bold!
Lastly, I want to thank the many individuals and organizations that made the Herald Community Newspapers’ Fourth Annual 2023 Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards possible: the honorees, as well as their supportive friends and families, in addition to our dedicated event sponsors that share our values of women inclusion, empowerment and equity.
It is a privilege for us at Herald Community Newspapers to be able to cover the people, places, and institutions that continue to make Long Island a great place to call home.
Sincerely,
Stuart Richner Publisher, Herald Community Newspapers CEO, Richner Communications, Inc.
Gabrielle Addamo is a Tax Manager in Grassi’s Manufacturing & Distribution, Construction and Real Estate practices. She works closely with clients across Long Island to oversee their tax engagements and ensure they are utilizing industry best practices to improve their businesses. Gabrielle identifies opportunities for her clients to run their businesses more profitably through enhanced operational efficiencies and risk management strategies. She also has experience advising high net worth individuals on their fiduciary returns.
A Long Island resident, Gabrielle is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Spanish from Colgate University and a Masters degree in Accounting from Fordham University. In addition, she attends CPE courses to learn the latest developments in tax laws, expands her network at business development events, and participates in training seminars across the Manufacturing and Distribution, Construction, and Real Estate sectors. Gabrielle also serves as a mentor to Grassi team members and provides professional development training on best practices, organization tips and how to stay on top of their work.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island?
My advice is to not be afraid to stand up for yourself. The business world can feel intimidating and male-dominated at times, but as long as you stay true to yourself and hold yourself accountable to your own standards, nothing will stand in your way.
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
I would be a lawyer, so I could still serve clients and assist people when they are in need.
What is your “daily mantra”?
“If you think you can do a thing or think you can’t do a thing, you’re right.”
Jacquelyn Diiorio is an Audit Supervisor in Grassi’s Construction practice. She performs audits, reviews, compilations and additional attest services for contractors, subcontractors and specialty trade contractors.
Jacquelyn, a Stony Brook University graduate, has over six years of experience in the construction industry and uses her knowledge and technical skills to help clients face the unique compliance and regulatory challenges of their market sector. Jacquelyn is a member of Grassi’s A&A Committee. In addition, Jacquelyn supports Grassi’s Civil/Heavy Highway Subcontractors subniche, where she promotes the value of the construction industry and introduces clients to benefits that they may not be aware of and helps them highlight their respective accomplishments.
Jacquelyn is an active participant of Grassi’s Gives Back program and has volunteered at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). She is also a member of Grassi’s Women’s Council, contributing to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including employee roundtable discussions, monthly awareness events and community outreach.
LISA EPSTEIN Senior Manager PKF O’Connor Davies
Lisa Epstein is a Senior Manager in the Employee Benefit Plan Group at PKF O’Connor Davies, with over 25 years of accounting and auditing experience. She provides services to a variety of industries, including employee benefit plans, not-for-profits, governmental entities, local municipalities, wholesale and retail distributors, and manufacturing.
Lisa, a Binghamton University graduate, is a member of the Board of Directors and Audit Committee of the Mid-Island Y JCC as well as the Chair of their Finance Committee. Her professional affiliations and civic involvement include the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA) and a member of the Suffolk Chapter Employee Benefits Committee.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)? Becoming a mom to my daughter, Gianna, and like so many other new working mothers, learning how to juggle my career and quality time at home with my family.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? My advice is to lead by example and always strive for more. Most goals are achievable If ample time and energy are invested.
What is your “daily mantra”? "Always challenge the status quo."
What has been your greatest achievement(s)? Changing my industry specialization. When my firm joined with PKF O’Connor Davies, it allowed me to specialize in audits of employee benefit plans fulltime, which has always been my passion.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
I credit my mother with my becoming a CPA. Growing up, my mother worked part-time as a bookkeeper but had always wanted to be a CPA. When she realized that I excelled at math, she pushed me to take an accounting course during my senior year of high school. I loved the class, and the rest is history.
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
I think I would be a middle school or high school math teacher. I’ve always loved math and working with children.
Diane Giordano is a tax and business services partner in the firm’s Melville office. She works closely with large, multi-state companies as well as family-owned businesses, providing tax and tax credit consulting, financial statement disclosure and compliance services. Her clients also include SEC reporting entities for which Diane provides various tax provision services.
Diane, a Hofstra graduate, has more than 25 years of accounting and tax experience. She frequently speaks to professional and industry organizations on a variety of tax topics and authors numerous articles for various professional publications. Additionally, she serves as the editor of the firm’s tax newsletter, Beyond the Numbers, firm-wide Tax Flashes and other social media publication content and the annual Marcum Year-End Tax Guide.
Diane is also a leader in the firm-wide integration process and is a frequent instructor on various tax technical topics. She has earned numerous awards and recognitions; invested her time in professional and civic affiliations, including the Moxxie Network and the Long Island Alzheimer's Foundation, among others.
Prior to joining Marcum in 2005, Diane spent 17 years at other global and “Big 4” accounting organizations.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
I wanted a secure life for myself which was my primary influence to work hard, save and succeed.
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
If I did not enter into the accounting field, which I do like, I would have considered nursing. If I were to consider at this point in my life, I think I would consider animal rescue.
What is your “daily mantra”?
My daily mantra is "Just keep moving."
K. GIACINTO Chief Financial Officer PBI Payroll
HCM Workforce Technology
Valerie K Giacinto CPA, is Chief Financial Officer and a principal of PBI Payroll, HCM Workforce Technology, a full-service Payroll Service Bureau.
Valerie was honored to bring deaf employees into their workforce years ago, and had their staff trained on the basics of American sign language (ASL). One of their employees learned enough to go on to be able to communicate with her deaf sibling, which she had struggled to do prior to her ASL training. Valeria was selected to join the Financial Executive Women’s group over 20 years ago, which she continues to be a part of. The fabulous group of women CFO’s share business successes, failures and ideas along with personal stories rewarding to all.
Miriam Hubbard, Northeast Sales Manager at PBI Payroll, has worked in the Human Resource industry for over 10 years. Starting in workforce management, she worked with companies of all sizes in the Northeast assisting them in staying in compliance by implementing the proper systems to manage their workforce.
In 2012, Miriam joined PBI Payroll as Northeast Sales Manager. Miriam has continued to bring her knowledge of the HR industry to forefront as clients are facing the ever-challenging changes in payroll requirements and labor laws. Keeping clients in compliance and yet delivering exceptional service is the primary goal, providing peace of mind and professional results that give the clients time to do what they do best.
wThroughout her career, she has worked with business owners and HR professionals in varying industries.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)? Surviving ovarian cancer and being able to continue working through it all, and sharing my experience with as many people as possible to encourage women to get to their doctor timely.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Find your work/life balance; ask for help and don't feel like you have to do it all yourself. Take the time to take care of yourself. Before you get home, pull over a few blocks away and decompress for five minutes.
What is your “daily mantra”? Count your blessings, be grateful, and look for the positive in everyone and everything. You can't change what happens — you can change how you react to it.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My family. As a single parent, my kids inspired me to give them a good example of leadership and good work ethic.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Surround yourself with other strong, healthy, individuals that challenge you to grow and celebrate your progress with you.
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be? Doing some sort of ministerial/humanitarian work.
COO, Associate General Agent Forest Hills Financial Group
Andie Perlmutter is COO and Associate General Agent at Forest Hills Financial Group (FHFG). Andie coordinates support of the firm’s 100 financial advisors and servicing of over 40,000 clients and policyholders. A thirdgeneration financial services professional, Andie is also the firm’s Disability Income Specialist, proactive in teaching the importance of disability insurance as the foundation to financial well-being. Andie supports the firm’s involvement in numerous philanthropic events.
Andie's Dad, Nat Perlmutter, president and CEO of the firm, founded the agency in 1980. Andie’s brother David, GA and managing partner, completes the Perlmutter team along with Managing Partner Amy Salo. Andie and Amy support the women advisors at the firm and are passionate about growing their team with women in both advisor and leadership roles.
Andie is actively involved with the New York City Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, The National Association of Women Business Owners, and Women in Financial Services. A health enthusiast, Andie enjoys being outside walking, exploring NYC, where she resides with her husband and daughters, and also likes to knit and cook.
What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My dad. He's my biggest cheerleader, supporter, and motivator.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? People may say you can't “have it all” and need to choose between having a career or having a family. In some situations that may be true, but you can get pretty close. It's not easy, and there are certainly times when I have mother’s guilt. Yes it's a challenge, but it can be done.
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
I taught while getting my degree to be an elementary school teacher. My role allows me to educate people every day, something I've always been passionate about.
DAVI TSERPELIS SVP Business Banking Manager City National BankDavi Tserpelis opened City National Bank’s Melville office in 2017. As senior vice president and regional business banking manager supporting Long Island and New York City teams, she leads a team of experienced business bankers, providing advice on best practices with solutions to grow and protect family businesses, including financing, cash management, investments and international trade.
Davi has over 35 years of commercial lending and banking experience, including roles as a senior banker at various Long Island-based institutions for over 16 years; as well as an assetbased lender in specialty finance supporting finance companies and private lenders across the country.
Davi is most proud of her family and of her 23-year marriage to husband and best friend Van.
