d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2016
VOLUME lV
4th EDITION
2016 Name Title of Company Positiion
Name Title of Company Positiion
Name Title of Company Positiion
Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Directory
The 2016 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston
Roxann Thomas Chargois
Yolanda Adams
Suzan Deison
Zina Garrison
Grammy Award-Winning Gospel Artist
CEO/President/Founder, Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce
CEO, Zina Garrison Foundation & Former 4th-Ranked Tennis Player in the World
Farida Abjani Co-Founder/CEO, Shining Nightingale, Inc.
Wanda Adams Board of Education First VicePresident & District IX Trustee, Houston Independent School District (HISD)
Sehba Ali Chief Executive Officer and Superintendent, KIPP Houston Public Schools
Marianna Brasel General Manager, Porsche of West Houston
Debbie Drury President, Market Doctors
Carlotta Outley Brown, M.Ed. Victoria Ai Linh Bryant, PharmD Principal, Lora B. Peck Elementary President, World Chamber of School – Houston Independent Commerce Texas & Founder, Ambassadors Caregivers School District
Nathelyne A. Kennedy, P.E.
Director, The Western Area of The Links, Incorporated Sheila Jackson Lee Community Achievement Award
Dr. Laura Murillo
Sallie Sargent
Jackye Alton President, Almeda Travel
Erin Asprec Regional President, Memorial Hermann Health System
Dr. Kimberly Beatty Vice Chancellor of Instructional Services, Chief Academic Officer, Houston Community College
Frances Castaneda-Dyess President, Houston East End Chamber of Commerce
Denise Castillo-Rhodes Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Texas Medical Center
Marina Coryat Senior Manager, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Southeast Texas Region
Katya Dow Legal Program Director, Juvenile and Capital Advocacy Project & Adjunct Law Professor, University of Houston Law Center
Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz Board Secretary & District IV Trustee, Houston Community College
Sameera Faridi Director & Designer, Poshak Fashion & Style
Loren Lane First Lady, Texas Southern University & Key Account Manager, EMD Serono
Nancy J. Li President, Easton Resource Development, Inc.
President, Nathelyne A. Kennedy & Associates
President & Chief Executive Officer, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Amanda K. Edwards Attorney & Houston City Council Member At-Large Position 4
President & CEO, Houston Super Bowl Host Committee
Mary Benton Director of Communications and Strategic Projects, Harris County Precinct One
2016 Victoria A. Guster-Hines Vice President, Operations and Franchising McDonald’s Houston Region
Ana Hernandez State Representative, District 143
Rania Mankarious, MA, JD Executive Director, Crime Stoppers Houston
Dr. Saundra Montgomery Life Coach/Author/Leadership Consultant & First Lady, Abundant Life Cathedral Church
Gigi Myung President & CEO, GLM Energy, Inc.
Toni Pierre Business Change Manager-NAIP, Amerigroup Community Care
Sonia Rivera National President, National Hispanic Professional Organization & Owner/Consultant, Genesis Consulting, Inc.
Ingrid M. Robinson President, Houston Minority Supplier Development Council
Kim Roxie Creative Director, LAMIK Beauty
Graciela Saenz Attorney at Law, Saenz Burkhardt P.L.L.C.
Sonya Stevenson Executive Director, The Fort Bend Church
Tene Thomas, CPA Partner - Tax Practice, McConnell & Jones LLP
Joi-Lin Venison, Esq. CEO/Co-Founder, Super Weave Xpress
Teana V. Watson Principal Attorney, T.V. Watson Law, PLLC
Spring Williams-Cox Director of Operations Southeast Texas, UPS
Kimberly J. Williams, JD Deputy Chief Procurement Officer, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County
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Message From the President & CEO MR. D-MARS
“Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another steppingstone to greatness. I always knew I was destined for greatness. I don’t think of myself as a poor deprived ghetto girl who made good. I think of myself as somebody who from an early age knew I was responsible for myself, and I had to make good.” -Oprah Winfrey
The d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston honorees never cease to amaze me. With Houston being one of the largest and most diverse cities in the nation, I’m proud of this annual extravaganza celebrating women from diverse backgrounds. Women today have more opportunities than they ever did before. Though these women may have had obstacles, I am inspired and proud of the hurdles that they have overcome to achieve phenomenal professional successes. While I am proud of their professional achievements, I’m most proud of their genuine spirit and diligence in paying it forward to their communities and being a stellar example for others to follow. This group of esteemed honorees have impressive resumes and achievements that will inspire and motivate you to dream bigger and achieve greater. We at d-mars.com count it a privilege to highlight and celebrate amazing women in the areas of medicine, finance, business, and countless other areas. These women are not only truly influential in their own right, but they are also shining stars and exemplary examples of women empowerment. We at d-mars.com choose to honor them with this commemorative d-mars. com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston directory. I am proud to live among some of the most elite female leaders who are inspiring individuals by living as bright lights and opening doors for the next generation of great women leaders. It is an honor that d-mars.com can shine the spotlight on some of the most influential women in Houston. The d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston honorees are also true examples of leadership. Their leadership is not only evident by their accolades and reputations in their respective fields, but by the marks they leave in the communities in which they serve and live. To all of the honorees, the d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston event continues to provide this highly-anticipated and necessary platform for positive female influencers like yourself to receive the recognition you deserve. You are proof that no matter your background or where you start, that success is possible. The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston is a proud d-mars.com tradition that celebrates you, putting you on a platform where you can be recognized. Keep up the great work! Sincerely, MR. D-MARS President & CEO d-mars.com
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Message from Vice President, Ms. Kimberly Floyd
“One of the lessons that I grew up with was to always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract you from your goals.” -First Lady Michelle Obama
I am most proud of this d-mars.com tradition, celebrating amazing women at the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Awards. These women are not only influential, but dynamic, as they have overcome many obstacles to become role models and real-life examples of success in action. The honorees are truly a sisterhood of women who not only have the spirit of success and true leadership, but they also share the spirit of community. They have created their own way in their various professions and have made a mark that the next generation can look up to. They have stayed true to themselves and fought to achieve their goals. Though they have exceeded expectations, the honorees are never complacent and refuse to rest on their laurels - always reaching farther. I am honored to recognize this phenomenal group of women, knowing that major, powerful female leadership is right here in one of the largest and most diverse cities in the country. These women make me proud to live in Houston, and they should make you proud, too. Top 30 Influential Women of Houston – I salute you. Sincerely, Ms. Kimberly Floyd Vice President d-mars.com
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Honorary Co-Chairs
Rhonda Arnold Top 30 Influential Woman 2013
Laurie Vignaud Top 30 Influential Woman 2014
Connie Kwan-Wong Top 30 Influential Woman 2015
Mistress of Ceremony Shern-Min Chow Please follow me on @KHOUShernminChow @ShernminKHOU. Shern-Min Chow Anchor & Reporter KHOU TV / Gannett Broadcasting
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TABLE OF CONTENTS SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Roxann Thomas Chargois, Director, The Western Area of The Links, Incorporated.............................................................................................................................. 28
ICON HONOREES: Yolanda Adams..................................... Grammy Award-Winning Gospel Artist.............................................................................................................................. 30 Suzan Deison........................................ CEO/President/Founder, Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce........................................................................ 32 Zina Garrison........................................ CEO, Zina Garrison Foundation & Former 4th-Ranked Tennis Player in the World................................................................ 34 Nathelyne A. Kennedy, P.E. .................... President, Nathelyne A. Kennedy & Associates................................................................................................................... 36 Dr. Laura Murillo.................................... President & Chief Executive Officer, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.................................................................... 38 Sallie Sargent........................................ President & CEO, Houston Super Bowl Host Committee..................................................................................................... 40
HONOREES: Farida Abjani......................................... Co-Founder/CEO, Shining Nightingale, Inc......................................................................................................................... 44 Wanda Adams....................................... Board of Education First Vice-President & District IX Trustee, Houston Independent School District (HISD) ........................... 46 Sehba Ali.............................................. Chief Executive Officer and Superintendent, KIPP Houston Public Schools.......................................................................... 47 Jackye Alton.......................................... President, Almeda Travel................................................................................................................................................... 48 Erin Asprec............................................ Regional President, Memorial Hermann Health System ..................................................................................................... 50 Dr. Kimberly Beatty................................ Vice Chancellor of Instructional Services, Chief Academic Officer, Houston Community College........................................... 52 Mary Benton......................................... Director of Communications and Strategic Projects, Harris County Precinct One ................................................................. 54 Marianna Brasel.................................... General Manager, Porsche of West Houston ..................................................................................................................... 56 Carlotta Outley Brown, M.Ed................. Principal, Lora B. Peck Elementary School – Houston Independent School District............................................................... 58 Victoria Ai Linh Bryant, PharmD............. President, World Chamber of Commerce Texas & Founder, Ambassadors Caregivers........................................................... 60 Frances Castaneda-Dyess...................... President, Houston East End Chamber of Commerce......................................................................................................... 62 Denise Castillo-Rhodes.......................... Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Texas Medical Center............................................................................. 64 Marina Coryat....................................... Senior Manager, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas - Southeast Texas Region.................................................................. 66 Katya Dow............................................ Legal Program Director, Juvenile and Capital Advocacy Project & Adjunct Law Professor, University of Houston Law Center.68 Debbie Drury......................................... President, Market Doctors ................................................................................................................................................ 69 Amanda K. Edwards.............................. Attorney & Houston City Council Member At-Large Position 4 .......................................................................................... 70 Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz..................... Board Secretary & District IV Trustee, Houston Community College .................................................................................... 72 Sameera Faridi...................................... Director & Designer, Poshak Fashion & Style ..................................................................................................................... 74 Victoria A. Guster-Hines......................... McDonald’s Vice President, Operations and Franchising - Houston Region ......................................................................... 78 Ana Hernandez..................................... State Representative, District 143 ..................................................................................................................................... 80 Loren Lane............................................ First Lady, Texas Southern University & Key Account Manager, EMD Serono........................................................................ 82 Nancy J. Li............................................. President, Easton Resource Development, Inc. .................................................................................................................. 84 Rania Mankarious, MA, JD..................... Executive Director, Crime Stoppers Houston....................................................................................................................... 88 Dr. Saundra Montgomery....................... Life Coach/Author/Leadership Consultant & First Lady, Abundant Life Cathedral Church..................................................... 89 Gigi Myung........................................... President & CEO, GLM Energy, Inc. ................................................................................................................................... 90 Toni Pierre............................................. Business Change Manager-NAIP, Amerigroup Community Care ......................................................................................... 92 Sonia Rivera.......................................... National President, National Hispanic Professional Organization & Owner/Consultant, Genesis Consulting, Inc. ................. 94 Ingrid M. Robinson................................ President, Houston Minority Supplier Development Council .............................................................................................. 96 Kim Roxie............................................. Creative Director, LAMIK Beauty ....................................................................................................................................... 98 Graciela Saenz...................................... Founder & Attorney at Law, Saenz Burkhardt P.L.L.C. ........................................................................................................ 99 Sonya Stevenson................................... Executive Director, The Fort Bend Church......................................................................................................................... 100 Tene Thomas, CPA................................. Partner -Tax Practice, McConnell & Jones LLP.................................................................................................................. 102 Joi-Lin Venison, Esq............................... CEO/Co-Founder, Super Weave Xpress ............................................................................................................................ 103 Teana V. Watson.................................... Principal Attorney, T.V. Watson Law, PLLC. ....................................................................................................................... 104 Spring Williams-Cox.............................. Director of Operations Southeast Texas, UPS ................................................................................................................... 106 Kimberly J. Williams, JD.......................... Deputy Chief Procurement Officer, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County........................................................... 108 4
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CITY OF HOUSTON
Sylvester Turner Mayor P.O. Box 1562 Houston, Texas 77251-1562 Telephone – Dial 311 www.houstontx.gov
August 26, 26,2016 2016 August Greetings, Greetings, As Mayor of the City of Houston, I welcome all attending the Top 30 Influential of the City of Houston, I welcome all attending the Top 30 Influential Mayorof As Women Houston Awards Gala, hosted by d-mars.com. Women of Houston Awards Gala, hosted by d-mars.com. The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Awards recognizes women who The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Awards recognizes women who have have in their respective left an indelible on face of on themark mark indelible left anand fields andfields in their respective barriersbarriers brokenbroken the face of Houston. The business owners or senior executives public, in the executives or senior owners business are arehonorees honorees The Houston. in the and public, private and nonprofit who share a commitment growth, to to business a commitment who sharesections sections nonprofit private future business growth, professional are shaping economic shaping the and are community community and the and the excellence excellence professional represent firms. These independent corporations and small of large the economic future of large or and small corporations or women independent firms. enterprises of variety in athe in leadership the finest These women represent finest in leadership in a variety of enterprises. dthed-mars.com and Awards commend the II commend theTop Top 30 30 Influential InfluentialWomen WomenofofHouston Houston Awards and special occasion on this mars.com on this special occasion. Please accept my best wishes for a successful gala. Please accept my best wishes for a successful gala. Sincerely,
Sylvester Turner Mayor
Council Members: Brenda Stardig Jerry Davis Ellen R. Cohen Dwight A. Boykins Dave Martin Steve Le Greg Travis Karla Cisneros Robert Gallegos Mike Laster Larry V. Green Mike Knox David W. Robinson Michael Kubosh Amanda Edwards Jack Christie Controller:
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Chris Brown
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DearFriends: Friends: Dear Onbehalf behalfofofthe theconstituents constituents of the Eighteenth (18th) Congressional District and the United On of the Eighteenth (18th) Congressional District and the United States States House of Representatives, please allow me to convey my warmest greetings you on House of Representatives, please allow me to convey my warmest greetings to you on to this most this most occasion. important occasion. important Inthe thespirit spiritofofpeace peaceand andprosperity, prosperity, I take great pride in joining d-mars.com in honoring the In I take great pride in joining d-mars.com in honoring the Top TopInfluential 30 Influential Women of Houston theircommitment commitmentand anddedication dedicationtoto their their community, 30 Women of Houston forfor their community, professional excellence and business growth. professional excellence and business growth. The 2016 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston have broken barriers in their respective fields The 2016 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston have broken barriers in their respective fields and and left an indelible mark on the face of Houston. The honorees continually give of their time left an indelible mark on the face of Houston. The honorees continually give of their time and and talent for the betterment of our city. Let me congratulate all of this year’s honorees. talent for the betterment of our city. Let me congratulate all of this year’s honorees. Thank you your thoughtful and praisworthy youd-mars.com d-mars.comforfor your thoughtful and praiseworthy efforts. occasion. efforts. II extend extendbest bestwishes wishesfor forthis thisextraordinary extraordinary occasion. Sincerely,
Sheila Jackson Lee Member of Congress
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HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES P.O. BOX 2910 AUSTIN, TEXAS 78768-2910 (512) 463-0620 (512) FAX P.O. B463-0894 OX 2910
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
AUSTIN, TEXAS 78768-2910 (512) 463-0620 P.O. B463-0894 OX 30099 FAX (512) HOUSTON, TEXAS 77249 (713) 691-6912 (713) FAX OX 30099 P.O. B691-3363 HOUSTON, TEXAS 77249 (713) 691-6912 (713) 691-3363 FAX
J ESSICA F ARRAR D I S TR I C T 148
J ESSICA F ARRAR
A RI S RA R@ SE.TEXAS.GOV J E S S I C A . FD TR I CHTO U148
COMMITTEES: JUDICIARY & CIVIL JURISPRUDENCE ICE-CHAIR CVOMMITTEES : AFFAIRS CIVIL JURISPRUDENCE JUDICIARYS&TATE VICE-CHAIR STATE AFFAIRS
JESSICA.FARRAR@HOUSE.TEXAS.GOV
August 18, 2016 August 18, 2016 Keith J. Davis, Sr. Operation D-Mars 7322 Southwest Fwy., Ste. 805 Keith J. Davis, Sr. Houston, TX 77074 Operation D-Mars 7322 Southwest Fwy., Ste. 805 Dear Mr. Davis, Houston, TX 77074 As a past recipient of the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston award, I am honored to Dear Mr. Davis, congratulate D-Mars on their continued efforts to recognize and honor women of Houston. As a past recipient of the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston award, I am honored to The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Gala is a unique opportunity to recognize Houston congratulate D-Mars on their continued efforts to recognize and honor women of Houston. area women for their leadership in their respective industries. This year’s honorees continue to demonstrate a multitude of hard work, grit, and ambition. The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Gala is a unique opportunity to recognize Houston area women for their leadership in their respective industries. This year’s honorees continue to To all the honorees, both past and present, I applaud your hard work and commitment. My demonstrate a multitude of hard work, grit, and ambition. sincere hope for everyone is to continue to mentor the next generation of women leaders. Congratulations on all that you have accomplished and will continue to achieve. To all the honorees, both past and present, I applaud your hard work and commitment. My sincere hope for everyone is to continue to mentor the next generation of women leaders. Respectfully, Congratulations on all that you have accomplished and will continue to achieve. Respectfully, Jessica Farrar State Representative, District 148 Jessica Farrar State Representative, District 148
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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Texas House of Representatives
RON REYNOLDS
State Representative-District 27-House Democratic Whip
August August 26, 26, 2014 2016
d-mars.com 4th Annual Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2016 Awards Congratulations to the honorees of the 2016 d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston. Your hard work, dedication and successes are deserving of recognition. I admire your integrity and commitment to excellence. It is a privilege to participate in recognizing and celebrating the successes of influential women leaders. This evening will be one to remember with dmars.com acknowledging and commemorating your magnanimous achievements and your invaluable contributions to the community. I extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes to all of the honorees as you are an inspiration to everyone in the community. I want to wish you an enjoyable and memorable evening.
