Agenda
The Crescent Beach Club • Bayville
9:00am 9:30am
8:00-9:30am Exhibitors/Activities on the Beach
Cabana Meet & Greets + Visit Exhibitor Tables with Coffee & Light Breakfast
Kelly Tallaksen: Unlocking Unlimited Beliefs through Transformative Meditation
Color Analysis by Andrea Navarro
9-9:30am The Goddess Loft: Breath Work, Yoga. Finding the Goddess Within In Reiki
9:40-10:25am 10:35-11:25am
10:35-11:25am
Hosted by Donna Stefans: Stefans Law Group + Wealth Advisory Associates 08.08.24
11:35AM 12:30-1:15pm 1:25-2:10pm 2:20-3:00PM 1:25-2:10pm 3:00-3:30pm
IMPACT & INCLUSION PANEL
Magdalonie Paris-Campbell, AT&T
Seema Bhansali, Henry Schein
Arianna Savoca, GRASSI
Jennifer Mock Donohue, Disney Advertising Local Tamara Morrison, Premier HR Consulting, LLC
Moderated by Jenna Natale, Moxxie Mentoring Foundation
WORKSHOP • FINANCIAL FITNESS: Let's talk about your money • Workshop
Hosted by Donna Stefans, Stefans Law Group + Wealth Advisory Associates
WORKSHOP • What's Your Brand? Social Media + Ai Bootcamp
Valerie Nifora, Author, Accenture
Meg King, Consultant Meg King Consulting
Robin Faller, Ferocious Digital
Lori Berger, Richner Communications, Inc.
Moderated by Krista DeMaio, Pretty Local
LUNCH Opening Remarks • Amy Amato, RichnerLIVE
Welcome Remarks • Stuart Richner, Herald Community Media & Richner Communications
KEYNOTE • Linsday Kaplan, CEO and Co-founder of CHIEF
KEYNOTE • Carrie Kerpen, Founder, The Whisper Group
WORKSHOP • FINANCIAL FITNESS: Let's talk about your money
PERMISSION TO ACHIEVE PANEL
Sharen Philips, Google
Tifphani White-King, Forvis Mazars
Aoifa O'Donnell, National EAP
WORKSHOP • Looking Good, Feeling Good
Dr. Maria Conzatti, Nassau County Comunity College
Christina Armentano, EVP/COO Paraco Gas
Moderated by Antoinette Biordi, NEWS 12
Valerie Nifora, Accenture + ServiceNow
Lori anne De Iulio Casdia: Experiential Green Hair
Brenda Gonzalez, Styled by B
Moderated by Mae Caime, Ms Senior America New York
WORKSHOP • Triple Decker Sandwich Generation: Not Your Mother’s Estate Plan
Hosted by Melissa Negrin-Wiener, Cona Elder Law
BE WORTHY PANEL
Yolanda Brook Carrington, Ernst Young
Megan Ryan Nassau University Medical Center
Kamona Ayres, National Grid Ventures
Subrina Oliver, O-High Technologies
Dr. Neva H Alexandar, Nevalliance
Moderated by Terri Alessi-Meceli, HIA-LI
KEYNOTE • The Success Guide to Being UNSTOPPABLE - Susan Gatti, Disruptive Spark Group
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
LINDSEY KAPLAN Co-Founder CHIEF
Lindsey Kaplan is the co-founder of Chief, the most powerful network that connects and supports women executive leaders. Established in 2019, it’s the largest community of senior executive women, representing more than 10,000 companies and 77% of the Fortune 100 and has been recognized as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential Companies and one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies.
Prior to Chief, Lindsey was a founding team member of Casper as VP Communications and Brand Marketing. And during those four years, she led international brand campaigns, built an insomnia chatbot, and published a sleep magazine with McSweeney’s. Her career began in publishing, working in communications and marketing at Oxford University Press, Time Out New York, and ELLE Magazine. She then jumped into advertising at Publicis, before taking a sharp turn into Silicon Alley to bring numerous startups to market.
As a public speaker, Lindsey has spoken about women in business, the role of community, marketing innovation, and startup leadership on main stages across the world at Web Summit, Collision, Fast Company Innovation Festival, Slush, and TechCrunch Disrupt. She is also an early startup investor and advisor in companies including Clay, Rocco, Culina Health, and Diem. In 2024, Lindsey joined Next Wave NY as an investing partner, where she focuses on New York founders in the consumer space.
OUR UNSTOPPABLE KEYNOTES
CARRIE KERPEN Founder THE WHISPER GROUP
Carrie Kerpen is the go-to-resource for women looking to turn their lifestyle businesses into life-changing assets. After Carrie went through the arduous process of scaling and selling her own agency, Likeable Media, she identified some key differentiators for women selling businesses as opposed to their male counterparts. Commonly known as The Exit Whisperer, Carrie has helped hundreds of women scale their businesses in order to prep for exit.
Through her research, she identified what became widely known as The Exit Gap. Carrie has developed a methodology for avoiding some of the common pitfalls women face when preparing to exit their business, which she executes through her latest venture: The Whisper Group.
Carrie is an accomplished entrepreneur, author, podcast host and speaker.
SUSAN GATTI
Top Business Advisor and Managing Partner
DISRUPTIVE SPARK GROUP
Susan Gatti is a distinguished business advisor with over three decades of experience as a Fortune 500 Learning Executive, Real Estate Advisor, and Management Consultant. She is renowned for guiding top brands worldwide toward significant business results. As a multi-million dollar producer and nationally recognized learning strategist, Susan has collaborated with notable figures such as Vernon Hill of Commerce & Republic Bank and national brands including Marriott Bonvoy, Merrill Lynch, InBev, and Ann Taylor.