SANDRA BRENNAN CEO & Founder Senior Living Renaissance, LLC
After working 20 years in the healthcare industry, Sandra Brennan created her company, Senior Living Renaissance, to help healthcare and senior care companies develop a strong marketing plan and strategy, build or repair their marketing and business development and create equally strong partnerships to drive referrals to their business. Providing her indepth industry knowledge and creative skills, Sandra steps in as their marketer or alongside theirs, helping clients become competitive and continue to be their partner throughout their business development.
Sandra is active in numerous trade industry groups and regularly attends healthcare industry events as well as volunteering for several charitable organizations. Sandra offers free consulting, guidance and resources to family caregivers exploring healthcare options.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Know that women before have fought hard for your rights and paved the way for you to pursue your passions. Your opportunities are boundless. Start building your bucket list today and making it happen!
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
I love what I do every day. If money was no object, I would consider running a non-profit full time to support high school and college students with mentoring and career assessment to give our youth the opportunity to determine their best career path early in their lives and the confidence to pursue their goals. This would build a better future for all.
What is your “daily mantra”? Carpe Diem!
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
Helping struggling, but really great healthcare companies redevelop their marketing strategies and seeing them start to quickly grow their referrals and business.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Realize that opportunities are out there to make a real difference while building an incredible business that you can be proud of. If someone else can do it, so can you. Do what you love, and the rest will follow.
What is your “daily mantra”?
My daily mantra is a line from "Our Deepest Fear" by Marianne Williamson; "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure."
Valentina Janek — marketing consultant and guru, career/life coach, mid-life advocate and senior information specialist — has held a variety of corporate, community, human resources, recruiting, and consulting positions many industries. She is the on -air host and founder of The Long Island Breakfast Club Show (2008), which recently celebrated 250 episodes, and authored “In Love & Friendship” and “From Fired to Freedom.” She is co-founder of the Long Island Writers Club, launched in 2019, spending time with individuals interested in writing books. She also enjoys spending time with high school and college students as a mentor, in the LIBC ambassador program.
She was recognized by the Long Island Wind Beneath my Wings Program, Woman of Distinction by Long Island Distinction Magazine, and inducted to the Project Legacy Pearls Program at the Statue of Liberty for her endeavors with contemporary women on a local, regional and national level.
Valentina is a social-preneur, networker, activist, media personality, actress, and business professional promoting paying it forward on Long Island, working on different and unique projects. Family is an important part of her personal life; she spends valuable time with her daughters, grandchildren, extended family and friends.
Every day: Get Up, Get Dressed, Show Up! I believe every day you should do three things: laugh, reflect and let your emotions be free. If you need to cry, then cry.
Jesika Kalika, Marketing Communications & Business Development Consultant, is an award-winning creative marketing strategist. With over 20 years of experience within the legal and insurance industries and a licensed financial educator, Jesika is always looking for ways to improve her craft while inspiring and mentoring others.
Jesika, Farmingdale State University graduate, supports purpose-driven women, families and businesses to thrive. As a strategic marketer, she assists businesses with branding, business development, web design, digital marketing including social media management and SEO. As a licensed financial educator, she helps families and entrepreneurs understand the importance of financial literacy and money concepts to build a solid financial future and create generational wealth.
This path allowed her the opportunity to stretch her vision and dive deeper into philanthropic efforts, which include the development of schools and orphanages around the world. Jesika also collaborates with women’s organizations to develop and mentor young women to create a strong foundation for success.
LISA MIRABILE President & Founder Vertigo Media Group
Lisa Mirabile, president and founder of Vertigo Media Group (VMG), is a creative marketing executive with a focus in brand advertising and skilled in developing and executing innovative strategies that achieve results. Her award-winning commercials for American Express were shot in Latin America where Lisa spent four years living in Brazil. In 1995 Lisa was inducted into the global team for Ogilvy and Mather and worked to create and launch a new brand for Sears, which led to the global recognition with the tagline; “Come see the softer side of Sears.”
In 2004, Lisa created VMG, which has evolved into a full-service agency enjoying 20 years of success> It operates as a boutique agency that allows the company to work closely with clients to unearth its best opportunities.
Lisa revealed her latest creation in the form of internet radio to bring women-owned businesses into the world of podcasting and instructional talk radio. It can be found across the internet as WOMP (putting women on the map). Each show comes with streaming video content. Lisa still claims her children — her son Leo and daughter Gianna — to be her greatest accomplishment.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Believing in yourself is an important key to success. Once you understand this concept, you will realize your self-worth and become more confident to ask tough questions, be able to let go of fear and embrace change, and become an inspiration to other women.
What is your “daily mantra”?
I am grateful for this life of happiness and abundance I created, which allows me and everyone around me to prosper.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)? Built out the podcast room, hired a full-time videographer, joined the board at EAC Network, and got engaged.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? There are no limits as to what you can accomplish. Don’t let the voices of others limit you. Most people don’t succeed because they don’t show up. So show up everyday and act with intent. Stay involved in your community, give back and be grateful.
Dr. Maria P. Conzatti, Acting President, Nassau Community College. She is the first alumna to assume leadership of the state’s largest single-campus community college. Within the first 100 days of her appointment, Dr. Conzatti has guided NCC to a position of strength and vitality.
She guided the launch of technologyrich academic programs in cybersecurity, healthcare data analytics, medical assistant, and chemical technology, as well as $90 million in construction and renovations, including a state-of-the-art culinary arts facility. To ensure a community college education remains accessible and affordable following the pandemic, tuition has been frozen for the third consecutive year; with more than $1.5 million in private and corporate donations helping provide additional scholarships, food, and metro cards to students.
More than $14 million in grants for precollege preparation, new laboratories, and other academic initiatives have been awarded during President Conzatti’s nascent tenure. Formerly Vice President of Academic Student Services at NCC, she served as an adjunct professor of business for more than 30 years and was named one of the Most Powerful Influencers on Long Island. She earned an Associate of Science from NCC, a Bachelor of Business Administration and an MBA from Adelphi University, and an Ed.D. in Instructional Leadership from St. John’s University.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
Watching those who have been told NO succeed at the very things they have been told were not possible or could not be done.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island?
Treat others as you wish to be treated, as it takes a village to realize change.
What is your “daily mantra”?
Take one day at a time.
Barbara J. Holahan joined New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) as Controller in 2014, and became Vice President Financial Affairs, CFO and Treasurer in 2019. Barbara oversees institutional accounting & financial planning including operating and capital budgets, treasury, audit, and auxiliary business functions.
At NYIT, Barbara has helped the university achieve record financial growth and stability, with net asset growth of 40% since 2019. Debt restructuring, flexible balanced budgets, and enhanced fiscal monitoring give NYIT the resources to invest in expanded research programming and the modernization of its Long Island and Manhattan campuses. Before joining NYIT, Barbara was controller at the Metropolitan Opera, and associate treasurer and associate controller at Columbia University. She began her career at KPMG and has served as an independent consultant for the Wildlife Conservation Society and Natural Resources Defense Council, and controller at other New York City area non-profits, providing services in finance, compliance, process re-engineering, policy writing, and FEMA disaster recovery management.
Barbara has an M.B.A. from Molloy University and a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Richmond. She is a member of the AICPA and NYSSCPA.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Be your own person. Seek input, and when necessary, seek advice. But only you can determine what works for your career and personal life balance. Be adventurous and take advantage of unique opportunities, as they won't come around twice. Always keep your integrity, and don't become jealous of others' success. Celebrate the successes of your peers and competitors, and those who matter will celebrate yours.
MaryAnne Hyland, Ph.D., is the dean of the Robert B. Willumstad School of Business at Adelphi University. Prior to becoming dean, she was the associate dean for undergraduate programs and student success and a faculty member teaching management and human resource management courses. Her research on work/life issues has appeared in Community, Work, & Family, the Journal of Applied and Behavioral Management and Personnel Psychology. She has been quoted in publications such as Fast Company, Long Island Business News, Newsday, and USA Today. Prior to her academic career, MaryAnne worked in business process outsourcing and training for Hewitt Associates (now part of Aon). She is a Society for Human Resource Management certified HR Professional (SHRMCP). MaryAnne holds M.H.R.M. and Ph.D. degrees from Rutgers University and a B.B.A. from Loyola University Maryland.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My parents. They told me that I could be whatever I wanted to be, and they taught me the value of hard work. As the new Dean of the Robert B. Willumstad School of Business, that guidance and support means more and more to me every year.
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
I think I might be in healthcare. It is a career I seriously considered when I was in high school, but I was a bit squeamish! As it turns out, some of our business programs now interrelate with the healthcare field, so those two fields came together in my chosen career.
What is your “daily mantra”?
"You’ve got this!" When I became dean, our CIO gave me a print with this saying on it. I keep it in my office — it’s a source of positivity on a busy or challenging day.
Maurie McInnis is the sixth president of Stony Brook University, an internationally recognized public research institution and center of academic excellence designated as a flagship university in New York State and ranked as the number one public university in the state under her leadership. Appointed in 2020, Maurie also oversees Stony Brook Medicine, which encompasses five health sciences schools, four hospitals, and 200 communitybased healthcare settings. She is a key player in furthering economic development on Long Island and in Stony Brook’s role as part of the management team of nearby Brookhaven National Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy facility.
