2023 Women Innovators

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WELCOME

Our Women Innovators event conects a variety of super women who take initiative, drive positive change and redefine the workplace experience across all industries. Women have been innovators in various fields throughout history, making significant contributions to science, technology, arts, and many other areas. The valuable content in this event excites & inspires women to advocate for innovation in their organizations & break barriers, paving the way for future generations.

PROGRAM

5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Beer & Wine • Passed Hors d'Oeuvres and Stations Networking • Vendor tables

6:30 – 8 p.m.

Formal awards ceremony • Auditorium-style seating

Opening Remarks: Natalie Holland, Events Director, Westfair Communications

Keynote Speaker: Helen Rothberg, Professor of Strategic Management, Marist College

8 p.m.: Closing Closing program remarks, coffee and tea

PRESENTED BY HOSTED BY

Congratulations Diane Kelly, DNP, RN President, Greenwich Hospital for being our favorite Woman Innovator

PRESENTING SPONSORS:

SPONSORS:

SUPPORTERS:

HELEN ROTHBERG

Professor of Strategic Management Marist College

Throughout her academic career Helen Rothberg, Ph.D., bartended in New York City. She has consulted with Fortune 500 companies, small technology start-ups, and nonprofit organizations and speaks regularly on bartending and leadership. Rothberg has a dual degree in business and behavioral science and is a professor of strategy at the School of Management at Marist College, senior faculty at the Academy of Competitive Intelligence, and president of consulting firm HNR Associates. In 2018, she was inducted into the CI Fellows. She is the 2011 recipient of the Board of Trustees’s Distinguished Teaching Award. In 2017, Simon & Schuster published her book “The Perfect Mix: Everything I Know About Leadership I Learned as a Bartender.” It is now in its third printing. She is a contributing author to “Money” magazine. With Scott Erickson, she published “From Knowledge to Intelligence: Creating Competitive Advantage in the Next Economy: Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann in 2005” and “Intelligence in Action: Strategically Managing Knowledge Assets: Palgrave,” McMillan in 2012. Rothberg lives in Orange County, New York, with her husband, cats and several part-time goats. She still makes a mean cocktail.

Proudly providing legal services since 1971.

Congratulations to our esteemed colleague and partner, Lucia Chiocchio, and the other distinguished 2023 Women Innovators honorees!

Ingenuity, thoughtfulness and insight have been the hallmarks of our law firm for over 50 years. Our New York and Connecticut attorneys help local, regional, national and multi-national clients alike identify and implement nuanced solutions to complex legal challenges in the following key practice areas: Corporate Law; Energy & Environmental Law; Finance; Land Use, Zoning & Development; Litigation; Non-Profit Organizations; Real Estate Law; Telecommunications; Cannabis Law; and Trusts, Estates & Elder Law. We’re your strategic advisors, addressing not only your legal needs but your business and personal ones as well.

T 914 761 1300 | cuddyfeder.com

COLLEEN BORRELLI

JESSICA BAILEY President and CEO Nuveen Green Capital

If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and what is the first question you would ask? If I could have dinner with anyone living, it would be Barack Obama; not living, it would be my paternal grandmother. I would ask them what their greatest advice is.

Jessica Bailey is president and CEO of Nuveen Green Capital, a leading provider of sustainable commercial real estate finance. She co-founded Greenworks Lending, the largest provider of commercial property-assessed clean energy (C-PACE) financing in the country. Utilizing a state-enabled policy that she helped to develop in 2010, C-PACE financing has become a mainstream financing tool for clean energy upgrades in commercial real estate and sustainable new construction. As CEO of Greenworks Lending Bailey grew the company into a national lending platform operating in over 30 states. She raised and deployed more than a billion dollars in debt and equity and built a team of nearly 100 professionals. Through its nationwide distribution and originations platform, it has experienced double-digit annual growth since its founding. In 2021, she led Greenworks to a successful acquisition by Nuveen. The platform has since been rebranded to Nuveen Green Capital. From 2012 to 2014, Bailey was with the Connecticut Green Bank where she designed and led the award-winning C-PACE program for the state. From 2004 to 2012, she worked at the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, a foundation based in New York. Named a GlobeSt. Woman of Influence in 2023, Bailey and Nuveen Green Capital co-founder Ali Cooley were jointly recognized for "CRE's Best Bosses" by GlobeSt. in 2023, as well as "50 Most Important Figures of Commercial Real Estate Finance" by Commercial Observer in 2022. Bailey was named an Ernst and Young Entrepreneurial Winning Woman in 2019, a prestigious award affiliated with EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Connecticut Magazine named her "40 under 40" in 2019. She was named a "Champion of Change" by the White House for solar deployment in 2014. Bailey graduated with a bachelor's degree from the University of Notre Dame and a master's degree from Yale University.

ELIZABETH BRACKEN-THOMPSON Partner Thompson & Bender LLC

If your life was a movie, what kind would it be?