Susan developed the Disruptive Spark®️ Method, a proven system designed to align stakeholders, set achievable goals, and manage resistance during stress and change. This method helps organizations and individuals achieve peak performance without burnout.
Currently, Susan is a partner at Disruptive Spark Group, a boutique management consulting firm specializing in revenue growth, profitability, and brand loyalty across various sectors, including creative, financial, insurance, and banking. Her work emphasizes employee retention, customer loyalty, and personal wellness.
Susan’s consulting firm offers bespoke services through tailored cohorts, retreats, and workshops. She is also a sought-after keynote speaker, delivering her signature presentation, "Show Up and Shine Bright," to inspire action and foster a growth mindset. Her award-winning insights are accessible on social media @Susangatti1, YouTube @ disruptivespark.com, and her website www.disruptivespark.com.
ventures
Empowering the community. Strengthening New York.
IMPACT & INCLUSION PANEL • 9:40AM-10:30AM • BALLROOM
MODERATOR
JENNA NATALE Associate Executive Director
MOXXIE MENTORING FOUNDATION
Jenna Natale joined Moxxie Mentoring Foundation January 2024 as associate executive director, underscoring her passion for promoting women's leadership and mentoring to prominent companies and institutions across Long Island.
A "born-and-raised" member of the Long Island business community, Natale brings nearly a decade of expertise in hyperlocal media. Prior to her tenure at Moxxie, she served as associate publisher at Long Island Business News, cultivating a vast network across the region's business sector and spearheading the brand's industry-leading events and products. She continues her work in media as founder and owner of BIZTALKLI, where she collaborates with outlets and organizations to deliver content and media expertise to the Long Island community.
Natale earned a BA in professional communications and minor in English Literature from Farmingdale State College. She is a past board member of the Long Island Association and is a member of its Young Professionals Committee. Natale was recognized in 2019 as a 25 Under 35 by Editor & Publisher and earned a Purple Pump Award from the Moxxie Mentoring Foundation that same year. She also competed in the 16th Annual Long Island Fight For Charity competition and raised over $13,000 for regional nonprofits.
PANELIST
SEEMA BHANSALI, ESQ., CCDP, SHRM-SCP
Vice President, Employee Experience and Inclusion
HENRY SCHEIN, INC.
Seema Bhansali is the Vice President of Employee Experience and Inclusion at Henry Schein, Inc., a Fortune 500®️ company. Since joining in 2017, she has spearheaded cross-divisional strategies focused on team culture, engagement, and government relations. Seema is responsible for fostering a culture of well-being and inclusion and developing the organization's Employee Value Proposition.
Before Henry Schein, Seema spent 14 years with U.S. Congressman Steve Israel, assisting constituents and businesses with federal policies and developing strategic programs to enhance brand value and team development.
Seema designs and facilitates diversity and inclusion education for various organizations and is a sought-after speaker on topics such as future of work, team culture, and well-being. Her speaking engagements include the Conference Board, FairyGodboss, HR Leaders Podcast, and more. In 2014, she was invited by the State Department and Department of Homeland Security to present on working with federal agencies for conflict resolution.
Recognized by City & State, Long Island Business News, and other platforms, Seema is also a Senior Certified HR Professional and a Cornell Certified Diversity Professional. She lives on Long Island with her family and serves on the Boards of Harbor Country Day School and the Long Island Association.
ABOUT THIS PANEL:
PANELIST
ARIANNA SAVOCA, SHRM-CP, CPA
Senior Manager Human Resources
GRASSI
Arianna Savoca is a Senior Manager in Human Resources at Grassi, specializing in learning and development, recruiting, benefits, performance management, and employee engagement. She develops volunteerism and charitable programs to enhance community outreach. Since joining Grassi in 2019, Arianna relaunched the Grassi Women’s Council and formalized DEI efforts to advance the firm’s diverse workforce.
Previously, Arianna worked in taxation at a Big Four and a regional accounting firm. She uses her experience in client service, employee learning, and tax to shape Grassi’s development programs and policies.
Arianna is the Long Island Committee Co-Chair for the Financial Women’s Association and a mentor at the Moxxie Mentoring Foundation. She volunteers with Breakthrough T1D and chairs the Adelphi University Alumni Advisory Council.
Arianna is a CPA in New York, a member of NYSSCPA and AICPA, and a nationally certified SHRM professional. She holds a master’s in accounting from Adelphi University.
Join us for a dynamic panel discussion exploring the evolution of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Our expert panelists will discuss key milestones, current trends, and its impact on workplaces and our communities. They will share innovative strategies and best practices for fostering inclusion, highlighting the importance of continuous improvement and personal contributions to driving change. Be inspired and informed to make a positive impact in your sphere of influence.
IMPACT & INCLUSION PANEL: 9:40-10:25
AM
PANELIST
MAGDALONIE
PARIS-CAMPBELL, MSW Director of External Affairs
Magdalonie Paris-Campbell is a resultsoriented External Affairs leader with over 15 years of experience driving community engagement and supporting strategic public policy at various government levels. She has a strong background in public service, corporate communications, and media relations and has a proven track record of building trust with stakeholders and influencing legislative outcomes.
Currently, Magdalonie serves as the Director of External and Legislative Affairs for AT&T Services, Inc., the world's largest telecommunications Fortune 500 company. In this role, she supports legislative analysis and coalition building as an expert in external affairs.
Notable accomplishments include being named to the 2024 Long Island Press Power List, receiving the 2023 NY State Commendation Award, and being recognized as one of the 2023 Long Island Business Influencers. She has also been honored as a 2022 Premier Business Woman by the Richner Business Network and featured in the Baldwin Herald and Newsday. Magdalonie serves as a trustee for the Old Westbury College Foundation and is a board member of multiple organizations, including the United Way Long Island and Vision Long Island.