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HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES P.O. P.O.Box BOX2910 2910 A USTIN , T EXAS 78768-2910 Austin, Texas 78768-2910 463-0620 (512) (512) 463-0554
COMMITTEES:
(512) 463-0894 FAX
6112 Wheatley Street 3009977091 P.O. BOXTexas Houston,
ESSICAJOHNSON F ARRAR JJARVIS
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77249 (713) 691-6912 (713) 691-3363 FAX
D S TR I C T 148 DIISTRICT 139
JUDICIARY & CIVIL JURISPRUDENCE VICE-CHAIR STATE AFFAIRS
JESSICA.FARRAR@HOUSE.TEXAS.GOV
August 26, 2016
Dear Honorees,
August 18, 2016
On behalf of District 139, I want to congratulate you as a diverse and distinguished group of Keith J. Davis, Sr. women being recognized in the 2016 Class of the d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Operation Houston.D-Mars d-mars.com is a well-respected publication that inspires, informs, and educates, and the 7322 805 means you are held in high regard not only in your professional factSouthwest that you areFwy., beingSte. honored Houston, TX 77074 life, but by your work in the community.
Dear Mr. Davis, This occasion is one of the most anticipated in Houston, as it continues to keep the standard of the women that are honored and celebrated. You are examples for others to follow, and I applaud all As a past recipient of the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston award, I am honored to of your professional achievements and for being leaders that not only Houston is proud of but that congratulate District 139D-Mars is proudon of.their continued efforts to recognize and honor women of Houston. The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Gala is a unique opportunity to recognize Houston I did not always haveleadership it easy growing but I know with hardThis work anything is possible. You area women for their in theirup, respective industries. year’s honorees continue to are excellent examples of how you can be whatever you want to be. Your journey may not have demonstrate a multitude of hard work, grit, and ambition. been easy, but you didn’t give up. I commend you for this and for being history makers, opening doors for the next generation of Houston leaders. To all the honorees, both past and present, I applaud your hard work and commitment. My sincere hope for everyone is to continue to mentor the next generation of women leaders. Congratulations on all and that the youd-mars.com have accomplished will continue achieve. I join MR. D-MARS family inand congratulating youtoon your hard work in your professions and for having a genuine heart for the community. Congratulations again. Respectfully, Sincerely, Jessica Farrar State Representative, District 148 Jarvis Johnson State Representative, District 139
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2016 TITLE SPONSORS
PRESENTING SPONSORS I
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“Integrity with Attitude” 713-672-WELD (9353)
PLATINUM SPONSORS HOUSTON AIRPORT S STEM
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2013 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston ICON HONOREES: Dr. Patricia Brock – Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Medical Bridges Donna Cole – President & CEO, Cole Chemical & Distributing, Inc. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee – 18th Congressional District of Texas
HONOREES: Nargis Ahmed – Director, Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas Maria Moncada Alaoui – General Manager, Momentum BMW West State Rep Carol Alvarado – Texas House District 145 Rhonda C. Arnold – Director of Community Relations, Houston Airport System Lisa Ashley – Director, Corporate Communications, Port of Houston Authority Karen Becerra – Chief Operations Officer/Principal, The Principle Partnering Group, LLC Dr. Heather Brown – Owner & Orthodontist, Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics Madeline Burillo, Ed.D. – Associate Vice Chancellor, Houston Community College Helen Callier – President, Bradlink, LLC Emelda Douglas – SVP and Chief Development Officer, Neighborhood Centers, Inc. Wilma J. Evans – President, North Houston Frontiers Club & Managing Partner, DeMand Staffing & Consulting, LLC Christina Robinson Grochett – Chief Strategist for Innovation and Research, Lone Star College 18
Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2016
Dr. Irishea Hilliard – COO & Pastor, New Light Christian Center Church Carla Lane – President & CEO, Lane Staffing Shara McClure – Vice President Network Management, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Catherine Mitchell – COO, Amerigroup Marlene Petry, RN, MSN – SVP, GP Industrial Contractors, Inc. Eva Pickens - Associate Vice President, University Advancement - Communications & Marketing, Texas Southern University Vanessa Reed – Assistant Vice President, South Texas CRA Manager Corporate Public Affairs & Community Reinvestment, Comerica Bank Susan Repka – Executive Director, Women Contractors Association Dr. Jonita Wallace Reynolds – Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Coast Community Services Association (GCCSA) Kandice Rose – Founder, Pretty Girls with Cancer Jamilah Shami – Project Manager, Farouk Systems, Inc. Melinda Spaulding – Anchor, Fox 26 KRIV-TV Dr. Angela Sturm – Facial Plastic Surgeon, Facial Plastic Surgery Associates Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade, BS, RN, BSN, DDS – Cosmetic and Neuromuscular Dentist, Cosmetic Dental Texas Cynthia Wenz – President & CEO, The Source for Women Nicole C. West – President, NCA Investigations Dr. Anjanette Wyatt – Pharmacy Manager, President & CEO, Clinical Care Pharmacy, LLC Judge Mimi Yam – United States Immigration Court
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2014 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston ICON HONOREES: State Senator Sylvia Garcia, Texas Senate Karen E. Jackson – Founder/CEO, Sisters Network, Inc.
HONOREES: Dr. Lacey Brooks – Audiologist/Regional Manager Houston, Hearing Aid Express Latoya Bullard-Franklin – Chief Executive Officer, The Bulsard Group Marian Cabanilla, MBA – Vice President Marketing, UnitedHealthcare Shern-Min Chow – Anchor, KHOU 11 Sonia Clayton – President & CEO, Virtual Intelligence Providers, LLC Pamela Ellis – Chief Executive Officer, Smahrt Solutions Sonia Guimbellot – Director/Secretary, World Chamber of Commerce, Texas Joanie Y. Hare, M.D. – Physician, Houston Perinatal Associates Nikki Elizabeth Hart – President & Owner, inMotion Marketing Group Miranda Horn – Vice President, Industrial Welding Academy Judge Maria T. Jackson – 339th District Court Justina Mann – Chief Procurement Officer, Houston Airport Systems 20
Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2016
CleRenda McGrady – TV Host, Thryv360 Sharon Murphy – Founding Partner, McConnell Jones Lanier and Murphy Kim Ogg – Attorney, Ogg Law Firm Carrie Poole – Chief Executive Officer, Professional Career Training Institute Ronda M. Prince – Chief Operations Officer, Rap-A-Lot Records Maria Rios - President & CEO, Nation Waste, Inc. Dr. Docia Rudley – Executive Director for Academic Assessment, Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law Neeta Sane – Board Chair/Trustee District VII, Houston Community College Thelma Scott – Founder & CEO, Barbara Jordan Endeavors Dr. Alison Scott Cuillier – Owner/Dentist, Lasting Impressions Dental Group Sonya M. Sloan, M.D. – Orthopedic Surgeon Laurie Vignaud – Senior Vice President, Capital One Bank Barbara Walker-Green – Financial Advisor, Advanced Wealth & Retirement, LLC Reva Witherspoon – Vice President, Marketing, Amerigroup Mia K. Wright – Co-Pastor, The Fountain of Praise Carlecia D. Wright – Director, City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity Dr. Betty Young – Educator
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2015 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston SPECIAL GUEST:
Tammy Harris - Soul Grooves®Fitness
The Honorable Ivy R. Taylor - Mayor of San Antonio
Vernita Harris - IMPACT Strategies Consultants, LLC Winell Herron - H-E-B
ICON HONOREES: Dr. Selina M. Ahmed - Texas Southern University
Heather Holland - TransCanada 14
Connie Kwan-Wong - CKW LUXE Magazine
Dr. Judith Craven - The United Way of the Texas Gulf Coast
Raquelle Lewis - Tx-DOT - Houston District
Deavra A. Daughtry - Texas Women’s Empowerment
Petria McKelvey - Precision Medical Billing, Inc.
Foundation International
Katie Walthall Mehnert - Pink Petro
State Representative Jessica Farrar - Texas House District 148
Dr. Felecia M. Nave - Prairie View A&M University
Melanie Johnson, Ed.D. - The Health Museum: John P. McGovern
Krista L. Olson, M.D. - Baylor Facial Plastic Surgery Center
Museum of Health and Medical Science
Erma Palmer - Autos R Us Collision Center
Susan A. McEldoon - KHOU-TV
Crystal Perkins - My Legacy Foundation
Wanda Thornton Mott, M.D. - Houston Women’s Obstetrical and
Letitia D. Quiñones - Quiñones & Associates, P.L.L.C.
Gynecological Associates
Dr. Kamala Raghavan - Texas Southern University
Stephanie D. Nellons-Paige - USA Funds
Liliana L. Rambo - Houston Airport System
Page Parkes - Page Parkes Center of Modeling & Acting
Nannette Ray, MBA - Medical Information Records, LLC Mary Redmond - Redmond Management-McDonald’s
HONOREES:
Theresa Roemer - Theresa Roemer, LLC
Devon Anderson - Harris County District Attorney’s Office
Lina Sabouni - AUTOARCH Architects, LLC
Dell H. Braunsdorf, M.D. - Amerigroup
Rhonda Skillern-Jones - Houston Independent School District (HISD)
Camille Cash, M.D. - Camille G. Cash, M.D., Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Joyce Tyler-Williams - Frost Bank
April Day - Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance
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Samille Frazier-Savoie, LPCS, LCDC, NCC - The BES Group, Inc. Kim Gagne - Steve Harvey
UNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD:
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A N D E R S O N & S M I T H P. C .
CONGRATULATIONS
Loren Lane Well-Deserved!
TELEVISION - MUSIC - RADIO - FILM ENTERTAINMENT COMPANIES - RECORD LABELS - ACTORS - ARTISTS COMEDIANS - CELEBRITIES
One Arena Place
7322 Southwest Frwy., Suite 2010 Houston, Texas 77074
713.621.5522 713.995.1499 Facsimile
Attorney & Counselor at Law
Attorney Ricky Anderson
Attorney Ricky Anderson
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Roxann Thomas Chargois Western Area Director, The Links, Incorporated
Key to her administration is sharpening the Western Area’s business acumen and developing and implementing innovative programming that yields impactful results. She is passionate about addressing the current disparities and social injustice in Western Area communities – launching new initiatives to increase awareness in areas such as mental health, Black Lives Matter, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), and human trafficking. She has launched efforts to bolster fund development and to give members the opportunity to lend extra support to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Chargois envisions building a cadre of fully engaged members through efforts that enhance harmony and friendship, embrace alumni members, and reach out to the Western Area’s under-40 demographic.
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oxann Thomas Chargois, Missouri City (TX) Chapter, began her tenure as Western Area Director in June 2015 at the 42nd Western Area Conference in Sacramento, CA. She leads the Western Area’s 59 chapters in 10 states under the 2015-2017 theme, “A Mind for Business and A Heart for Service.” Chargois envisions reaching new heights within the Western Area by focusing on training and communication among members, on chapter efficiencies, and the strengthening of programs and initiatives tailored to Western Area communities.
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Chargois is a resident of Houston, Texas, and has been a member of The Links, Incorporated for 25 years. She has served as a financial consultant with Merrill Lynch, managing portfolios for small to medium-sized companies; as the Executive Director for the Austin Public Housing Authority; and as the Human Resources Director for Baxter International, Inc. She holds degrees from the University of Illinois, University of Chicago, and most recently completed a Social Justice degree in Rome, Italy, through St. John’s University/New York.
Drawing on the synergy generated by women who are committed to friendship and service, the Western Area now has more than 2,800 members in 59 chapters located in 10 states — Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Washington. Western Area chapters are characterized by leadership, award-winning programs, and warm, interpersonal relationships between and among members, as well with other chapters. Service hours that members contribute in their Western Area communities have increased yearly--currently topping 187,000. Glenda F. Newell-Harris, M.D., National President, hails from the Western Area’s Alameda Contra-Costa (CA) Chapter. The 7th Western Area Director, the late Marion Schultz Sutherland, Seattle (WA) Chapter, was chosen to serve the organization as the 10th National President.
Roxann Thomas Chargois Western Area Director The Links, Incorporated 1600 Post Oak Boulevard Suite #905 Houston, TX 77056 www.walinks.org
About The Western Area of The Links, Incorporated In September 1950, three chapters of The Links, Incorporated were chartered in California (Los Angeles, Oakland Bay Area, and San Francisco), connecting the national organization’s chain of friendship from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
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Congratulations to the
The Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee Community Achievement Award Recipient
Roxann Thomas Chargois Western Area Director
Western Area
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Yolanda Adams Grammy Award-Winning Gospel Artist
younger siblings heard everything from jazz to classical to rhythm and blues. She soaked up the sounds of gospel legends James Cleveland and the Edwin Hawkins Singers, jazz icon Nancy Wilson, and pop/R&B great Stevie Wonder. That wide swath of sonic textures, combined with years in the church choir, would guide Yolanda – both as a performer and a person. Yolanda is also heavily involved in other children’s issues. She works closely with the U. S. Department of Health and Human Resources to ensure that kids in low-income areas receive immunizations. Along with that nationwide program, Yolanda lends her energy and commitment to a number of other child-based organizations, including the Children’s Defense Fund and Houston charities such as juvenile diabetes and The Escape Center. “I’m very involved with kids because after being a teacher for seven years, I just can’t stop loving the kids. I am a teacher forever.”
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sk Yolanda Adams what she loves about her music and ministry. The answer is as warm, embracing, and reflective as her songs. “The music brings joy. I truly believe that my songs bring the answers and the solutions, as opposed to just talking about the problems. My music at its core is joyful.” Joyful, uplifting, inspiring, affirmative, exuberant, playful, and universal in its appeal and intention – that is the music of Yolanda Adams. The message and ministry of this Grammy-winning Gospel/Adult Contemporary superstar is abundant with love, faith, rhythm, and wisdom. It is delivered by one of the most persuasive and popular voices in contemporary Gospel. Working with some of the biggest names in pop, R&B, hip-hop, and gospel, Yolanda’s career has been marked
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by a string of hugely successful albums, sold-out tours, standout TV appearances, a successful radio show, and a desire to incorporate into her music a multitude of genres and influences.
With her unerring sense of humanity and her compassionate message, Yolanda Adams has touched audiences worldwide, and they in turn have made their impact upon her. “I believe that fans enhance your career. They draw out of me what they need and that’s how I’m able to write the songs. It inspires me to feel their love and appreciation. It’s like what Sally Fields said when she won the Oscar, ‘You like me! You really like me!’ I never take that for granted, and each year and each album I am humbled that there are people who want to hear my songs. It’s truly amazing. It’s truly the grace and favor of God.”
“It’s vitally important to keep growing now that people know me and my music,” she says. “We’ve been blessed enough to impact so many lives, both in and out of the typical gospel market, so on each album it’s important to keep reaching outward so that even more people can get inspiration from what we do. Luckily, I don’t have to be anybody but Yolanda, because people don’t expect me to be anything Yolanda has received several awards and other than who I am. For an artist, it’s a accolades, but her greatest achievement is her daughter, Taylor. great place to be.” A lifelong resident of Houston, Texas, Yolanda grew up in a household filled Yolanda Adams with spirit, soul, and songs. Her mother Grammy Award-Winning Gospel Artist studied music, and Yolanda and her five www.yolandaadamslive.com
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A N D E R S O N & S M I T H P. C .
CONGRATULATIONS
YOLANDA ADAMS Well-Deserved!
TELEVISION - MUSIC - RADIO - FILM ENTERTAINMENT COMPANIES - RECORD LABELS - ACTORS - ARTISTS COMEDIANS - CELEBRITIES
One Arena Place
7322 Southwest Frwy., Suite 2010 Houston, Texas 77074
713.621.5522 713.995.1499 Facsimile
Attorney & Counselor at Law
Attorney Ricky Anderson
Attorney Ricky Anderson
w w w . a t t o r n e y r i c k y a n d e r s o n . c o m r i c k y @ a t t o r n e y r i c k y a n d e r s o n . c o m
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Suzan Deison
CEO, President & Founder, Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce Suzan has the distinction and honor of serving as President of three Houston chambers of commerce, including founding the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce, (GHWCC) where she serves as CEO and President. Under her leadership, the GHWCC has grown to be one of the fastest growing chambers in the United States. She also founded the Greater Houston Women’s Hall of Fame and the Greater Houston Conference for Women. Suzan created STEAM TOWN USA, an initiative to increase exposure of third grade girls’ interest in math, technology, and science through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) concepts, improve grades and graduation rates, and encourage girls to pursue STEAM careers. Since its inception, the program has graduated over 550 girls.