A combination of “The Iron Lady,” and “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

Elizabeth Bracken-Thompson is a partner at Thompson & Bender. Founded in 1987, the agency is the region's premier advertising and public relations firm. As a partner in the firm, Bracken-Thompson is responsible for a wide variety of clients representing a broad spectrum of business sectors, including Fortune 500 firms; banks and financial institutions, educational institutions; not-forprofits; hospitals and health-care organizations; the travel and hospitality industry; food and beverage sector; senior residential living; commercial real estate developers; environmental and business organizations among others. Prior to joining Thompson & Bender, she was vice president of marketing for the daily and weekly newspaper group owned by Gannett Company in Westchester, Rockland, Putnam and Fairfield counties. She has been recognized with many prestigious personal and professional honors, including induction into The Business Council of Westchester's Hall of Fame, recipient of 914Inc Small Business Award as well as Best of Business awards 2019-2023, and named as one of Westchester's "Power Dozen," included as one of City & State's "Westchester Power 50" and "Westchester Power 100" 2018-2023, recipient of the "Woman of Leadership and Excellence Award" from Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, recipient of the "Woman of Distinction" award from the United Way of Westchester and Putnam and recognized by Crain's NY as a notable nonprofit board leader. Bracken-Thompson is active in numerous community and professional organizations and serves on the boards of many organizations, including The Business Council of Westchester, the Hudson River Museum, the Westchester Parks Foundation, and the Charter School of Educational Excellence.

LUCIA CHIOCCHIO

Partner

Cuddy & Feder LLP

If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and what is the first question you would ask? Madeleine Albright. I'd ask her what I can do to promote more qualified women into positions of leadership and political influence.

Chiocchio is a partner at Cuddy & Feder LLP, where she chairs the land use, zoning and development practice group and serves as vice chair of the telecommunications practice group. Her practice centers on zoning, energy law and telecommunications, with a background in environmental engineering enhancing her ability to provide technical expertise to landowners, developers and the telecommunications industry. She uses her multidisciplinary experience and extensive knowledge to successfully advance projects through complex and sometimes controversial entitlement processes. Chiocchio also leads the firm's diversity committee, organizing initiatives such as fundraisers and events that support underserved populations and foster diversity and inclusion within the firm. Beyond her role at Cuddy & Feder, she has been a dedicated legal counsel to the White Plains Beautification Foundation for two decades. Her exceptional contributions to the wireless industry were recognized when she was selected as a Noteworthy Women in Wireless by the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA). Chiocchio holds a Juris Doctorate degree with an environmental certificate from Pace University School of Law and an M.S. in environmental engineering from Manhattan College. She actively participates in professional associations, including the New York State Wireless Association, Westchester Women's Bar Association, Women's Wireless Leadership Forum, New York Bar Association and the White Plains Bar Association.

SOBEIDA CRUZ

President Emerita and founding member 100 Hispanic Women of Westchester Co-Founder and Trustee Charter School of Educational Excellence

If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and whats the first question you’d ask?

Dona Felisa Rincon de Gautier (Dona Fela) 1897-1994, how were you able to become the first female mayor of the city of San Juan, Puerto Rico, back in 1946. How difficult was it for males in leadership roles to accept you as a capable, educated, passionate women.

As a successful business leader and public server, Cruz is also one of the founders of the Charter School of Educational Excellence and a member of the board. In this role, she volunteers her time to serving the children of Yonkers. She was vice president of Environmental Justice and Public and Governmental Affairs of the lower Hudson Valley area at the New York Power Authority, which she joined in 1983. Previously, she was elected by the members of Community Planning Board No.1 in the South Bronx as the first female district manager. Her responsibilities included preparing the districts capital budget and monitoring the delivery of services from the city agencies to a community of 120,000 residents. In 1974, she co-founded the Neighborhood Association for Intercultural Affairs Inc., an agency that provides housing preservation and development as well as social services and advocacy in the South Bronx. She served as president of the Yonkers Puerto Rican Day Parade from 1998-2000; was the recipient of the National Fellows Program representing the Northeastern region of the United States, which included a one-year internship in Washington, D.C., at the Department of Health and Human Services and the White House. Cruz holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California.

MARY DOBSON Founder and CEO Lift Wellness Group

How would you describe achieving your own success? I succeeded because I needed to. I had a young family and became the breadwinner. Failure has never been an option. Now, my drive is not just providing for my family, but also ensuring the security of my employees and their families. I also know that my success is the direct result of doing what I love and am passionate about. People enjoy doing what they're good at and feel good when doing it. Following my heart by going into a field I love has been my secret sauce.

Mary Dobson's passion for mental health began with the Connecticut Women's Health Project at Yale University, where she authored work on pregnancy, attachment and young adults. After receiving her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Fairfield University (Psi Chi, Phi Betta Kappa), she went on to become among the first nationally awarded with post-graduate education certification in the provision of family-focused school-based mental health intervention services, having dedicated two decades to eating disorder recovery, Dobson is among a select few practitioners honored with certification as an eating disorder specialist through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals and served as the founding Connecticut Chapter president. In addition to clinical practice, Dobson served as the founding director of two national treatment programs prior to pioneering her own behavioral health programs, Lift Wellness (2016) and Lift Teen and Parent Wellness Centers (2022.) Her outpatient healthcare company, LWG, has established virtual service locations in 11 states. Throughout her decade-long executive leadership background in behavioral health startups, corporate organizational psychology and program performance improvement, she has developed a statewide reputation for her trauma-informed leadership style, and has served as a mentor and supervisor for countless developing psychotherapists, dietitians and health-care professionals. Her leadership and clinical approach draws from attachment theory, cognitive behavioral, narrative, psychoanalytic and family systems. Dobson contributes to media and academic publications, facilitates assemblies, retreats, webinars and presents to communities, corporations, schools and organizations on industrial and organizational psychology, mental health, relationships, performance, divorce, bullying, anxiety, self-esteem, eating disorders, parenting, school avoidance and educational disabilities.

