RECOGNIZING WOMEN LEADERSHIP IN BUSINESS ON THE GULF COAST
RECOGNIZING WOMEN LEADERS IN THE SARASOTA, BRADENTON AND LAKEWOOD RANCH REGION WHO HAVE MADE MEANINGFUL AND SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS IN THE AREAS OF BUSINESS, HEALTH, EDUCATION, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, SCIENCE, SPORTS, PHILANTHROPY AND THE ARTS.
PROGRAM PRODUCED BY SRQ MEDIA | LISL LIANG, ASHLEY GRANT PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN SAVE THE DATE FOR THE WOMEN WHO ROAR LEADERSHIP AND AWARDS LUNCHEON | FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2022
NOMINEE | 2021
BRENDA BOYD MAY BROKER/OWNER, BOYD REALTY LLC
"We are the oldest same-family, same-owner company in Manatee County, Est. 1952."
I WAS REARED IN A FAMILY THAT HAS "ROARED" FOR GENERATIONS. My mother, Fay Boyd was well known in Manatee and Sarasota counties for her philanthropy. My father, Wilbur Boyd and my grandfather, H.E. Boyd served in the Florida Legislature for many years. My cousin, Senator Jim Boyd is serving today, so I grew up in the Florida Senate. My children grew up in Major League Baseball. I met my husband, Milt May at Manatee Community college, when he was a rookie with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Milt has spent the last 8 years as hitting instructor for the Orioles in Sarasota. He is a 30 year veteran player and coach in the major leagues. It’s great for him to be home and work with young players. Today, my personal focus is on Christ centered philanthropy. I am proud to support The Paul and Toni Azinger Compassion Center. I am the owner of Boyd Realty, LLC., the oldest samefamily real estate company in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. It was established by my father in 1952. We aren’t the biggest fish in the sea but we swim with the sharks everyday. I’m proud to be the leader of bright young professionals who use their energy to better our community. To percolate in this competitive business, I have chosen to put my whimsical personality in the Boyd logo. Our “Fun Fish For Sale” signs stick out in the sea of Navy blue! An old attorney friend once told me “Brenda, you are like a good old boy in a skirt!“ Yes, that’s exactly who I am!
RIVER DISTRICT OFFICE 2200 Manatee Ave W., Bradenton, FL HISTORICAL ANNA MARIA OFFICE 409 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, FL 941-750-8844 | Broker@boydrealty.com boydrealty.com
"I often find myself thinking and saying
'this too shall pass'. My next thought or
statement is always about moving forward and finding solutions."
NOMINEE | 2021
MELISSA LARKIN-SKINNER, MA, MBA, LMHC CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, CENTERSTONE-FLORIDA
I BELIEVE I AM RESPONSIBLE FOR MY OWN HAPPINESS. Things happen in life that are beyond my control (like COVID) and as much as I want to be in control of them, I know I cannot. However, I know that I can control the actions I take in response. I may temporarily experience uncomfortable emotions; I may be confused, upset, or in shock. No matter how deep the pain, I force myself to focus on my belief that although I am uncomfortable right now, I know it is temporary. I know I will eventually feel less uncomfortable. I think about what I can learn from my experience and how I can use that knowledge in the future. In a way, I share this philosophy with others through my work–our work in behavioral health is centered around helping people see and respond to the world and their experiences; we offer people support and solutions for thriving.
391 Sixth Avenue W. Bradenton, FL 941-782-4299 | Centerstone.org
NOMINEE | 2021
JESSICA ROGERS
VICE PRESIDENT OF PHILANTHROPY, CHILDREN FIRST PERSONAL “What you do makes a difference,
and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make."—Jane Goodall. DAILY LIFE “Never underestimate yourself. Who is going to stop
you?” PROFESSIONAL “Looking ahead is important. It
helps you determine your steps now to get there."
JESSICA ROGERS BELIEVES ACCESS TO OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL IS THE BASE FOR BUILDING A STRONG COMMUNITY. This belief has transformed her passion for helping women, children, and families into a professional career focused on the well-being of humankind. As a mother, she raises her daughter the way that her mother taught her, to strive to make a difference in the lives of those within her community. With nearly 20 years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, finance and education, Jessica Rogers serves as Vice President of Philanthropy at Children First, Sarasota County’s exclusive Head Start Program, which ranks in the top 1% of Head Starts nationwide. She represents the agency in advocating for the support of early childhood education and breaking barriers of poverty. During her tenure, she has transformed fundraising and outreach efforts allowing the agency to serve the greatest number of children and families in its 60-year history and being named WEDU PBS’s Nonprofit of the Year. Rogers’ volunteer and philanthropic engagement is wide ranging. She serves on the Sarasota County NAACP’s Freedom Fund Awards Gala committee and is a former board director for the Junior League of Sarasota, most recently receiving their 2020 Sustainer Community Service Award. Jessica is a member of the National Council of Jewish Women Sarasota-Manatee chapter, the USF Tampa Digital Marketing Certificate Program Steering Committee, and past Troop Co-Leader for the Girl Scouts of Southwest Florida. She is a proud graduate of both the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Executive Academy, and the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership program where she currently serves on their Leadership Alumni Committee.