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uzan Deison is a native Houstonian, who has dedicated her life to working and volunteering in the nonprofit arena. Whether it’s helping a woman succeed in business, helping a child achieve their fullest potential, or advocating for people with disabilities, Suzan is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. Suzan’s influence has encouraged countless women to develop and enhance vital business relationships and to believe in themselves. Suzan always attributes her success to others, and she continues to gain support for the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce (GHWCC) through her selflessness and passion for others. Suzan began her career at the Conroe Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce and because of her entrepreneurial talent, became a very successful business owner 32
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Suzan’s vision for empowering women has led the GHWCC to expand internationally. The GHWCC has influenced business leaders in London and Mexico City to start a women’s chamber of commerce. Suzan and the GHWCC believe that when we empower women, we help empower communities and the world. of several entrepreneurial companies. She has helped raise several million dollars for nonprofits, including Easter Seals, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and area chambers of commerce. She served on the Montgomery County Library Board, was an advocate for Tri County MHMR, and was a Co-Chair for the Cattle Baron’s Ball. She currently serves as President of the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy Foundation, serves on the Board of the March of Dimes, and the ELT of the American Heart Association. She was recognized for her many contributions to our community by being named as one of the 2013 Women on the Move by Texas Executive Women. In 2014, she was honored in Forbes magazine as a Texas Women Business Leader, and also honored as a 2014 Channel 13’s Woman of Distinction.
Suzan boasts that her greatest accomplishment is her family. She is a proud mother of three accomplished, loving children, Melanie George, Grant Phillips, and Taylor Deison, and grandmother of seven talented and beautiful grandchildren, Morgan, Madison and Montana Isbell, Meagin Small, Lauren, Chloe, and Grey Phillips. She recently became a great grandmother of a beautiful baby girl, Scarlett Small. Suzan lives in the Upper Kirby District with her supportive husband, Joe and beautiful daughter, Taylor. Suzan Deison CEO, President & Founder Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce 3201 Kirby Drive Suite 400 Houston, TX 77098 713-782-3777 www.ghwcc.org
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s t a r g n Co an! Suz
On being selected as a Top
Suzan Deison
Influential Woman in Houston
Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce CEO / President / Founder
and as a Houston Icon Honoree.
Suzan is the founder of the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce as well as these outstanding initiatives: Greater Houston Conference for Women
Thought Leaders Institute
Greater Houston Women’s Hall of Fame Gala
STEAM Town, USA
The purpose of the Greater Houston Conference for Women is to educate, inspire and empower business women and provide a venue for businesses to reach women. The conference brings internationally known speakers to share their stories of success and hosts a series of breakout sessions on topics that are specific to functional or industry - based professional development.
GREATER
STEAM Town, USA is an after-school program that seeks to increase exposure of third grade girls to science, technology, engineering, arts, and HOUSTON math (STEAM) concepts, improve grades and graduation rates, and encourage girls to pursue STEAM careers.
WOMEN’S
The Hall of Fame Gala recognizes extraordinary women who have contributed significantly to the advancement of women and improved the quality of life for future generations of Houstonians.
The Thought Leaders Institute provides a professional forum for provocative and confidential discussions. How many times have you wished for an advisory board of interesting peers who are there to help with answers? How often have you met an equal at an event and engaged in dialogue that energized you and provided inspiration? Imagine having a group of like women leaders — women you can count on for their shared experience, success and clarity.
CC
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
A nonprofit business organization of highly influential and diverse women and men dedicated to the advancement and empowerment of women through avenues of leadership, education, advocacy, and mentoring. Join today at www.ghwcc.org! d-mars.com
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Zina Garrison
Founder & CEO, Zina Garrison Foundation French Open champion Monica Seles in the quarterfinals and the defending Wimbledon champion and World No. 1 Steffi Graf in the semifinals to reach the Grand Slam singles final, becoming the first African-American woman to do so since Althea Gibson. During her career, she won 14 top-level singles titles and 20 doubles titles. Since retiring from tennis, Garrison has stayed an influence, having worked as a television commentator and maintaining active roles in the community and in the tennis world. Garrison has maintained a presence on the professional tennis scene, and was the captain for the U.S. Federation Cup team. She also led the U.S. women’s team at the 2008 Beijing Games tennis event. Garrison is the founder and CEO of the Zina Garrison Academy, a nonprofit organization that provides a free year-round tennis/fitness and education program for children ages 4 – 18 in Houston, Texas. The mission of academy is to develop stars in the classroom, on the tennis court, and in the community by providing educational support, positive role models, parent education, and excellent tennis instruction. The Zina Garrison Academy continues to reevaluate itself and change to provide the best possible tennis and education program in the Houston area.
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ina Garrison graduated from Sterling High School in Houston, TX. She started playing tennis at the age of 10 and entered her first tournament at the age of 12. Her success as a junior player quickly made the tennis world take notice. At the age of 14, she won the national girls’ 18s title. And then in 1981, she won both the Wimbledon and US Open junior titles and was ranked the World No. 1 junior player.
she reached the quarterfinals. Garrison enjoyed notable success on-court. She reached the Australian Open semifinals in her first full year on the tour – 1983 – and finished the year ranked World No. 10. She won her first top-level singles titles in 1984 at the European Indoor Championships in Zürich. She was a Wimbledon semifinalist in 1985, and in 1986, she won her first tour doubles at the Canadian Open (partnering Gabriela Garrison turned professional in 1982 Sabatini). and competed in the French Open, her The highlight of Garrison’s career came first tournament as a professional, where in 1990 at Wimbledon. She defeated
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Garrison has served as a member of the United States President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Zina Garrison Founder & CEO Zina Garrison Foundation Former 4th-Ranked Tennis Player in the World 281-778-5441 Zina@zinagarrison.org www.zinagarrison.org
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Nathelyne Archie Kennedy, P.E. President, Nathelyne A. Kennedy & Associates
A mentor, and a pioneering advocate for the participation of women in her profession, and the guiding force behind her own successful business, Ms. Kennedy has garnered recognition both for outstanding personal achievement and for the professional accomplishments of a quality organization. This consistently increasing professional success is complimented by Ms. Kennedy’s continuing dedication to and active participation in professional and community activities, including membership in numerous industry associations and volunteered service given on the boards and committees of professional and community-related organizations. Ms. Kennedy is a history maker. The first female engineering graduate from Prairie View A&M University and the first AfricanAmerican female professional engineer registered by the State of Texas, Ms. Kennedy has been recognized numerous times by her alma mater and its alumni association. In 2006, the new Architecture and History & Culture facility on the Prairie View A&M University campus was named the “Nathelyne Archie Kennedy Building” in her honor.
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athelyne Archie Kennedy, a professional engineer, received her Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Engineering in 1959 from Prairie View A&M University. Following college graduation, Ms. Kennedy worked as a Bridge Design Engineer with an engineering firm in Chicago, Illinois, and later with an engineering firm in Houston, Texas. In 1979, she became a Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.
technicians, construction managers, inspectors, administrative, and managerial personnel specializing in a broad spectrum of the professional civil engineering design of highways, streets, bridges, public transit and parking facilities, water and wastewater systems, aviation facilities, marine terminals, sports complexes, and various other types of specialized projects.
The Houston Engineers Week committee, which aims to recognize and honor engineering achievements in the Houston area, named Nathelyne Archie Kennedy its 2016 Engineer of the Year — the first woman to be honored in this class of 66 engineering successes.
Nathelyne Archie Kennedy, P.E. President Ms. Kennedy has 50 years of profes- Nathelyne A. Kennedy & Associates sional engineering and progressive ex- 6200 Savoy Drive perience as a design engineer, project Suite #1250 In 1981, Ms. Kennedy started her own engineer, project manager, and as the Houston, TX 77036 business venture. She is Founder and principal-in-charge of civil engineering 713-988-0145 President of Nathelyne A. Kennedy & projects performed for a broad spectrum www.nakennedy.com
Associates, a professional civil consult- of government, municipal, and regulaing engineering firm located in Houston, tory agencies, as well as for private inTexas. Her company employs engineers, dustry clients. 36
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Dr. Laura Murillo
President & CEO, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce ident’s Medallion, to the Chamber and Dr. Murillo. She has received many state, national, and international honors, including receiving recognition as one of the “Most Powerful & Influential Women in Texas,” being honored with the “Top Latino Leader Award” by the National Diversity Council, receiving recognition as “Woman of the Year” by Success Magazine, and receiving the “International Leadership Award” by the Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation. Dr. Murillo was also included in the “Top 10 Who’s Who in Business,” and she has been named a “Top 5 C-Suite CEO Finalist” by the Houston Business Journal. In 2014, she was honored with the “Hispanic Leadership Award” by the National Football League (NFL). The Houston Chronicle named her among the “Women Who Run Houston.” Dr. Murillo serves on the Houston BBVA Compass Board of Directors, the University of Houston Board of Advisors, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Board of Visitors, the Houston Symphony’s Hispanic Leadership Council, the Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Board, the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority Board of Directors, the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee, and the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition’s Texas Advisory Committee.
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r. Laura Murillo is President and CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. With the support of the Chamber board and staff, she has set unprecedented records, including leading the Chamber to be the largest Hispanic Chamber in the country. She serves as the Founding President & CEO of the Chamber’s foundation, Founding Executive Producer/Host for the Chamber’s television program on CBS KHOU, and for the Chamber’s 38
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radio and TV program on Univision. Additionally, she is the Founding Executive Producer/Host for the Chamber’s radio program on 6 CBS radio stations, and she is a Telemundo Political Commentator. She served as an executive at Memorial Hermann - Texas Medical Center. She holds a B.A., a Master’s degree, and a Doctorate from the University of Houston, where she served as an executive. The University of Houston bestowed its highest honor, the Pres-
Though she is proud of her many accomplishments, she is most proud to be the mother of two beautiful daughters, Marisa, 17 and Mia, 14. Dr. Laura Murillo President & CEO Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 1801 Main Street Suite 890 Houston, TX 77002 713-644-7070 lmurillo@houstonhispanicchamber.com www.houstonhispanicchamber.com
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HE SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 12, 2016
DATE
DATE E H
AV • S ET
AV • S ET SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2016 Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Houston, Texas 77002 6:00PM–Midnight Event Underwriter:
HoustonHispanicChamber.com #HispanicHouston d-mars.com
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Sallie Sargent
President & CEO, Houston Super Bowl Host Committee for Super Bowl 2012 to the NFL owners in May 2008. The City of Phoenix acknowledged her expertise and hired her again to create the presentation for the bid for NCAA’s Final Four Basketball Tournament. In 2010, Ms. Sargent was retained to conceive and implement a global communications program for Viad Corp, parent company of GES, to support a year-long culture shift that occurred as a result of significant mergers and acquisitions. This effort included creating and producing quarterly Town Hall meetings simulcast to over 3,000 employees, developing and organizing round table discussions between front-line employees and senior executives and creating interactive web-based communication.
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allie Sargent has enjoyed a diverse and exciting career over the past 28 years. Her special event management background with sporting events includes five Super Bowls; 14 years managing sponsor relations and special events for the Fiesta Bowl and the first Bowl Championship Series (BCS); producing the Charles Barkley Roast for the NBA All Star Game; and overseeing corporate hospitality for the PGA’s Phoenix Open. The 2004 Democratic National Convention, the 100th anniversary of Ford Motor Company, and the 2012 Centennial Celebration of the State of Arizona round out her experience with event management on a grand scale.
vision, oversaw the company’s re-branding effort, and was a key contributor to the company’s long-range strategic planning. Additionally, her responsibilities included staging numerous special events associated with some of the largest and most recognizable conventions in the world including Consumer Electronics Show, MineExpo, Electronic Entertainment Expo, and National Restaurant Association.
Ms. Sargent’s knowledge and experience with the NFL’s premiere event resulted in her appointment in 2013 as the Executive Director for Houston’s efforts to secure Super Bowl in 2017. Since that time, she has been retained in the same position to Ms. Sargent was hired by the Arizona Host develop the strategic plan for the Houston Committee to stage myriad events associ- Host Committee to stage Super Bowl LI. ated with the 2008 Super Bowl. The signa- Prior to the tradeshow and convention inture event “The Big Ticket Gala” that raised dustry, Ms. Sargent served as Director of over $500K for the local organizing com- Marketing and Promotions for America mittee, featured Jay Leno and 25 members West Airlines (now US Airways) after her of the Pro Football Hall of Fame attracting successful negotiation on behalf of Amersome 1,200 guests and community lead- ica West with the NFL for the official airline ers. Additionally, Ms. Sargent created and sponsorship of Super Bowl XXX. Her talent produced the highly successful Super Bowl also extends to video production and has Business Development Program at the re- won several Telly Awards for direction and quest of Governor Janet Napolitano and production in the corporate video category. the Arizona Department of Commerce as an economic development strategy for the Sallie Sargent state.
Beyond her special event expertise, Ms. Sargent began to develop her destination marketing experience in 2006 when the City of Minneapolis hired her to write the bids for both the 2008 Democratic and Republican National Conventions. As Senior Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications for GES Exposition Services (the largest subsidiary of Viad Corp) from Ms. Sargent continued her work with the 1999-2005, Ms. Sargent spearheaded the Arizona Host Committee post Super Bowl company’s marketing communications di- XLII, by compiling and presenting the bid 40
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Her communication skills have also been utilized by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority to produce Town Hall meetings and video magazines to improve communications and negotiations between Convention Center management and union employees.
President & CEO Houston Super Bowl Host Committee info@housuperbowl.com www.housuperbowl.com
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Farida Abjani
Co-Founder & CEO, Shining Nightingale, Inc. Her list of community involvement includes but is not limited to: • Developments in Literacy USA Houston Chapter • Fort Bend Women’s Center • Alliance for Multicultural Community Services • American Pakistan Foundation • Texas Executive Women She credits her nursing education and experience and her father’s teachings for her being the woman she is today. She remembers as a child, her father allowing her to keep only 75 percent of her pocket money, because the remaining 25 percent had to be given to charity (of her choice). That teaching forms the basis of everything she does, even today. For instance, despite having a thriving for-profit hospice firm in Houston, she has started a foundation where she can care for those with no insurance coverage. Because when it comes to care, she doesn’t care who it is.
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f you’ve cared for any cause at all since you were born, you have probably heard of, seen, or met with Farida Abjani. This is especially true, if you live in Houston. Having a true passion for everyone receiving the quality healthcare that they deserve, she is the Co-Founder and CEO of Shining Nightingale, Inc. Shining Nightingale, Inc. is primarily engaged in providing skilled nursing services and other therapeutic services, such as physical therapy, speech-language pathology services, or occupational therapy, medical social services, and home health aide services. It has policies established
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Farida graduated from AKUSON with a Diploma in Nursing in 1997, and she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Grand Canyon University. During her career, she worked in ICU, cardiac ICU, PACU, and orthopedic PACU. The one cause that is parby a professional group associated with ticularly close to her heart is taking care the agency to govern the services. Unof the emotional needs of chronically and der Farida’s leadership, this agency meets terminally ill patients and their caregivers. and exceeds expectations from the Secretary of Health and Human Services that Farida was recently named “IT Girl 2016” are necessary for the health and safety of by the Houston Chronicle, which recognized her for her successful career and their patients. philanthropic efforts. From her experience in child education in developing countries to supporting the advancement of young women in Texas, Farida is intimately involved with several charities. Not only has she served on the Farida Abjani board of several charities, but she has Co-Founder & CEO also brought in hundreds and thousands Shining Nightingale, Inc. of fundraising dollars for charities she has 1700 6th Street Bay City, TX 77414 been associated with.
