Women’s Leadership Council
Founding Member Directory
One-hundred and fifty-three
Founding Members One-hundred and fifty-three amazing women who not only want to see positive change in the community, they want to create it. These are the women who, at the first gathering of the Women’s Leadership Council, rolled up their sleeves and got right to work. These are the women who are building the initiative from the ground up, who have chosen to help women in central Ohio achieve financial stability. Our Founding Members have drawn on their own educational and life experiences to determine what, exactly, women need to be successful. As I look at the diverse and wonderful accomplishments of the women on the following pages, I know the WLC will make a difference. This directory is for them—for you—to get to know each other a bit better. Thank you for being a part of it.
Tanny Crane Chair, Women’s Leadership Council
Executive Committee Tanny Crane, Chair, Women’s Leadership Council Crane Group
President and CEO of Crane Group. Longtime volunteer and Past Board Chair for United Way of Central Ohio. Immediate Past Board Chair for the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. Current Board Chair for the Columbus City Schools’ Education Foundation and Vice Chair of The Columbus Foundation. Serves on The Fisher College of Business Dean’s Advisory Council and the Board of Directors of OhioHealth and I Know I Can. Lives with her husband, John Wolff, and two daughters, Tally and Ali, in New Albany.
Karen Days, Executive Committee Co-Chair Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence Served, since 1999, as the first and only president of the Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence. Spent ten years prior to that in the criminal justice field. Graduated from The Ohio State University in 1993 with a BA, and Ohio Dominican in 2009 with an MBA.
Liza Kessler, Executive Committee Co-Chair
Jones Day
Litigation attorney and partner-in-charge at Jones Day. Currently on the boards of The Ohio State University Medical Center and the Wexner Center Foundation. A Franklin County Commissioners’ appointee to the Veterans Memorial Board of Trustees and a past president of the Planned Parenthood of Central Ohio board.
Beth Pritchard, Executive Committee Co-Chair, Marketing Committee Co-Chair The Alshaya Group
North American Advisor to Alshaya, the world’s largest franchisee Group, based in the Middle East. Previously served as President and CEO, then Vice-Chairman of DEAN & DELUCA, and President and CEO of Bath & Body Works. I am married and have one daughter.
Steering Committee Susan Eichinger, Membership Committee Co-Chair Fireproof Records Center President and COO of Fireproof Records Center. Serve on the board of the Short North Special Improvement District and the International Visitors Council. I am a member of the Columbus Chapter of the Women Presidents’ Organization. Patricia M. Gibson, Advocacy/Public Policy Committee Co-Chair PMG Communications, Inc. President of PMG Communications, a strategic communications company that provides a comprehensive approach to presenting information to clients’ customers, prospects and employees. Founding President of WELD and President of the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA). Jan Gorniak, Advocacy/Public Policy Committee Co-Chair
Franklin County Coroner’s Office Elected Franklin County’s first full-time forensic pathologist Coroner in 2008. Originally from Bronx, New York, now live in Dublin with my husband Randy, son Blair (20) and daughter Brandi (18).
Julie Graber, Advocacy/Public Policy Committee Co-Chair The Institute on Women Managing Director of the Institute on Women, an independent research institute focused on improving the lives of women and girls in Ohio by serving as a data-rich resource for positive change. Lisa Ingram, Initiative Committee Co-Chair White Castle System Chief Operations Officer. MBA from The Ohio State University. Board Member for Experience Columbus, Action for Children, and the Childhood League. Worked in both the computer and restaurant industries. Married with three children. Nancy Kramer, Marketing Committee Co-Chair Resource Interactive Founder and CEO of Resource Interactive, one of the nation’s top-ranked digital agencies serving Fortune 500 companies, as well as one of the best places to work in the country as noted by The Wall Street Journal.
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Valeriana Moeller, Initiative Committee Co-Chair
Columbus State Community College President and CEO of Columbus State Community College. Our mission is to make higher education accessible to central Ohio. We offer over 53 degrees and 80 certificates in Health, Business, Information Technology, Engineering, and Human Services. We change lives through education.
Wendy Peters, Special Events Committee Co-Chair
Community Volunteer Twenty plus years of leadership experience in finance, accounting and customer service at GE, Mettler-Toledo and Chase. Currently volunteering at Faith Mission and looking forward to more opportunities with the WLC.
Renee Shumate, Membership Committee Co-Chair
American Electric Power An accomplished technology professional with twenty years of experience in Information Technology and Project Management. An active leader in central Ohio civic and non-profit communities, serving on YWCA’s Board of Directors and Housing Corporation Board.
Kathleen Trafford, Initiative Committee Co-Chair Porter Wright Litigation partner for complex business and commercial cases and cases with constitutional or governmental issues. Immediate past president of Columbus Bar Association and Equal Justice Foundation. Wendy Weiler, Special Events Committee Co-Chair
Community Volunteer A former development director with a degree in social work. Have been active in many community organizations, including Childhood League, The Columbus Jewish Foundation, Wexner Heritage Village, NYAAP and our local public schools.