1723 North Orange Ave. Sarasota, FL | 941-953-3877 Childrenfirst.net
NOMINEE | 2021
AMANDA PARRISH
PRINCIPAL/COO, FAWLEY BRYANT ARCHITECTURE (FBA) AMANDA CAN'T SPELL. Her right brain is far stronger than her left, and her inability to catch a movie reference has turned into an office-wide joke. She is comfortable with all of that. Amanda Parrish is authentic, and as a Principal and COO at Fawley Bryant Architecture (FBA), her positive, transparent approach has helped the company effectively navigate significant organizational changes. With a marketing background and a master's degree in Organizational Leadership, she oversees the human resources, marketing/businessdevelopment, and administration departments at the 27-year-old architecture and interior design firm. With an unwavering belief in teamwork, Amanda harmoniously integrates the major functions of the business to keep FBA moving forward. Since being hired in 2016, Amanda has helped FBA successfully transition to new ownership, create and update firm policies and procedures, intentionally recruit and hire new team members, and roll out the company’s seven core values. Integral in the development of company culture, she leads teambuilding activities such as a book club, a monthly core value conversation, quarterly volunteer activities, and a weekly “It’s Fine Lounge” where the team toasts the week’s accomplishments. This internal success has spilled over to allow her to confidently engage with clients, broker new strategic partnerships, launch an advisory board, and focus on FBA’s business plan. She may not be a movie buff, but Amanda most certainly understands how to cultivate a community. In addition to her role at FBA, Amanda currently serves as Chair of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance and, most importantly, is a wife and mother to two young daughters.
5391 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. N. Suite 300, Sarasota, FL 941-343-4070 | FawleyBryant.com “Teamwork makes the dream work. I look for ways to
cultivate the unique skills and talents of those around me. One of our core values at FBA indicates that we rise by lifting others, and I wholeheartedly believe that.”
"I dedicated my career to helping children and adults through their most vulnerable
moments. My goal is to help clients realize the struggles they are experiencing today are developing the inner strengths they need for tomorrow."
NOMINEE | 2021
CASSIE L. D'ADDEO OWNER, GREEN COUCH COUNSELING, LLC CASSIE L. D’ADDEO, HAS BEEN A LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST for over ten years and Certified School Counselor in Manatee County, Florida. Cassie is the owner of Green Couch Counseling, LLC, a private counseling practice serving children, adolescents, and adults. Cassie has a passion for helping people and dedicated her life work to assisting people through life’s most difficult challenges. At Green Couch Counseling, Cassie strives to create a warm, non-judgmental environment in which clients feel understood and comfortable exploring issues, while cultivating self-awareness and coping skills as they embark upon the journey to create positive change. In April 2021, Cassie published her first children’s book, Riley & Milo: A Puppy’s Story of Coping with Grief and Loss, after tragically losing her canine companion and co-therapist, Riley. The book Riley and Milo leads young readers through the stages of grief such as: denial, anger, bargaining, sadness, and acceptance. Cassie wrote this publication to help normalize the emotions and experiences of young readers who are coping with grief and loss. When not busy at the Green Couch Counseling, Cassie is an advocate for mental health awareness in our community, a Youth Mental Health First Aide instructor and a strong believer that all young learners should have access to social emotional learning opportunities in our schools. Cassie is an avid reader, a beach lover, and a dog mom to a golden retriever named Kai.