With a Master's in Social Work Enterprise Administration from Columbia University and a BA in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College, Magdalonie is dedicated to connecting people, inspiring community involvement, and fostering organizational growth.
PANELIST PANELIST
JENNIFER MOCK DONOHUE Senior Vice President
DISNEY ADVERTISING LOCAL
Jennifer Donohue is senior vice president of Disney Advertising Local. Under her leadership, Jennifer is responsible for all revenues across Disney’s expansive linear and Addressable Ad Sales teams, focusing on multi-media opportunities for marketers. Within the Local portfolio, Jennifer also leads local, regional, political, and advertising sales channels nationally for Disney, driving impressive incremental revenue for the ABC-owned television stations and Disney streaming business, including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.
Before Hulu’s integration into Disney, Jennifer served as vice president of local advertising sales at Hulu, managing local, regional and political sales channels for the platform. Jennifer had direct oversight of all sales strategies related to local and regional market demands and led the expansion of Hulu’s creative resource offerings for local and regional buyers and overseeing Hulu Ad Manager, Hulu’s Self-Serve ad platform; ultimately, assisting in maximizing the targeted campaign opportunities in streaming TV.
Before joining Hulu, Jennifer served as the vice president of agency sales for Audacy (formerly Entercom Communications Corp.) Before Audacy, Jennifer spent 15 years at CBS Radio Inc., where she was elevated to senior vice president of sales at CBS Radio before the company merged in 2017. At CBS, Jennifer oversaw all aspects of sales in the New York market, the largest local business and brands for the company. She managed both the Integrated Marketing and Live Events divisions. She was also responsible for the launch of CBS NY Local Digital Media, servicing television and radio clients.
Jennifer enjoys binge-watching her favorite Disney programs and spending time with her husband Christopher, son Aidan and their dog Apple.
TAMARA K. MORRISON CEO & Founder
Tamara Morrison, after 20 years of creating value for Fortune 500 companies, non-profits, and major growth brands as a leading HR executive, was motivated to tap into her family’s entrepreneurial spirit and start her own consulting company to better support growing organizations that were in dire need of human resources services but lacked the knowledge of where to start. She founded Premier HR Consulting in 2017 to help more ambitious decisionmakers and successful entrepreneurs gain access to professional-level human resources strategies and internal tools that could position them for successful growth without sacrificing their own time and resources. Through Tamara’s years of experience working in the corporate space, she amassed a wide array of human resource skillsets across a number of industries, including financial services, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, construction, consumer products, hospitality, aerospace, telecommunications, non-profit, technology, entertainment, and professional services. This wide breadth of experience ultimately transformed Tamara into an expert who can help almost any organization adapt to internal growth via a unique array of scenarios. She takes pride in sharing her expertise with clients while developing her own team of HR professionals to support the growing company. To continuously hone her skills, Tamara is also an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Association for Talent Development (ATD).
Tamara graduated from NYU with her Master’s in Human Resources and Development with a minor in Organizational Effectiveness. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a minor in Management from Spelman College. Tamara is a current board member of Habitat for Humanity-LI, Girls Inc. Long Island, and New Bedford Home for Aged in New Bedford, MA.
She resides in Long Island, New York with her husband and two children.
PREMIER HR CONSULTING
WORKSHOP: FINANCIAL FITNESS: LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR MONEY
10:40AM-11:25AM
• FIRESIDE ROOM
DONNA
STEFANS, ESQ. AIF Founder and Lead Attorney THE STEFANS GROUP
Donna Stefans is the founder and lead attorney at The Stefans Group, with over 25 years of experience in Elder Law, Estate Planning, Special Needs Planning, Retirement Income Planning, Medicaid optimization, and Income Tax & Asset Management. Her expertise allows her to create and maintain comprehensive life-care plans for clients, from birth to legacy.
Donna is a sought-after speaker at events hosted by the Alzheimer's Association of Long Island, the NCCPAP annual Accounting & Tax Symposium, and the Financial Planning Association of Long Island. She is an Investment Advisor Representative (IAR) with Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, holding her Series 65 and Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF) designation.
Donna serves on the Board of Directors of the Long Island Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys NY Chapter. She is also the Chair of the New York State Bar Association's Elder Law Section, Financial Planning & Investment Committee, and President of Summit Tax Advisors Inc., a full-service accounting and consulting practice.
ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP:
Want to understand and take control of your financial life? Join us for a dynamic workshop designed to empower women with the knowledge and confidence to take control of their financial futures. This interactive session will cover essential topics such as investment strategies, financial planning, and wealth management. Led by Donna M. Stefans, Esq. AIF, participants will gain practical insights, tools, and resources to make informed investment decisions and achieve their financial goals. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this workshop will provide valuable guidance and support to help you build a strong financial foundation.
SPONSORED CONTENT
HR Reimagined: Tamara Morrison’s Path to Success
Tamara Morrison's journey into HR wasn't conventional. Her career began with a serendipitous entry into the field, spurred by a referral that led her into the heart of financial services. Early challenges, including managing a nationwide class action lawsuit, exposed her to the intricacies and complexities beyond traditional roles in human resources. "I stayed and pivoted into different generalist and specialist roles," Tamara recalls, highlighting her 20 year journey of “creating value” for Fortune 500 companies, non-profits, and major growth brands through various disciplines that shaped her holistic approach to consultancy.
"I think a lot of my colleagues operate very transactionally," she muses, reflecting on her early career choices. "But HR is about the big picture—why are we doing this? Where are we looking to go? I differentiate myself as a business strategist first," Tamara explains.