Christina E. Williams, Membership Committee Co-Chair
Ohio Hospital Association Stanford University graduate with experience in healthcare consulting and policy. Currently manage all patient safety initiatives for the Ohio Hospital Association. Founder of Camp Kesem, MacFHT and President of the Stanford Young Alumni Association.
Manika Williams, Special Events Committee Co-Chair United Way of Central Ohio Start Smart Project Manager for United Way. The initiative’s goal is to increase children’s readiness for kindergarten. Assist early care and learning centers improve their quality and facilitate the parent education program, Born Learning. I have an education background and am an Air Force veteran. pg. 4
founding members Christine Adams
Bascom & Adams Business Solutions, LLC Founder and President of Bascom & Adams Business Solutions, LLC. Began my career as a Liaison and Director of Recreational Services for the United States Military Mission to Saudi Arabia. Volunteer roles: United States Air Force Officer Wives Club, Ohio Women’s Business Advisory Roundtable, City of Pickerington Parks and Recreation Board, United Way of Central Ohio, Jefferson Awards and Professional Advisor for Women’s Initiative for Successful Enterprising.
Elizabeth Heller Allen
The Huntington National Bank Executive Vice President and Director of Corporate Public Relations and Communications for Huntington. Expert in change management and integrated global communications. Named one of PR Week magazine’s Top 20 Corporate PR Practitioners (2003).
Jamie Keller Allen
The Ohio State University Medical Center Attending physician for The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, James Cancer Hospital & Solove Research Institute, Anesthesiology. Moved to Columbus from Houston, Texas in 2007.
Christie Angel
Sean P. Dunn & Associates Vice President of a full service government relations firm. United Way Board Member and chair of the United Way Public Policy Committee. Current Board President for the YWCA Columbus.
Sharnnia Artis
The Ohio State University Postdoctoral Research Fellow at The Ohio State University in the College of Engineering. Also an educational consultant and author of Moving from Ordinary to Extraordinary: The Teens Guide to High School Success.
Deborah A. Ballam
The Ohio State University Professor of Legal Environment of Business and Academic Director, Undergraduate Business Honors. My research focuses on employment-at-will and affirmative action. Received the Senior Faculty Award of Excellence from the Academy of Legal Studies in Business in 2000. Former Editor-in-Chief of the American Business Law Journal. pg. 5
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Laurel A. Beatty
Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Appointed Judge by Governor Ted Strickland in 2009. Has jurisdiction over Franklin County civil cases over $15,000 and felony criminal cases. Honored with Business First of Columbus’ “Forty under 40” award in 2005. Active volunteer in the community, currently serving on the Board of Trustees of the YWCA and Alvis House.
Teri Berliner
American Electric Power Director of Consumer Programs at American Electric Power. BS from Bowling Green State University, Master of Applied Statistics and MBA from The Ohio State University. Graduate of Leadership Columbus and member of Columbus Zoo Association Board.
Beverly Bethge
Ologie Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Ologie, a branding company. Specializes in work related to improving the quality of life in four areas: health, wealth, education and community. Boards: The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio, CCAD and the Wellington School.
Allison M. Binkley
Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff, LLP Attorney, public finance law. JD, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law; MA, The Ohio State University; BA, Grove City College. Member of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Development Board.
Sally W. Bloomfield
Bricker & Eckler Partner at Bricker & Eckler in the Energy & Public Utilities and Environmental practice group. More than thirty years experience in public utility and administrative law. Former Commissioner of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. Former President of the Columbus Bar Association. First Chair and current Vice Chair of the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority.
Elizabeth Blount
Uniglobe Travel Designers, Inc. Vice-President and Owner of Uniglobe Travel Designers. Graduate of Spelman College, former Production Manager at EDUN (a corporation founded to provide jobs and industry in developing countries).
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Kelly Borth
GREENCREST Marketing professional, brand specialist, business owner, employer, business advisor, community philanthropist, volunteer and leader, supporter of women, wife, mother and grandmother, life-long learner, arts lover, fine dining enthusiast and explorer.
Darnita M. Bradley
Columbia Gas of Ohio Manager of Governmental Affairs and Economic Development for Columbia Gas of Ohio. Boards: Community Shelter Board, American Association of Blacks in Energy and the Ohio Economic Development Association, as well as United Way of Central Ohio’s Income Impact Committee.
Barbara K. Brandt
Barbara K. Brandt, Inc. Philanthropic Consulting Services Mother, daughter, wife, aunt, volunteer and professional fundraiser. I have lived in Columbus all my life. I love our community.
Adrienne Marie Brokaw
Ernst & Young, LLP Partner at Ernst & Young. Serve on the Board of Trustees for BalletMet. Married with one son, Robert Jr.
Janet A. Brooks
Brooks Supported Living President of Brooks Supported Living, an agency founded in 1984 to provide services to individuals with developmental disabilites.
Nighat H. Bukhari
The Huntington National Bank Vice President, Private Financial Group at The Huntington Bank. Committed to community service and relations and non-profit fundraising. Member of the Junior League of Columbus and the Asian American Commerce Group of Columbus.
Nancy M. Case
Columbus State Community College Director of Transitional Workforce in the Center for Workforce Development at Columbus State Community College. Oversee the Academic Enrichment (GED) program, the Language Institute, Orientation to Trade and Apprenticeship Programs (OTAP), and ESL Afterschool Communities.