6400 Manatee Ave West, Suite L 101, Bradenton, FL 941-500-3600 | greencouchcounseling.org
NOMINEE | 2021
KRISTINA EASTMOND
DIRECTOR, CLIENT SERVICES, MARINER WEALTH ADVISORS “MY MISSION IN LIFE IS NOT MERELY TO SURVIVE, BUT TO THRIVE; AND TO DO SO WITH SOME PASSION, SOME COMPASSION, SOME HUMOR, AND SOME STYLE.” —Maya Angelou. This quote is so empowering to me and has all the reminders I need to strive to live my best life each day. It compels me to take steps to pursue my passions in a meaningful way and allows that energy to naturally flow to those I interact with and serve. Kristina Eastmond made a promise to herself that to achieve great things, she must live in the moment with gratitude, laugh a lot, make deep and meaningful connections and let go out of outcomes not in her control. This philosophy has given her the motivation and grit needed to honor her past and rebuild a new life with hope and intention. Her success story exists because of resilience, as her “why” was reborn out of personal tragedy: the loss of her husband at a young age. When one visualizes their future and it changes overnight, fear can certainly be paralyzing, but pure love and determination helped her move forward. She started a new life in Sarasota in 2004, raising two wonderful children on her own, building a fulfilling career and giving back to the community. Kristina’s level of passion is shared by the comprehensive team at Mariner Wealth Advisors. She feels it’s a privilege to be a part of a company with a mission of putting clients first. She enjoys supporting individuals and families as they discover their own “why” while the firm advocates for them to make the most of their own lives and navigate life events, both the expected and the unexpected.
Allegiant Private Advisors is now Mariner Wealth Advisors 240 S. Pineapple Ave., Suite 200, Sarasota, FL 941-365-3745 | marinerwealthadvisors.com
“Past results are not indicative of future
returns” applies to so much more than just your portfolio. There are no guarantees in life but
when you lean into it with clear and attainable
goals and surround yourself with individuals who care about your well-being, you can certainly worry less and start enjoying your journey.”
NOMINEE | 2021
MICHELLE PENNIE, MD CHELSEA DUGGAN, DO BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGISTS, PARADISE DERMATOLOGY
IN 2012, DR. MICHELLE PENNIE TOOK OVER A SOLO PRACTICE IN ENGLEWOOD FROM A RETIRING PHYSICIAN. This acquisition al-
“We aim to make all our patients feel better about their skin and about themselves. We
understand that sun, stress and time all take
lowed her to build a business based on her values–patient centered, compassionate, caring and family-friendly. Since this early beginning in a small five exam room clinic, Paradise Dermatology has expanded to two modern offices in Sarasota and Englewood. The team includes Dr. Chelsea Duggan, four midlevel providers, and over 30 staff members–several who have been with Dr. Pennie since the beginning. “We aim to make all our patients feel better about their skin and about themselves,” said Dr. Pennie. “We understand that sun, stress and time--all takes its toll on our skin. We help our patients undo this damage, so that their skin reflects the youthfulness they feel inside.” Additionally, Dr. Pennie is a founding member of Premier Dermatology, a Florida-based, physician-owned dermatology group formed to protect medical practices from corporate competition. Physician-owned practices can place patient care and staff well-being above financial returns and productivity metrics. Premier Dermatology has thrived under this model and has added multiple practice locations on the west coast of Florida. Dr. Chelsea Duggan joined the Paradise team in 2018 and was a natural fit–empathetic, kind, friendly and passionate about dermatology. Dr. Duggan enjoys international medicine and was able to spend time in a dermatology clinic in Malawi. Along with her international travels, Dr. Duggan has been published in dermatology journals and values research that helps expand knowledge in the field of dermatology.
SARASOTA 3355 Clark Road, #101, Sarasota, FL | 941-921-4131
a toll on our skin. We help our patients undo
ENGLEWOOD 699 S. Indiana Ave., Englewood, FL | 941-474-8811
youthfulness they feel inside.”— Dr. Michelle Pennie
ParadiseDerm.com
this damage, so that their skin reflects the
"Everything is a lesson and if you can stand there you will begin to see your path unfold right before you.”
NOMINEE | 2021
DIANNA MANOOGIAN SALT MAVEN, SALT OF THE EARTH
THIS LAST YEAR HAS TAUGHT ME MANY LESSONS, none more important than answering the question, “What is really important in life?” For me, it’s about serving others. As we were all forced to put our lives on hold, this offered up a huge opportunity to take an in-depth look at what was working and what wasn’t working in my life. With so many isolated over the last year and half, Salt of the Earth became a lifeline for many. I was already serving the wellness community via Salt of the Earth Sarasota, but what I didn’t realize until we reopened, was that I was also serving their souls. Many clients had become my friends— eagerly sharing their lives as friends do. But during the past 14 months things changed. People were sharing on an even deeper level. Salt of the Earth became a safe sounding board for all the upheaval that was happening around us. Clients could express their fears, sadness and more knowing they were supported. Many clients became friends to each other as well, sharing similar experiences over the past year. Finding strength in each other, knowing they weren’t alone. Salt of the Earth became much more than a wellness center, it became a beacon for those needing a place to talk openly, safely and be reassured. Wellness means many things to many people. We not only provide healing for the body but also heart, mind and soul. I’m honored that these trying times have clarified my life’s work for me."