With Premier HR Consulting, LLC, now seven years strong, her agency mirrors her vision of proactive, client-centric HR solutions while setting her clients up on a path focused not just on policies and transactions but on transformative growth and organizational vision.
Based in Melville, with a team spanning the country from Detroit to Los Angeles, Tamara embraces a hybrid work model, navigating its nuances firsthand. "When companies ask about remote work solutions, I've done it myself," she asserts, drawing from her team's experiences. Tamara and her team also lead conversations about AI's impact. "AI isn't just taking jobs; it's creating new ones," she notes, positioning herself and her clients to embrace technological advancements proactively. Amid
shifts in organizational equity discussions, such as SHRM's decision to remove "equity" from their initiatives, the team continues to advocate for inclusive workplace practices. "Equity stands on its own outside diversity and inclusion,” and these forward-thinking insights ensure her clients remain ahead of industry shifts and regulatory landscapes.
Beyond boardrooms and client meetings, Tamara's roots anchor her commitment to community impact.
Inspired by her grandmother's entrepreneurial spirit, her journey from Massachusetts to New York highlights her dedication to building successful businesses and strong communities. "Long Island is now my home base," she emphasizes, actively supporting local nonprofits like Girls Inc. and Habitat for Humanity. Her involvement embodies her belief in giving back and fostering meaningful change complementing her business acumen and reflecting a balanced commitment to professional excellence and community stewardship.
- By Maureen Fitzgerald
WHAT'S YOUR BRAND? WORKSHOP • 10:40AM-11:25AM • CRESCENT ROOM
MODERATOR
Krista Bennett DeMaio is an award-winning beauty expert and journalist. Krista founded Pretty Local, a fast-growing platform that explores local beauty, wellness, and fashion in neighborhoods throughout Long Island and beyond. She’s also the creator of LI Beauty Scene, a targeted newsletter in collaboration with the HERALD curated for female executives, featuring beauty businesses and professionals across the island. Krista has over 20 years of experience as a beauty editor and writer. Her work has appeared in national women’s magazines, including Women’s Health, Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, Allure, SELF, Shape (and many more), and websites such as HealthCentral.com, Makeup.com, RealSelf, BHG. com, and Prevention.com. Krista has also been tapped as a beauty expert in segments for CBS, PIX11, and Be Well, the national morning show from News12 and Cheddar. A lifelong Long Islander, Krista now lives in Huntington with her husband and three daughters—all beauty experts in training.
SPEAKER
VALERIE NIFORA
Author of Unleash The Power of You Global Marketing Leader ACCENTURE + SERVICENOW
Valerie Nifora, a bestselling and awardwinning fiction and nonfiction author by night and a Fortune 50 Global Marketing Leader by day, is a personal branding and marketing expert and her recent book, Unleash the Power of You: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating and Sustaining Your Own Personal Brand debuted as a #1 new release in two categories on Amazon.
She is passionate about people taking control of their careers starting with their personal brands. She has also served as a ghostwriter for several executives and executed award-winning campaigns using her special gift as a storyteller to inspire others.
SPEAKER
MEG KING
Consultant | Positive Intelligence Coach | Speaker | Trainer | Author
Women Beyond The Table Co-Chair MEG KING CONSULTING
Meg’s mission is simple: To support ambitious, visionary women in exploring their full potential, transforming their business models, and elevating life's experiences to exceptional levels. With her 20-plus years as a coach and consultant and 22 years as a brick-and-mortar business owner, Meg has learned that a businesswoman's journey is one of resilience, curiosity, and a relentless pursuit of self-worth in the face of chaos and breakdowns.
Her approach is rooted in the belief that every female entrepreneur has a unique story and vision. With guidance, a blend of technology, strategy, and unwavering support, Meg helps women lead their ventures as powerful CEO’s with Confidence, Ease, and Opportunities!
ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP:
Join us for "What’s Your Brand?" an engaging workshop on developing and projecting a strong personal brand. Learn to define your unique identity and showcase your strengths, values, and expertise. Discover how to leverage AI and social media to enhance your brand. This interactive session provides practical tools and insights to build and maintain a powerful personal brand that reflects your true self.
KRISTA BENNETT DEMAIO Founder
PRETTY LOCAL & LI BEAUTY SCENE
WHAT'S YOUR BRAND? WORKSHOP • 10:40AM-11:25AM • CRESCENT ROOM
SPEAKER
ROBIN FALLER
Vice President of Digital Sales FEROCIOUS DIGITAL
Robin Faller, VP of Digital Sales at Ferocious Digital, isn’t just selling pixels and clicks, she's unlocking hidden growth potential for businesses, turning marketing investments into lead-generating success.
AI Ads? Website Design? Faller and her team yield today's hottest digital tools, dominating search engines, social feeds, podcasts, streaming TV and more.
Faller is not just pixels and algorithms. Before Ferocious, she was Cox Radio's local Vice President/Market Manager in CT named as one of Radio Ink's Best Managers. Not one to rest on her laurels, she actively pours her expertise into the community, volunteering with numerous
SPEAKER
LORI BERGER
Digital Sales Director RICHNER
Lori Berger is a seasoned marketing professional with over 40 years of experience in both B2B and B2C publishing industries, working with newspapers and magazines. Throughout her extensive career, she has honed her skills in digital and direct mail marketing, becoming a specialist in crafting targeted and effective campaigns.
Lori's expertise spans a wide range of media, including consumer and business computer magazines, where she has developed and executed comprehensive marketing strategies. Her work in branded content has allowed her to find & create compelling and engaging material that resonates with audiences and drives brand loyalty.