JOANNE DUNN Executive Director Youth Shelter Program of Westchester

What advice would you give other women who aspire to become innovators or entrepreneurs?

Believe in yourself, your abilities, your ideas and the power of you and always remain true to yourself. Do not let self-doubt hold you back or obstacles block you from your ultimate destiny. Let your passion fuel your desire to achieve success (no matter how big or small) and always embrace failure as lessons learned along the journey.

Joanne Dunn is the first woman to lead this organization since its incorporation in 1975. Conceived by a Westchester judge and schoolteacher who recognized the need for early intervention in the lives of young offenders, Youth Shelter Program of Westchester has been providing a homelike alternative to jail for young men, for more than 40 years, with great results. Throughout her career, Dunn has strived to meet the challenges she faces in helping youth and adults find some element of success in their lives. Her mission in life is to empower and employ others to channel their pain into their purpose; particularly those who are troubled with life's obstacles and helping them use these adversities as a vehicle for good and change. She continues to push her own boundaries personally and professionally. As an absolute believer in second chances, Dunn listens and establishes continuous communication and rapport among those she encounters. She knows all too well about second chances, as she has needed a few and believes they are not to be wasted. She provides a nurturing environment that involves enthusiasm, flexibility, creativity and a willingness to change, adapt and overcome. As for most people, challenges often become roadblocks and the story ends there but not for Dunn, she dives head-first into adversity. Her motto in life is "Shoot for the moon and if you fall short you will still be amongst the stars... and with God all things are possible."

FILOMENA FANELLI Founder and CEO

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

You don't have to be an expert at everything. The best business tip I got was to be humble and to bring in others who have strengths you don't have so you can focus on what you do best. From outsourcing bookkeeping to hiring someone with a different nature than mine, applying this tip helped me shape a stronger agency and focus my energy on what I do best. All of this means I enjoy my role more and our clients and team get a better outcome.

Filomena Fanelli is not only a 25-year PR industry veteran she's also the CEO and founder of Impact PR & Communications Ltd., an award-winning Hudson Valley-based public relations firm celebrating 10 years in business this spring. The agency has a three-state footprint and clients that include top-selling consumer brands, key cultural destinations, prominent banking, construction and real estate development companies, mission-based nonprofits and more. Fanelli is the recipient of a number of awards, including an Athena Leadership Awards honoree, a "Forty Under 40" winner, cover story of Hudson Valley magazine when it celebrated women in business and named a "Top Women-Run Workplace of the Year" by the Stevie® Awards. An involved community member, she serves on the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce and Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation boards. Fanelli is also the professional advisor for the Marist College Public Relations Student Society of America, and a former adjunct professor and regular guest lecturer. She has also been a featured speaker at the 92nd Street Y in New York City, among other venues. A proud lifelong Dutchess County resident, Fanelli lives in LaGrangeville with her husband and two daughters.

What advice would you give other women who aspire to become innovators or entrepreneurs?

Don't be afraid to leap off the cliff. Rather than thinking that you might crash, go toward it with the attitude and absolute confident that you will soar. That said, once you get going, do not assume that you have the skills and/or time to do everything yourself. Bring in experts (web designers, accountants, attorneys, HR consultants, etc.) when necessary. You will need to focus your time and energy on those things that you do best.

Jennifer Flowers, MBA, a nationally renowned expert in the accreditation arena and nonprofit governance, is the founder and CEO of Accreditation Guru Inc. She and her team assist human service providers across the United States to achieve and maintain national accreditation via an efficient and customized approach that has proven to be 100% successful. Flowers has worked with a variety of organizations in the child welfare, behavioral health, developmental disabilities and education sectors. In addition to accreditation, she is a specialist in the areas of long-term strategic planning, board of directors' development, quality improvement program design and risk management strategies. Flowers is certified in nonprofit board education and is regularly sought as a speaker at state and national conferences.

Impact PR & Communication

JENNIFER FLOWERR Founder and CEO

Accreditation Guru Inc.

HONOREES

LISBETH BOO FUMAGALLI

Bedford Town Clerk Town of Bedford

If your life was a movie, what kind would it be?

A comedy, thriller, romance, action, drama, adventure, all rolled into one.

Prior to becoming town clerk Lisbeth Boo Fumagalli was in the corporate sector where she developed and implemented a multifaceted corporate business system, wrote a training manual and documented the system. In addition, while working, she created, built and patented a children's game on the environment. As Bedford's town clerk, she modernized the way the town kept records and preserved its history. She also spearheaded the implementation of an interactive system linking town departments and residents, a new phone and security system and a new residents’ brochure. She was the former vice president of the New York State Town Clerks Association, Town Clerk of the Year for District 2, former president of Westchester-Putnam Town Clerks Association, former president of the Katonah-Lewisboro School District Board of Education, member of Bedford Hills Lions Club, Bedford Hills and Katonah Women's Club, Community Center of Northern Westchester and Meals on Wheels.