"Breathe Better - Feel Better - Live Better” 4037 Clark Rd., Sarasota, FL 941-702-8300 | www.sotesarasota.com
PERSONAL MANTRA “Every trial we endure is the
perfect preparation for our true calling and purpose. My prayer
isn't, 'Lord steady my plaform,' but rather 'teach me how to stand!”
LEADERSHIP CIRCLE | 2015 WINNER
ELIZABETH FISHER GOOD COFOUNDER/CEO, THE FOUNDATION UNITED, FORMERLY THE SELAH WAY FOUNDATION
WHAT INSPIRES ME AND DRIVES ME EVERY DAY is my passion for protecting and sparing children from horrific trauma and secrets. I often think about my own life and what took me off track and stole my confidence as a child. If I had one advocate, one adult, or one system that knew how to unpack the textbook issues I was experiencing, I would have avoided years of pain, hiding, and covering up. Instead, I would have lived in freedom, not shame and secrets. My greatest desire today is to give children that freedom from the very beginning. From the moment we are conceived, there is a fight for our destiny. Unfortunately, most children are not equipped with prepared adults to protect and defend their destiny. So, I am excited about making a difference in the lives of countless children and adults on a global level because children desperately need true advocates to rise up on their behalf.
P.O.Box 5576, Sarasota, FL | info@theselahway.org | TheSelahWay.org
NOMINEE | 2021
SARA HAND
FOUNDER/CEO, SPARK GROWTH I GREW UP SURROUNDED BY THE MOST INCREDIBLE, INTELLIGENT, GRACIOUS, AND COMPETENT WOMEN. Yet, while I was told that I could do anything, it was clearly evident that I could not. I love the question, "What would I say to my younger self?” You are smarter than you think. You are stronger than you know. You are more capable than you can imagine. Live with grace and compassion; always forgive, appreciate your contributions, and treasure your time. Practice authenticity, yet be careful with your heart: not everyone recognizes how valuable you are. Know that you are more than enough to fulfill your calling, yet you are entirely incapable of doing this alone. Every day choose life. Choose to be thankful. Choose to live boldly in the present, respecting the past and anticipating the future. Speak words of life to those around you, and look for the gifts that reside in each person. Don't expect everything to be easy because life rarely is. While people are troubled, at the same time, they are still wonderful. Life is beautiful in all its messy details. So I imagine and work daily towards a world where young people have access to resources that cultivate mindsets of lifetime learning, that encourage potential, and that connect and support regardless of gender, ethnicity, or any other labels. Therefore one day, one girl at a time, we may move towards a future where all girls take pride in being strong, bright, bold, and maybe even funny. If I don't know who I am, someone will tell me who I should be. Therefore, I live by a few simple truths:
• My life changes when I do • If I don't apply structure to my time someone or something else will • The only things I have control over are my own choices
912 7th Ave E. Bradenton, FL | 941-877-1599 | sparkgrowth.net
“Every day choose life. Choose to be thankful.
Choose to live boldly in the present, respecting the
past and anticipating the future. Speak words of life to those around you, and look for the gifts that reside in each person.”
NOMINEE | 2021
DR. CAROL F. PROBSTFELD
PRESIDENT, STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA, MANATEE-SARASOTA “Well-behaved women seldom
make history.”— Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
KNOWN TO MANY SIMPLY AS DR. P., CAROL PROBSTFELD IS A VISIONARY who leads our local state college with strategic business planning while wearing her heart on her sleeve. She joined SCF in 2003 as the vice president of business and administrative services and was inaugurated as its sixth president in 2013. Under her leadership, the college is boldly leading its students, community, faculty and staff, and donors to create a future that allows the college to grow, adapt and achieve. The college has updated its infrastructure; expanded workforce degrees and certificates; launched its first-ever capital campaign and built a new Library & Learning Center; added three flagship academic programs at SCF Venice; purchased a Parrish campus; and created a Leadership Academy to foster future campus leaders. She is and always will be the students’ and institution’s biggest fan! She has traveled thousands of miles and logged hundreds of hours to sit discreetly on the sidelines to cheer on SCF students at their games, concerts, plays, competitions and upper-level graduation ceremonies. A first-generation graduate herself; Dr. P. believes in leading by example, lifelong learning and investing in our children’s future. As a local philanthropist, she has donated more than $200,000 to the State College of Florida Foundation for student initiatives, capital projects and the Dr. Carol F. Probstfeld Commitment to Academic Excellence Fund.