Maurie is focused on providing a highquality, affordable education for all students, which has resulted in a diverse student population that includes twenty percent underrepresented minority students, more than one-third of students who are Pell Granteligible, and one-third who are the first in their families to go to college. She continues to advance opportunities to recruit accomplished faculty to improve teaching and learning, conduct groundbreaking research, provide the best clinical care for patients, and boost students’ socioeconomic mobility.
A renowned cultural historian and author, Maurie’s academic scholarship has focused on race, slavery, and power in the 19th century American South. She brings to Stony Brook her humanist values, among them her conviction that institutes of higher learning should use their expertise and influence to address major societal problems.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island?
A leader is only as successful as the talent and creativity she brings to her team. Because no one person on her own achieves success alone, assembling a diverse group of individuals who can work together collegially to support each other to advance the organization and, in the process themselves and one another, is essential.
Jennifer Hayen serves as Director of Communications for the Long Island Power Authority. In this role for the third largest not-for-profit public power utility in the U.S, Jennifer leads the efforts to communicate LIPA’s purpose to provide clean, reliable, and affordable electric service to customers on Long Island and the Rockaways. Jennifer also serves as the co-chair for the Large Public Power Council’s Communications Executives Working Group, representing 27 of the largest public power utilities across the country.
Jennifer received a Bachelor of Arts in English from SUNY Binghamton, where she also was a member of the division I women’s volleyball team. She also received a Master of Science from Columbia Graduate School of Journalism and holds a certificate from the Columbia University School of Professional Studies. A Long Island native, Jennifer resides in Smithtown with her husband, Christopher, and two children, Oliver and LJ.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)? While this isn’t a new phenomenon, being able to perform at high levels both in the workplace and at home for my children and family. There is an incredible opportunity as a working mother that can allow me to be an example for my children. And, as a result, raise more independent and resilient children who then will (in theory) go on to raise independent and resilient children.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
Self-motivation and goal setting. I’ve always had an inner drive that fueled my passion for continued education and helped me to navigate my career choices. I am always thinking about my goals and what I can do to meet them — both in the shortterm and the long-term.
Michelle Somers leads the marketing team at PSEG Long Island. She is responsible for generating customer engagement, satisfaction and participation in programs that save money and energy. Her previous roles include Electric Vehicles Manager where she led the development, marketing and administration of programs to drive EV adoption on Long Island.
Michelle served as president of the PSEG Long Island Women’s Network from 2020 through 2022, after serving as secretary since 2018. She is committed to the group’s mission of “women helping women” and is enthusiastic about developing new programs, content, and opportunities to serve and engage the membership and the community.
Prior to joining PSEG Long Island, Michelle managed marketing and technology projects for American Express, CMP Media, United Business Media and National Grid. Michelle earned a B.A. in media and communications, and an A.A. in advertising and communications from SUNY Empire State College.
Michelle is also a published writer, with articles in the Baldwin Herald, as well as Equal Opportunity Publications, Woman Engineer and Minority Engineer.
Michelle is married to Carlton, her high school sweetheart, and will celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary this July. They have one daughter, Kamari, and two sons Malik and Nile.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My family inspires me everyday and we encourage each other to stretch higher to reach our dreams.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? My advice would be to stay focused on your goals and keep your sense of humor. Every day, in every way, at home or at work - find something to laugh about.
What is your “daily mantra”? Buy the shoes, eat the cake.
Beth Donner Design
Beth Donner, founder of Beth Donner Design, Inc. (BDD), has been creating impeccably designed spaces for over 25 years. Starting her career in the fashion business, Beth has always had an eye for identifying and defining new trends. She constantly seeks new inspiration from fashion, music, art, and design. Beth carries this sensibility into the designs she creates and her passion has become her career. She feels that excellent structure and functional design in all projects makes them both timeless and timely, whether it’s for the hottest new restaurant concept, the coolest mixed use boutique hotel or the most ultraluxury residence.
Beth has created spaces from event venues and multiple restaurants and residences for prominent Long Island restaurateurs, restaurant concepts for celebrity clientele and residences of distinction for some of the area’s most notable families. BDD’s body of work has made a lasting impression on the Long Island hospitality scene.
Josephine Fitzpatrick began her career working as a private nutrition and weight loss consultant, offering her clients 24/7 support and helping them find a healthier, cleaner way of life that they could maintain long-term. Her popularity grew, and in 2005 she launched Innovation Weight Loss & Fitness. It was a huge hit, earning her more than 1,500 clients in-person and online, including high-profile and A-list celebrities.
Following the success of her program, Josephine launched Innovation Healthy Market in 2012, a storefront market with a line of delicious, prepared meals and snacks. The store is open to the public to shop. The different options — such as high protein low carb; plant based/vegan; keto, and much more — make it easier for people to make healthier eating choices to lose weight or eat healthier.
With a caring and guided approach, she carefully listens and caters to each person’s specific needs. Her passion for her customers is what fuels her and remains most important to her. Seeing her clients reach their goals makes her feel empowered, proud and motivates her to keep spreading awareness in the wellness space.
Maureen Tara Nelson, owner of MTN Matchmaking, is Long Island’s cupid and only executive level certified matchmaker in New York state. For over two decades, her relationship expertise, dating, coaching and matchmaking services have been lauded by those who found love, and applauded by those couples who overcame obstacles with her guidance. As a trusted source on best practices of dating, her advice has been singles’ North Star when looking for love. Along with being an endless source of compassionate guidance in clients’ love life, she is a proud mother of two children, and believes in the bond and kinship of loving relationships both inside and outside of the family.
Maureen has helped connect over a thousand couples, building meaningful bonds and strong connections that evolve into longterm relationships and marriage. Her approach helps establish compatibility with potential companions, which then evolves into chemistry, two of the main elements of successful relationships. Maureen has developed a true safe haven for individuals looking for love. Her clients have not only forged bonds with their future lovers but have found a bond just as strong with their matchmaker!
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Woman today can do it all, I truly feel the world is full of so many opportunities, I would say if you could harness your passion then you will always love what you do. That is the key, once you're able to direct your energies to what you love, everyday will be fulfilling, meaningful and rewarding.
What is your “daily mantra”?
Always loved the line from the Sheryl Crow song, Soak up the Sun. "It's not having what you want, It's wanting what you have."
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island?
Mistakes are an opportunity to learn. It’s okay to make mistakes. Don’t beat yourself up every time you make a mistake — instead learn from it. Mistakes are actually a building block in life, because they give you the opportunity to grow. A mistake is not a failure by any means, it’s learning what works and what doesn’t work. You can only understand true success when you can appreciate and own the mistakes you make. One of the most important things I live by is to learn from my mistakes and to never make the same mistake twice.
What is your mantra?
Carpe diem-Seize the day! Live your life to the fullest every day and keep a positive mindset always. Positive energy attracts positive results! I have been manifesting and envisioning everything on my “dream board” to happen with positive thinking years before I ever heard of the book, “The Secret.”
Lisa M. Black, Chief Deputy County Executive in Suffolk County, manages the daily operations of a government that serves 1.5 million residents with a $3+ billion budget and a workforce of approximately 10,000 county staff.
As a seasoned public official, Lisa also served New York City Mayors Mike Bloomberg and Bill de Blasio, as Assistant Commissioner of Government and Community Relations for the City's Department of Homeless Services (DHS). Prior to her current employment, Lisa was a member of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's administration, serving as Director of Intergovernmental Affairs and Senior Advisor for Transportation & Infrastructure at the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES).
As Chief Deputy Suffolk County Executive, Lisa led the County’s pandemic response and large-scale vaccination efforts, and later its county-wide cyberattack containment and recovery.
Lisa holds a BA in Public Communications from the College of Saint Rose. She is also a graduate of the Academy for Regional Stewardship at Molloy University where she proudly serves as a member of the Energeia Partnership.
What is your “daily mantra”?
Work for a cause, not applause. It’s a variation on Truman’s “it is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets credit.” Public service is severely underrated as a profession. But the ones who get the work done derive so much joy in solving problems and delivering results. Improving the quality of life for those in our community is a real gift, and having the opportunity to be a part of a profession that allows that is quite remarkable.
Melanie Basile currently serves as the Chief Growth Officer at The Smilist, a leading Dental Services organization focused on delivering exceptional patient and employee experiences. She is an integral part of The Smilist, leading teams focused on organic growth and assisting to expand the organization from six locations to over 50 across the Northeast. With over 15 years of experience in marketing and communications, Melanie is passionate about helping organizations craft a brand message that resonates with audiences across multiple channels and creating value for stakeholders.
Prior to joining The Smilist, held various management positions at L’Oreal and Canon USA. Melanie graduated summa cum laude from Frank G. Zarb School of Business at Hofstra University with a degree in marketing.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Speak up and use your voice as you find ways to add value in whatever role you find yourself in.
What is your “daily mantra”? Make time for the important, not urgent.
DR. MICHELLE A. CHESTER Senior Director Operations, Occupational Health Services Northwell Health
Dr. Michelle Chester, with over 25 years of healthcare experience, is Senior Director of Operations for Employee Health Services at Northwell Health, providing health services for over 83,000 employees. She oversees operational EHS activities, designing and leading implementation of strategic goals and performance improvement plans.