MEG GLANDER

External Affairs, East Area Crown Castle

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Business, in my view, is much like assembling a puzzle. Each piece, regardless of its size, carries significance. However, true beauty emerges when we actively piece them together, forging potent connections. At Crown Castle, our mission extends beyond the construction of the shared communications infrastructure necessary to bring our customers the highest-possible quality connectivity and close the digital divide. We are dedicated to nurturing authentic connections with our internal teams, local communities, visionary business leaders, and nonprofit trailblazers. These relationships form the bedrock of our success, with each interaction, connection and collaboration serving as a unique puzzle piece, shaping our overarching image. Innovation is the lifeblood of our work. We don't just deliver infrastructure from small cells and cell towers to fiber, we proactively push boundaries and envision the future, recognizing that connectivity plays a key role in enhancing both safety and success.

Meg Glander is a highly accomplished professional in government and public affairs, widely recognized for her strategic expertise, exceptional relationship-building skills, and over seven years of experience in government relations, advocacy and community engagement. She previously served as U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's principal advisor and liaison for New York's Hudson Valley region. During her tenure, she spearheaded key economic development, disaster preparedness, transportation and health-care initiatives throughout the urban, suburban and rural areas she served. Glander also played a critical role throughout the pandemic, providing government and community support and counseling about essential topics like Covid-19 relief programs, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. Glander is a rising star in her field and highly committed to making a positive impact in her community. Among other community leadership roles, she serves as a member of the Westchester County Association's Digital Connectivity Committee and has advised on political campaigns. She is also an avid sports fan, particularly of the Buffalo Bills and New York Mets. She earned her degrees in political science and communication from the University at Buffalo, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. During her time at the university, she also served as student body vice president and was a member of the Honors College.

PATRICIA GUEVARA Partner New England Antique Lumber

What advice would you give other women who aspire to become innovators or entrepreneurs?

The key for an entrepreneurial woman is based on self-confidence, perseverance and determination in order to create a solid foundation for herself.

Patricia Guevara immigrated from Ecuador to Bedford Hills, New York, in 2006 with her husband and three daughters. Ever since then she and her husband have worked very hard to provide a better future for their daughters. In 2015, Guevara and her husband took a leap of faith and decided to open up their own business, New England Antique Lumber in Mount Kisco, New York. Their hard work has been rewarding and they and their products are admired by the community and loyal clientele. Their business has continued to grow and in 2021 they opened up their second showroom in Westport, Connecticut. Besides all the trials and tribulations that got in the way, Guevara has been very determined and has worked hard to achieve her American Dream.

CINDY KANUSHER

Executive Director

Pace Women's Justice Center

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you? Don't be afraid to take big leaps, make mistakes or fail at something. And then, make sure to learn from this.

Cindy Kanusher, executive director of the Pace Women's Justice Center has focused her career on domestic violence and legal services for the underrepresented. Twenty-five years ago, she joined PWJC, a legal services provider for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and elder abuse, serving Westchester and Putnam counties. During her tenure, PWJC has grown into a highly respected, multifaceted legal services and training center serving more than 3,500 victims and survivors of interpersonal violence annually. After becoming executive director in 2015, she identified a need for a flexible legal service model for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and elder abuse. In response, she developed a walk-in clinic concept to provide free, bilingual legal services in a safe and accessible location; the new clinic and office space was inaugurated in June 2018. Prior to becoming executive director, Kanusher was responsible for oversight of the PWJC's Legal Helpline, Moderate Means Panel of Lawyers, and Elder Justice Unit. Through PWJC's rural sexual assault and domestic violence training programs, she has trained lawyers, judges, advocates and law enforcement agents across New York state. Prior to PWJC, she worked as an assistant district attorney in the New York County District Attorney's office for 10 years, focusing on the prosecution of child abuse, sexual assault and domestic violence cases. She is a graduate of Brandeis University and received her law degree from Brooklyn Law School. Kanusher has strong relationships with partner agencies and community members at large, serving on various boards and councils. She was appointed to serve on Westchester County's Women's Advisory Board in 2018, and serves on the Westchester County Domestic Violence Council, Westchester County Anti-trafficking Task Force, and the Westchester County Families Task Force.

HONOREES

DIANE P. KELLY President

Greenwich Hospital EVP, Chief Nurse Executive

Yale New Haven Health System

What advice would you give other women who aspire to become innovators or entrepreneurs?

Seek out a group of people who both support you and believe in the work that inspires you. When you find that group even if it is only one or two others be certain to reciprocate the belief and support, both have equal value.

Diane P. Kelly, DNP, MBA, RN, president, Greenwich Hospital; executive vice president, YNHHS; chief nurse executive, YNHHS was appointed president of Greenwich Hospital in June 2020, after serving as its chief operating officer. Most recently in 2022, Kelly took on the additional role as chief nurse executive, working with nursing leaders across the YNHHS division of nursing. Prior to joining Greenwich Hospital, she held various clinical and leadership roles at Berkshire Health System, culminating in 10 years as its chief operating officer. She holds a Doctorate in Nurse Practice degree from the University of San Francisco, with an emphasis on executive leadership and population health. A graduate of Western New England College with a master's degree in business administration, Kelly also earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

MARISSA MADONIA

Business Development Executive Corporate Audiovisual Services

If your life was a movie, what kind would it be?