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Wanda Adams
Board of Education First Vice-President & District IX Trustee, Houston Independent School District she is a strong advocate for breast cancer awareness. Among the organizations for which she volunteers are the Houston Area Women’s Center, YMCA, YWCA, Keep Houston Beautiful, and Meals on Wheels in the Sunnyside community. As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Adams had the honor of being appointed to national committees, including the Social Action Commission and the National/Regional Housing Task Force. She also serves as a trustee for the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, and she is a member of Leadership Houston Class 30. Awards & Recognition: • Houston Woman Magazine’s Top 50 Women in Houston • Houston Area Association for the Education of Young Children’s Elected Official of the Year • RollingOut.com’s Top 25 Women • Award of Distinction from the National Forum of Black Public Accountants
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anda Adams was elected to the HISD Board of Education in 2013 after serving the limit of three two-year terms as Houston City Councilmember for District D. Adams’ commitment as a Board of Education Trustee is to continue to incorporate strong literacy programs, strengthen parent and community engagement, and decrease the number of low-performing schools in District IX. Adams is a native Houstonian and product of HISD, graduating as a basketball standout from Kashmere High School. She received an athletic scholarship to Texas Southern University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Public Affairs and a Master’s degree in Public Administration. She has had a long career in public ser-
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Adams also partnered with KRIV Fox 26 on a television news special, “Diversity vice for organizations and agencies in- in the Classroom,” at Westbury High cluding the Houston Housing Authority, School. The program won a 2015 Lone Harris County Mental Health and Mental Star Emmy Award. Retardation Association, and the Mayor’s Adams is a Sunday school teacher and Assistance Office. She recently served on international missionary for the Founthe NCAA Final Four Sustainability Comtain of Praise church, through which she mittee and is currently participating on participated in a mission to Cape Town, the Super Bowl LI Sustainability CommitSouth Africa, in 2013. tee. Adams is also a history maker, being the first African-American woman to be appointed to serve on the Harris County Wanda Adams Board of Education Appraisal District Board of Directors. First Vice-President District IX Trustee Houston Independent School District 4400 West 18th Street Houston, TX 77092-8501 As a public servant, Adams has been com- 713-556-6000 mitted to support for the homeless, vet- wadams2@houstonisd.org erans, the disabled, and mentally ill, and www.houstonisd.org
The HISD trustee has traveled throughout the world – Africa, Europe, and South America – as an international ambassador for the City of Houston.
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Sehba Ali
CEO and Superintendent, KIPP Houston Public Schools Currently, KIPP Houston’s college graduation rate is six times the average for low-income students nationally. Prior to joining KIPP Houston Public Schools, Mrs. Ali served as Chief Academic Officer at KIPP Bay Area Schools, where she was responsible for the academic performance of the region’s seven schools. Sehba Ali founded KIPP Heartwood Academy middle school in San Jose, CA in 2004, which has consistently been rated as one of the highest performing middle schools in California and is a nationally recognized Blue Ribbon School. Mrs. Ali earned her B.A. in English and Psychology from UC Berkeley and her Masters from Stanford University. She received training from the KIPP School Leadership Program, including study at the Haas School of Business, and participated in the Pahara-Aspen Education Fellowship. She is currently participating in the Broad Academy. She began her career as a middle school English teacher in Houston, Texas, with Teach For America. She has served on the KIPP Foundation Board of Directors, the California Charter School Association Member Council, and Rocketship Education’s Board of Directors. She currently serves on the boards of Legacy Community Health Services, the Connect Community, and the Post Oak School. Mrs. Ali is the proud mother of three children ages 8, 6, and 4 years.
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ehba Ali is the CEO and Superintendent of KIPP Houston Public Schools. KIPP Houston’s goal is to ensure students are prepared for success in college and have the knowledge, skills, and character to lead a choice-filled
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life. Consisting of 26 schools serving 13,500 students in grades pre-k through 12th grade, KIPP Houston has an annual operating budget of over $140 million dollars and over 1,550 staff members. Over ninety percent of families qualify for free/reduced lunch.
Sehba Ali CEO and Superintendent KIPP Houston Public Schools 10711 KIPP Way Houston, TX 77099 832-328-1051 kipphouston.org Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2016
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Jackye Alton President, Almeda Travel
ston Convention Visitors Bureau, Institute for the Association of Travel Agents, and Houston Executive Women in Travel. Since perseverance and success rarely go without recognition, the accolades this business owner has received rival her affiliations: • UNCF Community Sponsor Support Award • Best Travel Agency Leisure Sponsor Support Award • Top Ladies of Distinction Travel Agency Award • U.S. Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus Service Award • Inter-American Travel Agents Presidents Award
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ackye Alton, a Little Rock, AR, native, initiated her pursuit of higher education at Fisk University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree. Her aim for academic proficiency didn’t stop in Nashville, TN, as she went on to earn a Master’s degree in Education from Howard University. An obvious proponent of scholastic achievement, Alton began her professional career by focusing her talents in elementary education in Washington, D.C. After relocating to Houston, she continued this career as an instructor in the education department at Texas Southern University. Upon completion of Wellesley College’s Travel Counselor Certification, Alton reached for the entrepreneurial stars, launching Almeda Travel in partnership with her late husband, Dr. Washington I. Alton. Founded in June 1977, Almeda Travel enjoys the esteemed designation as the second largest African-American 48
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Furthermore, her travel industry triumphs have been trumpeted by the Governor of Louisiana and the Louisiana House of Representatives, as well as the Virgin Islands’ Hotel Associations, just to name owned travel agency in the United States a few. today, and was an associate of the distin- Alton is not only immersed in business, guished Leaders Group of Carlson Wag- but she is a stronghold in the commuonlit Travel. Presently, Almeda Travel is nity. In addition to being a Life Member of an associate of the Travel Leaders Group. both Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and As the President and CEO of Almeda Trav- the NAACP, she is past President of the el, Alton oversees the management of all Houston Chapter of The Links, Incorpogovernment, corporate, and leisure travel rated and member of Board of Trustees operations nationwide. She credits her at Fisk University. long-running success to a commitment This travel industry entrepreneurial exto superlative service. ecutive attends Wheeler Avenue Baptist Her professional relationships are numerous. She is a current Board Member and immediate past President of the Society of Government Professionals, an organization whose thrust is the National Forum for the $70 Billion Government Travel Market. In 2005, she was cited “Person of the Year” by this entity. For five years, this business owner held an engagement with the US House of Representatives Travel and Tourism Caucus. Alton has also tirelessly served in a member capacity on the Board of Directors for the Hou-
Church. Alton is the proud mother of Kimberley Alton Calhoun of Washington, D.C. and Rey Alton of Houston, TX. She is also the proud grandmother of three grandchildren. Jackye Alton President Almeda Travel 450 Meyerland Plaza Mall Houston, TX 77096 713-592-8000 www.almedatravel.com
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Congratulations
Jackye Alton
2016 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Honoree
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Erin Asprec
Regional President, Memorial Hermann Health System In 2013, Erin’s role as Chief Executive Officer was expanded to include the new Memorial Hermann Pearland Medical Complex. The facility is home to the second Convenient Care Center in the Memorial Hermann System, which opened in February 2014, and Memorial Hermann Pearland Hospital which opened in March 2016. In March 2015, Erin was promoted to Senior Vice President/Regional President of Memorial Hermann’s South Region. The South Region oversight encompasses leadership, direction, and integration of the Region’s hospitals, Memorial Hermann Pearland, Memorial Hermann Southeast, Memorial Hermann Southwest, and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, as well as 44 ambulatory care sites. Erin spearheaded the formation of Women Leaders of Memorial Hermann (WLMH). The mission of the WLMH program is to build a strong network and a culture of excellence among women leaders that have a far reaching impact both within the organization, as well as in the community.
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rin began her career in healthcare at the Methodist Health Care System in 1998. She joined the Memorial Hermann Healthcare System in 2002, working as the Director of Business Development and then as the Executive Liaison to the President and CEO of the System, Dan Wolterman. Erin then served on the TMC Campus as the Chief Executive Officer of the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute for six years. She planned and managed the construction of the Institute, comprised of 265,000 square feet and 147 beds.
the growth of key service lines, including oncology, heart and vascular, orthopedics, neuroscience, and specialty surgery services. She fostered and developed the University of Texas Medical School relationship at Memorial Hermann Southeast through physician recruitment, and by building new models for collaboration and growth in key service lines.
Since 2012, Erin has been active in both the Texas Hospital Association and American Hospital Association, serving on the THA’s Council on Policy Development, and as a delegate to the AHA Regional Policy Board. She was recently elected to In March 2010, Erin was named Chief the THA’s Board of Trustees, offering her Executive Officer of Memorial Hermann a larger role in changing policy to support Southeast Hospital where she focused on safe, affordable, and quality health care. 50
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Erin earned a Master in Health Administration degree from Saint Louis University, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin. She is currently a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives. She also serves on the Board of the Pearland Independent School District Education Foundation, as well as the Women’s Initiative Steering Committee of the United Way of Greater Houston. Erin Asprec Regional President Memorial Hermann Health System 929 Gessner Houston, TX 77024 713-242-2677 www.memorialhermann.org
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Dr. Kimberly Beatty
Vice Chancellor of Instructional Services - Chief Academic Officer, Houston Community College ship. She has over 25 years of experience in higher education with 16 years at the community college level. She has served as an Associate Professor in English and maintained progressive leadership roles at Cypress College (California) and Tidewater Community College (Virginia). Beatty has served on a number of boards at the State and National level. She has a strong commitment to the community, student success, and diversity. Dr. Beatty has a passion for strengthening the pipeline of college-ready students entering community colleges, as demonstrated through her development and implementation of the Black Studies Program (CC), expansion of the dual enrollment and First College programs (TCC), the development and implementation of an Upward Bound program (TCC), development and implementation of student success initiatives targeting underprepared students (TCCD), and expanding dual credit programs (HCC). Dr. Beatty has been the recipient of the Damiani Award for Commitment to Global Education (TCC), Regina StandbackStroud Award for Commitment to Diversity in Higher Education, California State Academic Senate, and Dean’s Award for Achievement (CC).
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Dr. Beatty is married to Kelvin Beatty, and they are proud parents to three sons, Kelvin Jr., Michael, and Ian. They also have five grandsons. Dr. Beatty and her ate Vice Chancellor for Student Success husband reside in Houston and fellowat Tarrant County College (TCCD), where ship at The Community of Faith Church she was responsible for district-wide im- in Houston. plementation of Achieving the Dream, Upward Bound, College Access and Outreach, Title III, and process improvement Dr. Kimberly Beatty of student development services and Vice Chancellor of Instructional Services Chief Academic Officer success initiatives.
r. Kimberly Beatty is currently serving as Vice Chancellor for Instructional Services and Chief Academic Officer at Houston Community College (HCC). In this role, she is laser focused on student success and ensures the academic integrity of all programs. Since coming to HCC in January 2015, Dr. Beatty has led the She is a three-time graduate of Morgan institution through a major transforma- State University, receiving a B.A. in Engtion of instructional services. lish, M.A. in English, and Ed.D. in Higher Prior to HCC, Dr. Beatty was the Associ- Education, Community College Leader-
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Houston Community College 3100 Main St. Houston, TX 77002 713-718-2000 www.hccs.edu
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H O UST ON COMMU NI TY C OLLEGE
CONGRATULATES
DR. KIMBERLY BEATTY AS ONE OF THE TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON
hccs.edu
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Mary Benton
Director of Communications and Special Projects, Office of Precinct One Harris County Commissioner Gene Locke 2014 Regional Edward R. Murrow Award for breaking news coverage. Benton is immediate past president of the Houston Association of Black Journalists and served on the board of the National Association of Black Journalists as the Region V Director. She is a member of the Houston Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America and a member of the Texas Municipal League Public Information Officers. Her accolades include being named a 2015 Real Role Model by the William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity and the Houston Association of Black Journalists. She was named a Rising Star by the League of Women Voters (Houston Area). She was also honored as Best Local Television Reporter by the Houston Press. Benton is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, where she served as a member of the Communications Council and was active in other student organizations. Benton is a life member of the University of Texas Alumni Association (Texas Exes) and a member of the UT Austin Black Alumni Network.
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ary Benton is Director of Communications and Special Projects for the Office of Precinct One Harris County Commissioner Gene Locke. She is responsible for internal and external communications, managing a team of community aides for constituent outreach, and she works on special projects. Benton also serves as the Commissioner’s liaison to multiple departments within Harris County. In addition, she represents Precinct One at community events and governmental agency meetings. Prior to joining Precinct One, she was the Manager of Media Relations and Public Affairs for the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA).
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Benton began her professional career in journalism, working as a television news reporter for more than two decades, beginning with stations in Killeen, Texas, where she covered the local community and military affairs at the nearby Fort Hood Army Base and at KTBC-TV in Austin, Texas, where she was a news reporter and weekend anchor. In Austin, Benton specialized in general assignments, education reporting and coverage of the Texas Legislature. In 1994, Benton joined the staff of KPRC– TV in Houston, Texas. Over a stellar twentyyear tenure, she was a trusted and familiar face who brought viewers breaking news, updates on hurricanes, local politics, and sports coverage. She was an integral part of the news team that was awarded the
Benton enjoys volunteering in the Houston community, where she is frequently called on to emcee and host events. She is a member of the Houston Super Bowl LI (2017) Host Committee (Marketing Committee), and she has served on the NCAA Volunteer Committee. She enjoys movies, spending time with her family, traveling, and she looks forward to attending graduate school one day to obtain a Master’s degree. Mary Benton Director of Communications and Special Projects Office of Precinct One Harris County Commissioner Gene Locke 7901 El Rio Street Houston, TX 77054 713-991-6881 713-497-7998 Mary.Benton@cp1.hctx.next
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Marianna Brasel
General Manager, Porsche of West Houston Marianna Brasel General Manager Porsche of West Houston 11890 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77079 281-249-4700 Marianna.brasel@porschewesthouston.com www.porschewest.com
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arianna Brasel is the General Manager of Porsche of West Houston, located in the Energy Corridor in Houston, Texas. As the General Manger, she oversees day-to-day operations within the dealership, advertising and marketing, maintaining Porsche manufacturer relationships, and client communication and retention. She has developed a talented team of certified Porsche Brand Ambassadors in service and sales, experienced Porsche Parts Professionals, and highly skilled Porsche Certified Technicians. Under her leadership, Porsche of West Houston has grown substantially and continues to deliver outstanding service and exceptional products.
other brands, she has found her true passion. It is quite clear to her that the history, heritage, and superior craftsmanship are what make Porsche so unique.
to Client Advisor, Finance Manager, New Car Sales Manager, Finance Director, and PreOwned Manager. Marianna is very active in the community and has partnered Porsche of West Houston with several organizations including University of Houston, Lymphoma Research Foundation, Star of Hope, and numerous other charitable organizations. She understands the importance of giving back to the community and does all she can to help and support others.
As a top performer for 12 years, receiving multiple manufacturer and dealership awards, she was nominated for Sonic General Manager Leadership Academy. In 2014, she committed to the Academy program, and just as she does in her personal and professional life, she vowed to be the very best. She not only completed the one year program, but finished first in class and Marianna believes that every day is an opwas awarded Valedictorian. portunity to make a difference in the world. Marianna started in the automotive busi- Whether in your personal or professional life, ness while attending college in 2003. She wake up with the desire to be incredible, and started as an administrative assistant at Mo- then go after it. She feels that each day is She was promoted to her current position mentum BMW/MINI. She quickly learned a chance to be even greater than the day in August 2015. Having worked for several the automotive business and was promoted before, so maximize every minute of it. 56
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Carlotta Outley Brown, M.Ed. Principal – HISD, Lora B. Peck Elementary School
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arlotta Outley Brown is the principal of the illustrious Lora B. Peck Elementary School located on upper Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. She has been the principal of Peck for 13 years and an educator for 25 years. She has served in several capacities in HISD, just recently serving as Lead Principal, but she has also been Interim Principal, Instructional Coordinator, Dean, and Assistant Principal. Principal Brown followed in her mother’s footsteps, teaching first graders. She has kept her passion for teaching, sometimes going into the classrooms to teach as if she never left. As the principal, she quickly led, moved, and “turned” around the school to earn the impressive distinction and honor from the State of Texas as a “High” performing school and honors from the U.S. Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School. In addition, Principal Brown received prestigious commendation as a Terrel H. Bell Recipient, being recognized as one of 5 top principals in the United States for turning around a school to be high achieving in three years and for her
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outstanding school leadership by the len DeGeneres of the Ellen DeGeneres United States Department of Education. Show on May 14, 2015. Ellen named her a “Hero Educator” on that memoraIn 2007, Principal Brown was charged ble day. Principal Brown has used the with consolidating MacArthur Elementary $100,000.00 to purchase laptops and school into Peck Elementary, which she iPads for all her students to use in their successfully did in 3 months while the classes to further increase their instrucnew Lora B. Peck Elementary was being tional programs and achievement. Ellen built. Peck Elementary continues to succontinues to keep in contact with her on cessfully thrive under her leadership by a regular basis. earning numerous distinctions from the Texas Education Agency under the new Principal Brown is a native Houstonian. She has earned several degrees, being accountability system. short of earning her Doctorate in EducaPrincipal Brown continues to put children tional Leadership, for which she will be goand family at the forefront in her pering back to complete in the fall semester. sonal, as well as professional life. She Principal Brown has been inducted into utilizes her time, talents, and resources Order of Eastern Star, Alpha Kappa Alpha to bless others, especially underserved Sorority, Inc., Top Ladies of Distinction, children. She is known for shaping and Inc., Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and molding them to become productive The Links, Incorporated, as well as other citizens in society, teaching them to give esteemed organizations. She, along with back to their community as they grow, her husband are longtime members of gravitate through life, and prosper. PrinWindsor Village United Methodist Church, cipal Brown is a true believer in servant and she is a member of the Alter Guild at leadership and service to others who WVUMC. She is the wife of the late Jesse are underserved and voiceless. Principal Lee Brown, raising one precious child, Brown invited HISD’s Homeless DepartChanel Nicole and another little special ment into Peck in 2007. This department one, CoCo Ri Brown. She also has a services the entire district of children shiztzu that the family loves dearly, dotes who are identified as “homeless,” which on fervently, and cherishes to the highcontinues to be housed at Peck. During est degree. Principal Brown thanks God the transition to the new building on MLK daily for her many, many blessings, loving Blvd., Principal Brown asked them to what she does as not just her profession, move with her school so that they would but her passion. She is doing what God be centrally located to serve others who has deemed her to do in life, making her are in need of their services. life worthwhile by living, helping, impactOne of her proudest moments and es- ing, and blessing others in a positive and teemed accomplishments was when she nurturing way. and the department were featured on Channel 11 News last May, being interviewed by Mr. Len Cannon. After seeing this expose’ on television and for her Carlotta Outley Brown, M.Ed. heroic efforts of truly being inclusive of Principal – HISD all, Principal Brown, her students, faculty Lora B. Peck Elementary School and staff, and the entire school com- 5001 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. munity were ecstatically surprised and Houston, TX 77021-2711 awarded $100, 000.00 for Lora B. Peck 713-845-7463 Elementary, and she was personally giv- CBROWN9@houstonisd.org en $10,000.00 for her family by Ms. El- www.houstonisd.org/peck
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Congratulations to the
2016 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston
Nicole and Anthony West, Principals
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Victoria Ai Linh Bryant, PharmD President, World Chamber of Commerce Texas
giving back to the community through volunteerism. She has participated on twelve plus medical missions to Vietnam and Brazil since 1996. She is a regular keynote speaker on topics that empower women and prepare our next generation of leaders through life skills and entrepreneurship to compete in the global economy. She is currently a candidate for the 2016 Houston Independent School District, Board of Trustee District VII. Dr. Bryant has been interviewed and quoted on numerous media outlets including FOX 26, KHOU 11, VAN TV, SGN TV Network, Comcast, Southern TV 55.5, VieTV, Vinamax TV, HTV, and Radio Saigon.