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Sarah Chambers
Thompson Hine, LLP An attorney practicing Corporate Transactions & Securities law. Focus practice on entity formation, organization and governance, financing documentation, acquisitions and dispositions of assets, mergers and reorganizations.
Margey Cheses
Community Volunteer, formerly Nationwide Children’s Hospital Recently retired from a twenty-year career in mental health. Master’s degree: The Ohio State University. Boards served: Columbus Jewish Federation (Chaired Women’s Division), Jewish Community Center and L3, an International Leadership Organization.
Carrie L. Clay
Community Volunteer Retired partner of PricewaterhouseCoopers, where served as an Audit Partner for the Columbus office and Partner Leader of Thought Leadership for the US firm. Served on the YWCA and Girl Scouts boards.
Judith Cockrell
Columbus State Community College Business Operations Coordinator for Columbus State Community College overseeing The First Tee of Columbus, which impacts the lives of young people by providing learning facilities and educational programs.
Kimberly Cocroft
Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Appointed Judge by Governor Ted Strickland in 2009. Presides over felony criminal and civil matters where the amount in controversy exceeds $15,000. Active member of the community and lifelong member of Triedstone Missionary Baptist Church, having served on its Trustee Board and Education Ministry and participating in many of its choirs.
Cynthia L. Coleman
Franklin County Coroner’s Office A graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University and a long time resident of Ohio. Currently the Director at the Coroner’s Office, enjoying the chance to work with the Coroner, the staff and the families we serve. I also have many years in healthcare at The Ohio State University Medical Center.
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Theresa Lynn P. Collins
M/I Homes Foundation Area President of M/I Homes. University of South Florida: MBA and MS in Management, Leadership & Organizational Effectiveness, USF Executive MBA Council. Trustee of YWCA Columbus and Franciscan University of Steubenville. Life Director of TBBA, Member of NAHB and BIA.
Darci L. Congrove
GBQ Partners, LLC Managing Director of GBQ Partners, a large accounting firm. Miami University graduate. Boards: The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio, German Village Society. Own and operate the German Village Guest House, an upscale B&B, with my husband, John Pribble.
Almeta E. Cooper
The Ohio State University Medical Center Associate Vice President for Health Sciences and Associate General Counsel, The Ohio State University Medical Center. Graduate of Northwestern University Law School and Wells College. 2009 YWCA Woman of Achievement. Volunteer at numerous professional and civic organizations. Daughter: Elise.
Carla D. Crewey
The Ohio State University Director of Development at Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital & Richard J. Solove Research Institute.
Eileen Crosbie
Cardinal Health, Inc. Growing up, I loved to organize my room, plan play times and tutor my friends. Now, professionally, I am able to do all three of those things for 120 project managers. Being a change agent and helping others to achieve is most fulfilling. I have my MA and PMP.
Tiffany Crosby
Ernst and Young, LLP Executive Director and CPA (OH and PA). Inclusiveness champion. Board member of Choices and the Community Shelter Board, and previous board member of WELD. 2009 graduate of Leadership Columbus. 2009 Columbus Business First’s Forty Under 40 honoree. Camp counselor, KIPP mentor, and 100(+) Women Who Care member.
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Ashley Curl
Hinson Ltd Public Relations Account Coordinator for a public relations firm, assist with event coordination and media relations. Boards/Associations: Children’s Body-Image Foundation, Kinder Key of NCH, BalletMet, YWCA Columbus, and the Greater Columbus Events Council.
Erin Daly
Centric Consulting A graduate of Ohio University and Columbus native. Active in the community. Enjoy working as a business process and change mangagement consultant, translating requirements to propose strategic solutions.
Jeanetta Darno
Nationwide AVP of Diversity and Inclusion at Nationwide. Leadership experience spans diversity, human resources, and logistics with companies. Received MBA from The Ohio State University, and MA from Texas A&M. Live in Lewis Center with my husband, Todd.
Julie A. Davis
Retail Ventures, Inc. EVP & General Counsel since 2003, formerly partner at the Vorys law firm. President of the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation since 2008. Boards served: ACLU state and national, CATCO, PPCO, and NARAL.
Marie E. Davis
Tween Brands, Inc. VP Technical Design & Quality Operations for Tween Brands, a specialty retailer. Responsible for driving all global strategies and processes relating to fabric, color, fit, garment and trim, construction and quality standards for the brand.
Lynnda Davis Community Volunteer Active community supporter and passionate about mental health issues. Karen Dawson
LeaderSpark, Inc. Founder and Executive Director of LeaderSpark, Inc. Received PhD from Washington University, St. Louis. Twenty-five years experience as a consultant under R/K Dawson & Associates. United Way volunteer and contract consultant for over twenty years.
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Sue Doody
Lindey’s President, Lindey’s Restaurant. BA from Ohio Wesleyan University. Volunteer with the Columbus Museum, Buckeye Ranch, and Action for Children. Chair of the Central Ohio Workforce Youth Council, and Secretary of the Franklin University Board of Trustees.