Michelle leads all mergers/acquisitions of new hospitals and ambulatory practices acquired by Northwell from a clinical perspective and serves as a member of Northwell Health’s Diversity and Inclusion council. She is responsible for the delivery of occupational health services to Northwell Direct Clients, successfully launching services for JetBlue, Amazon, NY/NJ Port Authority, Estee Lauder, among other Fortune 500 companies. Globally, Michelle is involved in the creation of pediatric and maternal medical programs in Uganda and serves as a Lay Eucharistic Minister and the Health Ministry chairperson for Church of the Transfiguration. Michelle was integral to the success of Northwell Health’s Covid-19 response; administering the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine in the U.S., also the first Moderna vaccine in New York State. She successfully launched Covid testing protocols for all Northwell team members and their families, along with vaccination services throughout the pandemic.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My grandparents and my great-great aunt.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? In the face of adversity, never ever give up. When someone tells you no, do not accept it.
What is your “daily mantra”?
Asking God to guide me on what is my purpose for the day.
Dr. Gail Correale has always been fascinated by the science behind how our eyes work. In fact, from the time she first donned a pair of prescription eyeglasses at the age of 10, she knew she would someday be an optometrist. Although she started out in another direction, she never forgot her dream and after a successful career in the diamond jewelry business headed back to school, obtained a Doctor of Optometry degree, and has dedicated herself to improving the vision and eye health of her patients ever since.
Theresa Dillman, DNP (c), MSN, MHA, RN, NE-BC, is the Associate Executive Director and Chief Nursing Officer of Northwell Health System’s Glen Cove Hospital.
She oversees the senior level strategic oversight for an acute care hospital and acute rehab. She creates and attains a shared vision and successfully manages change to implement the organizations’ strategic plan and achieve top-level outcomes. Theresa develops business strategy in collaboration with all leadership on established metrics and action plans for patient care services to achieve organizational goals. She creates a healthy professional work environment predicated on integrity, respect, shared decision-making, and lifelong learning, influencing a professional practice model that is patient centric and collaborative.
What has been your greatest achievement(s) of 2022?
To organize a mission to Uganda, bringing vision and eye health care for the first time to an orphanage and the surrounding villages.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island?
Choose a career path based on your passions and innate talents. Add to that hard work and motivation — fulfillment and success are inevitable. Believe in yourself!
What is your “daily mantra”?
A prayer to be the best wife, mother, friend and doctor for my patients.
She received her nursing degree from Queensborough Community College in 2007 and joined Northwell health system as an emergency department nurse, sexual assault nurse examiner, furthering her career in multiple roles. In 2009, she went on to obtain her BSN, MSN, and MHA. She is currently working on her Doctorate and has obtained her certification through American Nursing Credential Center for Nurse Executive.
In 2022, she received the Northwell Women who Inspire Mentor award. Theresa volunteers with the American Nursing Credentialing Center to assist with test developing activities for the Nurse Executive Program and sits on the AONL committee for RN strategy, recruitment, and recognition.
What is your “daily mantra”?
I truly have two mantras that I live by every day: First, don't be afraid to give up the good and go for the great. Second, laughter lightens my load.
Dr. Odette R. Hall, chief medical officer for the Suffolk County Office of the Medical Examiner, is New York City native — born and raised in Jamaica, Queens. Her dream to become a doctor began with a desire to help people and make a difference in their lives during some of their most vulnerable moments. Unbeknownst to her at the beginning of that journey, the dream would come to fruition as a Forensic Pathologist.
Her path took her through a Bachelor of Science degree from Spelman College; a doctor of Medicine degree from SUNY Downstate; a residency program in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at the University of California; a subspecialty fellowship in Pediatric Pathology at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children in Philadelphia; a subspecialty fellowship in Forensic Pathology; as well as a selective fellowship in Forensic Cardiovascular Pathology and Forensic Neuropathology at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of the City of New York.
She joined the Suffolk County Medical Examiner's Office in 2009 and has been here since, except for a year back at the OCME New York in 2014. She took the position of Deputy Chief Medical Examiner in March 2019, and was appointed to her current position in November f 2020.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Choose a career where you fundamentally enjoy what you do; it's an important anchor when you're having a bad day at work.
What is your “daily mantra”? The only moment that truly matters is now.
Nitza K. Hasis, born and raised in Israel, is a clinical director at New Horizon Counseling Center - Valley Stream.
At age 18 Nitza served one year of national service at Tel-Hashomer Hospital volunteering as a nurse-aide helping children suffering from different stages of cancer as well as helping their family members. Additionally Nitza worked in a foster system with children removed from their homes due to abuse and neglect, placing them with foster care families and in dormitories.
She graduated from Bar-Ilan University with a Bachelor’s in criminology and sociology, Magna Cum Laude, in 1982, and then received an extended Bachelor’s in social work in 1984. She began her career in Israel as a community worker with residents living in housing projects, Amidar, to reduce crime and promote the safety and improve the outlook of their environment. In 1985 she emigrated to the U.S. Nitza is proud of the success of the clinic, which provides essential services to those living on Long Island and New York City, promoting their well-being and safety, and helping them to achieve their life goals.
STEPHANIE MONTANO M.S., CCC-SLP CEO & Co-Owner Theralympic Speech
Stephanie received a Master's Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Adelphi University in 1997. For more than 20 years, Stephanie has been providing comprehensive evaluations and therapeutic services as part of a multidisciplinary team, while working closely with caregivers.
She has served as clinical adjunct faculty at Long Island University-Post, Adelphi University, and Hofstra University working with undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students in classroom and clinical settings, as well as networking to place hundreds of students in their clinical internships each year.
Stephanie has been supervising clinical fellows for the past 19 years. She is an active member of the American Speech Language and Hearing Association. She is PROMPT trained and has experience in language development, behavioral and sensory based feeding disorders, dysfluency (stuttering/ cluttering), childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), speech/language delays, developmental/ neurological disorders, aphasia, intellectual/ developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). She is conversational in Italian and Spanish.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
Successfully running a clinic with over 3,000 patients. Linking members in the community with behavioral health/chemical dependency services and resources; and being able to create a successful religious community in our neighborhood, providing support, counseling and resources.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island?
Be true to yourself, Do not be afraid to believe in yourself and your ability to accomplish life goals that you set for yourself. Dream big and work hard!
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My dad! He always taught me a strong work ethic, stand up for what's right, follow my dreams and never give up!
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Always stay positive and true. Never give up and if one door closes, there is always another one that opens.
What is your “daily mantra”?
I will have a good day because I choose to.
CHRISTIANA NEOPHYTOU M.S., CCC-SLP CEO & Co-Owner
Christiana Neophytou M.S., CCC-SLP, owner and director of Theralympic Speech, started her career as a speech language pathologist in 2014 but always dreamed of owning her own practice after being raised by her hard-working business owner parents.
She started her career working in school, early intervention, as supervisor at the university where graduated with her master's (Adelphi). After Christiana had her daughter she took that as the perfect opportunity to start the initial steps of opening her own practice. During that time, Christiana reached out to Stephanie Montano, M.S., CCC-SLP, a graduate school professor, to see if she would be interested in being her partner.
Within that same week they had submitted the application to Suffolk county for their first CPSE contract. They opened their first office in February 2019 in Ronkonkoma. Since that time, the practice has grown thanks to the amazing team of therapists and admininstrative staff. Christiana and Stephanie have grown their Ronkonkoma office in addition to recently opening a Nassau location in Hicksville this past September. They now have a team of over 100 therapists servicing all towns throughout Long Island.
What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My parents. I grew up as the daughter of two hardworking parents who also owned their own business. I saw the sacrifices they made, but also the success that came from those sacrifices. My parents always encouraged me to forge my own path and to not be halted by the pressure that comes along with it.
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
If I did not become a speech pathologist I would have become a lawyer. I always loved watching shows about law and felt empowered by watching lawyers defend their case.
What is your “daily mantra”?
Accomplish great things by taking small steps.
Rebecca Sanin, president and CEO of Health and Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI), is passionate about transformational planning and a thoughtful and equitable approach to regional human service provision.
In her first five years in her role, Rebecca refocused attention on the critical needs of families and children across Long Island, bolstering the services HWCLI provides to support them. As she develops new relationships and nurtures existing ones, Rebecca emphasizes HWCLI’s regional capacity building that impacts underserved communities in the region.
Rebecca has proven to be a steadfast and unwavering leader, spearheading local human service coordination responses to the pandemic, the federal shutdown, natural disasters and other crises. With more than two decades of experience, Rebecca has built her solid reputation in public service and remains deeply engaged in policy, strategic planning, and cross-sector coalition building to meet the needs of families and nonprofit businesses.
Rebecca has continued building on the foundation of her own education and has served as an adjunct professor at local Long Island colleges, also on public health, nonprofit and utility advisory boards where she has mentored the next generation, building internship opportunities and connections to help mold the next generation of leaders through first hand experiences.
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
I can’t imagine working in any other field than public service — so I would likely be in nonprofit human services or government with a commitment to the Long Island region driving my passion. I also have a strong passion for animal welfare and a deep love of writing and authoring stories. A rich life incorporates all aspects of who we are and so I always pursue exposure and experiences in all the issues that tug at my heart because they make life rich and magnificent.