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ictoria Ai-Linh Bryant is a successful entrepreneur and registered pharmacist with more than 17 years of pharmacy, home care, and long-term care consulting experience. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Houston College of Pharmacy. In 2003, Dr. Bryant founded Ambassadors Caregivers, a home care agency that serves seniors, the disabled and elderly population in the Greater Houston area. Her entrepreneurial spirit has led her to other healthcare ventures.
Dr. Bryant was named one of ten “Women on the Move of 2015” by the Texas Executive Women, featured as “Who’s Who of Asia Houston” by Southern TV 55.5, named “40 Under 40” by the Houston Business Journal in 2014, VAN TV Community Leader Award 2014, and was recognized as one of the “50 Most Influential Women of 2013” by Houston Woman Magazine. She was awarded the SuperLady 2014 Award and received the Commander’s Medal by VFW Post 9182 in 2011. She is also a graduate of the Leadership Houston the World Chamber of Commerce of Tex- Class 31 and American Leadership Foas (WCCT). She also serves on the Altus rum Class XXXX. Foundation (board member); University of When she’s not busy with the activities listHouston College of Education Dean’s Aded above, Dr. Bryant emcees conferences visory Council; University of Houston Coland forums, travels, remodels homes, lege of Business Dean’s Advisory Council; models for designers and charities, sings and Memorial Hermann Southwest Hos- on the praise team, and devotes time to pital Women’s Advisory Council. Previous better her health. Dr. Bryant is fluent in board experiences include: President of English, Vietnamese, and French. the Vietnamese American Chamber of Commerce of Houston (VACCH); President of the Texas Asian Republican Club; Victoria Ai Linh Bryant, PharmD board member of the American Lung As- President sociation; and treasurer of Voice to the World Chamber of Commerce Texas Founder Nations Foundation.
Dr. Bryant is a prominent community Ambassadors Caregivers leader who serves on several boards and Dr. Bryant is a proven leader who is pas- Candidate 2016 committees. She is currently President of sionate about education, business, and Houston ISD Board of Trustee District VII 60
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Frances Castañeda Dyess President, Houston East End Chamber of Commerce
munity causes throughout Houston. She chaired the 2009 Talento Bilingue de Houston (TBH) Gala; the 2011 Girls Inc. Luncheon; in 2013 co-chaired the El Centro de Corazon Luncheon; and the 2016 working chair for CPS’s 50th Anniversary Luncheon. This year she began her fourth year mentoring girls at Galveston’s Ball High School through Texas Executive Women, and annually, she organizes a senior student luncheon with scholarship awards to seniors. She is a former board member of the Sam Houston Council Boy Scouts, Texas Executive Women, and TBH. Her current Board of Director appointments include: • American Leadership Forum • Harris County Child Protective Services • East Downtown RA/TIRZ Frances is also a member of: • Houston Community College Bond Oversight Committee • Rotary Club of Harrisburg • American Leadership Forum Class of XXVII
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rances Castañeda Dyess is a native Houstonian, driven by passion for her community and championing the advancement of businesses as the engines of economic progress.
Among her many honors, Frances was named one of Houston’s 50 Most Influential Women of 2015 by Houston Woman Magazine. She was also recognized as a 2012 Outstanding Hispanic Community Leader by the Houston Dynamos, a 2010 Hispanic Women in Leadership Recipient, and a 2008 Woman on the Move.
Much of her passion for the East End stems from her deep dedication to her childhood community. Frances helped launch a new initiative, the East End Education Symposium, to highlight the national shortage of engineering graduates and skilled technicians throughout the U.S. She also helped create and launch East End My Career She has completed ten full marathons and Path, a soft-skills program that prepares enjoys world traveling with her husband, students for college and careers. John and spending time at their East End Prior to joining the Chamber, Frances was home with their German Shepherd dogs.
Frances joined the Houston East End Chamber of Commerce in 2010 as President. Under her leadership, she’s driven significant growth in Chamber membership and operating revenue, solidifying the economic presence, investment and Director of Corporate Services for the Houclout of this area adjacent to downtown ston Rockets. A graduate of Southern Houston. Methodist University, she worked in the In addition to creating economic and advertising industry in Dallas and returned workforce development programs, East to her beloved Houston with Lopez Negrete End member businesses have followed Communications.
Frances Castañeda Dyess President Houston East End Chamber of Commerce 550 Gulfgate Center Houston, TX 77087 713-926-3305 her lead by creating and leveraging new Frances believes deeply in the power of frances@eecoc.org relationships and strategic partnerships. community and supports numerous com- www.eecoc.org 62
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Denise Castillo-Rhodes
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Texas Medical Center by the Mayor to accept donations to aid storm victims and relief organizations suffering from this year’s disaster.
Denise Castillo-Rhodes Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Texas Medical Center 6550 Bertner Avenue Houston, TX 77021 713-791-6454 | www.tmc.edu
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enise Castillo-Rhodes was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Texas Medical Center on December 1, 2008. In this position, she is responsible for accounting, finance, billing and collections, tax compliance and investments. Denise serves as Chair of the Audit and Finance Committee of Texas Medical Center Central Heating and Cooling Services Cooperative Corporation (“TECO”) and on its Executive Committee. She also serves on the Audit and Finance Committee of the Houston Academy of Medicine-Texas Medical Center Library, a Texas Medical Center Member Institution. In addition to her role as CFO of Texas Medical Center, Denise serves in executive leadership roles with numerous nonprofit charitable organizations. Denise serves on the Board of Directors and is Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee of the University of St. Thomas, in Houston. She is the Treasurer of the Board of Directors and Chair of the Audit and Finance Committee of 64
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In 2015, Denise was named as one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Houston. In 2016, Denise was invited to join the International Women’s Forum. Denise was awarded Businesswomen of the Year in the nonprofit category at the 2016 Houston Business Journal Women Who Mean Business awards event. The Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce 2016 No Limits Conference for Women honored Denise as a Breakthrough Woman. In addition to this volunteer work, Denise also devotes time to various humanitarian causes, which have included visits to Ghana and Guatemala, where she has helped build a medical clinic and has assisted physicians and nurses who provide medical services to residents of Medical Bridges, an organization that these underdeveloped regions. recovers surplus medical supplies and equipment and distributes them to hos- Denise holds a Bachelor of Business pitals, clinics, and healthcare providers Administration from The University of in developing countries. She served as Texas at El Paso and a Master of Busithe 2015 Chair of the Greater Houston ness Administration from the University Women’s Chamber of Commerce. She of St. Thomas. She is a certified public is a member of the Executive Commit- accountant and is a member of the Textee of the Greater Houston Partner- as Society of Certified Public Accountship’s Executive Women’s Partnership ants and American Institute of Certified (EWP) and Healthcare Financial Man- Public Accountants. agement Association (HFMA). She is on the Board of Directors of the American Red Cross Greater Houston Area Chapter and the 2015-2016 Chair of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign. Denise serves on the finance committee of the Post Oak Montessori School in Houston. Denise also serves on the Board of Directors of the Houston Better Business Bureau and is an alumna of the Center for Houston’s Future’s Spring 2012 Business/Civic Leadership Forum. She was recently asked to serve as a member of the Greater Houston Storm Relief Fund Oversight Committee established
Prior to joining Texas Medical Center, Denise was the Controller at Nabisco’s Houston manufacturing facility where she held various positions and traveled throughout the United States to other sister Nabisco facilities, as well as corporate headquarters to provide guidance and assistance on numerous projects. Prior to Nabisco, she worked in the Tax Department of the international public accounting firm of Ernst & Young LLP. Denise and her husband are the proud parents of their son, Jeff, and their 115 pound Newfoundland dog, Wilson.
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Marina Angelica Coryat Senior Manager, Community Affairs and Investments, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas of Houston, with 18 of those years in the Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD). As the SWMD Public Information Manager, she served as the chief spokesperson and managed information concerning department programs, storm disaster debris cleanup, special events, publications, press conferences, media interviews, website, social media, as well as mayor, city council, and open records requests. For over 10 years, Ms. Coryat produced/hosted the quarterly “Wasting No Time” HTV cable television program. Ms. Coryat also worked in the Mayor’s Citizens Assistance Office and the Housing and Community Development Department.
passion, Ms. Coryat was also recruited and is now on the Board of Directors with the United Way’s Career and Recovery Resources, Inc. Early 2016, Ms. Coryat became a “Big” to a “Little” with the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization, where she mentors an active and adorable nine year old boy. In addition to being vigilant for the community, Ms. Coryat also is concerned about the overall health and welfare of individuals. She advises the T3 Health and Wellness Ministry, as well as serves on the Prayer Team at Windsor Village United Methodist Church.
A graduate of Cornell University, this Ivy- Her most recent awards: • d-mars.com Top 50 Black HMWP leaguer is not content with resting on her Award (2014 and 2015) laurels. In 2016, she completed Center for Houston’s Future Spring Forum, where • Texas Women’s Empowerment she joined other leaders across the city Foundation’s International Leadership as part of Houston’s Regional Think Tank. Award 2014) arina Angelica Coryat is the This was definitely complementary to her • Top Ambassador Award – Greater Senior Manager of Commugraduation from Leadership Houston’s Houston Partnership (2015) nity Affairs and Investments Class XXIX in 2011. for Blue Cross and Blue • Top Rookie of the Year – Greater Shield of Texas’ Southeast Texas Region As a representative for Blue Cross and Blue Houston Partnership’s Ambassador which spans from Victoria to Beaumont, Shield of Texas, Ms. Coryat oversees the program (2015) including Bryan-College Station, Port Arthur, various chamber relationships. Through this • Lifetime Member – Greater Houston Huntsville, Temple, Galveston, and Houston. affiliation, she is a member of the Greater Partnership (2015) In this position, she strengthens brand rep- Houston Partnership, the Hispanic Chamber • Corporate Brass in Who’s Who in utation and presence in the region by en- of Commerce, the Greater Houston Black Black Houston publication (2015 and gaging in specific community involvement Chamber of Commerce, the Asian Cham2016) activities, managing strategic corporate in- ber of Commerce, Camara de Empresarios, vestments, and establishing and maintain- the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of ing mutually beneficial media, governmental Commerce, and the Greater Houston West Ms. Coryat was born in Port-of-Spain, Triniand key stakeholder relationships, as well as Chamber of Commerce. dad and moved to the United States with directing the employee volunteer programs. On her personal side, Ms. Coryat is a Life- her parents at the age of one. She loves
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Prior to her current position, Ms. Coryat took a leap of faith from her secure position at the City of Houston to venture into the private sector to work for the McDonald’s Owner-Operators of Greater Houston’s public relations (PR) agency. She coordinated PR activities including local promotion of nutritional product activations, national topspin programs, special events, and media collaborations.
time Member of the Greater Houston Partnership (GHP) and serves as a GHP Ambassador. She is also an active Board Member of the Houston Area Urban League (HAUL), where she chairs the Fund Development Committee. This active Urban Leaguer has agreed to serve as the Co-Chair for the HAUL’s 49th Annual Equal Opportunity Day Gala on June 17, 2017. Ms. Coryat’s desire is to see individuals grow to their fullest poMs. Coryat is a 21-year veteran of the City tential and reach their destiny. Due to this 66
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travelling, meeting people, and enjoys learning about various cultures. Marina Angelica Coryat Senior Manager, Community Affairs and Investments Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas 1800 W. Loop South, Suite 600 Houston, TX 77027 marina_coryat@bcbstx.com www.bcbstx.com
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Katya Glockner Dow, Esq.
Adjunct Law Professor & Legal Program Director, Juvenile and Capital Advocacy Project University of Houston Law Center important mission, so that young men and women who have committed minor offenses can have their records sealed in order for them to become eligible for jobs, receive financial aid for college, federal housing loans, and have the opportunity to serve in the US military. As a former volunteer for Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Houston, and having previously served as a guardian ad litem for children in the Child’s Advocates organization, Katya has shown a deep and enduring commitment to the welfare of our community’s least advantaged youth. She balances this commitment with being a wife to her husband, David and a mother to their son, Lincoln and Delano, the family dog. She is also a champion Latin ballroom dancer and a passionate fitness advocate, as well as a certified Mindfulness Coach, enthusiastically promoting the value of mindfulness training. Katya Glockner Dow, Esq. Adjunct Law Professor Legal Program Director Juvenile and Capital Advocacy Project University of Houston Law Center 4604 Calhoun Road Houston, TX 77204-6060 713-743-1011 www.jcaptexas.org
Katya Glockner Dow is an innovative advocate who is devoted to improving the lives of juveniles in the Houston community. A mother, wife, and lawyer who formerly practiced commercial litigation in Houston, Katya is currently the Legal Program Director for the Juvenile and Capital Advocacy Project, a nonprofit organiza68
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tion based at the University of Houston Law Center, dedicated to improving the lives of youth in socially and economically disadvantaged areas. As an adjunct professor at UH Law Center, she teaches a course of juvenile record sealing and spends countless hours sealing juvenile records for no cost. She finds this an
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Debbie Drury President, Market Doctors
has contributed to numerous organizations for many years, as Debbie believes in paying it forward. Debbie knows that when you give, you are blessed abundantly, but she doesn’t give to receive. She gives because she knows to whom much is given, much is required. Debbie’s achievements and recognition include: • 2016 Vendor of the Year (for 5-10 million in revenue) from WBEA • WBE 2016 Star of the Year • 2015 Enterprising Women Woman of the Year • Named by Houston Business Journal as the 4th fastest growing woman-owned business in 2014 • AMOCO Federal Credit Union Monthly Star Choice Award • Featured in Life Simple • Featured in Elle Décor • Featured in Bloomberg Businessweek Magazine • Named by Fortune Magazine as one of 5 top women leaders in Houston
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ebbie Drury is founder and CEO of Market Doctors, a Houston-based, womanowned enterprise. Market Doctors has been providing valuable marketing services to over 330 enterprises nationwide since 1998. Market Doctors combines traditional direct mail with interactive digital technology. Market Doctors’ digital Kiosk provides Debbie’s clients innovation and a competitive advantage. Market Doctors’ retention rate and return on investment exceeds industry standards. Debbie has always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and at the age of 23, she started her first business venture. She was young, eager, fearless, and had an
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attitude that she could take on the world. This first entrepreneurial experience was an opportunity for Debbie to develop into a leader and learn critical lessons in life. She learned to dream big, work hard, stay focused, and keep your faith to do anything in life you choose to do. Much hasn’t changed since then, as she still has the business mindset to achieve greatness. She is doing just that through Market Doctors.
Market Doctors is an active member of the Clear Lake area and the Alvin-Manvel Chamber of Commerce. Debbie is an active member of her local church, Vice Chairman of the Board for Texas EquuSearch, and she is a motivational speaker. She is the proud mother of 2 children, Brian and Bailey, and grandmother of 2 beautiful grandchildren, Jordan and Alexis. She is a focused, intense, and a passionate business woman with a strong faith in God. It is this faith that helps her balance her duties to her family, community, team members, and customers.