With a keen understanding of market dynamics and audience behavior, Lori has consistently delivered results for her clients, helping them achieve their marketing goals. Her ability to blend traditional marketing techniques with modern digital approaches has set her apart in the industry
PERMISSION TO ACHIEVE LUNCHEON PANEL • 12:30PM-1:15PM • BALLROOM
MODERATOR
ANTOINETTE BIORDI
4x-Emmy Award-Winning Anchor & Reporter NEWS 12
LONG ISLAND
Antoinette Biordi is a 4x Emmy Awardwinning reporter and anchor for News 12 Long Island. She has been a TV Reporter since 1997.
Antoinette began her career as a “oneman band reporter,” producing, shooting, writing and editing daily stories for News Center 7 in Ithaca, NY. Then in 1998, she moved on to work as a reporter/anchor for WETM (NBC) in Elmira, NY. In 1999, Antoinette worked at WNYT (NBC) in Albany, NY, and FOX 23 News in Albany. Her work, combined with her daily stories won her several distinguished awards, including Edward R. Murrow Awards, Deadline Club Awards, New York Press Club, AP awards, AEGIS award, Gold Aurora Awards, New York Festivals, Telly Award and a Videographer Award.
In 2010, Antoinette transitioned to News 12 Long Island, where she is now a weekday Reporter and weekend Anchor. Since then, Antoinette has reported on everything from court cases, crime, community issues, societal concerns, health and wellness to heartwarming profile stories about the resiliency and tenacity of Long Islanders. In 2022, Antoinette earned her 4th Emmy in the Business and Consumer News category for a series called "Road Trip Close to Home," which features fun and entertaining places to go and things to do in the tri-state area.
Antoinette was born in Brooklyn, moved to Corona, Queens, and then moved to Nassau County, Long Island. She continues to live in Nassau with her husband, son, and dog Pepper. In her spare time, she teaches Spin and Bootcamp classes, is a certified health and wellness coach, loves to read, travel, workout, cook, make her home-made wine, take pictures, and play several musical instruments, including the accordion.
PANELIST
COX PHILLIPS Director, Global Partnership GOOGLE
Sharen Cox Phillips, Director of Global Partnerships - News, leads alliances with international news organizations like News Corp, the Associated Press, and Bloomberg, aiming to make diverse news content accessible globally.
Her Google career began in deal development for Google TV ads. She later joined their enterprise ad-tech business, as a Senior Account Executive, working with brands such as L'Oreal and Nike. She advanced to Head of U.S. Channel Sales, significantly contributing to annual revenues exceeding $650 million.
Beyond Google, Sharen is the COO/ co-founder of Genesis Signs and Graphics, leveraging over 30+ years of Sales and Marketing expertise. Her career began in Sales with Armstrong and quickly included New Business Development leadership roles at Prodigy Internet, Time Inc., and Cox Media. Sharen's career is not just about professional success but also about making a difference. She is a recognized advocate for gender and racial equity. She actively participates in DEI Councils at Google, earned a prestigious Google DEI Award, and mentors through programs like The Forum and She Runs It.
Born in Guyana and raised in Queens, New York, she holds a B.S. in Marketing from the University of Maryland and a Diversity & Inclusion certificate from Cornell University; and is certified as both diversity and executive coach. Sharen shares her life with her husband, Sean, and sons, Miles and Justin. Sharen is actively involved with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Girls Inc. of Long Island, UMD Alumni Association, and CHIEF, where she actively contributes to their missions and networks.
ABOUT THIS PANEL:
PANELIST
Tifphani White-King is the US National Tax Practice Leader for Forvis Mazars in the US. She is also a member of the Mazars Global Tax Leadership Team. Her responsibilities in these roles include creating a shared vision, setting strategic direction, and driving marketplace growth for Tax. Prior to assuming these positions, Tifphani was the US International Tax Practice Leader for Mazars. She has nearly 20 years of international tax experience, providing operational, strategic, and marketplace direction for emerging, midmarket, and large, multinational companies. Her expertise includes international tax structuring, transaction planning, mergers and acquisitions, tax provision, compliance reporting, and other related services. Tifphani graduated from Columbia University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. She received her Juris Doctorate from St. John’s University School of Law, and is currently pursuing her Master in Laws degree at King’s College in London, U.K
Join us for an empowering panel discussion on "Permission to Achieve," where we explore what it means to give yourself permission and get out of your own way. Our inspiring panelists will share their journeys, discussing the internal and external barriers women often face and how to overcome them. Be part of this transformative conversation and leave with the confidence to pursue your aspirations without hesitation.
SHAREN
TIFPHANI WHITE-KING US National Tax Practice Leader & Member FORVIS MAZARS
PERMISSION TO ACHIEVE LUNCHEON PANEL • 12:30PM-1:15PM • BALLROOM
PANELIST
AOIFA O’DONNELL, LCSW CEO & President NATIONAL EAP, INC.
Aoifa O’Donnell, LCSW, is the dynamic CEO & President of National EAP, Inc., where she oversees Employee Assistance and Corporate Training programs nationwide. With bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Stony Brook University, Aoifa is a passionate problem solver who delivers top-quality business solutions that transform workplaces.
Aoifa is a renowned speaker on employee psychological and behavioral health. She engages HR professionals, executives, and staff across the country and advocates for a healthy workforce as the foundation of a thriving organization.
Aoifa excels as a crisis navigator in highpressure situations, guiding organizations through crises involving terrorism, violence, substance abuse, and more. She has coached HR departments nationwide on managing human behavior challenges.
Aoifa’s work has been featured in TIME, Long Island Business News, Pulse, Newsday, and HR Benefit News. Her accolades include the Long Island Business News’ Executive Circle Award, Top 40 under 40, and the Caron Foundation’s Human Services/EAP Award. She was also a finalist for the Athena Leadership Award.