If my life was a movie, it would be a musical with loads of singing and dancing to advance the plot, real theatre actors and a sense of humor.

Marissa Madonia joined Corporate Audiovisual Services in July 2021 as its business development executive after an extensive career in the nonprofit sector. With more than 10 years of experience in development, event production, a background in musical theatre and a wide network of long-term professional relationships, Madonia brings her tenacity, energy and creativity to all her work and never loses sight of the big picture. A true people-person. Her leadership skills continue to be recognized, as she was named one of BCW's 40 under 40 Rising Stars in 2018. She knows the value of learning from others, and it remains her personal mission to inspire others to be bigger than themselves.

COLLEEN MAGLIARI BORRELLI

Vice

President of Patient Experience Burke Rehabilitation Hospital

If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and what is the first question you would ask? If I could have dinner with anyone living or dead, it would be John F. Kennedy. His optimism and dynamic leadership sparked an idealism that is currently lacking. I'd ask him what changes he would like to make today if he were still president.

Colleen Magliari Borrelli is Burke Rehabilitation Hospital's first vice president of Patient Experience. She created and continues to build the strategic effort to enhance the patient and family experience of those who are facing complex medical challenges. A cornerstone of the program is the Marsal Family Caregiver Center, which is the first and only one in an acute rehabilitation hospital in the nation. Prior to launching this department, Magliari Borrelli secured over a million dollars in support of Burke's mission through corporations and foundations. Before joining the Burke team she worked in higher education and government. She started her career in the Congressional office of Representative Nita M. Lowey where she was the congresswoman's scheduler. She ascended to deputy district director. From Lowey's office, Magliari Borrelli became Mercy College's first director of government and community relations. She managed the college's relationships with 40 elected officials who represented Mercy's five campuses. She enlisted support for legislation while working to secure more than $6 million in government funding for academic programs and capital projects. She serves on The Board of the Business Council of Westchester and cochairs its Women in Business Council. Magliari Borrelli lives in Briarcliff Manor with her husband and daughter.

MARGARET NUNZIATO Executive Director

Westchester Independent Living Center Inc.

What advice would you give other women who aspire to become innovators or entrepreneurs?

My advice to other woman is do not give up on your goals and dreams. There may be bumps and detours, but use these as learning tools, not obstacles. Do not let them discourage you, but rather encourage you to move forward.

Nunziato has been the executive director at the Westchester Independent Living Center (WILC) since 2021, which she joined in 1999. She is a dedicated advocate with more than two decades of successful experience in service coordination, transitioning and diverting individuals from nursing homes, personnel management, relationship building and community outreach. A strong believer in the power of working together to get things done, Nunziato regularly facilitates positive communications between WILC employees, area providers and government personnel to develop a seamless, effective service delivery system for consumers. Her first job as head teacher for a Pre-K class for children with emotional needs was where she discovered her love for working with families and children in crisis. She left teaching and began her employment in human services and she has worked with low-income families assisting them to secure employment and community services, provided substance prevention services for high-risk youth and secured community and school services, housing and employment for persons with developmental disabilities. Nunziato has two sons; her oldest graduated college with a mechanical engineering degree and her youngest is in college studying industrial engineering. She is well-known and respected throughout the region and the state for her knowledge, experience and professionalism.

HONOREES

KECIA PALMER-COUSINS

Chief Executive Officer Aero-Ba-Soul Inc.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

My parents Leroy and Obie Palmer, homebased entrepreneurs who owned a moving business and day care center when I was a little girl, gave me the most helpful business tip, "Be kind, courageous, caring and treat others as you would like to be treated." They taught me how to breathe, listen to my gut feelings and set boundaries when making decisions. They were my dream makers, telling me from birth that I was special and could achieve all that I believed. They encouraged me and my three brothers to "be in the "rooms" that we wanted to be in, put in the work and get our education, of which no one could take away from us.

Kecia Palmer-Cousins, MBA, is an entrepreneur, engineer and networking guru. She co-owns G&K Sweet Foods LLC (established 2007, a 2014 Super Bowl catering vendor) and Aero-Ba-Soul Inc, established in 1999, as business management consulting). Palmer-Cousins helps clients navigate government and corporate procurement and career development training. A 2014 Verizon retiree, she project managed global telecommunication infrastructure projects. Palmer-Cousins serves on the boards of Feeding Westchester, Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce, Peekskill Youth Bureau, Peekskill Planning Commission, Sister to Sister International Inc. and previously she served with the Peekskill NAACP. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in manufacturing engineering from Boston University, a Master’s Certificate in project management from George Washington University, and an MBA marketing from Long Island University. She's a graduate of WEDC, Just Add One Small Business Program (WCC) and NYPA Local & Small Business Capacity Building Program. She was a 914 Inc." Women in Business, Westchester County Black History Month Trailblazer and New York Women's Chamber of Commerce Women in Excellence Honoree. She and her husband, Kevin, reside in Peekskill with HBCU collegiate sons Kendall and Kyle. She is a Jack and Jill of America Inc. associate member and Go On Girl! Book Club NY2 Chapter facilitator. She believes in self-care, giving back and connecting with loved ones.