Over the years, Debbie has developed close working relationships with many clients. These business interactions have allowed her the opportunity to interact with many of Houston’s political, business and community leaders, as well as many charitable organizations. Market Doctors
Debbie Drury President Market Doctors 1111 FM 646 Road North Dickinson, TX 77539 832-340-7329 www.MarketDoctors.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2016
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Amanda Edwards Council Member At-Large Position 4
recognized in a litany of publications and has received numerous awards. However, Council Member Edwards is most deeply rewarded by positively impacting others and empowering communities. Currently, Council Member Edwards serves as the Vice Chair of the Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee and on the Economic Development and Transportation, Technology and Infrastructure Committees. While on Council, Council Member Edwards is working to address the city’s fiscal issues and to comprehensively and innovatively address our urban core needs so that Houston can be the place where the Gulf Coast and the world’s future meet. Amanda Edwards Council Member At-Large Position 4 City Hall Annex 900 Bagby, First Floor Houston, TX 77002 832-393-3012 Atlarge4@houstontx.gov www.houstontx.gov
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ouston City Council Member Amanda K. Edwards serves as the City Council Member in At-Large Position 4. Council Member Edwards is also an attorney who specializes in public finance matters, in which she solves complex issues relating to tax-exempt bond financings, public-private partnerships, community development projects and nonprofit organizations. Council Member Edwards obtained her Bachelor of Arts from Emory University and her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law 70
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School. Before returning to Houston to enter private practice and public service, she served as a judicial law clerk to The Honorable Ivan L. R. Lemelle of the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Council Member Edwards remains active in the broader community. She has served on several nonprofit boards of directors, and she is the immediate past Chair of the Board of Project Row Houses. Because of her legal work and her lifelong passion for improving communities, Council Member Edwards has been
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Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz Houston Community College, Board Secretary & District IV Trustee
nally, Dr. Evans-Shabazz is a member of the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. Dr. Evans-Shabazz is the Houston Community College Trustee serving District IV and serves as the board secretary. Her mantra is “If I can help somebody as I pass along this way, then my living will not be in vain” and thus feels that public service is her calling. Her goals for her district are to provide information, as well as seek resources for her constituents regarding accessing the vast opportunities available at the college. She feels that education is the key to changing the circumstances of entire families. Statistically, parents that are gainfully employed tend to engage in the educational process of their children. She further feels that you must bring the college to the community and not always rely on potential students to seek out the college. She seeks to provide avenues for this outreach and intends to engage with community organizations and job fair venues to encourage enrollment of people from all walks of life.
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r. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz is a native Houstonian from Third Ward, Texas, and a proud graduate of Jack Yates High School. She is a graduate of Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. She has a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Doctorate of Education (Counselor Education) from Texas Southern University. Although she wears many hats, she had a long career working as a teacher and a 72
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Dr. Evans-Shabazz’s family hails from Prairie View, Texas, as her grandfather was the first president of the university. Her parents were the late Edward B. “Doc” Evans, the coach for many years of the mighty Jack Yates lion’s basketball team and the late Catherine Williams Evans, a teacher in the Houston Independent School District. She is the second child and has four siblings, Bert, Cathy, Charlotte, and Marc. She is married to Lead Evaluation Specialist before retiring Malik Shabazz, a local landscape design from the Houston Independent School business owner. District in 2009. As an Executive Committee member of the NAACP-Houston Branch, and in particular as chairwoman Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz of the Education Committee, she stays Houston Community College very active in the community addressing Board Secretary & District IV Trustee issues to bring about equality for all peo- Houston Community College ple. She has been a realtor in Houston district.4@hccs.edu for over twenty years. She is a member www.hccs.edu of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and a grief facilitator at Bo’s Place. Fi-
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HOUS T O N C O M M U N I T Y C O LLE G E
CONGRATULATES
DR. CAROLYN EVANS-SHABAZZ AS ONE OF THE TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON
hccs.edu
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Sameera Faridi
Director & Designer, Poshak Fashion & Style After years of panel judging, guest speaking, and community engagements, Sameera is currently President of the Fashion Advisory Board at Houston Community College, the home of where her fashion passion took flight. Sameera has been recognized by the Houston Press in 2013 and has been awarded as the NAPW Professional Woman of the year in 2014. She was also nominated as one of the Emissary for the prestigious Aga Khan Foundation Houston for her work spreading awareness to end global poverty. As Poshak Fashion & Style continues to be the go-to designer boutique for South Asian fashion, its expansion to clientele outside of the South Asian decent has contributed greatly to it becoming a wellknown Houston staple.
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s Director and Designer of Poshak Fashion & Style, Sameera Faridi knows that fashion is symbolic. It’s quite literally the thread between culture, history, and personality. It is single-handedly the most expressive art form to date, and as the years and trends come and go, one thing remains. Fashion is constant. When it comes to fashion, Sameera and her designs are not only known in Houston, but around the world.
for creativity became more than just a pastime once she relocated from Middle East to USA. Upon arrival to the states, the renowned design program at Houston Community College became Sameera’s springboard into the world of fashion and soon, the stepping stone to opening her own boutique.
Sameera was awarded Best in Show at the 2004 Chic Streak Fashion Show, which kicked off a number of features and participation over the next few years in local Sameera was born in Riyadh Saudi Ara- fashion events. She was the first female bia. From an early age, Sameera was South Asian designer to showcase her colimmersed in the world of fashion. Her lection at Fashion Houston in 2014. father, Muzahir Faridi started a South Gaining rapid popularity, Poshak FashAsian boutique in 1992 in Riyadh. In ion & Style wasn’t only turning heads ina few years, they became the leading store. Poshak Fashion & Style has been South Asian Store for ethnic clothing and in business for over 10 years, and the school uniforms. Although Sameera be- boutique has celebrated astounding acgan her studies in pre-med, her passion complishments. 74
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Sameera has never been one to keep herself in a box when it comes to her fashion business. While successfully running Poshak Fashion & Style, she expanded her fashion empire and started Sameera Faridi Design Studio, which is now one of the most talked about South Asian bridal boutiques in the United States. Sameera’s design house has a philosophy to give clients a special experience when shopping for the perfect bridal and formal ensemble. A client’s personal touch with their imagination and Sameera’s design approach keeps her fashion business above the rest. Sameera wants to turn her brand into a lifestyle brand. Her goal is to be able to enrich the lives of all the people who choose to live a life of style. As a mentor to fashion students, passing on her cultural inspirations to the next generation is her greatest satisfaction. Sameera Faridi Director & Designer Poshak Fashion & Style 6620 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77074 713-532-3232
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Victoria A. Guster-Hines
Vice President, Operations & Franchising, McDonald’s – Houston Region African American Women on the Top. Victoria serves as McDonald’s Vice President of Operations and Franchising for the Houston Region, overseeing 800+ restaurants. She has a deep, enriched understanding of the business which provides resources as McDonald’s continues to grow the business and serve the community. She drives results through valuing her Owner/Operator Partners and Regional Staff. Victoria continues to lead the system in executing at a high level for “every day customer good” service and hospitality. She is also committed to optimizing and promoting business performance while being successful in developing a plethora of others and providing personal development and strategic leadership. As an ambassador for the McDonald’s brand, Victoria always does “the right things, in the right way, for the right reasons.” Victoria A. Guster-Hines Vice President Operations & Franchising McDonald’s – Houston Region 3707 Cypress Creek Pkwy., Suite #300, Houston, TX 77068 281-580-3322 | www.mcdonalds.com
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ictoria will tell you that her most accomplished recognition is being the proud mother to Douglas William Hines, and aunt to Eugena, Crystal, and Victoria. She contributes much of her success to her rock solid family foundation and the overwhelming love and support given by her sister, Debra M. Guster and cousin, Mary “Bobby” McDonald. Victoria is a poised and articulate executive who thrives on leading, learning, and making a difference. She sets a foundation with true interest in mutual success for all and leads with a purpose. She exemplifies value and leadership behaviors by promoting an environment of high integrity, both personally and professionally. Her collaborative leadership style 78
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She prides herself in living by the Four Agreements: • Be impeccable with your word. • Don’t make assumptions.
• Don’t take anything personally. enables her to maximize team perfor• Always, always, always do your best. mance and business results. She is an accomplished, highly motivated, results driven professional, with a proven track As a mother, daughter, aunt, and sister, record in operations, people, and manshe is a provider, role model, care givagement expertise. er, friend, and leader. As a server, emShe began her career with McDonald’s ployee, and employer, she is a strategic as a Manager Trainee after graduating thinker, results driver, fast learner, and from college in the Michigan and talent builder. As an academic achievachieving her MBA in Indiana. Victoria er, she is an excellent communicator, advanced her way through the system LAMP achiever, and MBA holder. As a in various positions totaling twenty spiritual believer, she is a server, participromotions and seven relocations to pator, definer, and believer in all things become an officer of the McDonald’s for the greater good. One of her favorite Corporation. She has been widely Bible verses is from Romans 8:28 which recognized within McDonald’s, honored reads, “And we know that all things work as an Arthur Hill High School Alumnus together for good to them that love God, in 2006, as well as featured in the to them who are the called according to EBONY Magazine article McDonald’s his purpose.”
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Ana Hernandez State Representative, District 143
ters. She enjoys spending time with her son, Gregory Eli. Ana graduated from Sam Rayburn High School in Pasadena when she was 16 years old, and she received her Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Psychology from the University of Houston. During her undergraduate studies, Ana participated in a Peace Corps internship program in South Africa where she worked with local community leaders as they rebuilt their educational system post-apartheid. She went on to receive her Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Texas School of Law in May of 2004. In addition to representing District 143 in the Texas House of Representatives, she also practices law at Soto & Hernandez, L.L.P. Ana believes in serving her community and has volunteered and served on the boards of various professional, civic and charitable organizations. She has received numerous awards and honors including the Texas Association of Bilingual Educator’s “Community Advocacy Award” and recognition as a 2014 and 2015 “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers Magazine and a “2014 Distinguished Alumnus” by Sam Rayburn High School. She has also been honored as a champion for women’s health by both Planned Parenthood and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Additionally, Ana has been included in Hispanic Business magazine’s “Most Influential List” and named as one of “20 Latino Democrats to Watch” by the Houston Chronicle.
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tate Representative Ana Hernandez was elected in a special election in December 2005 to represent District 143 in the Texas House of Representatives. District 143 covers part of Houston, Channelview and the cities of Galena Park and Jacinto City. She serves on the House Committee
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on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence and Ana Hernandez on the House Committee on Pensions. State Representative She is currently serving her fifth full term. District 143 1233 Mercury Drive
Ana was born in Reynosa, Mexico and Houston, TX 77029 raised in Pasadena, Texas. She comes 713-675-8596 from a very close-knit and hardworking www.house.state.tx.us family and is the younger of two daugh-
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Loren Lane
First Lady of Texas Southern University & Key Account Manager, EMD Soreno, Inc. mentoring those students through graduation. Lane’s career in executive health care includes developing analysis, advocacy, and comprehensive marketing strategies. Lane is currently the Key Account Manager (neurology) for EMD Serono, Inc., managing sales, budget, marketing, communications, and compliance for the Texas region. Her past professional experience is impressive, as she has served in the following roles: • Neurology Diagnostic Imaging Representative for General Electric (Houston) • Senior Osteoporosis Specialty Representative for Merck and Company, Inc. (Houston and New York) • Ophthalmology Specialty Representative • Manager of Public Relations and Advocacy Development for the Pharmacia Corporation (now Pfizer, Inc.) in New Jersey and New York Loren Lane First Lady of Texas Southern University Key Account Manager EMD Soreno, Inc. www.emdserono.com
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Lane is dedicated to servant leadership, both at Texas Southern University and in the Houston community. Her personal motto comes from India’s renowned civil rights leader, the late Mahatma Gandhi – academic quality, culture, funding, and “The best way to find yourself is to lose partnerships. She is committed to rais- yourself in the service of others.” ing funds for students in at-risk situations Lane and her father were also fond of who are approaching graduation. She is Gandhi’s most-popular philosophy, “If Chair of the university’s signature event, we could change ourselves, the tendenA Maroon and Grey Affair, and the 2017 cies in the world would also change. As Coronation Ball for Miss TSU. a man changes his own nature, so does Lane earned an Executive Master of Busi- the attitude of the world change towards ness Administration degree from the C.T. him. We need not wait to see what others Bauer College of Business at the Univer- do…” – a quote that was shortened and sity of Houston and a Bachelor of Arts de- more recognized as, “Be the change you gree in Journalism and Mass Communi- wish to see in the world.”
oren Lane is the First Lady of Texas Southern University. Lane is the wife of the new President of Texas Southern University, Dr. Austin A. Lane. Her role goes beyond being the wife of the President, leading a mentorship program for freshmen to help them secure their path toward graduation within four years. She is responsible for cultivating initiatives to secure funding for scholarships and serving as a special ambassador for Texas Southern University students in all classifications. cations from Rutgers University. She was Lane’s priorities at Texas Southern Univer- an adjunct professor at Lone Star College, sity are aligned with Dr. Lane’s vision for teaching a required course introducing the university, including student success, new students to higher education and 82
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Lane is a member of Jack and Jill, Inc. She and her husband are members of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. They have three children – Lauren, Chase, and Lance.
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Nancy J. Li
President, Easton Resource Development Inc. qihar University and later for the Westlake Group headquartered in Houston. In February 1996, she settled down in Houston and in 1997 established Easton Resource Development.
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ancy J. Li is the Founder and President of Easton Resource Development, Inc., an education consulting and public relations firm in Houston. Her Houston centered commitments to public service include the following organizations: • Chair of the Board, the US-China Peoples Friendship AssociationHouston Chapter • Council Member, Houston Mayor’s Office for International Trade and Affairs • Trustee, Holocaust Museum and Foundation Board • Director, China’s Qiqihar City Municipal Government USA Office • Official Representative of China’s Hainan Provence Commerce Department • Council Member, Heilongjiang China’s Provincial Association of International Exchange of Personnel • Director, China Qiqihar University USA Office • Senior Consultant, Tianjin Normal University, China • Professor, Qiqihar University • Honorary Deputy Sheriff, Harris County Nancy was born and educated in north China. She worked there for seven years as an Associate Professor with Qi84
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Her move to Houston afforded her opportunities for active involvement and community leadership. From 2006 to 2010, she was the first mainland Chinese elected President of the US-China Peoples Friendship Association-Houston Chapter. During her presidency, she created the Friendship Ambassador Awards to annually honor two distinguished individuals who have contributed to improved understanding and cooperation between the United States and China. She also created the Student Ambassador Scholarship to encourage young Americans to learn more about China. Through her company, she regularly organizes and coordinates leadership training programs for Chinese government officials and industry executives to learn more about American businesses and universities. She also designs customized learning programs and study abroad opportunities for Chinese and American high school and college students attending Rice University, Texas Southern University, University of St. Thomas, and other colleges and universities. She has also been instrumental in developing exchanges and ties among Chinese educators, experts and officials with American executives and academic institutions. In December of 2012, she coordinated with the China Foreign Expert Bureau to bring Physics Nobel Laureate Dr. George Smoot to China as part of the Top Talented Program. As much a business builder and an educational developer, Nancy has received recognition and acknowledgements from Houston and surrounding area school districts, the State of Texas, and on a federal level for the impact her work has had on industry and education. Nancy was
honored as a featured commencement speaker at The Art Institute of Houston. For the world’s largest science fair, the annual International Sustainable World (Energy, Engineering & Environment) Project Olympiad held each year in Houston at the George R. Brown Convention Center, Nancy represents Harmony Public Schools in the selection of school science projects from China. Nancy was inducted in the 2010 American Leadership Forum and remains the only mainland Chinese selected for this program. In 2010, she received the USChina Peoples Friendship Ambassador Award with former Houston Mayor Annise Parker. In 2011, she was selected for the Board of Directors of the Holocaust Museum and Foundation as the very first mainland and non-Jewish Chinese. In 2013, Nancy initiated and implemented an international conference of Holocaust Museums held for the first time ever in China, which highlighted in history Jewish refugees welcomed to China during the Second World War. Nancy is a tireless, dynamic, and inclusive Houston leader who embraces diversity. She has worked closely with Chinese, Taiwanese, Jewish, Vietnamese, Japanese, Pakistani, Indian, African-American, and other communities in America. She has been invited to present speeches to many organizations on education, leadership, and diversity among many other topics. As a doer and a leader, it is her mission and passion to work with local and global leaders to make the world a more peaceful and better place for all. Nancy J. Li President Easton Resource Development Inc. 7324 Southwest Freeway Suite 240 Houston, TX 77074 713-782-5577 www.eastonresource.com
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Rania Mankarious, MA, JD Executive Director, Crime Stoppers of Houston
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atching the eye of the community, in March of 2013, Ms. Rania Mankarious was chosen to lead Houston’s leading public safety nonprofit organization, Crime Stoppers of Houston. In her three years at the helm, Mankarious has brought the organization to new heights, making changes that have positively impacted abused children, domestic violence victims, human trafficking victims, homeless animals, entire student bodies, and school campuses, neighborhoods, businesses, and more. Her incredible vision led her to be named one of Houston’s 50 Most Influential Women in 2013.
ultimately, her home of Houston, Texas. Upon arriving in Houston, Mankarious was quickly welcomed at KHOU Channel 11 as a legal analyst and family matters expert for Great Day Houston and KHOU morning news. Her role as an on-air expert grew and she began contributing to KTRK, KPRC, FOX26, and most other main stream Houston media outlets.