Committed to community engagement, Aoifa holds co-chair roles advancing women in business and workplace health awareness. She serves on the Board of the National Behavioral Consortium, which is dedicated to improving employee well-being and setting workforce support standards. Aoifa O’Donnell’s unwavering dedication continues to shape workplaces and foster positive change.
PANELIST
MARIA P. CONZATTI Chief Administrative Officer
NASSAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE
On May 3, 2022, Dr. Maria P. Conzatti became the first female and alumna to assume executive leadership of NCC, the State’s largest single-campus community college, which offers more than 80 programs and serves over 17,000 students.
Dr. Conzatti’s work has accelerated NCC’s mission to transform lives and ensure equitable access to high-quality, affordable, and consequential educational opportunities. Over $1.5 million in donations has provided scholarships, food, and metro cards to students, and more than $14 million in grants for pre-college preparation, new laboratories, and academic initiatives have been awarded during her tenure. She has hosted forums at NCC for organizations, including Citibank, to support increased connections between its Community Investment and Development team and local not-for-profits, resulting in enhanced opportunities and expanded resources for the community.
Committed to promoting economic growth and a diverse culture of respect, Dr. Conzatti has overseen the launch of programs in cybersecurity, healthcare data analytics, community mental health work, and medical assistance, as well as an innovative MWBE (Minority/Women Business Enterprise) Center for Excellence in Entrepreneurship. She has also led the transformation of a dated building into the College’s first vocational training center, funded by a portion of a $5.4 million SUNY grant, and $100 million in construction and renovations. Additionally, she has collaborated with the Viscardi Center to initiate Long Island’s only Inclusive Higher Education Pilot program, empowering intellectually or developmentally disabled adults to identify personal employment goals.
Named one of the Herald Premier Business Women of LI, Schneps Media Power Women, Hispanic Brotherhood Scholarship Honoree 2023, and LI Business News’ Top 50 Women in Business and 60 Most Powerful Influencers on LI, Dr. Conzatti earned her AS from NCC, a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and MBA from Adelphi, and an Ed.D. in Instructional Leadership from St. John’s.
PANELIST
Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President PARACO
Christina Armentano, currently the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President at Paraco, brings over 20 years of versatile business experience, spanning roles within and outside family enterprises. Her expertise includes departmental turnarounds, team building, and achieving metric-driven results. At Paraco, she oversees operations across eight states, leading the largest privately held propane company in the Northeast. Christina serves 120,000 retail customers annually and approximately one million exchange customers, which drives the company's ongoing success.
Previously, Christina spent over a decade in international executive search and board advisory services before joining Paraco. Her background includes extensive talent acquisition experience with multinational corporations, mid-market entities, and venture capital-backed start-ups. Christina holds an MBA from Babson College and a degree in Business Administration from James Madison University. Actively involved in several boards, including the National Propane Gas Association and the United Way, Christina Armentano demonstrates a steadfast commitment to advancing her industry and community. Her leadership and dedication highlight her significant contributions to both business and civic engagement.
DR.
CHRISTINA ARMENTANO
TRIPLE DECKER SANDWICH GENERATION: NOT YOUR MOTHER’S ESTATE PLAN 1:25PM-2:10PM • FIRESIDE ROOM (2ND FLOOR)
MELISSA NEGRIN-WIENER Senior Partner
CONA ELDER LAW
Melissa Negrin-Wiener is a senior partner at Cona Elder Law. Melissa manages the Government Benefits Department, concentrating her practice in the areas of asset protection, Medicaid eligibility planning, estate planning, special needs planning, mediation, guardianships and Veteran benefits. She supervises the preparation of Medicaid Applications for nursing home care, home health care and community benefits, resolves complex Medicaid issues and represents families facing a reduction in Medicaid home care hours and services.
ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP:
The modern era's lifestyle involves living longer and working longer. This generation faces various challenges while juggling caregiver responsibilities. Marrying later, having children later in life and who live at home longer, all while working longer with parents who live longer but may need assistance creates a “triple-decker sandwich”. Women continue to be the primary caregivers in the home and across generations. Factor in the “sandwich sides” of divorce, death, illness, and or children with special needs, it’s a smorgasbord of responsibilities. It’s likely most of us will either be a caregiver or will need a caregiver or both. Therefore, it is essential to marry your estate planning and financial planning to prepare for the realities and privileges of a longer life. At this year’s WE Summit: we will address issues such as caregiving, planning for the protection of children, oneself, and aging loved ones at every stage of life, including those with second marriages and adopted family members. Topics addressed will be:
• Long Term Care financing options • Retirement Planning: It's important to create a plan that allows you to enjoy retirement to the fullest. • Financing & Housing Options • Raising financially responsible children.
WORKSHOP: LOOKING GOOD FEELING GOOD • 1:25PM-2:10PM • FIRESIDE
MODERATOR
MAE CAIME Founder
AMAEZING MIDLIFE & BEYOND
Mae Caime is the reigning MS. New York Senior America and founder of Amaezing Midlife Life and Beyond. She is a timeless visionary fueled by an unwavering commitment to empower women to embrace the riches of aging. Her secret sauce recipe creates an awakening to find new passions and purpose that brings zest, sass, and fulfillment. Her current formal titles are registered nurse, certified integrative health coach, treasurer to Blue Star Moms NY6 and owner of VIP Health Connections LLC. Her entrepreneurial spirit, CEO titles and dynamic leadership have served the business community for over 40 years, building multimillion-dollar enterprises.