JULIA RISO LIVINGSTON

Regional Managing Principal Northeast MKDA

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you? When I was considering whether to pursue an architecture or interior design degree, my father told me, "As an architect, you can always do interior design, but as an interior designer, you cannot practice architecture." In other words, push your limits and it will broaden your opportunities. Today I am licensed in four states, allowing me to expand my Stamford studio's services to offer both commercial interior design and ground-up architecture across multiple regions. More generally, business diversification has been instrumental in enhancing resilience and tapping into new revenue streams, which is essential in the Westchester and Fairfield areas as the market can be less active than a large metropolis.

Julia Riso Livingston, R.A., NCARB, is regional managing principal, Northeast, and director of design at MKDA's Stamford office. Since establishing the office in 2006, Riso Livingston has designed a wide range of interiors for renowned brands such as Guggenheim Partners, Cosentini Associates, Eldridge Industries, Wheelhouse Entertainment and Eagle Point Credit Management and has performed major capital improvements on behalf of landlords George Comfort & Sons and Rubenstein Partners. Her work also includes interior design and architecture for restaurants, health-care facilities, multifamily properties and single-family residences. In addition to her extensive local experience in Fairfield and Westchester counties, Riso Livingston has completed assignments in New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, Florida, California and Texas. Her professional contributions to businesses and her community have earned her many recognitions, which include multiple features in Westchester and Fairfield County Business Journal's Powerful Women issue (2022 & 2023); Woman Making an Impact by Westchester County Business Journal; Women of Influence by GlobeSt.com Street; and a Leading Lady in Commercial Real Estate by Real Estate Weekly.

VICTORIA RONEMUS Attorney, Partner FULLERTON BECK, LLP

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Someone once told me that nerves can do two things to people – paralyze them or excite them. At that time, I promised myself that I would make a conscious effort to turn my nerves into excitement and face any task head on, knowing that no matter the outcome, I would emerge stronger and more knowledgeable.

Victoria Ronemus specializes in the area of medical malpractice defense, general liability defense and construction site accident matters. She represents hospitals, doctors, nurses and other health-care professionals throughout litigation, including defending depositions and preparing for trial. She also defends building owners and management companies in premise’ liability matters, as well as contractors in New York Labor Law actions. She ardently defends her clients from the inception of the case, through discovery, including trial.

LAUREN RONES-PAYNE

General Manager

What advice would you give other women who aspire to become innovators or entrepreneurs?

Surround yourself both personally and professionally with positive people who will pick you right back up after a tough day. Find ways to motivate yourself whether that is by starting your day with a workout or meditating before you go to sleep. Just do not give up.

Lauren Rones-Payne, a White Plains resident with more than 20 years of experience in luxury customer service, made the leap into the private aviation industry working as the general manager of Million Air at the Westchester County Airport for the past five years. She is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, is a competitive runner who has completed eight marathons, loves to travel and is the proud aunt of three nieces and one nephew. She is happily married for over 15 years to White Plains City Councilman Richard Payne and currently lives locally in the heart of downtown White Plains. Proud to be serving as a Friends of the White Plains Youth Bureau, Women in Aviation Westchester Chapter and Westchester Aviation Association Board member, Rones-Payne hopes to encourage more women to be a part of this fast-paced, high-energy, 24/7 aviation industry, which can offer many opportunities for today's youth.

HONOREES

MICHELE THOMAS

Executive Vice President Osborn Home Care

What advice would you give other women who aspire to become innovators or entrepreneurs?

Be passionate about what you do and work hard. Set BIG goals but be flexible on how to achieve them. Find your balance between confidence and humility. Be grateful and believe in yourself!

Michele Thomas is executive vice president of Osborn Home Care, The Osborn’s licensed home care agency. She has dedicated her career to the care of older adults and the aging in place movement. With more than 20 years of experience, Thomas, a Certified Dementia Case Manager, works with families to find the best care solutions for each individual. Throughout her career in home care services, Thomas has worked to bring innovation to care delivery, incorporating technology, virtual reality, dementia caregiver training and a family caregiver resource tool box. In her current role, she oversees approximately 300 professional caregivers, nurses and care coordinators. She serves on several boards, including Leading Age New York’s HCBS cabinet, SPRYE, Hospice of Westchester, Rye City Senior Advocacy Council and The Rotary Club of Rye. When not at work, she and her husband Kevin enjoy exploring the New York countryside and spending time at their weekend home in Vermont.

STACEY TOMPKINS

President and Owner Tompkins Excavating

How would you describe achieving your own success?

Someone believed in me and made me realize that I had the leadership skills to succeed in my job. I took chances; working in male-dominated industries was, and still is, most unusual for a woman. I advocate for myself, my beliefs, my business and I'm always learning. Lastly, as hard as it is to do, I don't take things personally.

Stacey Tompkins started her career in the food service industry as a director for Aramark Services, managing several Wall Street corporate dining facilities. When the business started to expand, she transferred her business skills and became more involved. In 2013, Tompkins became president and owner of Tompkins Excavating – a prestigious award-winning, commercial site development company. Since taking the helm, she oversees every aspect of the business. This year's revenues will reach $12 million. Tompkins has a passion for helping guide young people in their workforce development. She maintains a relationship with Northern Westchester BOCES and participates in Her Honor Mentoring, a program that provides unique learning opportunities for young women by connecting them with strong, positive, female role models. A leader in the community, Tompkins Excavating over the years has been involved with several charitable endeavors. Tompkins serves on the Board of Directors for The Business Council of Westchester, is a trustee of the Building and Realty Institute, and is a council woman on the Town Board of Putnam Valley. She is also a licensed real estate broker. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY Oneonta and lives in Putnam Valley with her husband and three sons.

PAMELA TUCKER Chief Marketing Officer

Harrison Edwards

What advice would you give other women who aspire to become innovators or entrepreneurs?

Being an innovator or entrepreneur is not something you choose, it's something you do. Not everyone has it in them to be an innovator or entrepreneur. Being an innovator or entrepreneur requires a certain personality that comprises a myriad of traits that compels someone to innovate or create. That someone has to have vision, passion and an unwavering (and often times uncompromising) commitment to seeing their project or business through to the end, regardless of the obstacles and doubts that will surely arise and threaten to derail all efforts. Beyond being a visionary, an innovator or entrepreneur must have an appetite for risk. Lots of people have great ideas for products, services or just new ways to do something but they are stopped by all the imagined risks perceived in starting a new venture. And there are many risks, like "I don't know what I'm doing. Is this a really stupid idea? Is there a need for what I want to do? Is there a market for what I want to do? The market is so competitive, how can I succeed? Can I afford to risk my income to pursue something unknown? How will giving up financial security impact my family? How will I find the money to finance my project? What if I make mistakes along the way?" The list goes on and on. Being an innovator/entrepreneur is about fortitude, resolve and never giving up especially in the face of the myriad challenges, setbacks and doubts you will undoubtedly experience. So, what is my advice to aspiring innovators or entrepreneurs? Most importantly, trust in yourself. Then, be brave, resolute and strong. The road ahead will be rocky – at times even treacherous. But, as they say, if you have the will, there will be a way. And, you will find your way.

Pamela Tucker joined Harrison Edwards in 2022 and quickly became a highly valued and trusted resource for the agency's clients and partners. With three decades of experience in marketing, branding and go-to-market strategies, Tucker has helped small to mid-sized businesses and nonprofits achieve their strategic and fundraising goals through the implementation of innovative and integrated go-to-market plans. She also has been instrumental in the development of new products and services in health care, specialty foods and education and has co-produced large-scale public events and international conferences. Prior to joining the firm, Tucker was a founder of Rootto-Market Consulting, and was a marketing executive at CIGNA, founder and CEO of Friuli Sorbet Inc., and marketing and business development consultant to U.S. and international businesses. She has been the recipient of multiple marketing leadership and product awards at CIGNA and Friuli Sorbet. Tucker holds a master's degree from New York University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Dartmouth College.

JUDGES

CHEREESE

JERVIS-HILL

CEO & Founder

Events To Remember + PR To Remember, divisions of Events by Chereese, Inc.

Chereese Jervis-Hill has over two decades of event management and promotion experience, an accomplished event producer and publicist with drive, vision, and fresh ideas. She founded Events To Remember (ETR), in April 2004, a M/WBE full-service virtual and live event management (live, hybrid and virtual) & public relations firm located in Hastings on Hudson, New York, specializing in conceptualizing, organizing, managing, marketing, and publicizing events, experiences and public relations campaigns for corporate, not-for-profits, municipalities, entrepreneurs and agencies to help them tell their story. Chereese credits her success to the corporate experience gained early on in her career, working for powerhouses like Philip Morris, Deutsche Bank and MetLife. Named Best Event Planner in Westchester County by the readers of Westchester Magazine, Chereese was named one of the Top Women in Business by 914Inc. Magazine, Powerful Women in Westchester County by The Westchester County Business Journal, Westchester’s 40 Under 40 Raising Stars and Hall of Fame Chairman’s Award by The Business Council of Westchester, and a Leadership Westchester Alum-ni. Chereese is a Certified Farmers Market Manager for the State of New York, and she has re-ceived the following awards: Chairman’s Award, Business of the Year, the Spirit of Caring Award, the Spirit of a Woman Empowerment Award, and the Community Women of the Year Award. Chereese sits on the Executive Board of Directors for the Public Relations Society of America (Westchester/Fairfield Chapter), the Public Relations Society of America is the nation’s leading pro-fessional organization serving the communications community. Chereese was raised in the South Bronx, NY and attended Fordham University. She resides in Westchester County with her husband Arnold and their two daughters.

DEBORAH A. TYMON

Senior Vice President, Marketing New York Yankees

Deborah Ann Tymon was born, raised and currently resides in Stamford, Connecticut. The daughter of James Tymon and Dorothy Schanz Tymon, Deborah attended Springdale School, St. Cecelia’s Grammar School, and Stamford Catholic High School. She then moved to the West Coast, earning a dual degree in History and English with a minor in Education from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. Upon graduation, Deborah obtained a California teaching credential and taught in Southern California for six years, while pursuing her Master’s Degree in English. She later returned home to Stamford and worked in the travel and tourism industry, which led to the development of business relationships with the New York Yankees. The Yankees hired her in 1985 as Director of Group and Season Ticket Sales, and she served in that capacity until she was promoted to Director of Marketing in 1994. In 2000, she became the first female Vice President in the history of the New York Yankees when she was elevated to Vice President of Marketing (later became Senior Vice President of Marketing in 2005). Some of Deborah’s responsibilities have included the coordination of five ticker-tape parades, celebrating the Yankees’ World Series Championships in 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2009; supervision of all pregame on-field ceremonies at Yankee Stadium (including postseason and World Series games); the design of four World Series rings and two American League rings; creation of special events such as Joe DiMaggio Day, Don Mattingly Day, the Yankees’ September 11th Tribute, numerous player tributes including Paul O’ Neill, Mariano Rivera, Joe Torre and Derek Jeter; and the coordination of the 2008 Papal Mass and 2008 All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium. Deborah also sits on the board of the New York Yankees Foundation and each year runs the foundation’s primary fundraiser, the New York Yankees Homecoming Dinner.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 68 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,900 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 57 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easyto-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BAC) .

A privately held company based in Mount Kisco, New York, Westfair Communications Inc. is the home of the Westfair Business Journal, which you can find online and which now integrates content from its former publication WAG magazine, providing readers with a greater variety of business news and features. Westfair also publishes the popular News @ Noon and the new Wake Up With Westfair e-newsletters, for late-breaking developments, as well as industry-specific newsletters. For more than 60 years, Westfair has been the only weekly countywide business newspaper founded by former Westchester resident David Moore, a grandson of New York publisher Joseph Pulitzer, and John Smith, a former Wall Street Journal editor. In keeping with the founders’ principles, the Journal focuses on the business community in Fairfield, Westchester and the rest of the Hudson Valley with breaking news, trends, tips and behind-the-scenes profiles. The content also takes you beyond the business world to explore, food, travel, health and wellness and the home, while the entertainment-flavored calendar suggests where you should be and when. The Journal and its newsletters have gained credibility and respect in the region for honesty and timely insights. Westfair also sponsors interactive programs for its readers, some of which are joint ventures with other businesses or community organizations. These programs cover a variety of subjects and take different forms, including seminars, expos, conferences, roundtable discussions and debates. For more, visit westfaironline.com or call 914-694-3600.

BRONZE SPONSORS

Burke Rehabilitation is a not-for-profit healthcare organization devoted solely to acute physical rehabilitation. Its main campus is located in White Plains, NY. Founded in 1915 through an endowment from philanthropist John Masterson Burke, it has been a member of the Montefiore Health System since 2016. Burke operates the only hospital in Westchester County dedicated solely to adult and adolescent rehabilitation medicine. Burke also offers therapeutic care in 12 locations throughout Westchester County, the Hudson Valley, and the Bronx for those who have experienced injuries, surgery, or chronic conditions, from the simple to the very complex. Burke Rehabilitation has been honored as one of the nation’s Best Rehabilitation Hospitals by the U.S. News & World Report 202324 rankings. Only 50 hospitals nationwide are included in the prestigious list of the best rehabilitation hospitals For additional information, please visit www.burke.org.

Cuddy & Feder proudly serves clients in real estate law; land use, zoning & development; litigation; trusts, estates & elder law; public and private finance (including tax-exempt and taxable bond financing); corporate law; telecommunications; energy & environmental law; cannabis law; and non-profit organizations. For over 50 years, we have established ourselves as the leading law firm serving a vast region that includes Westchester, New York City, Connecticut and the Hudson River Valley. Our foundation is local, and we enjoy enduring relationships with leaders, institutions and decision-makers in the communities we serve.

BRONZE SPONSORS

When a tree has been cut, we try to give it life again, creating with it a unique and personalized piece to satisfy the tastes and suggestions of our clients. Thus turning this cut tree into a piece of art. We’re a family-owned and -operated business with 10+ years of experience in the lumber industry. Our wood and timbers come from a variety of different sources ranging from historical to agricultural buildings. As soon as we hear of old structures on the line to be demolished, we jump at the opportunity to save them. We travel long distances to source within nature the best quality raw material in order to guarantee the quality of our product. We take the time to delicately dismantle these aging structures. We can restore all the wood that was meant to be discarded. From our supply of wood and timbers that we’ve reclaimed, we can create anything you can think of. New England Antique Lumber Inc offers: • Live Edge Slabs • Reclaimed Flooring • Ceiling Beams • Siding Walls/Ceiling • Window Shutters • Doors • Custom Handmade Furniture • Antiques • Concrete & Iron Works • Fireplace Mantels.

Since 1996, Osborn Home Care has been assisting older adults choosing to age in place in their homes in Westchester County, New York. Over the years, they have expanded their services to those living in Fairfield County, Connecticut, too. Osborn Home Care provides a customized care plan designed by a registered nurse to ensure that you or your family member receives the services that best suit your needs, even as they change. For your peace of mind, Osborn Home Care now offers remote home monitoring in addition to home care services. The technology tracks your loved one’s vital signs and alerts you or medical personnel if there are changes to be concerned about. The monitoring device also offers content like games and books to help with cognitive function and to keep people engaged. Our clients know they can trust Osborn Home Care because all our caregivers are carefully screened and thoroughly trained. In fact, many have attended an Alzheimer's Association Certified Person-Centered Dementia Care training program. This allows them to provide compassionate and reliable care – whenever our clients need it –all in the comfort of their own home. Osborn Home Care is there when you can't be.