Under Mankarious’ leadership, Crime Stoppers has organized some of Houston’s most sweeping public safety and crime fighting efforts doing many things including launching law enforcement “fugitive sweeps” – programs where teams of law enforcement go out and execute warrants against those wanted Mankarious received a Bachelor degree for crimes against children, family vioin Psychology, Theology, and Pre-Medlence and/or animals. icine from Boston College, a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy Additionally, at the helm of Crime Stopfrom Gordon Conwell, and a Doctorate of pers, Mankarious has directed its reJurisprudence completed at the Univer- sources to focus on the prevention of sity of Houston Law Center. Her work led crime and the protection of our society’s her to projects in Boston, New York and most vulnerable citizens. New programs 88
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like the Fallen Hero Project focus on the protection of first responders killed or injured in the line of duty. It was this program that was recognized as being the reason the suspects wanted for the shooting of Officer Ann Carrizales in Stafford, Texas were found. The story, made national and international news as an example of the way the Houston community organized citizens, nonprofits, law enforcement and the media to protect law enforcement. Mothers Against Crime is also a creation of Mankarious. This program focuses on crimes against women in the community and involves a series of discussions that bring women and parents from all over the city together with industry experts to discuss crime topics and trends. Additionally, Mankarious has made the school safety a top priority by making sure the Crime Stoppers’ Safe School Program is offered free, to all students pre-k – 12th grade and in all schools. She further extended this program offering classes to parents, teachers and school based law enforcement. Recognizing that school time is valuable, she worked with her Safe School Manager to rewrite the program curriculum so that it would satisfy state mandates for public schools and thereby further encouraging schools to sign up. To date, this program has solved 2,000 criminal school cases and removed almost 200 weapons found on school campuses before they could be used against students. Mankarious is a wife and mother of three. She loves her family and her city. She is a firm believer that one must invest positively in their surroundings in a pro-active manner. Rania Mankarious, MA, JD Executive Director Crime Stoppers of Houston 3001 Main Street Houston, TX 77002 713-521-4600 www.crime-stoppers.org
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Dr. Saundra Montgomery
Life Coach, Author, Leadership Consultant & First Lady of Abundant Life Cathedral Educational Background: • University of Houston Extended Education • College of Biblical Studies Certified in Bible Study Methods • St. Thomas Christian College Honorary Doctorate of Divinity Honors & Awards: • 2016 Woman Who Cares Award • Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Mu Kappa Omega Chapter 2012 • Social Justice Human Rights Award • Philia Works of Houston 2011 Outstanding Leadership Award • COGI Ecumenical First Ladies 2011 Outstanding Leadership Award Outstanding • Women of Influence Award 2010 • First Lady Community Service Award • Business Women’s Award • The Butterfly Project Inc. (children with cancer) • 2006 Woman of Essence Featured Articles: • Charisma • Today’s Christian Woman
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aundra Montgomery, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, is a personal life coach to thousands of women across America. She is also an author, leadership consultant, and inspirational speaker. Saundra is the wife of Dr. Ed Montgomery (Founder and Pastor of Abundant Life Cathedral Church – Houston, TX). She has worked diligently by his side for 30 plus years. Saundra is a bold, dynamic, and engaging force that encourages everyone she meets to reach his or her full potential through serving a higher purpose. Saundra inspires woman to take leadership in life and build other leaders at the same time. Saundra’s life commitment
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Publications: • Saundra’s Kitchen to empowering women and teen girls is • God Is Doing a Good Work In You – Woman to Woman Magazine evident through the founding and direc• Gracefully Made torship of You! Woman in the Now (U• Gospel Truth Book Reviews WIN), a charitable organization. U-WIN is headquartered in Houston, Texas. U-WIN is a woman’s support system of cell groups that meet throughout Houston in women’s transitional facilities, nursing homes, and many other outlets. It is estimated that U-WIN has touched the lives of over one million women in its 27- year history – The actual number is probably beyond counting. U-WIN has been recognized and commended for services rendered by local, state, and national officials and community partners.
Saundra cherishes most of all her family. She resides in Houston with her husband Ed and two adult sons, Eddie and Simeon. Their daughter, Angela passed away at the tender age of 14 after a long battle with cancer. Dr. Saundra Montgomery Life Coach, Author & Leadership Consultant First Lady of Abundant Life Cathedral 281-983-8253 sem@alcchurch.org www.myalc.org
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Gigi Myung
President & CEO, GLM Energy, Inc. what our states use to determine the number of jail beds needed, she knew she had to do something. Hence, Gigi has become active with Alief ISD, as well as the Alief YMCA. She was on Alief’s Bond Committee to increase investments in the schools to provide better facilities, attract and retain great staff, and provide career paths that may or may not include a college degree. Gigi’s heart for helping others starts with her parents, who immigrated as students to the U.S. from Korea (and were later match-mated). She says, “My parents taught me that we were blessed to be a blessing to others. They influenced me to be generous of spirit, respect others, and lead by example. And henceforth, I find joy and success with my family, my friends, my faith, and my professional life.” As an executive, she has worked in the oil & gas, automotive, technology, and manufacturing sectors. Prior to her current role as President & CEO of GLM Energy, Inc., an oil and gas investment consultancy firm, her experience includes Toyota Motors Sales USA, Nissan Motor Corporation N.A., W.W. Grainger, Inc., Dell, Inc., The Home Depot, and Group 1 Automotive, Inc. She serves on the board of CDM Enterprise LLC and Optech4D, Inc.
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n 2005, Gigi Myung was transferred from Washington, D.C., to Houston, to work for W.W. Grainger, Inc. Two years later, she was recruited by Houston’s Group 1 Automotive, Inc. to lead their turnaround, and she retired at the end of 2011. After taking some time off to recharge from twenty-five years of leading for Fortune 500 companies, she found the time to serve on several nonprofits in both a board capacity and as a volunteer. Gigi serves on the Board of Directors for the American Red Cross, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Houston Arts Alliance Commission, YMCA of Alief, and Teen & Family Services. She is very active in the Greater Houston Partnership/Executive
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Women’s Partnership Executive Committee and the Center for Houston’s Future. Most recently, Gigi was appointed to the nonpartisan Texas Business Leadership Council, which is a statewide network of CEOs who advance a long-term vision to their elected leadership for a prosperous Texas in a globally competitive business environment. Houston Woman Magazine named her one of Houston’s Fifty Most Influential Women of 2015. After finishing the Center for Houston’s Future in 2013, she was inspired to make a difference in education. Upon hearing Rice University’s, Dr. Stephen Klineberg share the statistic that the number of kids who cannot read at a 3rd grade level by the 3rd grade is
Gigi earned a Master of Business Administration and a Master in International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Glendale, Arizona. She holds a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Tulsa in Oklahoma. She has lived in D.C., Chicago, Shanghai, Madrid, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Denver, Seoul, Tulsa, and Charleston, WV, but says, “Houston is my favorite home!” Gigi Myung President & CEO GLM Energy, Inc. 3131 Rosemary Park Lane Houston, TX 77082-6830 281-752-7633
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Toni D. Pierre
Business Change Manager, Amerigroup
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oni Pierre is a native of Ohio and holds both a Master’s and Bachelor of Science degree in Health Planning and Administration from the University of Cincinnati. She moved to Houston, Texas, in 1999 to assume the role of Associate Vice President of Provider Relations at Amerigroup-Houston. During her 17 year tenure at Amerigroup, Pierre has also served as Practice Management Consultant and Business Change Manager. Her career accomplishments include provider network development for the CHIP and Medicare Special Needs Plan programs and the integration of the physician, hospital, and ancillary networks Amerigroup obtained via two health plan acquisitions. She also served as practice management consultant, coaching primary care physicians and their staff on Amerigroup’s Pa-
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Pierre has strong family ties and credits her parents, both deceased, for setting an excellent example and always encouraging her to do her personal best. “They stressed the importance of education and the importance of giving back.” Pierre’s faith is an important part of her being. She is an active member of Missouri City Baptist Church (MCBC) and has a strong commitment to her church and the community. She is servant leader of the Youth Ministry and has coordinated a number of programs including Law Enforcement and the Community and Active Shooter Presentation. Pierre also has a passion for adoption. She has coordinated church observances of National Adoption Day to increase the awareness of children in need of a forever family that included a Calling out Ceremony and an Introduction to Adoption and Foster Care Program by Child Protective Services. She is an active member of the PEACE Team - a faith based mental health and wellness program at MCBC. As a member of the MCBC Health and Wellness Ministry, she coordinated the Breast Cancer Awareness and Red Dress Heart Health Luncheons. She and her brother, Byron Spruell also co-sponsor the Martin Luther King, Jr. essay contest for middle school and high school students. Pierre devoted 5 years as a volunteer with the Friendship Program of Franklin County and served as a volunteer with Silverado Hospice - Sugarland.
tient Center Medical Home model. Pierre currently manages the Texas Network Access Improvement Program (NAIP), a multimillion dollar state-wide initiative committed to improving access and quality of care for managed Medicaid members. She is a member of the Community Advisor Board She is the proud wife of Dennis and mother of the UT Community Health and Wellness to Tia Spruell, Atoria Pierre-Sykes, and sonin-law Brandon Sykes. Clinic – Victory Campus. Pierre has over 30 years of experience in managed care with an expertise in provider contracting, network development, operations, and provider relations. Prior to joining Amerigroup, she held management and executive management positions with Health Power HMO, Inc., United Health Care of Ohio, Inc., Principal Health Care of Ohio, Inc., ETHIX- CoMed Management, Inc., CIGNA Health Plan of Northeast Ohio, and Health America Corporation of Ohio.
Toni D. Pierre Business Change Manager Amerigroup 9800 Buffalo Speedway Suite 400 Houston, TX 77098 713-218-5127 Toni.Pierre@amerigroup.com www.amerigroup.com
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Sonia Rivera
President & CEO, Genesis Consulting, Inc. Summer Arts Camp at Talento Bilingue, Art Evolution, and Teen Evolution, in addition to participating in community service support programs. Genesis Consulting provides consulting services in the development, implementation, and management of new projects, from educational support programs to small business development projects. The company has expanded into project management, with a focus on project evaluation, setting policies, staffing, scheduling, staff development, and training. Sonia’s community involvement includes: • Hispanic Woman’s Network of Texas • Hispanic Woman in Leadership • Latino Learning Center • Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo • Board Secretary for Texas Association of Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) • Houston Advisory Board Hispanic Scholarship Forum
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onia Rivera is a native of Michigan, and she has lived in the Houston area since the age of 19. She is the daughter of Mexican Immigrants who spent the early part of her life as migrant farm workers and ultimately settled in the State of Michigan. While in college, she majored in Psychology and minored in Sociology. She has over 25 years of experience in project management, program development, staff training & development, writing policies & procedures for new companies, and she has participated in various community needs assessment projects. She spent the first 11 years working within the nonprofit sector, managing
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• Talento Bilingue de Houston Cultural Arts Center and developing youth programs under the Health and Human Service umbrella. In addition, she also has worked with youth in at-risk populations, providing Educational and Social Support Programs in the areas of Substance Abuse Prevention, Intervention, and Youth Homelessness prior to forming her own corporation and nonprofit in 2008 and 2010 respectively.
She is the newly selected National President of the National Hispanic Professional Organization (NHPO).
Sonia Rivera National President National Hispanic Professional Organization Youth Genesis is a Youth Services Corpo- President & CEO ration that includes programs in Leader- Genesis Consulting, Inc. 333 S. Jensen ship Development, Dropout Prevention, Houston, TX 77003 and Offender Education. As Founder 832-790-9140 and President, this nonprofit community info@soniarivera.us youth organization has produced pro- www.Soniarivera.us grams in the arts such as the Flor y Canto www.YouthGenesisConsulting.com
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Ingrid M. Robinson President, Houston Minority Supplier Development Council plier Diversity efforts. Robinson has now come full circle to lead the organization she once served as Assistant Director for in the mid 1990’s, when the Council was known as the Houston Minority Business Council (HMBC). While at the HMBC, she played an integral part in helping HMBC receive its first Council of the Year Award in 1999 from the National Minority Supplier Development Council. Now, she returns to the organization as it is awarded its 7th National Council of the Year Award for 2016. Robinson also served in various city and state governmental positions including terms in the City of Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Affirmative Action, the office of Texas State Senator Rodney Ellis, and the offices of Texas State Representatives Garnet Coleman and former Texas State Representative now US Congressman Henry Cuellar.
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ngrid M. Robinson is the President of the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council (HMSDC). HMSDC is a business development organization designed to actively involve its members, both minority business enterprises and major corporations in efforts to increase and expand business opportunities and business growth for Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) while driving excellence in supplier diversity and supplier development. Currently, HMSDC’s membership is comprised of more than 130 major corporations and close to 600 minority businesses. HMSDC MBEs have a total economic impact of $22.8 billion dollars on the economy with over $17.1 billion
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Robinson received a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from the University of Houston and completed the Community Minority Business Advancement Program at the University of Texas – McCombs School of Business. She graduated in May of 2010 with an Exdollars in annual revenue that results in ecutive Masters of Business Administrathe creation and/or preservation of more tion degree from Rice University. She has than 67,000 jobs. two teenage children, John-Anthony and Robinson is a former entrepreneur, own- Sydni. ing a small management consulting firm and has served as the Director of State Ingrid M. Robinson and Local Government Affairs for Hal- President liburton. In her role at Haliburton, she Houston Minority Supplier developed political strategies to promote Development Council and protect the interests and competi- Three Riverway, Suite 555 tiveness of Halliburton, its affiliates, and Houston, TX 77056 its individual facilities. 713-271-7805 Prior to assuming that role, she utilized Ingrid.Robinson@hmsdc.org her fifteen years of experience in minority www.hmsdc.org and women business development that includes private, government, and nonprofit sectors to lead Halliburton’s Sup-
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HMSDC is focused on deliberately growing the spend of major corpora�ons with minority business enterprise (MBEs). We are crea�ng innova�ve programs and providing solu�ons that will a�ract corpora�ons and government agencies to cer�fied MBEs. Regardless of the size of your firm HMSDC can help you grow your business. Make plans to take advantage of all the opportuni�es� programs and services available at HMSDC. �or more informa�on call (713) 271-7805 or visit us on the web at www.hmsdc.org.
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Kim Roxie
Creative Director, LAMIK Beauty ics boasting problem-solving products and Vegan-friendly makeup brushes. The makeup line is mostly packaged in post recycled paper components and manufactured in the USA. LAMIK is an acronym that stands for Love And Makeup In Kindness. LAMIK became a part of the Safe Cosmetics Campaign in 2005, because Roxie strives to create cosmetics that don’t sacrifice health or beauty. Her extensive cosmetic background qualifies her to be a chemist, and her beauty expertise puts her in the light of being a “Doctor of Makeup,” bringing healing to the world! The LAMIK mantra is “Beauty is revealed, not applied.”
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im Roxie’s passion for what she does is evident through her explanation: “I love enhancing women’s beauty by helping to build their self-esteem, making them feel good, and giving them more than what they expected in terms of revealing their natural beauty.” LAMIK Beauty offers women environmentally friendly makeup manufactured in the heart of the Lone Star State. “You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your health for beauty!” is a message Roxie expounds upon when referring to LAMIK being paraben-free; a chemical found in most makeup products and has been linked to cancer.
Becoming a community partner with the City of Houston Bureau of HIV/AIDS, Roxie designed a lip gloss called Status Red to encourage women and girls to know their status. Part of the proceeds from munity, we are committed to being innoThe Status Red Lip Gloss goes to the City vative and altering beauty to Go Green!” of Houston Bureau of HIV AIDS, furtherThe opportunities presented to LA- ing LAMIK’s mission of keeping women MIK Beauty for going Green have been and girls healthy. priceless. Houston Mayor Annise Parker Roxie has a Bachelor of Arts in Public Renamed June 23rd Kim Roxie Day in honlations from Clark Atlanta University. She or of Kim Roxie empowering the Houston is a licensed esthetician. Her calling into economy by launching the LAMIK line the beauty industry was more of a minisinto Macy’s stores in Texas, making Roxie try than a career – she wanted to break the youngest African-American woman to the often artificial and plastic stereotypes launch a full cosmetic line inside a major that often influence self-esteem issues. department store! LAMIK Beauty Cosmetics can be found Roxie was also selected and completed at the world-famous LAMIK Beauty flagthe Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Busiship store. LAMIK has been featured in nesses Program, an investment to help EBONY, Essence and Black Enterprise small businesses create jobs and ecoMagazine. nomic opportunity by providing greater access to business education, financial capital, and business support services. Roxie is also a Board Member for the Career & Recovery Resource Center.