JULIE WEXLER Director of Business DevelopmentThe Bristal Assisted Living
Julie Wexler, MPA, director of business development at The Bristal Assisted Living, has spent her 30-year career in a variety of elder care settings, including community based senior services, government agencies, and for the last 10 years in the senior living industry. Her experiences inspire her to develop and support programs to improve the quality of life for all older adults. Julie is an invited speaker on topics related to aging, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, caregiving for older adults, senior living, and understanding and accessing elder care resources along the aging services continuum.
Julie is a Volunteer Community Educator with the Alzheimer’s Association, an active member of several elder care focused networking groups, and a part of the Women’s Committee for the Melville Chamber of Commerce.
Julie believes all seniors, regardless of cognitive or physical decline, deserve to live a full, active, meaningful, and purposeful life. Julie has a Master’s in Public Administration from Baruch College and resides in Commack with her husband and two young adult daughters.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
Continually being adaptable. Change is inevitable and if we’ve learned anything in recent years it is that successful people pivot, think out of the box, aren’t afraid of new things, take criticism constructively, and try not to complain.
What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
It's cliché – but my grandparents. I considered them my friends and their friends were my friends. When I was 23 and looking for my first job, I went on a few job interviews for corporate positions in New York City. I hated it. I remember the day I walked into a Brooklyn Senior Center to apply for the Case Manager position. “This is where I want to be” was what I thought. And my career in senior services began.
DirectorElizabeth Saitta, Executive Director for the Society of Human Resource ManagementLong Island Chapter (SHRM LI), focuses on building and retaining relationships with over 1,200 chapter members and tasked with creating a community where HR Professionals can be educated, network and gain valuable resources to further develop their skill set. She is also responsible for producing the SHRM LI Annual Conference and Exhibitors Showcase, which is one of Long Island’s largest conferences.
Liz is also the owner of Helping Hands Event Services where she has been providing full-service event planning and services, from Manhattan to Montauk, for over 15 years. Liz is involved in a number of not-for-profit organizations including Long Island Against Domestic Violence and Island Harvest. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Hofstra University and Master’s Degree from Dowling College. Liz enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and five children and two dogs.
What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
I would have to say my dad. He taught me to never give up and even if I made a step in the right direction, it didn't matter how big or small. He taught me the value of hard work and being considerate to every person I crossed paths with...even if they were not considerate to me. I think that is why I have seen so much success in my life. Hard work and perseverance pays off in the long run.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Fake it ‘til you make it! Don't anyone tell you are not capable of doing it. Believe in yourself.
What is your “daily mantra”?
Age is a matter of mind. If you don't mind it. It doesn't matter.
Catia Alati is the vice president and business development consultant for the Construction Practice in Lockton Northeast’s New York City office. She is responsible for producing and facilitating insurance transactions, and corroborates with the Lockton account management team to make sure client strategies are properly executed.
Catia is also responsible for delivering key performance indicators (KPIs) to the client. She has extensive experience in the construction and real estate industries, specifically with placement and management of Wrap-Ups (bi-line and single line), as well as Labor Guard products and project specific programs.
In addition, she has developed creative solutions for clients addressing management of large loss funds by implementing strategic and personalized models to reduce exposures and claims costs. She has also developed critical and leading relationships with carriers and business partners alike in support of her advocacy for clients.
What is your “daily mantra”?
“My life didn’t please me, so I created my life”
- Coco Chanel
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
Taking a leap of faith and changing path within my chosen industry (insurance) to become a full time producer.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
The death of my 13-year-old nephew in 2019. It made me realize life is too short, certainly not guaranteed and to take advantage of the time that is graciously and divinely given.
PAULA PARRINO, ESQ. Chief Administrative Officer & Vice President of Operations Nationwide Court Services, Inc.Paula Parrino Altiere, Esq., chief administrative officer and vice president of operations for Nationwide Court Services, Inc., has 25 years of experience in the real estate and title industry. A former foreclosure attorney, Paula has a wealth of experience analyzing complex commercial and residential title issues and collaborating with underwriters and clients on solutions to challenging title problems. Her real estate experience spans several states, including New Jersey, Connecticut, Maine and Vermont. Paula is an expert on process serving in New York, Florida, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland.
Paula holds a baccalaureate from Hofstra, an M.Ed. from Dowling and a J.D. from Touro Law School. Licensed as a Title Insurance Agent, Paula is also a dedicated trainer. A cofounder of the Training Institute, LLC, vocational and professional education is one of Paula’s passions and she is a frequent CE and CLE presenter for a myriad of topics.
Paula has received the following awards: 40 Under 40 LI Business News Award; 2019 LI’s Top 50 Women in Business; 2019 Herald News Real Estate Award for Achievement & Leadership; 2020 Power Women of LI Award and the 2023 Diversity in Business Award. She also serves in several professional organizations.
What is your “daily mantra”? I have two: lead by example and progress is more important than perfection.
STEPHANIE A. CLARK, ESQ. Attorney
Stephanie Clark, lead attorney at the Law Offices of Stephanie A. Clark, is an accomplished Greek American Attorney and philanthropist. Her primary practice areas are corporate law and appellate practice.
Stephanie has served as Parish Council President at the Holy Resurrection Greek Orthodox Church in Brookville since 2020. From 2018 to 2020, she was a Vice President of the Parish Council. Over the years, Stephanie has been heavily involved in the Greek Archdiocese of America, taking on roles on various committees. She currently serves on the board for the Direct Archdiocesan District as well as the national board of the church, The Archdiocesan Council. Her heart and her passion rely heavily on sharing the Greek language, culture and heritage.
Stephanie’s professional and philanthropic achievements are invaluable to her community and others. As a result, she was awarded the Medal of Saint Paul, the highest honor of the Greek Orthodox Church of America to a lay person. She was also honored by Nassau County, in June as Greek American of the Year. She resides in Nassau County with her husband and her two children.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
I am most proud of my philanthropic efforts, and particularly my volunteer efforts.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
Professionally, a family friend who was an attorney. Personally and in terms of community service, my father.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Everything is possible if you are willing to work hard and keep going.
Erika L. Conti, a Partner at Sahn Ward PLLC, primarily works in areas of matrimonial/ family law, as well as within the realm of small business corporations.
Erika is a former delegate to the Women’s Bar Association of New York on behalf of the Nassau County Women’s Bar Association, wherein she also served on the Family Law and Women in the Profession Committees.
Erika, a Binghamton University and St. John’s School of Law graduate, is admitted to practice in the State of New York and before the U.S. Supreme Court. In addition to her membership with the Nassau County Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York, she is a member of the Nassau County Bar Association and the Nassau County Columbian Lawyers. She is also an active community volunteer and was most recently the co-president of the East Lake Elementary School PTA and a Girl Scout leader. She has donated countless hours to community projects, including raising funds for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, local food pantries and organizing care packages for active military soldiers.
DEANNA M. EBLE, ESQ. Partner Russo Law Group, P.C.
Deanna M. Eble is a partner at Russo Law Group, P.C. of Garden City, Islandia and Lido Beach. Her focus is on Elder Law, Estate Planning, Special Needs Planning and Medicaid Planning. A Hofstra University School of Law graduate, she is a member of the New York State Bar Association, co-chair of the Health Care Issues Committee and is admitted to the New York Bar. Deanna frequently presents seminars throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.
While attending school, Deanna worked in a nursing home for 10 years. The experience of working with the families and seeing the challenges presented caring for a loved one inspired her to focus on Elder Law and related practice areas.
Deanna has helped hundreds of families with all levels of planning, including the possibility of incapacity and the need for long-term care. She also helps families in crisis situations — when a loved one must enter a nursing home soon, or has already been placed in one, and they need to obtain assistance from Medicaid quickly.
Deanna and her husband, Brandon, have been married since April 2001. They have two wonderful boys and live in Kings Park.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
Laurel R. Kretzing is a partner in Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP Litigation, Appeals, Municipal and Construction practice groups, focusing on complex litigation for both private and public sector clients. From 20182022 Laurel served as Chief of the Litigation and Appeals Bureau in the Nassau County Attorney’s office, overseeing general civil litigation for the county. Prior to her county service, she was a partner in the firm for over 16 years. Her practice concentratio is in commercial litigation, civil rights, employment law, land use, environmental law and construction law.
Laurel is a member of the New York State Bar Association, Nassau County Bar Association, the Nassau County Women’s Bar Association, and the Suffolk County Bar Association. A past member of the New York State Bar Association’s House of Delegates, among her many Bar Association roles, she is a current Fellow of the New York State Bar Foundation, the charitable arm of the New York State Bar Association. Laurel also serves as a Town of Huntington Park Steward.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island?
As a mom to two girls – this one is particularly close to home. First – take a breath – it is important to take time to think and plan a course of action that makes sense for you, not just for today or tomorrow, but for the future. This also applies to not jumping to conclusions or springing into action. If you have the luxury of thinking before acting, take it. Second, you don’t have to know all the answers. The important part is to know the questions and to keep learning. True ambition is the drive to do better and be better.