5840 26th St. W. Bradenton, FL | 941-752-5201 | SCF.edu
NOMINEE | 2021
PING FAULHABER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND CO-FOUNDER, SUNCOAST SCIENCE CENTER THE LEGACY LEFT BY MY LATE HUSBAND, DR. FRITZ FAULHABER, continues to inspire me and the difference I aim to make in our community. Fritz’s passion for making Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) education hands-on, accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages was unmatched. My desire to make an impact is continually fueled by the special moments when I get to see that legacy live on through the unique community we’ve built at the Faulhaber Fab Lab. There is nothing quite like watching a child’s eyes widen as they experience science in a way they never have before, or hearing a student volunteer express genuine gratitude for creating a safe space for them to flourish. I believe we can create a brighter tomorrow locally and globally by supporting and empowering our youth to tackle anything that
“I try to live by the belief that
failure is nothing to be feared. It is through our failures that we discover
ourselves and strive to do
and be better the next time around."
4452 S Beneva Rd. Sarasota, FL 941-840-4394 | suncoastscience.org
comes their way. Instilling the technical skills students need to be competitive in future pursuits is a crucial part of what we do at the lab, but even more significant are the real-world opportunities we provide for them to build life skills, confidence and grow as individuals. Equipped with these tools and with a supportive community behind them, there is no limit to the difference they can make in our world. I try to live by the belief that failure is nothing to be feared. It is through our failures that we discover ourselves and strive to do and be better the next time around. We weave this idea throughout the entire fabric of the Fab Lab, with the hope that our youth, in particular, will learn to take a moment to pause and be gentle with themselves in moments of stress. From that pause, growth blossoms.
“Our family wants to care for your family.
Because everyone deserves the best in care.”
NOMINEES | 2021
ERIKA WISE BORLAND, MA VICE PRESIDENT SUSANNE S. WISE, RN, MBA FOUNDER/OWNER/CEO COURTNEY WISE SNYDER, MSG, CMC PRESIDENT TAKE CARE PRIVATE DUTY HOME HEALTH CARE | TAKE CARE ADVISOR, LLC
THE WOMEN-LED TEAM AT TAKE CARE “ROARS” IN THEIR OWN WAY: with purpose, polish, professionalism, kindness, composure, expertise and—above all—immense care. Originally motivated by her mother who was also a registered nurse, Susanne Wise discovered her passion for nursing decades ago. She founded Take Care Private Duty Home Health Care in 1995 and has continued to blaze the path for home care in our community. Her business acumen, compassion as a nurse herself, and commitment to providing the best care possible have led to the company’s success and positive impact in the lives of Take Care’s clients and their family members. Susanne never expected Take Care to become a family business. However, as the company grew to meet the community’s needs, her daughters Courtney and Erika earned their respective, specialized degrees to contribute to the company’s leadership and future. Courtney helped launch the RN geriatric care management and advocacy program with the creation of Take Care Advisor. There was a need to educate the community about how the agency’s services could help their families, and Erika was prepared to share Take Care’s story. Together, they support local causes, uphold the highest standards, provide leadership and constant encouragement to Take Care’s team of 500 caregivers and staff throughout Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte Counties. Susanne, Courtney and Erika are a dynamic trio with unique qualifications: a nurse with her MBA, a masters in gerontology, and a masters in publishing and writing. United by their devotion to their clients and desire to give back, their individual strengths as business leaders are matched by their big hearts.
3982 Bee Ridge Road Building H, Suite A, Sarasota, FL 941-927-2292 | takecarehomehealth.com HHA License:#299991405 | #21657096 takecareadvisor.com
LEADERSHIP CIRCLE | 2017 WINNER
NIKKI TAYLOR
CO-FOUNDER/CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER, KIVITY, LLC NOTHING IS A GIVEN. Each day is a gift. Nikki Taylor intends to make it count. Whether with family, volunteering, or in the board room Nikki likes to fully engage and be of service. If history is any indication, she is pretty serious about it. Although Nikki is still an avid volunteer in the health and human-services areas, her days are quite different as she and cofounder Skye Fischer have been busy launching their new business, Kivity. Nikki says “It feels amazing to be a woman in tech empowering parents to take back that resource in such short supply, their own time." For those not in the know, Kivity is a free resource for parents and businesses. Similar to a ‘Google for Kids Activities’, Kivity brings all the extracurricular activities that Sarasota has to offer to parents’ fingertips where they can search, discover and enroll. For local businesses it’s used as a free class- management software tool that powers their programs while also helping grow their business. Continuing on the path of staying engaged and aligned with core values Nikki continues to mentor in the community and serves on several boards such as: Glasser/Schoenbaum-Board, National Charity League-Board, Southside Elementary PTOBoard, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Foundation, & Donors of Distinction Advisory.