Amber Driver
Rhein & Barton, LLC Wife and mother of a three-year-old son. A CPA with public and private experience, I now consult and teach CPA and CFA review courses. A founder of Rhein & Barton. I enjoy working with large and small companies, as well as students.
Carrie G. Dupler
Dupler Office After spending ten years in commercial real estate, changed careers to help grow the company that was started by my family. Graduate of Ohio University and have been active in various philanthropic groups in Columbus over the past fifteen years.
Cynthia L. Ebner
Ebner Law Offices, Ltd. Lifelong resident of Columbus. Graduated from The Ohio State University and Capital Law School. A practicing Criminal Defense and Landlord/Tenant Attorney, I also have my Real Estate Broker’s and Insurance licenses. Active in several philanthropic groups. Avid traveler.
Eve M. Ellinger
Schottenstein Zox & Dunn Co., LPA Labor and Employment attorney at SZD. Serve the community through Junior League of Columbus. Board member for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Franklin County. Graduate of Capital University Law School and The Ohio State University.
Geraldine Ellman Community Volunteer Former President of Jewish Family Services. Past United Way of Central Ohio board member. Volunteers/supports: YWCA, Jewish Community Center of Greater Columbus, National Council of Jewish Women, The Women’s Fund, Bexley Education Foundation and Columbus Academy. Board: Wexner Heritage Village. Jody Emig
Keller Williams, Byrd Home Twenty-six years as an award-winning interior designer, four years as Realtor and ASP Stager.
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Mary Ellen Fairfield
Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease, LLP Trial Attorney and Partner at Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease, LLP. Graduated from The Ohio State University Mortiz College of Law and Purdue University. Board member of the YWCA Endowment Trust, and former President of the YWCA Endowment Trust and the Columbus YWCA. YWCA Woman of Achievement.
Barbara K. Fergus
Midwestern Auto Group of Dublin Graduate of The Ohio State University, businesswoman, philanthropist and community advocate. Boards: The Ohio State University, Women’s Fund of Central Ohio, and the International Women’s Forum. The Barbara K. Fergus Women in Leadership Lecture Series was established, as a gift from friends, in 2005.
Shirley Fradette
Bruner Corporation Corporate Executive Assistant of Bruner Corporation, reporting directly to the CEO & CFO. Have held the leadership position in all of Bruner’s community involvement campaigns, including workplace campaigns and United Way Leading Edge committee.
Ann Gallagher
Gallagher Consulting Group President of Gallagher Consulting Group; work with executives and organizations to achieve career and profit goals. The firm offers consulting services in strategy, research, professional development and public relations.
Kelli J. Gargasz
Fifth Third Private Bank Came to Fifth Third in 1993 as a Teller; currently manage the Private Bank. Chair Fifth Third’s Diversity Council and also volunteer in the community. Live in Powell with my husband, Tim, and our three children: Joe and Ben (7, twins) and Anna (2).
DeeDee R. Glimcher Community Volunteer Active in the arts community. Immediate Past Chair of the Greater Columbus Arts Council Board of Trustees. Supports the Wexner Center for the Arts, COSI and the Columbus Museum of Art. Past board member of United Way of Central Ohio.
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Monica Gordon
The Kroger Company Produce Merchandiser, The Kroger Company, Columbus Division. University of Rhode Island graduate with over fifteen years retail experience. Responsible for the Produce, Floral and Natural Foods sales and profits for 126 stores throughout Ohio and West Virginia.
Kate E. Graham
Franklin County Municipal Court Columbus resident of thirty-nine years, The Ohio State University and Capital graduate, married with two grown daughters, magistrate for the Franklin County Municipal Court, new downtown resident, proud member of Sweet Adelines International, another powerful group of women—who sing.
Debra Hamernick
Sysco Central Ohio President of Sysco Central Ohio, a Sysco foodservice distributor located in Columbus, Ohio. Previously Executive Vice President of Sysco’s Minnesota operating company.
Brenda Hampel
Connect the Dots Consulting Management Consultant with a background in human resources and organizational development.
Angel Harris
United Way of Central Ohio Leads the corporate development efforts of United Way of Central Ohio. Native central Ohio resident. Married with a blended family of six children, ages 1 to 17.
Patricia R. Hatler
Nationwide EVP and CLO at Nationwide Insurance Company. Former Director, United Way Central Ohio. Director, United Way Worldwide and Columbus College of Art and Design. Bexley resident, attended Duke University undergraduate and University of Virginia School of Law.
Cindy Hilsheimer
SC Search Consultants, LLC Principal of executive search firm founded in 1999. The Ohio State University alumna. Boards: Columbus Metropolitain Library, James Cancer Hospital, New Albany Foundation, Pelotonia, A Kid Again, Governors Workforce Policy Board, NJFF, OSU Women & Philanthropy and more!
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Cynthia Hunt
CLH and Associates, LLC Principal for CLH and Associates, LLC. Formerly a SVP/General Manager for a $1B consulting firm. Boards: Co-Chairman of the Board of the Columbus Early Learning Centers, Columbus Landmarks Foundation and an Elder at the Broad Street Presbyterian Church.