I worked in a nursing home throughout college and law school and just connected with the families and understood that there was a need for a compassionate person in this field.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Don't give up on yourself. We are our own worst critics and also need to be our own cheerleaders!
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
I would be an accountant or a teacher.
What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My grandmother wanted to be a journalist but, in her day, women were not supposed to work outside the home and she regretted not following her dream. While I ended up being a lawyer and not a journalist, she inspired me to find a career that engaged me and challenged me.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Be confident in yourself and your abilities and let others see that you have confidence.
Karen Tenenbaum, tax attorney and founder of Tenenbaum Law, P.C., which helps individuals and businesses facing IRS and New York State tax problems.
Karen, with 35 years of experience, is a frequent speaker on IRS and NYS tax issues for numerous professional groups on topics such as New York State residency, IRS, and NYS collections, and more. She speaks at the NYU Tax Controversy Forum, NCCPAP Accounting & Tax Symposium, NYSSCPA Nassau and Suffolk All Day Tax Conferences, CPA Academy, Strafford, and many others.
Karen’s knowledge and leadership have established her as a leading tax attorney in the NY area. Karen has been honored with a number of awards such as Top 50 Women Lawyer of New York by Super Lawyers, Top 50 Most Influential Women in Business Hall of Fame, 2023 Woman Leader in Law, Outstanding Women in Law, Top Lawyers, and Leadership in Law. Karen was also rated a Top WomenOwned Law Firm in NY by the New York Law Journal.
Karen received her LL.M. (Taxation) from New York University School of Law and her J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. Karen is admitted to the State Bar of New York and to the U.S. Tax Court. Karen is also a Certified Public Accountant.
What is your “daily mantra”?
Be happy, healthy, wealthy, and wise; have good relationships and good values.
Dina Vespia is partner and co-chair of the Cullen & Dykman LLP’s Higher Education Practice Group and a member of the firm's notfor-profit and Religious Organizations Practice Group. Dina also serves as chair of the Firm's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.
Dina provides legal advice and counsel to colleges and universities, secondary schools and other not-for-profit organizations on a wide variety of legal matters. She works closely with clients’ executive leadership teams and boards to address legal considerations that arise in the context of the clients’ regular day-to-day operations, and has particular experience advising institutions that are experiencing financial challenges to navigate the complex regulatory landscape as they evaluate various strategic options to strengthen their financial condition and long-term sustainability.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
Both of my parents have worked extremely hard, breaking barriers to carve out ambitious careers for themselves — my father is the first lawyer in his family and my mother is a dedicated educator who, today, runs a school. I am lucky to have inherited their drive. And it makes me smile to think about how my current role is the merging of their two paths.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Take a moment to reflect on the value you bring to your business. I think it’s easy, for women and girls especially, to throw ourselves into our work — working hard and smart day in and day out. But acknowledging our own expertise, strengths and accomplishments is really critical for growth and advancement in this business, for our own professional fulfillment, for equity in the workplace, and to ensure we can provide our clients with the highest quality services possible.
That’s why I’m really grateful for opportunities like this, where we can come together to recognize the leaders among us. Our celebration reverberates for women and girls outside of this room.
NICOLE L. WEINGARTNER Director of State Government Affairs Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLPNicole L. Weingartner, director of State Government Affairs in Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP’s government relations group, provides strategic advocacy support to the firm’s state government relations clients on budgetary, legislative, regulatory matters, design and implementation of a legislative advocacy campaign, review of potential implications of state and/or local laws and assisting in Political Action Committee operations.
Nicole has been a leader within many organizations, serving as the co-chair of the Viscardi Advisory board and on the Women’s Steering Committee of the Association for a Better New York (ABNY).
In 2022, Nicole was appointed a member of the Board of Directors of the Association for Fundraising Professionals’ (AFP) Long Island chapter as well as serving on the U.S. Government Relations Committee for AFP Global. She was also recognized by City & State on their 2022 Above & Beyond and Power 100 Women lists.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
My greatest achievement is the culmination of many years of work on behalf of one of our nonprofit clients. For eight years, our firm had advocated for much-needed funding to be placed in the state budget due to a mandatory staffing model of paraprofessionals. In 2022, those dollars made their way into the Governor’s Executive Budget Proposal, and it was incredibly gratifying.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My mother has always inspired me. I was just three-years-old when my mother was widowed at the age of 33. Since then, she has been a model of perseverance and determination, always pushing forward and working hard to make sure I had everything I wanted and more. It is her determination, work ethic and drive that pushes me in life today. (Thanks Mom!)
The Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County (HMTC)
Dana Arschin is a two-time Emmy Awardwinning journalist and the first-ever Storyteller for the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center (HMTC) of Nassau County. Prior to her role with the museum, she spent six years working as an on-air general assignment reporter and fill-in anchor for Fox 5 News, covering the New York/Tri-state area.
In 2018, Dana — a University of Delaware and NYIT graduate — traveled to Poland to learn more about her ancestors murdered in the Holocaust. She shot, wrote and produced three short films on her journey for Fox 5 – one of which, The Forgotten Camps, earned her a second Emmy.
During her free time you can find Dana on the flying trapeze, playing on volleyball leagues, and spending time with her husband and two young daughters.
What has been your greatest achievement(s?
Landing my dream job as HMTC's first-ever Holocaust Storyteller. I created this role for myself and it is incredibly fulfilling to wake up every morning knowing that I'm doing the necessary work to keep Holocaust survivors' testimonies alive. I also gave birth to my second daughter in 2022, who coincidentally was born on Holocaust Remembrance Day! Now that's a sign that this is the work I'm meant to be doing!
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My 101-year-old grandfather (my Poppy) inspires me every day. Both of his parents and five of his siblings were murdered in the Holocaust. My Poppy persevered and survived more than two years of hard labor and starvation at the Auschwitz Concentration Camp. He is my hero and the reason I keep survivor testimonies alive.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Never take "no" for an answer. If you're having trouble accomplishing your dreams, think outside the box and create your own path. You also have to believe in yourself and your abilities before you can make that happen.
Co-Founders
Jackie Ghedine and Mimi Bishop are the cofounders of Modern Gen X Woman, a company built by Gen X women, for Gen X women. Through business and career coaching, Jackie and Mimi work with high-achieving Gen X women who want to make an impact and increase their professional success and wealth.
Mimi is a certified life coach and Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner (ELI-MP) who trained at iPEC. Prior to being a coach Mimi was vice president of marketing services at a division of news corporation where she was responsible for messaging strategy, content creation and leading a team.
Jackie, also a certified coach, trained at the Goal Imagery Institute specializing in neuroscience and positive psychology. Prior to her coaching role, Jackie was associate publisher at AdAge, responsible for building new businesses, driving revenue and leading a diverse team.
Their mission is to make Generation X Women the wealthiest female generation. With money comes power, with power comes change. Together, they know that women have the ability to change and influence the way business is done, to stop being invisible and no longer accept the unacceptable. Their podcast Modern Gen X Woman has been featured on NBC’a Today, Business Insider, Ted X Speaker, Entrepreneur, Forbes, Wired, Fast Company. They are also VIP Experts at Fairygodboss.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
In 2022, we launched a group program, Worth+Value=Wealth to teach professional women how to have conviction in their worth and persuasively communicate their value. This led to the women confidently articulating their contribution and wanting to get paid for it. The women in our group saw an average 20% increase in their revenue/salary.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Women need to stop attributing their success to luck. Your value and expertise are the cornerstones to your achievements, luck has nothing to do with it. You’ve worked hard for what you’ve accomplished, own it.
NBC 4 New York’s investigative unit, the I-Team
Emmy® Award-winning reporter Pei-Sze Cheng is a member of NBC 4 New York’s investigative unit, the I-Team.
Pei-Sze’s investigations have generated results for viewers throughout the tri-state region. She has been called upon to travel to Brussels, Belgium and Nice, France following major terrorist attacks in both European cities. She also traveled to Washington D.C. and Northern Virginia as part of NBC 4 New York’s live coverage following the shooting of House Majority Whip Steve Scalise.
Pei-Sze’s reporting was a key component of NBC 4 New York’s award-winning Covid-19 coverage, honored 2021, with the prestigious Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award for creating a 360 view in real-time of the coronavirus pandemic, with courageous and thorough reporting on the virus’s explosion in New York City. The duPont has long been recognized as the broadcast, documentary and online equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize, also awarded by Columbia University.
Before becoming a member of the I-Team in 2013, Pei-Sze served as NBC 4 New York general assignment reporter for more than eight years covering powerful stories such as the Sandy Hook shootings, Superstorm Sandy, the midtown steam explosion, the Sean Bell shooting and the 2005 transit strike.
A native of Suffolk County, Pei-Sze began her reporting career at News 12 Connecticut, reporting for the 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. newscasts. She later moved to WFSB-TV in Hartford where she served as the New Haven bureau reporter and fill-in anchor. Here, Pei-Sze covered several high-profile stories including the bombing of the Yale Law School, the 2003 blackout, the trial of former Governor John Rowland and the delayed execution of convicted serial killer Michael Ross.
Pei-Sze is a graduate of Columbia University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Deeply rooted in the community, she is an active member of the Asian American Journalists Association. She resides with her family in Nassau County.