MANTRA Start Today & Live Your Dreams
DAILY LIFE ““Strength does not come from the
physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will” —Mahatma Ghandi PERSONAL “A woman is like a
tea bag. You can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water."—Eleanor Roosevelt BIZ “I would like to be remembered as someone who
used whatever talent she had to do her work to the best of her ability”—RBG 1680 Fruitville Rd. Ste 310 Sarasota, FL 941-587-9060 | Kivity.com
NOMINEE | 2021
DIANE SCHAEFER LEADERSHIP CIRCLE | 2019 WINNER
LISA MOORE
CEO/FOUNDER, BLAZE OF HOPE “Together we can
spread hope like fire!”
OWNER/LEAD DECORATOR, DIANE'S DECORATING DEN DESIGN STUDIO
“We treat each
home as its own special canvas bringing our
client’s lifestyle
and color palette
to life. When we step
away, the painting
LISA MOORE, FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR AND COMMUNITY HOPE DEALER. Tragedy turned to HOPE. I was beautifully blessed with a little boy named Blaze and while his time on Earth with me was short, his life has so much meaning! Blaze inspires me every day to reach out and spread hope to our community, to love others, and to help parents in their most desperate hour. I want families to be able to spend more time with their sick child and less time worrying about their bills. My motto is simple: Bless and be blessed. And don't forget: Chin Up, Chest Out, and Smile. It's what Blaze would do! MISSION STATEMENT To provide financial assistance to families of children with a life-threatening medical condition while hospitalized, to enrich lives with HOPE, to build community, and raise awareness.
BLAZE OF HOPE 501c3 | 941-232-4568 blazeofhope.org Childhood Cancer Awareness
is complete and
yours to enjoy.”
DIANE’S PASSION FOR ART & DESIGN BEGAN AS A CHILD. Her elementary teachers quickly realized her gifts in the arts, and encouraged her attendance at the Carnegie Melon University Gifted Arts Program. She finished her Interior Design Education at Art Institute of Chicago, and her career in design has been thriving ever since. Diane’s ultimate dream of owning her own Interior Design firm finally came to life in 2015, and she has been elated to bring life to our community through her business. Diane’s passion for design and care for her clients touches every project she picks up. As a one-stop-shop interior decorating service, Diane’s business helps clients bring their home decor visions to life. She strives to create unique, cohesive and harmonious spaces that make clients truly feel at “home”.
DECORATING DEN 614 Cypress Ave. Venice, FL 941-484-3596 decdenvenice@gmail.com
NOMINEE | 2021
DR. RACHEL SHELLEY PRINCIPAL, BOOKER HIGH SCHOOL
“Every day I am thankful for the opportunity:
the opportunity
to inspire; the opportunity to encourage; and the opportunity to motivate our students, our staff and our community.”
I AM DR. RACHEL SHELLEY, THE PROUD PRINCIPAL OF BOOKER HIGH SCHOOL and the co-founder of Booker Promise Foundation, a program providing college scholarships to economically deprived Booker High School students. Booker Promise is my promise to our students to help them navigate their futures successfully. Their journey doesn’t end upon crossing the stage while clutching a diploma. It continues until they have the skills necessary to live the life of their dreams. My story is one of someone who came from low-income housing to become a community leader, a popular and successful principal, and a woman on a mission. I want all my students to know they can do it too—whatever their passion or goals—they can overcome life’s obstacles. I look forward to the day when the Booker Promise becomes the “Sarasota Promise” and our entire community steps up and replicates our efforts at Booker Promise.
BOOKER PROMISE FOUNDATION 3201 North Orange Ave. Sarasota, FL | 941-928-0567 | BookerPromise.org
NOMINEE | 2021
DOLLY JACOBS
CO-FOUNDER, CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY "Sometimes people help you and they don't even realize how
they're planting seeds in you that will last forever. I want to honor this incredible world of the circus and to honor all those great
artists that came before us and laid the foundation for the rest of us, it's upon their shoulders we stand.”
CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY CO-FOUNDER AND 2015 NEA NATIONAL HERITAGE FELLOW, DOLLY JACOBS is a world-renowned circus aerialist as well as a dedicated coach, sharing the tradition of circus arts through teaching and performance. She was born into a family of circus royalty and became known as “Queen of the Air” for performing on the Roman Rings and Aerial Straps, showcasing acts of grace, strength and daring. Dolly holds her circus legacy close to her heart and believes in passing her knowledge of the circus arts onto the next generation by coaching at The Sailor Circus Academy, a training program that she participated in as a child. Dolly worked incredibly hard to accomplish all that she has. She’s never felt that she got there on her own; it's through the help of others.
THE CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY 2075 Bahia Vista St. Sarasota, FL | 941.355.9335 | CircusArts.org
NOMINEE | 2021
ANNA GONCE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HUMANE SOCIETY OF SARASOTA COUNTY “Transparency, honesty, kindness, commitment, teamwork— these are the values of a great humane organization.”
TWENTY YEARS AGO, I DROVE FROM ALABAMA TO COLORADO to interview for a job with a national animal welfare organization—in person. On that journey, I dedicated my life to working with animals. Over time, I have realized that this work is just as much about helping people as it is caring for animals. Animals are our teachers, our friends, and for many, our family. Animals provide unwavering support and unconditional love. Through laughter and tears, they are always there, and they are always overjoyed to see us. My mission in life is to help people connect with a dog or cat that desperately wants a home and a family. At HSSC, we have been making love matches for nearly 70 years. Now, with our state-of-the-art facility, we are ushering in a beautiful new era of lifesaving and innovation for our community, our state, and our country.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF SARASOTA COUNTY 2331 15th St. Sarasota, FL | 941-955-4131 | hssc.org
NOMINEE | 2021
MICHELLE SCALA, DMD, PA
“Smiles emulate the beauty of one’s
OWNER, LAKEWOOD RANCH FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY
soul. Our passion is to define the natural beauty of the smile.”
DR. MICHELLE SCALA IS A NATIVE FLORIDIAN inspired by the natural beauty of the Florida beaches, warm sun and tropical environment. She became an honors graduate earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Biochemistry in 1995 and graduated from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 1999. She has perfected the “Art of Smile Design” by combining her passion for natural beauty and dentistry. As a result of joining the American Academy of Facial Esthetics and the Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry she uses a non-surgical approach to create and bring out the very best in your facial features. Dr. Scala has practiced in the Lakewood Ranch area with her custom designed, state of the art Smile Studio for 8 years. She shares her passion for cosmetic dentistry with Dr. Brandy Rubinski and Dr. Jensen Bouton. Together, their combined techniques, continuing education and state of the art equipment have made them the ultimate dental trio in Cosmetic Dentistry.
LAKEWOOD RANCH FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY 8430 Enterprise Cir., Ste #100 Lakewood Ranch, FL | 941-907-4777 lakewoodranchsmiles.com Left to right: Dr. Jensen Bouton, Dr. Michelle Scala and Dr. Brandy Rubinski.
NOMINEE | 2021
MARYBETH HANSEN OWNER, PARADISE GRILL
“How can I help?” — I am MaryBeth Hansen and that is my Mantra
MY WHOLE LIFE, I HAVE BEEN PASSIONATE ABOUT HELPING OTHERS and bringing people together with food. Growing up, I watched my mother feed nine children and my hardworking father every night. Her compassion and generosity inspired me to open my first restaurant in Lansing Michigan at the age of 23. From then on, I have always been a restaurant owner and entrepreneur, all while being a single mother and raising my two wonderful children. I owned 10 Peach’s Restaurants from Ellenton to Venice and all points in between but wanted to be settled in Nokomis. In 2016 I opened the Paradise Grill in my community of Nokomis and have not looked back. I believe women need to have strong mentors and provide leadership roles. I hope I have been able to do that and that is why I support the Women's Resource Center, as well as the South County Food Pantry. Over the course of the pandemic, Paradise Grill has donated over 15,000 meals those in need through our Free Food Friday program. I have built Paradise Grill into a community destination and am very proud of my Paradise Family.