Golden Jackson
The Ohio State University Associate Professor in the College of Education and Human Ecology. Executive Director of the Schoenbaum Family Center at Weinland Park. Director of the Service-Learning Initiative at The Ohio State University from 2001 – 2010.
Janet E. Jackson
United Way of Central Ohio President and CEO of United Way of Central Ohio. Previously served as Columbus City Attorney for six years, and as a judge on the Franklin County Municipal Court for 10 years. Current Chair of the Ohio Judicial Appointment Review Panel, and Vice Chair of the Central Ohio Workforce Investment Board.
Alexis A. Jacobs
Columbus Fair Auto Auction, Inc. Chairman of Columbus Fair Auto Auction. Recipient of the Columbus Automobile Dealer Association’s 1996 Automotive Achievement Award and inducted to the National Independent Automobile Dealers Associations’ “Ring of Honor.” Passionate about giving back to the community and involved in a number of civic and charitable organizations.
Kim Jacobs
City of Columbus, Division of Police Raised in Ashland, Ohio, graduate of The Ohio State University. In 1979, became one of the early women to break into the male-dominated world of law enforcement. Most recently promoted to Deputy Chief in 2009. My family is my life and my work is my passion. Making a difference is my goal.
Dominique Jones
United Way of Central Ohio VP for Community Impact at United Way of Central Ohio. Originally from Dayton, OH. Spent fourteen years in New York City working in the government and not-for-profit sectors, most recently as Assistant Commissioner for the NYC Administration for Children’s Services.
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Karen Jones
Community Volunteer Raised in Columbus and graduated from CSG. Attended college in Boston and graduate school in Chicago for a master’s in Dance/Movement Therapy. Practiced as a therapist and case manager for many years. Married with a 4-year-old daughter.
Linda S. Kass
Community Volunteer Former journalist and communications executive. Played a leadership role in a number of civic and community organizations over the past two decades in Ohio, most focused on education, from early learning to higher education.
Stacy Katz
The Limited Stores Traffic Manager at The Limited Stores since 2007. BA in Marketing from The Ohio State University. I live in New Albany with my husband, Steven.
Nancy King
Senior Independence President of Senior Independence, a statewide non-profit organization providing care to seniors at home. Doctor of Management from Case Western Reserve. My husband Dave and I have two children and live in Powell.
Abigail W. Kofete
Limited Brands, Inc. Raised in Columbus; graduate of Columbus Public Schools. Bachelor’s degree from Capital University. Proud INROADS alumna. Work experience in banking, non-profit and retail sectors. I firmly believe in the importance of community involvement to bring change.
Erika Lamont
Connect the Dots Consulting Principal for management consulting firm specializing in leadership coaching, onboarding and team dynamics. Corporate roles at Bath & Body Works and OhioHealth. Graduate of Miami University. Live in Hilliard with husband, Mike, and two daughters.
Elizabeth Lessner
Betty’s Family of Restaurants Local restauranteur and owner/operator of Betty’s Fine Food & Spirits, Surly Girl Saloon, Tip Top Kitchen & Cocktails and Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace, featuring Ohio comfort food and creative cocktails.
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Eileen A. Mallesch
Bob Evans Farms, Inc. (Board of Directors) Most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Nationwide Insurance Property and Casualty business. Joined the Bob Evans Farms, Inc. board in 2008 and serve as Chairperson for its Audit Committee.
Kathie Mancini
Molina Healthcare of Ohio President of Molina Healthcare, a company that serves the Medicaid population. Active in the community, serve on the Board of Directors for Dress for Success and the St. Vincent Family Centers. Graduated from Ohio University.
Colleen L. Marshall
Porter Wright Attorney at Porter Wright and graduate of Capital University School of Law. Co-anchor of NBC 4 at 5, 6 and 11 p.m. with Cabot Rea. Serve on the boards of the YWCA Capital Campaign, Crittenton Family Services and the Columbus AIDS Task Force. Have two children with my husband, Gary.
Katherine G. Manghillis
Schottenstein Zox & Dunn Co., LPA Litigation attorney at SZD. Board member of the Mentoring Center of Central Ohio, and Secretary for the ABA Committee on the State Regulation of Securities. Graduate of The University of Akron School of Law and The College of Wooster.
Nancy J. Manougian
Bailey Cavalieri, LLC Attorney for twenty-five years. Member of Bailey Cavalieri, LLC. Primary practice areas: litigation, appeals, and insurance coverage. Also serve as Bailey Cavalieri’s United Way campaign chairperson.
LeeAnn Massucci
Massucci & Kline, LLC Founding member of Massucci & Kline, LLC, a boutique family law firm. Former Ohio State Women’s Tennis Coach and Adjunct Faculty Member at Capital Law School. Serve on the Capital Law School Alumni Board. Founding Member of Legacy Fund of the Columbus Foundation.
Peggy Mativi
Solutions Staffing President of Solutions Staffing. Past Chair of the Greater Columbus Arts Council’s Board of Trustees, and current Vice Chair of the Columbus Arts Endowment. pg. 16
Cheryl McCormick
Kroger Community Relations Manager for Kroger Columbus, and have been serving Kroger, our customers and our community for forty years. Married with three children. Enjoy golf, gardening and family time.
Traci McGuire
Kegler, Brown, Hill & Ritter Litigation attorney and chairperson of the Women Lawyers Initiative at Kegler, Brown, Hill & Ritter. The Ohio State University and Miami graduate with a speech communications background. Homeless Families Foundation Committee Member. Hugh O’Brian Youth Foundation advisor.
Donna Miller
KLH Engineers, PSC Managing Principal of KLH Engineers’ Columbus office. Graduated with a BSEE from NCSU and licensed professional engineer. Work in an unconventional industry for women: consulting engineering and construction.
Jennifer C. Miller
Deloitte & Touche LLP Partner at Deloitte & Touche, a Big Four accounting firm. Deloitte Columbus Women’s Initiative Leader. Graduate of The Ohio State University. Interests include skiing, German culture and language, and spending time with husband and two daughters.
Stephanie Minnich
UPS Industrial Engineer for UPS. Graduated from the University of Toledo in 2007.
Stephanie Moreton
The Pizzuti Companies Manager of Business Development at The Pizzuti Companies, a Commercial Real Estate Developer. Extremely active in the community with a focus on cancer-related organizations. Future president of the Columbus Cancer Clinic YPG.
Hazel A. Morrow-Jones
The Ohio State University PhD in Geography. Professor of City and Regional Planning at OSU, but my current role is as Associate Provost for Women’s Policy Initiatives and Director of The Women’s Place at The Ohio State University. My husband, music, gardens, art and travel are favorites.
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Annie Moyer
Fifth Third Bank Relationship Manager at Fifth Third Bank, and graduate of Howard University in Washington D.C. Volunteer weekly with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of America. Live with my husband and daughter in Columbus, and love spending time with my family and traveling.
Kelly E. Mullkoff
PNC Bank Wealth management Trust Advisor at PNC Bank. Miami University graduate, and Capital Law School 2010 expected graduate. Class Captain. Member of the YWCA Gen Y Class of 2009. Volunteer for the National Center for Adoption Law and Policy at Capital Law School.
Kathleen Murphy
MurphyEpson Advertising & Public Relations President and Founder of MurphyEpson Advertising & Public Relations. Have worked in the field of advertising/public relations/journalism for thirty years, establishing my own agency in 1989.
Mary Navarro
The Huntington National Bank Senior Executive Vice President and Retail and Business Banking Director. Board Chair of the American Red Cross of Central Ohio; Board Member of YWCA of Central Ohio and Recreation Unlimited. Incoming Board Chair of the Consumer Bankers’ Association. 2006 YWCA Woman of Achievement and one of US Banker magazine’s 25 Women to Watch. Have two sons and live in Columbus with my husband.
Gina Nichols
Mid Ohio Medical Management, LLC Family Practitioner at Mid Ohio Medical Management, LLC. Graduated from Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine in 2002. Member of Key Club and Young Leadership Giving at United Way of Central Ohio.
Michele L. Noble
Thompson Hine LLP Mother of two school-aged children, sister of two, partner in law firm, and advocate for children and families.
Shimiah Packer
Anheuser-Busch, InBev Engineer at Anheuser-Busch, InBev. Graduate from Rochester Institute of Technology. Served on the Executive Board of The National Society of Black Engineers Central Ohio Alumni Extension as the Treasurer, and currently serve as the Community Service Chair. pg. 18
Adrienne Paler
Avizent Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Avizent. Previously Regional Manager of Disability and ADA Compliance at Providence Health & Services. Serve on the Employer Advisory Board for the National Disability Management Employers Coalition.
Leah Pappas
Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP Partner at Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP and Chair of the Government Relations and Legislation group. Honored as one of the “Most Effective Law Firm Lobbyists” by Opinion Strategies, Inc., and one of Ohio Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars (2005). Boards: Capital Club, COSI, NAWBO, Capital Square Foundation.
Kimberly Paul
Nationwide Children’s Hospital Director of Operations at the Center for Child and Family Advocacy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. A Columbus native, and a graduate of Ohio University, with both an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences and a master’s degree in Health Administration.
Cinnamon Pelly
JPMorgan Chase & Co. Passionate Community Relations Officer for Ohio & West Virginia. Partner with residents and organizations to strengthen families and build stronger communities. Serve(d) on boards related to education and community development. Enjoy public service.
Cheryl Pentella
Marketing Communications Consultant Marketing communications consultant providing strategy, brand and creative solutions for more than 20 years; co-president of the National Council of Jewish Women, Columbus Section; board member of Freedom of Choice Ohio and the Ohio Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice; graduate of The Ohio State University; resident of Victorian Village; proud parent of extraordinary children, Alex and Jake
Tina D. Pierce
Denison University Visiting Assistant Professor in Political Science, Women’s Studies, and at the Center for Black Studies. Lifelong Columbus resident and active in the community. Former Board Member of the Ohio Health Care Federal Credit Union (2006 – 2010) and current board member of Kids Voting Central Ohio. Married to Captain Andrew Pierce and have four children: Andrew, Malcom, Catherine, and Michelle.