Mae’s high energy as an event director/ planner, whether it be to fundraise or more recently the inaugural Amaezing Midlife and Beyond Women’s Summit, has audiences engaged and excited to attend the next event. Her spiritual faith and community service is integral to Mae’s identity. She believes her medical mission work to Ethiopia and Zimbabwe is a privilege of serving those in need. “The joy of witnessing healing and hope restored, and the humbling realization that amidst adversity, humans’ capacity for kindness knows no bounds.” Mae loves partaking in local charitable community work, whether it be for shelter services, healthcare services, outreach programs, mentoring, veteran assistance, or any project to help make a positive difference.
SPEAKER
LORI ANNE DE IULIO CASDIA Success Coach & Strategist; Author; Trainer; Speaker & Radio Personality
LDC STRATEGIES
Lori Anne De Iulio Casdia is a #1 international best-selling author, certified professional transformational success coach and strategist, personal development success coach, international speaker, and radio show host of “Healthy Lifestyle with Lori Anne.” She has shared the keynote stage with celebrity and best-selling authors William Paul Young and Dr. Debi Silber and featured as one of the "fab 14" in Dr. Silber's book Trust Again. After 35 years in the public and corporate private sectors cultivating her business, marketing, and mentoring tools, Lori Anne decided it was time to go into business for herself to step into her vision and dreams. Her passion is intuitively coaching her clients through their own transformations, and breakthroughs and seeing the possibilities in achieving their vision and dreams. To empower, inspire and educate: Lori Anne accomplishes this through speaking engagements, programs, retreats, her books, 1:1 & group coaching work, and live events.
SPEAKER
BRENDA GONZALEZ Founder STYLED BY B
Brenda Gonzalez is the Founder of Styled By B, an Entrepreneur, Personal Stylist, Producer, Author, and Speaker dedicated to the "Look good, Feel good" philosophy. Her #1 Bestselling book, "Styled By Independence," chronicles her journey from a 15-year corporate career to full-time fashion entrepreneurship, embracing post-divorce and post-pandemic changes and redefining success.
Through Styled By B, Brenda transforms executives and entrepreneurs by crafting visual identities that reflect their personal brand. She has produced a New York Fashion Week show, delivered numerous speaking engagements, and will release her second book, “The Style Discovery Blueprint,” in Q1 of 2025. Brenda enjoys stand-up comedy and spending time with her two boys in her spare time.
ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP:
Join us for an empowering workshop and discover the link between inner health and outer beauty. Learn how to balance hormones, improve gut health, and cultivate a confident mindset. Infuse your life with sass and sparkle, embracing vibrant health and authenticity. This session offers practical tools to enhance your vitality and radiance, empowering you to lead with renewed energy and confidence in both your personal and professional life.
WORKSHOP: LOOKING GOOD FEELING GOOD • 1:25PM-2:10PM • FIRESIDE
SPEAKER
DR. ROXANNE CARFORA
Board certified in Anti-aging and Regenerative Medicine
AGELESS MD
Dr. Roxanne Carfora is Board certified in Anti-aging and Regenerative Medicine, & has been practicing Family Medicine on Long Island, NY for over 35 years. Her specialty looks at the CAUSES of disease; the effects of genetics; and how the toxins in our environment affect us. Dr Carfora develops an individualized program based on results of comprehensive blood work and scientific data. She then develops a specific program to correct the underlying hormonal, nutritional, and vitamin depletions by using natural modalities to optimize one’s health.
Dr. Carfora has been an international speaker on many health topics including female hormonal disorders, bioidentical hormones, testosterone therapy, stress & gut health, chronic fatigue, autoimmune disease & Lyme disease. She served many years as an associate professor for Stony Brook University, NYCOM, and Pace University teaching NP’s & PA’s preventative & nutritional medicine. She has received multiple community awards, including the Bishops award, for her teachings and devotion to Catholic Health Services.
Dr Carfora has appeared on channel 12 news and the show “the NEW norm” discussing approaches to Covid 19 and how to prevent viral overload by protecting your immune system. She has written many articles on disease prevention which was published in Newsday wellness, Image magazine, and Long Island local papers. She also serves as a medical advisor to MD logic vitamin brand in which she is very active in formulating the highest quality vitamin products on the market.
Dr. Carfora has recently authored her book – Stress, Gut, & Immunity which will serve as a preventative guide to recognize the signs and symptoms of immune decline EARLY and to correct it immediately – Early Detection & Prevention is KEY.
BE WORTHY PANEL • 2:20PM-3:00PM • BALLROOM
MODERATOR PANELIST PANELIST
ALESSI-MICELI President & CEO
HAUPPAUGE INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATION (HIA-LI)
Terri Alessi-Miceli, president & CEO of the Hauppauge Industrial Association (HIA-LI), leads the activities and initiatives for HIA-LI — one of the recognized voices for LI 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 LI and NY.
Terri is a current board member of Discover LI and is also a former board member of the LI Regional Planning Council, the NY 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 selfconfidence.
Terri’s community involvement has included a commitment as a religion schoolteacher and working with the Big Brother/Big Sister organization.
YOLANDA BROOK CARRINGTON
Enterprise Risk and Compliance Leader
ERNST & YOUNG, LLP
Yolanda Brook Carrington is an Enterprise Risk and Compliance Leader with extensive experience in Internal Audit, Regulatory Compliance, and Operational Risk, specializing in Financial Services. Her career highlights include working with top global banks and leading the implementation of complex consumer compliance plans, risk assessments, and integrated audit engagements focused on regulatory compliance. She is known for managing regulatory exams and driving positive change with sustainable results in both business and people. Yolanda thrives on building strong partnerships with cross-functional associates, stakeholders, and teams to meet and exceed organizational objectives. Her core competencies include Internal Audit, Consumer Regulatory Compliance, Compliance Plan and Risk Assessment Development and Implementation, and Regulatory Exam and Issue Management. She specializes in Auto Finance, Mortgage, Retail Banking, Credit Card, and BSA/AML Compliance. Yolanda holds a Juris Doctor (JD) and certifications as a Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS).
ABOUT THIS PANEL:
Interim CEO, President and Chief Legal Officer
NASSAU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
Megan C. Ryan, Esq. serves as the Corporation’s Interim CEO and President and the Chief Legal Officer. As such, Meg is the General Counsel/Counsel to the Board for NuHealth/NUMC and A Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility. She oversees all legal, corporate governance, privacy and ethics functions. In Meg’s short term as the Interim CEO of NHCC she has created the Care Office, established the patient care officer and employee engagement officer positions, improved capital areas within NUMC including the opening of a surgical wing and the relocation of adult mental health services, held employee appreciation events, marketed NHCC within the community, created quality improvement initiatives, and has led NHCC in passing numerous surveys and inspections. Meg has served as NuHealth/ NUMC’s Chief Compliance, Privacy and Ethics officer responsible for investigating any suspicion of fraud, waste, or abuse and has been responsible for maintaining our strong compliance program since 2016. Additionally, she has served as the Chief Compliance Officer for the Nassau Queens Performing Provider System (“NQP”) in the New York State Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment Program (DSRIP) implementing and overseeing the execution of DSRIP, compliance practices at the NQP level and its partnering hubs (NUMC, North Shore and Catholic Health Systems) and has served as a voting director on the NQP PPS Board.
Join us for an inspiring panel discussion entitled "Be Worthy," where we explore the importance of knowing your value and recognizing your worthiness. Our expert panelists will address the challenges of imposter syndrome, sharing strategies to overcome self-doubt and embrace your true potential. This session aims to empower women to affirm their worth, advocate for themselves, and prioritize their well-being. Engage in this dynamic conversation and leave with actionable insights to thrive in your career and personal life.
TERRI
MEGAN C. RYAN
BE WORTHY PANEL • 2:20PM-3:00PM • BALLROOM
PANELIST
DR. SUBRINA D. OLIVER Founder & Chief Executive Officer
O-HIGH TECHNOLOGIES,
LLC
Dr. Subrina D. Oliver is a proud U.S. Navy Construction Battalion (NMCB-21 Seabee) Veteran, honorably discharged, known for her attraction to nontraditional careers and prowess in technology. Her peers hail her as a trailblazer, evident in feats like earning an Automotive Technology Degree in half the time prescribed by Denver Automotive & Diesel College. Notably, she became one of New York State Education Department’s (NYSEd) first female teachers certified to teach Vehicle Maintenance & Repairs and Transportation Systems, returning to her Alma Mater high school for this achievement.
Her academic journey includes a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science, a Master of Education in Leadership & Administration, and a Master of Business Administration in E-Business. With over 21 years in NYSEd, she garnered multiple education licenses and certifications. Subrina served as Long Island’s (LI) first K-12 Director of STEM Education and CTE. Presently, she is CEO of O-High Technologies, LLC and TalentPipeline.Press, and Founder of the O-High Foundation, Inc.
As a self-proclaimed “STEMinist” and 2016 Doctoral graduate, Subrina is committed to providing career-connected STEM pathways for underserved talents. She spearheads not-for-profit initiatives creating innovative events for future workforce-stakeholders and launched the LI TalentPipeline magazine. Actively involved in various organizations, she has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2023 Empact Inc Change Agent Awardee and the 2022 LISTnet Techonomic Awardee.
PANELIST
KAMONA AYRES
Director of Port Jefferson Power Station
NATIONAL GRID VENTURES US NORTHEAST
Kamona Ayres serves as Director of the Port Jefferson Power Station for National Grid Ventures US Northeast. Kamona is responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable and efficient operation and maintenance of the Port Jefferson Power Station to deliver electricity to thousands of customers across Long Island.
She began her career in the utility industry as an intern at National Grid more than 20 years ago and has held various engineering and management positions supporting the company’s generation plants on Long Island.
Kamona earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology in 2003, from Northeastern University, from which she also earned a master’s in engineering management in 2005.
PANELIST
Founder & Chief Executive Officer NEVALLIANCE
Dr. Neva Helena Alexander is the CEO of Nevalliance, a professional development company that offers consulting, event and meeting planning, and professional development training. She is a transformative leader in the fields of education, entrepreneurship, and professional development. Dr. Neva is also the founder of the National Educational Venture Alliance (NEVA), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to preparing students for college and career readiness. As an esteemed educator, speaker, and author, her captivating workshops, conferences, trainings, and expos have established her as a pivotal figure in the business community.
Dr. Neva's influence extends globally, evident through her impactful workshops and keynote addresses at international conferences that focus on subjects such as leadership, entrepreneurship, and cultural diversity. She has spoken at prestigious institutions such as the United Nations, Harvard, and the Dubai Youth Conference, demonstrating her exceptional communication skills and deep subject mastery.
Her commitment to promoting innovation and economic growth is demonstrated through her work with Ascend Long Island, where she supports entrepreneurs in their developmental journey. Since 2017, she has organized the International Women's Conference at Hofstra University, attracting renowned global leaders. Additionally, Dr. Neva has a history of leadership, including serving as President of the Caribbean Business Network.
Dr. Neva's outstanding achievements have earned her numerous accolades and recognitions both locally and internationally.
DR. NEVA HELENA ALEXANDER
Translating
Susan@disruptivespark.com (516) 202-8884
Services:
With PBIPayroll on your team, you can expect the following:
• Human Capital Management (HCM)
• Administrative Services Organization (ASO)
• Check Preparation
• Direct Deposit
• Flexible Input Methods
• Unlimited Earnings and Deductions
• Capabilities Check
• Reconciliation
• Automatic Check
Signing and Insertion
And Much, Much More.