PARADISE GRILL 1097 N. Tamiami Trail Nokomis, FL | 941-786-1524 | marybeth@paradisegrillfl.com
NOMINEE | 2021
KAREN MEDFORD
OWNER, SIRIUS DAY SPA, SALON AND MEDSPAS “Everyday our mantra is to make someone’s day better
through healing, confidence and/or beauty-it’s all connected. Going above and beyond to help others lifts everyone upand that’s what the world needs”
OUR MISSION AT SIRIUS DAY SPA, SALON AND MEDSPAS HAS ALWAYS BEEN “TO BUILD CONFIDENCE THROUGH WELLNESS AND BEAUTY. Truly, nothing is more heartwarming than seeing our guests and members with an extra pep in their step and beaming glow on their face after receiving a treatment. Whether it be a pain relieving neuromuscular massage, acupuncture treatment, B12 shot, teeth whitening or a new hair color/style, the smile on their faces is why we love what we do. The incredible team at Sirius (42 of them!) live here with their families and community engagement is key. We love seeing our guests and members at the grocery, in the mall, schools, church or temples, and we love to give back. Through our many fundraisers or even or annual spa day for the Sunshine Kids (local children affected by cancer), our goal is to make a positive difference.
SIRIUS DAY SPA SALON & MED SPAS LAKEWOOD RANCH 11585 E State Road 70 Lakewood Ranch, FL THE SHOPPES AT UTC 8512 Cooper Creek Blvd #107 University Park, FL 941-357-4611 | SiriusDaySpas.com
NOMINEE | 2021
KRISTIE SKOGLUND, ED.D., LMHC, IMH-E
®
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, THE FLORIDA CENTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD “You cannot please all people all the time. Just be your authentic self and make the best decision you can for that moment or situation. If you make a mistake, 'oh well’. Fix it and move on. No well-intended mistake cannot be repaired. ”
I HAVE ALWAYS BELIEVED IN THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS. It is no wonder that my entire career has focused on the overwhelming importance of our earliest relationships, those between parents and children. As someone whose early childhood was filled with change and uncertainty, there was always someone in my life I could count on. These “first relationships” in my life were critical in building strength and resiliency, allowing me to thrive as a young child, then into my teen years, and into adulthood. I believe my life’s journey has prepared me to be the leader I am today. I believe we must embrace our past, continue to learn from it, and find ways to alter our course when necessary. My hope is that we can all take time to understand one another, be genuinely curious, value authenticity and make the world a better place because of how we are with one another.
THE FLORIDA CENTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD 4620 17th Street | Sarasota, FL | 941-371-8820 Fax: 941-377-3194 | info@thefloridacenter.org | TheFloridaCenter.org
SAVE THE DATE WOMEN WHO ROAR LUNCHON FRIDAY, MAY 13, 2022 | 10:30AM-2PM HYATT REGENCY, SARASOTA TICKETS ON SALE NOW SRQMAG.COM/WWR
WOMEN WHO ROAR 2021-22 NOMINEES AND PAST YEAR'S LEADERSHIP CIRCLE WINNERS We recognize all the women doing incredible work in our hometown!
INDIVIDUALS FEATURED IN THIS SPECIAL SECTION: Brenda Boyd May BOYD REALTY LLC
Melissa Larkin-Skinner
Erika Wise Borland Suzanne S. Wise Courtney Wise Snyder
CENTERSTONE-FLORIDA
TAKE CARE PRIVATE DUTY HOME HEALTH CARE
Jessica Rogers
Nikki Taylor
CHILDREN FIRST
KIVITY, LLC
Amanda Parrish
Lisa Moore
FAWLEY BRYANT ARCHITECTURE (FBA)
BLAZE OF HOPE
Cassie L. D’Addeo GREEN COUCH COUNSELING
DIANE’S DECORATING DEN DESIGN STUDIO
Kristina Eastmond
Dr. Rachel Shelley
MARINER WEALTH ADVISORS
BOOKER HIGH SCHOOL
Dr. Michelle Pennie Dr. Chelsea Duggan
Dolly Jacobs
PARADISE DERMATOLOGY
Dianna Manoogian
Diane Schaefer
CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY
Anna Gonce
SALT OF THE EARTH
HUMANE SOCIETY OF SARASOTA COUNTY
Elizabeth Fisher Good
Dr. Michelle Scala
THE FOUNDATION UNITED, FORMERLY THE SELAH WAY FOUNDATION
LAKEWOOD RANCH FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Sara Hand
PARADISE GRILL
SPARK GROWTH
Dr. Carol F. Probstfeld STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA, MANATEE-SARASOTA
Ping Faulhaber SUNCOAST SCIENCE CENTER
Marybeth Hansen Karen Medford SIRIUS DAY SPA, SALON AND MEDSPAS
Kristie Skoglund THE FLORIDA CENTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD