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Ann Pizzuti
Community Volunteer Immediate past Board Chair of United Way of Central Ohio. Humanitarian focus centers on education and the care of young children. Over the past twenty-five years, served as a Member and Chair of the Marburn Academy Board, Member and Chair of the Board of Columbus School for Girls.
Kathleen Ransier
Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease, LLP Partner in the Vorys Columbus office where I practice in the corporate group. Received a JD from The Ohio State University Michael E. Mortiz College of Law, and a BA from Western College for Women.
Renata Ramsini
Ohio Governor Ted Stickland Interim Director of Governor Ted Strickland’s Office for Women’s Initiatives and Outreach, which promotes public policy that advances the status of women and girls in the areas of economic development, education and healthcare.
Teri G. Rasmussen
Plunkett Cooney Business/corporate, finance, commercial law, and creditors’ rights attorney. Author/owner of Ohio Practical Business Law blog. Adjunct Professor of Business Law at Capital University School of Management. Active in bar association activities.
Susan D. Rector
Schottenstein Zox & Dunn, Co., LPA Partner at SZD. Help smart, creative people protect their intellectual property and create value. Also direct the firm’s marketing efforts. Through current board service, champion the causes of the Columbus Metropolitan Zoo, Children’s Hunger Alliance and WELD.
Shirley Rogers Reece
McDonald’s Corporation Vice President and General Manager, Ohio Region at McDonald’s Corporation. Served on the boards of the YWCA, Columbus Academy, First Tee, and Ronald McDonald’s Children’s Charities. 2008 WELD Honoree.
Lisa Roach
Community Volunteer Devoted to community service. Supporter of the Franklin Park Conservatory. Earned J.D. from Baylor University. Reside in Bexley with my husband, Steve.
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Greta J. Russell
The Ohio State University CPA, Certified Government Financial Manager, and Controller for The Ohio State University. Bachelor’s in Accounting from Ohio Dominican and Masters of Taxation from Capital University Law Center. Currently serve the Community Shelter Board, Columbus-Franklin County Finance Authority, and Transportation Research Center Board, among others.
Erika J. Schoenberger
Frost Brown Todd, LLC Attorney at Frost Brown Todd, a 475-attorney law firm. Focus on product liability and commercial litigation. Education: College of Wooster and The Ohio State University. MS Society, DRI Women in the Law, Frost Brown’s Women’s Initiative.
Patti Schultz
Merrill Lynch Partner in the Barcza Group at Merrill Lynch/Polaris, a full service financial advisory team. Enjoy sports, gardening, cooking and spending time with my family.
Cynthia Sheets
Mount Carmel Health System Senior Vice President of Ambulatory Services and Chief Information Officer. Two-time Top C.A.T. nominee as an Outstanding Woman in Technology, and past General Chair of the annual CIOhio Symposium. MBA from University of Dayton and BS in Medical Technology from The Ohio State University. Married with an adored son, Sam.
TaKeysha Sheppard-Cheney
The Women’s Book Founder, CEO and Publisher of The Women’s Book, a print and online directory to local women leaders and resources headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. Active in a number of community organizations and boards including the YWCA of Columbus and the Columbus Museum of Art.
Mary Ann Short
Franklin University Program Chair for Management and Organizational Leadership at Franklin University. An accomplished facilitator, communicator and coach, my passion and work has been a journey of helping adults successfully navigate a business world filled with relentless change.
pg. 21
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Lori Siegworth
State Auto Mutual Insurance Company Chief Strategy and Organization Effectiveness officer at State Auto. Directs human resources management, corporate communication, associate training, organizational development, and benefits/compensation areas. Boards served: Franklin Park Conservatory and the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers Association National InVest Board.
Cynthia Sovell-Klein
Industrial Commission of Ohio Serve as Policy Staff at the Industrial Commission of Ohio. Live in Galena with my husband, Craig.
Kathy K. Starkoff
The Ohio State University Chief Information Officer for The Ohio State University. Former Group Vice President and Chief Technology Officer for Limited Brands. Active supporter of United Way of Central Ohio. Chair of the Development Committee for the Columbus Academy. I live in the Columbus area with my husband, son, and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.
Evelyn Sullen Smith
Mettler-Toledo, Inc. General Counsel - Americas (Marketing Organization); BA and JD from Michigan State University; proud wife of Jason and mother of two beautiful daughters, Mikaili and Tori.
Michelle Smith
Cardinal Health, Inc. Supplier Management professional and certified Project Manager with Cardinal Health. Lead women’s programs for women’s ministry at my church. Serve as founding member of the B2B subgroup that is part of Cardinal Health’s Women’s Network (WIN).
Elizabeth Stanton
Chester, Willcox & Saxbe, LLP Chair of the Labor and Employment Law group at Chester, Willcox & Saxbe, LLP. OSBA Board Certified in Labor and Employment Law. Practice is focused on employment and higher education law. Live in Upper Arlington and am married with two grown sons.