Dr. Yeou-Cheng Ma is a developmental pediatrician and a musician. A graduate of Radcliffe College and Harvard Medical School, she works with children with developmental disorders, performs as a chamber musician, and teaches violin/viola. Her work as Executive Director of the Children's Orchestra Society (COS) has been recognized with multiple awards. She studied violin with Dr. H. T. Ma, Firmin Touche, Arthur Grumiaux; piano with Germaine Mounier; won the French National Competition, Royaume de la Musique, at age 10; played with the Denver Symphony Orchestra at age 11; and performs in chamber music groups with COS faculty and friends.
COS, founded in 1962 by Dr. H.T. Ma, is a notfor-profit organization dedicated to "teaching the language of music" to children and teens. It’s mission is to cultivate and nurture children, teaching teamwork and life skills through music-learning, performing in orchestral and chamber music settings, using a childcentered approach. COS’s classical music training includes opportunities to perform in concerts with both peers and well-established musicians. Community outreach includes concerts benefiting victims of natural disasters. Notable alumni include Caroline Kennedy and Yo-Yo Ma among others.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Whatever is your field, strive to be the best that you can be, through patience, hard work, and persistence. Look for mentors along the way, because community is necessary to sustain you along the way.
What is your “daily mantra”?
I wrote in my high school yearbook a quote from Emerson, “Hitch your wagon to a star,” and I still live by it. It is good to dream big, and then set graduated goals towards it.
TERRI ALESSI-MICELI President & CEO HIA-LITerri Alessi-Miceli, President and CEO of the Hauppauge Industrial Association (HIA-LI), leads the activities and initiatives for HIA-LI — one of the recognized voices for Long Island business and a powerful force and economic engine for regional development.
Terri previously served as managing director of Dale Carnegie Training for more than 18 years where she was responsible for the profitability and productivity of the instructional and sales teams for Long Island and New York.
Terri is a current board member of Discover LI and is also a former board member of the Long Island Regional Planning Council, the New York League of Conservation Voters and the Suffolk County Girl Scout Council.
She’s been honored with the Harry Chapin Humanitarian award for HIA-LI’s work with LI Cares as the second largest contributor to their annual food drive as well as her personal work with the Dress for Success program, training women in interviewing skills and boosting their self-confidence.
Terri’s community involvement has included a commitment as a religion schoolteacher and working with the Big Brother/Big Sister organization.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? As a woman who has pursued her passion, I strongly believe that doing what you love is essential for a fulfilling life. It may not always be the easiest path, but the rewards are worth it. My advice is to follow your heart, trust your instincts, believe in yourself, and step out of your comfort zone. Moreover, it's important for women to have each other's backs. We face unique challenges and obstacles and supporting one another can make all the difference. Surround yourself with positive and uplifting women who encourage and empower you.
ELIZABETH EINHART Executive Director & Vice President The Theresa Foundation
Elizabeth is the executive director and vice president of the Theresa Foundation, of which she has served on the board for over a decade. Elizabeth holds New York State teaching licenses in Early Childhood Special Education and Early Childhood Education, as well as postgraduate certificates in Building Leadership and District Leadership. Elizabeth earned her bachelor’s degree from University of North Carolina at Greensboro in Auditory Oral Deaf Education and Early Childhood Education. She holds a master’s degree from James Madison University in Early Childhood Special Education. Elizabeth taught for seven years in an integrated early childhood classroom on the Upper East Side of Manhattan before moving into an administrative role for an additional six years.
She was born and raised on Long Island, where she currently resides with her husband and three daughters. She considers herself to be blessed to dedicate her career to supporting arts programs for children with special needs. Elizabeth is reminded of her sister Theresa in the smiles of the children served by the Foundation, and it fills her heart with joy daily!
What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
Without a doubt, my sister Theresa. The Foundation was founded in her memory. Theresa was born in 1986 with multiple disabilities. In her short life she faced many obstacles. She had an enormous smile and loved music and movement. The Foundation honors her memory by supporting the programs she loved the most. I am reminded of Theresa in the smiles of the children served by the Foundation — there is no better job on the planet than that!
What is your “daily mantra”?
My daily mantra is "Just Breathe." As wonderful and blessed as it all is, it can be overwhelming. I remind myself daily to just breathe; it can all get done just one step at a time and, before you know it, you've made it to the top of the mountain! If not today, tomorrow is another day.
Theresa E. Sanders, president and CEO Urban League of Long Island, has been a C-suite executive for over 20 years. Theresa has developed direct service programs that help infuse millions of dollars into the regional economy, by empowering individuals to become economically self-sufficient and socially conscious community members.
Theresa holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the State University of New York College at Old Westbury, a Master’s of Science in Instructional Technology from the New York Institute of Technology and is currently completing her Doctorate in Education Leadership at St. John’s University.
Theresa is an adjunct professor at the State University of New York College at Old Westbury and serves as a Board of Trustee at Suffolk County Community College.
Theresa is the lead coordinator for the State of Black Long Island Equity Council and Research Initiative, a member of the Executive Committee for the Long Island Regional Planning Council, a member of the Hall of Fame for Long Island Business News’ Top 50 Women, President of Pi Pi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and one of Long Island’s Power Fifty people.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
Brigadier General George A. Jones past Board Chair of Urban League of Long Island, Inc.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Surround yourself with a personal support system that includes family, friends and colleagues who will support and encourage your growth and development.
What is your “daily mantra”?
I use positive thoughts to become my highest self.
Tammy Severino is President and CEO of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, the largest girlserving organization in the county. A former member of the Council’s Board of Directors, troop leader, and alumna, Tammy understands the vital role of the organization’s girl-serving mission. Her pursuit of creating meaningful opportunities for girls to develop and grow is what Tammy hopes will define her tenure with the Council.
Tammy is also President of RPC Development, a boutique consulting firm celebrating 13 years in business, specializing in strategy, development and planning for small to mid-sized organizations and businesses. She regularly speaks at conferences and workshops on philanthropy, strategy, small business, and work/life balance.
Tammy, who is penning her first book, serves on the Boards of Michael Magro Foundation and Silver Hearts Sanctuary, the advisory board of The Morgan Center Preschool for Children with Cancer, and the Girl Scouts of USA Product Steering Committee.
Tammy is married to her longtime love, Frederick. They have three children and reside with a small, beloved menagerie. Tammy believes that everything she does roots in the love she gives and gets from her family.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Dream big … bigger than you ever thought possible. Then dream bigger still. Believe in yourself that you can achieve that dream. Find the people who cheer you on and lift you up when you fall. Appreciate them and everything you get to experience along the way [the good and the bad]. So ... dream big, believe in yourself, find 'your people', and be grateful for it all.
What is your “daily mantra”?
Today is a new day, full of possibilities. Make the most of it.
STACEY SIKES
Vice President of Government Affairs & Communications Long Island Association
Stacey I. Sikes is an experienced leader of innovative programs in business, government, the non-profit sector, and higher education. She serves as the Vice President of Government Affairs and Communications for the Long Island Association (LIA). She is the primary advocate for LIA’s legislative agenda, manages the Membership Department, coordinates the member Board Committees, and oversees press and digital communications.
Stacey, a St. John’s University Summa Cum Laude graduate, previously served as the Executive Dean of Entrepreneurship and Business Development at Hofstra University, supervising the globally-recognized Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Scott Skodnek Business Development Center, authoring successful grant applications to support growth of early-stage companies.
In 2022 she was appointed Chair of the Board of Accelerate Long Island, a nonprofit collaboration among Long Island’s research and academic institutions to cultivate the region’s innovation economy and high-tech startups. Earlier in her career she served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Brookhaven Supervisor Mark Lesko; Director of Special Projects for Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi; and Deputy Regional Representative for U.S. Senator Charles Schumer.
Stacey was born and raised on Long Island where she lives with her husband Rich and two daughters.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
I am fortunate to have strong women role models in my life, including my mother and my two grandmothers. They have instilled confidence and resilience in me, and I hope to pass the same values on to my daughters.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Your career may take you on unexpected paths. Pursue the path that will bring you the most fulfillment and allow you to expand your skill set.
Kristen Reynolds has been president and CEO of Discover Long Island — the official regional organization charged with furthering Long Island’s $6.3 billion tourism economy — for seven years. A transplant from Arizona, her experience spans more than 25 years in roles with state tourism, corporate and luxury resorts and as the statewide lobbyist for tourism and economic development.
Kristen and her Discover Long Island team promote a positive perception of Long Island across the globe, drawing lucrative visitors, stirring up business attraction and driving economic development. During her tenure here, collaborations with local, regional and state business and industry leaders have led to many national and global awards and enhanced economic vitality.
Kristen serves on the Board of Directors for Destinations International, as the incoming President of the New York State Destination Marketing Organizations, a board member of New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association. She was named to the Top 50 Women in Business on Long Island’s Hall of Fame, Top 100 Power List of Long Island and City & State’s Top 100 Long Island influencers. Her favorite pastime is discovering Long Island with her blended family and reigniting Long Islanders’ passion for the place they call home.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams. Only you know your true potential and one person CAN make a difference. You've got this!
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
I was a Walter Cronkite School of Journalism major, so I would have loved to be a broadcast journalist or entertainment reporter. Or maybe a Congresswoman?
What is your “daily mantra”?
Do your best. Tomorrow is another day.
Shelley LaRose Arken, Commissioner of Aviation and Transportation for the Town of Islip, is a graduate of Florida Tech, with degrees in aviation management and flight technology. She possesses a Commercial Instrument and Multi-Engine pilot’s license. For the past 35 years, she has managed busy airport facilities and multi-million-dollar budgets.
As the Commissioner of Aviation for MacArthur and Bayport airports, it is her mission to increase passenger demand for airport services and to raise consumer awareness of the convenience and economic advantages of using MacArthur Airport as a primary air transportation facility. Over the past seven years, Shelley has worked with Southwest Airlines and added two new airline carriers, Frontier Airlines, and more recently Breeze Airways, to give the Long Island community more travel choices from MacArthur.
Rev. Ellen Pellegrino is an entrepreneur, mother of three, blessed with three wonderful grandchildren and happily married for 38 years. Ellen and her husband, Anthony own “Windows on The Lake” and the “Beach Club Estate”, two prestigious catering halls in Lake Ronkonkoma. She has been an event planner for over 35 years in their family catering business, hosting events that bring people together to foster individual and community healing.
Ellen is also the owner of My New Spalon that signifies boldness, empowerment, awareness to overcome challenges and explore “The New You” through transformation for inner peace and outer beauty, all while receiving hairstyles, make-up treatments, massage, and facials that compliment your lifestyle transition from the inside.
Ellen’s true passion is to give back to the community and connect through love and compassion. Her humanitarian work has caught the attention of Ronkonkoma Rotary International, in which she was honored with the Paul Harris Fellowship Award. Ellen was also acknowledged in her local community and honored with the “People Who Make a Difference Award”.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
Securing air service at Long Island MacArthur Airport with Breeze Airways. Hosting Breeze Airways’ inaugural flight from MacArthur Airport to Charleston and Norfolk in February 2022 was the result of 4 years of effort, dedication and commitment.
Another significant achievement was applying for and receiving $14M through the 2023 RAISE Grant Program, the largest appropriation for a small hub airport. Funds are being utilized to replace terminal mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, as well as working with Long Island MacArthur Airport partners and the community to return to pre-pandemic service levels based on average daily seats.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Work hard, stay focused and give back.
Ellen and her husband continue to support their community by donating annually to the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Run Around Lake Ronkonkoma. Ellen helped create the Historical Festival for Lake Ronkonkoma which celebrates the Annual Indian Princess of the Lake Festival occurring every June.
Ellen produces and hosts the show “Age of New Beginnings” that challenges and empowers others to transform to “A New Beginning” and new way of life, discovering their uniqueness and individuality.
What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
Actually, my inspiration CHOSE me! Since I was a little girl, I envisioned being a blessing to others –bringing them happiness and fulfilling their dreams.
NEXT GENERATION: UNDER 30
Meredith Waldner Stern, president of Waldner's Business Environments since 2009, is proud to be a leader in this fourth-generation women-owned family business. Waldner’s is one of the largest commercial furniture dealerships in the region that offers furniture and integrated technology solutions for corporate, healthcare and educational institutions.
With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Meredith is responsible for the development of many of the most successful and high-profile projects on Long Island, New York City and throughout the country. Her mission to be the “destination dealer” has strategically positioned Waldner’s to recruit the best and brightest professionals and has earned long-standing and strong relationships with businesses locally and nationally.
Long Island Architecture Studio, DPC
Kathleen Donnelly, senior associate at Long Island Architecture Studio, holds a Bachelor of Architecture with a minor in sustainability from Pratt Institute. She started working with Long Island Architecture Studio as an intern in her last year at Pratt.
She has taken on many roles in her position and is currently in the process of obtaining an architecture license. Working at a growing firm has allowed her to experience many parts of the design and construction process, managing projects in all stages and working directly with clients. She continues to expand her expertise through preparation for the Architecture Registration Examination.
While Kathleen is passionate about the design work she does for clients, she also has interests in historic preservation and urban planning. She is interested in the way the built environment impacts our lives and how thoughtful, conscious design can shape the future of community.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
Overcoming the obstacles of Covid-19 and despite the challenges, increasing our market share significantly. Waldner’s not only stayed strong during this unprecedented pandemic, but a recent annual industry survey reflects that our performance rose to the highest level, with 98% likelihood to recommend. That exceptional feedback from our clients is what makes me the most proud.
What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
I have outstanding examples from my grandfather (founder of Waldner’s) and my father, Stephen Waldner. In 1939 my grandfather, Daniel Waldner, opened a small local stationary store in Mineola. Throughout my life I watched that small store grow into a successful corporation with100 employees and three locations under my father’s leadership. It has been my honor to continue my family’s legacy.
What has been your greatest achievement(s) of 2022?
I completed the first 3 of 6 divisions of the Architecture Registration Examination.
What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
I've been drawn to design and spatial organization since I was a child. My family supported me in pursuing my interests.
If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?
I would be an artist - painting, drawing and woodworking are some of my non-professional passions.
Lianne Webb is a Baldwin native who graduated from SUNY Buffalo State College in 2019 with her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. She is currently pursuing her Masters Degree in Literacy Education at CUNY Hunter College. Currently she is a teacher, behavior therapist, model and a mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters Long Island organization.
Lianne hopes to continue making an impact on the lives of students throughout the community. She works with children with special needs, and besides her role as mentor in the Big Brother Big Sister organization, she enjoys volunteering with Girls Inc of Long Island.
During her Miss Long Island reign, Lianne will continue to mentor the youth, provide resources for those in need and collaborate with social organizations across Long Island and throughout the boroughs. In January 2022, Lianne initiated a prom giveaway in collaboration with a Harlem designer to assist low income high school students. In the fashion/modeling industry nine years, she made her first appearance in New York Fashion Week in 20201, modeling for Tier NYC. In 2022, she appeared in New York Swim Week.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today? My teachers inspired me to be an educator as growing up they've shown me how important it is to be well educated, kind, independent and perseverant. These are only a few of the many things I instill within my students on a daily basis.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Be bold, be smart and stay true to yourself!
NATALIA SUAZA
Miss Long Island Teen 2023
Miss Long Island Pageants
Natalia Suaza is crowned Miss Long Island Teen 2023. Prior to Miss Long Island Teen, Natalia had never competed in a pageant, but she welcomed the opportunity to try something new. Natalia has always taken on challenges that push her beyond her expectations. She also completed the New York City Marathon two weeks before the pageant.
Natalia was only 9 years old when she lost her father to cancer in 2012. Natalia feels that she shares so much of her dad’s spirit in exploring new things. Since his passing, Natalia has found resilience in taking action to overcome fear. She tries to live every day with purpose by remembering that tomorrow is not promised.
DANI RYLAN KEARNEY Founder
Dani Rylan Kearney is the founder of the National Women’s Hockey League and served as the league’s commissioner for its historic first five seasons. After Dani started the NWHL in April 2015, with a dedicated team of impassioned investors, partners, and staff, it grew exponentially, sparking increased interest in women’s hockey viewership and participation, igniting a conversation about professional women's hockey that continues today.
Her journey was recognized when Sports Business Journal honored Dani with the prestigious Game Changers Award for women, “setting the standard and inspiring the next generation in sports business.” Among other honors, Rylan was named to The Athletic’s Top 40 Under 40 “shaping hockey’s future,” ESPN’s “IMPACT 25,” and Fast Company’s “Top 100 Most Creative People.”
She currently works as an executive consultant, advising clients through the lens of an entrepreneur. A proud Long Island resident, she shares her love of the game as director of Team Long Island girls' hockey program at Clark Gillies Arena in Dix Hills.
What has been your greatest achievement(s)?
My greatest achievement of 2022 was not only completing the New York City Marathon at 18 years old but also being one of ten 18-year-old women to run the marathon out of 47,000+ runners.
What/who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?
My dad inspired me to be on the path I am on today. I lost my father at nine years old to cancer, and I recall my dad reminding me every day to live life to the fullest. My dad was my biggest supporter and taught me how to break free of any limiting beliefs I may have about myself. Without my father’s guidance and love for life, I wouldn't be shaped into the person I am today.
What is your “daily mantra”?
My 'daily mantra' is "you never know unless you try."
Dani continues to play and coach the game she loves every chance she gets. She and her husband, Sean, have a daughter, Shae, and a son, Kallen.
I a m g r a t e f u l a n d h o n o r e d t o r e c e i v e t h e
H e r a l d ' s P r e m i e r B u s i n e s s W o m e n o f
L o n g I s l a n d A w a r d
C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s t o a l l o f t h i s y e a r ' s h o n o r e e s !
S t r a t e g i c M a r k e t e r & F i n a n c i a l E d u c a t o r
S t r a t e g i c B r a n d i n g & M a r k e t i n g
F i n a n c i a l E d u c a t i o n & P l a n n i n g
W o m e n E m p o w e r m e n t
What has been your greatest achievement(s)? I became a mother of two.
What advice do you have for girls/women today and future Premier Business Women of Long Island? Work hard, be passionate, and listen intently to people whose opinions you value.
What is your “daily mantra”?
Get sh*t done!