Miranda Stephani
Limited Brands, Inc. In-house counsel at Limited Brands. Wellesley College and The Ohio State University law graduate. Member of the inaugural class of the YWCA Gen-Y Leadership Project (20082010). Serve on the board of Amethyst, Inc. pg. 22
Deanna Stewart
United Way of Central Ohio Executive with more than twenty-five years of experience in fundraising, marketing, sales and P&L management. Currently the Senior Vice President of Resource Development at United Way of Central Ohio. Previously the Assistant Vice President of Corporate Relations at The Ohio State University. Spent many years with AT&T on the East Coast as Sales Vice President, Marketing Director and Business Unit leader.
Sheri S. Tackett
Delta Energy LLC President and founder of Delta Energy, which specializes in energy consulting and natural gas supplying. Began career at Ashland Inc. eventually buying it in 2003 to create Delta Energy. Wife, mother, and collector of arts, antiques, jewelry, and anything unique.
April Griffith Taylor
Nationwide A native of Cincinnati, Ohio. Human Resources Consultant for Nationwide Insurance. President of the Nationwide All-Women’s Associate Resource Group. MBA from Ashland University. Board member of the Newsreel Magazine for the Blind.
Anne Marie Thomas
Community Volunteer Consumer Driven Marketer. Doctorate from The Ohio State University. Translate disparate data points into marketing strategies. My husband and three children are why I get up with a passion everyday!
Katrina M. Thompson
Squire, Sanders & Dempsey, LLP Associate in the Real Estate department at Squire, Sanders & Dempsey, LLP. A large focus of our practice is in the area of community development and affordable housing. Live outside of Marysville with my husband and our “kids” (dog and cat).
Sophia Tolliver
The Diversity Enhancement Program at The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute Joined the DEP team as Program Manager in August 2007. Committed to making a difference for minority and underserved communities in central Ohio when it comes to decreasing health disparities and increasing healthy behaviors.
pg. 23
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Christine Travis
Nationwide Securities, LLC Investment Advisory Representative and Insurance Broker with Nationwide Securities, LLC. Founder of TASTE fundraiser and current board member of Dress for Success Columbus. Past member and Social Chair of Capital Club Young Executive Board.
Kelly L. Trent
Raymond Memorial Golf Course Head Golf Professional and Program Manager for Raymond Memorial Golf Course and Wilson Road Golf Course. Coordinator for the Play Golf America University (PGAU) program for The Ohio State University.
Lori Oberlander Trent
The Ohio State University MS in Education; presently a Lecturer and Program Assistant at The Ohio State University. With nearly thirty years of experience in education, business, marketing, real estate and sales, I have gathered a wealth of professional experiences.
Teri T. Tsamous
United Way of Central Ohio BA from San Francisco State University; RHIA from The Ohio State University. Previously employed at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the Center for Child and Family Advocacy. Have served as the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources and Resource Development Operations at United Way of Central Ohio since 2007.
Pamela H. Van Hoose
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Have been in the investment advisory business for twenty-three years. As a Certified Financial Planner and Financial Advisor, I help people organize their financial lives.
Dr. Julie Van Putten
Columbus Neighborhood Health Centers, Inc. Medical Director for CNHC and advocate for community health care. Graduate of The Ohio State University College of Medicine – Medical Scientist Program (MD/PhD). Also holds graduate degrees in public health (MPH) and family counseling (MS) from Loma Linda University. Board certified physician in family medicine, serving on advisory boards of several national and community-based organizations.
Petrel L. Wallace
The Ohio State University Medical Center OSU Alumna. Over nine years of experience in real estate and commercial property management. Currently serving OSU Medical Center in Real Estate Management. Active member of Dress for Success and Bexley Women’s Club. Loving wife, mom and auntie of twenty-one! pg. 24
Joyce A. Waters
BNY Mellon Wealth Management Vice President and Sales Director for BNY Mellon Wealth Management’s Columbus office. Responsible for new business development in working with individuals, families, endowments and foundations. Enjoy golf, biking, and being a fitness instructor with Lifestyle Family Fitness.
Sandy L. West
Lighthouse Consulting, LLC After more than twenty-five years as a Human Resources professional, founded Lighthouse Consulting, LLC. The firm is dedicated to partnering with clients to solve problems and create business opportunities by strengthening and leveraging their greatest assets: their people.
Diana M. Westhoff
JPMorgan Chase Human resources professional in the area of Leadership Development and Training. Facilitate learning in organizational and personal communication and dialogue to cause success in every conversation, build stronger relationships, and improve life’s performance.
Dana K. Williams
GBQ Consulting Miami University graduate and a CPA. Work consists primarily of forensic accounting, fraud examination, and litigation support services. Currently reside in Hilliard with my husband and our pets.
Mindy Wright
The Ohio State University Assistant Provost in the Office of Academic Affairs/Undergraduate Education at The Ohio State University, charged with developing strategic relationships with external stakeholders for mutually beneficial academic programs.
pg. 25
| founding members
Thank you for committing your time, voice, and money
to help women in central Ohio
achieve financial stability. Visit our website
liveunitedcentralohio.org/wlc.
Become a WLC fan on Facebook
facebook.com/UWCO-womens-leadership-council.
pg. 26
360 South Third Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215-5485 Tel 614.227.2700 Fax 614.224.5835 TTY 614.227.2710