Roxie has been honored along with Green Advocate Honoree Mayor Annise Parker at the Texas Black Expo Economic, Empowerment and Enterprise Summit as the 2012 Greenpreneur Honoree for the Roxie’s heart for women and dedication company’s Green practices. to their health through makeup and in“The Green effort is a part of my genera- novation has prompted LAMIK to become tion,” Roxie says. “As a business, we are the world’s #1 Eco-Chic Makeup line selling Green first; as a leader in the com- consisting of a full range of color cosmet98
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Kim Roxie Creative Director LAMIK Beauty 2610 Greenbriar Houston, TX 77098 www.lamik-beauty.com
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Gracie Saenz, Esq.
Founder & Attorney at Law, Saenz & Burkhardt, PLLC and Tourism Council. She also chaired the NAFTA Task Force for the City that sought to lobby the legislature for the eventual passage of the North American Free Trade Alliance. She was also a member of the Houston-Taiwan Trade Delegation to Taipei in the fall of 1994 that focused on strengthening Houston’s trade with Asia. Ms. Saenz was also the City’s member to the World Energy Cities Partnership, which sought to strength the relationships between the energy capitals of the world and was instrumental in bringing in the city of Villa Hermosa, Tabasco, Mexico as a participating member.
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racie Saenz was born and raised in the City of Houston. She is originally from the 5th Ward area of the City and is a shareholder in Saenz & Burkhardt, PLLC. Her practice focuses on government relations, business and commercial, and international business transactions. She is a former Houston City Council Member At-Large (at the time, the first Hispanic in the City of Houston’s history to be elected to an at-large position on the City Council) and Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Houston, having served in office from January 1992 through December 1997. During her term in office, Ms. Saenz was a strong supporter and advocate for youth programs and inner city redevelopment, and she did extensive work in the area of international relations for the City of Houston. She participated and chaired numerous committees and organizations: Ethics Council Committee; Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprise Council; Aviation Council; and the Business
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After graduating from law school, Ms. Saenz worked as a Harris County Assistant District Attorney, which provided her with experience in many areas of the law including the areas of Juvenile Justice, Domestic Violence, Felony & Misdemeanor Prosecutions and Grand Jury service. In 1990, Mrs. Saenz formed Burkhart & Saenz, where she practiced criminal and general practice law until 1992. In 1994, Ms. Saenz joined the law firm of Brocks, Baker & Lange, concentrating on International Business Transactions. She was a partner with the firm of Oppel, Goldberg & Saenz from 2000 to 2008 and currently has her own firm with former law partner Elizabeth Burkhardt in the East End of Houston – Saenz & Burkhardt, PLLC. In terms of community service, Ms. Saenz has served with many volunteer organizations and presently serves on the Board of Directors of Project GRAD; the Memorial Hermann Hospital – Community Relations Committee; the Advisory Board for the University of Houston Hobby Center for Public Policy; the Advisory Committee to the Dean of Liberal Arts at the U of H and in the past also served on the Boards for the American Leadership Forum; T.I.R.R., The Plaza Group and the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. She has also served on the DARE Corporation; the Covenant Community Capital Board; the Houston Small
Business Development Corporation; the University of Houston Law Foundation; the University of St. Thomas Board; the College of Biblical Studies; the Memorial/Hermann Hospital System; the UT-Houston, Health Science Center Foundation Development Board; and the Advisory Committee for the Junior League of Houston. She has been the Managing Partner for the Hispanic Sports Group since 2000 and is also a member of the local LULAC Council 643. Due to her extensive experience on nonprofit and for-profit boards, Ms. Saenz has developed extensive experience in the areas of board governance including the knowledge of the Open Meetings Act and ethics compliance of board members. She had previously also assisted the Harris County Housing Authority with development of their Policies and Procedures, as well as has been sought by other nonprofits to help organize, develop and implement their Conflicts of Interest Policies and Ethics compliance policies. Ms. Saenz has held the position as outside General Counsel to the L.A.R.A. Board of Directors since 2009. She is a proud graduate of the American Leadership Forum and the Center for Houston’s Future. Currently serves on the Advisory Board for the U of H Mexican American Studies Program, and she is Chairing their 2016 Luncheon for the Academic Achievers Program. Ms. Saenz received her B.A. in Spanish from the University of Houston and her law degree from the University of Houston Law Center. She is fluent in both the English and Spanish languages. She is the proud mother of 3 children and 15 grandchildren with her husband, Al Castillo. Gracie Saenz, Esq. Founder & Attorney at Law Saenz & Burkhardt, PLLC 5503 Lawndale Houston, TX 77023 281-888-4409 graciela@saenzburkhardt.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2016
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Sonya Taylor Stevenson Executive Director, The Fort Bend Church
to the children and youth of The Fort Bend Church and surrounding communities. Although spiritual in nature, the church is used as a vehicle to draw youth and children through creative ministry programming that provides constant exposure to the arts, educational opportunities, health awareness, and through missions/outreach efforts. Throughout each week, approximately 500 young people participate in various programs offered at the church. Sonya pioneered KALEIDOSCOPE, a 501(c)3 organization with a mission to develop youth as leaders and scholars. The vision began in 2010, with an inaugural luncheon that was attended by over 400 individuals to raise money for scholarships and enrichment programs. To date, KALEIDOSCOPE has contributed over $75,000 in scholarships, stipends, and programs that benefit youth and children through The Fort Bend Church to benefit Fort Bend County and the surrounding areas.
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onya Taylor Stevenson is the wife of Pastor Byron C. Stevenson, founder of The Fort Bend Church in Sugar Land, Texas. She is a summa cum laude graduate of Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she received a B.S. in Accounting in 1990. Additionally, she has completed coursework in education and business administration at the University of Houston. Borrowing from the phrase commonly used in education, “no child left behind,” as the Executive Director of The Fort Bend Church, Sonya firmly believes in this. She has personally adopted this philosophy when it comes 100
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Beyond these efforts, Sonya is actively engaged and has received recognition and numerous awards for her work in the community. She regularly volunteers in efforts that support schools in the Fort Bend Independent School District. She serves as a community service partner with the Sisters Network, Incorporated and extends her support to breast cancer awareness initiatives. She is passionate regarding her support of parents with children affected by Autism and thus pioneered the SPECTRUM Ministry at The Fort Bend Church. This ministry is geared towards providing a spiritual network for parents and children and ensures a safe environment for parents to leave their children while participating in worship and ministry activities. She also serves on the board of the Baptist Standard Publishing Company. She is a member of The Links, Incorporated,
Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and the Southern University Alumni Association. Sonya’s career path has included work as an Internal Auditor and Financial Analyst for Exxon Chemical Americas. She also worked as a Budget Analyst, Career and Technology Education Teacher and Business Manager for the Houston Independent School District. She is grateful for each assignment as she recognizes it was all a part of a greater plan to place her as Executive Director of The Fort Bend Church. Her experience and skills aided her in assisting her husband in establishing The Fort Bend Church in August of 2004, where they currently serve a congregation of over 5,800 members. Sonya firmly believes in investing in the future of our youth and children. Her goals include establishing a school that is an extension of the ministry of The Fort Bend Church, where students in the surrounding communities can be challenged academically while growing spiritually and being nurtured and developed into strong leaders of tomorrow. The oldest of two girls, Sonya and her husband Byron are high school sweethearts. They are the proud parents of two daughters, Claire Alexandra and Cydney Victoria. Sonya Taylor Stevenson Executive Director The Fort Bend Church 1900 Eldridge Road Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-980-8322 www.thebend.org
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First Lady Sonya Stevenson T H E F O RT B E N D C H U RC H FA M I LY C O N G R AT U L AT E S
WHOSE PASSION FOR C HRIS T AND HIS PEOPLE SHINE B R I G H T LY A S A N H O N O R E E !
Come join us in worship SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES AT 8:30 AM AND 10:30 AM
WWW.THEBEND.ORG 1900 ELDRIDGE ROAD • SUGAR LAND, TX 77478 • PHONE: 281.980.8322
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Tene Thomas, CPA Partner, McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP
companies, and high net worth individuals that promote long-term business success.
Tene Thomas, CPA Partner McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP 4828 Loop Central Drive, Suite #1000, Houston, TX 77081 713-968-1600 | www.mjlm.com
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ene Thomas is a Partner at McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP, the third largest African-American owned Accounting and Consulting firm in the nation. Tene, a licensed CPA who began her career with Ernst & Young LLP, is the lead partner of McConnell & Jones’ Tax Practice with more than 20 years of technical experience in tax compliance, 102
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planning, business management, and accounting services. She serves a myriad of industries including sports and entertainment, professional services, health care, real estate, manufacturing, and investment advisory services. She is knowledgeable and passionate about her work and enjoys providing diverse and comprehensive tax services to notable small businesses, mid-size
Tene is a graduate of California Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA, where she holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. While in college, she became the Controller overseeing a $2 million budget of a major Los Angeles Arts festival that boasted annual attendance of over 10,000 visitors and continued to lend her expertise for almost a decade to the nonprofit organization. She was also a fellow in the UCLA Anderson School of Management Riordan Fellows MBA Program, developed and founded by former LA Mayor Richard Riordan, which seeks to prepare individuals for leadership positions in the business community. As a graduate of Leadership Houston Class XXVIII, the City’s pre-eminent organization dedicated to identifying and developing leaders’ representative of Greater Houston, she has joined the alumni of an impressive network of business and civic leaders. She is committed to giving back to the broader community and served as the Treasurer and Finance Chair for the National Kidney Foundation of Southeast Texas for four years. Most recently, Tene contributed her expertise to business students at Texas Southern University for several years as an expert panelist for the Greater Houston Area Leadership Skills Development Program. She has also served as a weekly business contributor on CNN’s 650AM talk radio program “The Price of Business,” and has been called upon as an expert contributor in several articles for Accounting Today, a leading trade magazine. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is most fulfilled by her loving and devoted husband of 14 years, Shawn and their 4-year-old son, Blake, who is her “little sunshine.”
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Joi-Lin Venison, Esq. Co-Owner, Super Weave Xpress
out the hair industry was a multi-billion dollar industry. This was news to her, especially since she had never worn hair extensions. Determined to get into the hair industry, she and her husband partnered together and opened Crème de la Crème Hair, an upscale hair extension boutique in the Galleria area. Their hair extensions have been featured on television shows like VH1’s Basketball Wives and music videos of some of the hottest artists, including Justin Bieber. In 2012, Mrs. Venison wanted to reach the masses and become the “Forever 21” of the hair industry, so she and her husband opened the full-service hair salon, Super Weave Xpress. You know their slogan, “Super Weave Xpress is Houston’s Home of the $50 Sew-In Weave.” With its tremendous success and accelerated growth, Super Weave Xpress has become a multi-million dollar business, with 6 locations in Texas and Louisiana. Mrs. Venison is married to Corey Venison, and they have a daughter, Khloe (7) and a son, Corey (3). She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Joi-Lin Venison, Esq. Co-Owner Super Weave Xpress 6 locations in Texas and Louisiana 3113 Fountain View (Headquarters) Houston, TX 77057 832-729-4425 info@superweavexpress.com superweavexpress.com
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oi-Lin Hunt-Venison, Esq. is a true believer of anything can be achieved with hard work and dedication. After earning her law degree from Southern University and her Master’s degree in Tax Law from Southern Methodist University, Mrs. Venison worked for International Tax Advisors (ITA)
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as a tax attorney. A true entrepreneur at heart, in 2007, Mrs. Venison left ITA and opened her own law practice – The Hunt Law Group and her own income tax franchise - Caliente Xpress Tax Service. In 2010, Mrs. Venison saw the movie “Good Hair” and was astonished to find Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2016
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Teana V. Watson, Esq. Attorney & Founder, T.V. Watson Law, PLLC
In 1996, Watson opened her law practice, representing clients in State and Federal Court in Criminal and Civil matters and as general counsel to the Fort Bend and North Forest Federation of Teachers. She also served part-time as a municipal judge for the city of Stafford from 2002-2010. In January 2014, Watson founded T.V. Watson Law, PLLC, a full service law firm with practice areas that cover civil, employment, family, and criminal law and attorneys with a combined 65 years of legal experience. Watson has presented papers and lectured for the State Bar of Texas, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, as well as other organizations. She has sat on the board of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Education Institute and currently the Criminal Defense Lawyers Project. She is the past vice president of the Fort Bend County Criminal Lawyers Association. In her spare time, she enjoys participating in public service activities, charitable fun runs, and leisure reading. She and Ricardo Watson, Sr. are the proud parents of Ricky, a graduate of Hampton University in Virginia and Cordell, a student at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. She has been a parishioner of Holy Family Catholic Church in Missouri City for over 20 years.
Teana V. Watson, Esq. Attorney & Founder T.V. Watson Law, PLLC 10701 Corporate Drive Suite 185 eana Watson is a native Hou- interning at Manhattan District Attorney’s Stafford, TX 77477 stonian and a proud graduate of Office, she graduated from Syracuse Uni- 281-491-4838 the Jesse H. Jones High School versity College of Law in Syracuse, New www.teanawatson.com
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Vanguard Program. After high school, Watson studied as a Sloan Fellow at Princeton University and graduated with honors from Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1986. After 104
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York. Watson returned home to Texas and commenced her legal career in the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office in 1991. She was later promoted to Chief Prosecutor of the Juvenile Division.
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Spring Williams-Cox Director of Operations, UPS – Southeast Texas
politan Houston area and outlining territories as far reaching as Beaumont, TX, to the east, Victoria, TX, to the south, and Bryan College Station to the west. Spring currently is the Operations Manager for the Southeast Division, with responsibility for over 750 employees. Her contributions in the community and her work experience are listed in the National Registers “Who’s Who in Executive and Professionals” in 2006 and 2007. In 2013, Spring was recognized as one of Texas’ most Powerful and Influential Women by the Texas Diversity Council. Spring continues to contribute to the council by participating in Diversity Council Conferences, providing leadership through panel discussions. In 2015, Spring was an honoree at the 9th Annual International Financial and Leadership Summit, receiving the Leaders Connecting Communities and Cultures Award. Outside of her UPS responsibilities, she is married to a Godly man, William Cox III and active in her role as a mother of two adult children, Aric Gaines and Sparkle L. Jones. She also has four wonderful grandchildren, Austin, Dominic, Summer, and Carlos III.
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pring Williams-Cox was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She is the last of five children born to Conwell and Arzie Dangerfield. In 1975, she was crowned Miss Black Tulsa and received honors as 1st runner up to Miss Black Oklahoma in the state pageant. During her matriculation at Tarkio College, she received rave reviews for her performances in “Show Boat” and “Guys and Dolls.” In 1978, she joined the workforce at United Parcel Service (UPS), where she has been employed for the past 38 years. Spring’s career with UPS
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began in 1978 in the Oklahoma District as a package car driver. She became an on-car supervisor in 1983, and in 1993, she was promoted to Business Manager. In January 2001, Spring relocated to Houston, Texas, as an Operations Division Manager. She was the Division Manager responsible for beta testing four major projects within the organization. She was recognized for her results on the projects and was featured on the cover Story in Inside UPS, a magazine that reaches over ½ million UPSers. She was responsible for the multiple aircrafts that supply overnight deliveries to the Metro-
Spring is deeply involved in her church, Payne Chapel A.M.E. She received her license to minister under Rev. Marshall S. Hobbs as an A.M. E. exhorter and an Evangelist under Rev. Brenda Payne. She has had various speaking engagements in both Texas and Oklahoma.
Spring Williams-Cox Director of Operations UPS – Southeast Texas 8330 Sweetwater Lane Houston, TX 77037 281-847-6628 swilliams1@ups.com www.UPS.com
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UPS’s workforce is multi-cultural, multidimensional, and reflective of the broad UPS’s workforce is multi-cultural, multiattributes of our global communities. dimensional, and reflective of the broad attributes of our global communities.
Congratulations to Spring Williams-Cox for her recognition and her work in the Community… Congratulations to Spring Williams-Cox for her RedCommunity… River District recognition and her workUPS in the d-mars.com
Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2016 UPS Red River District
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Kimberly J. Williams, J.D.
Deputy Chief Procurement Officer, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County industry. Williams began her career as a legislative aide to then U.S. Representative Barbara Rose Collins, when Mrs. Collins was a member of the House Public Works and Transportation Committee. Later she served as a Legislative Attorney with the Congressional Research Service (CRS) of the Library of Congress. Prior to arriving at METRO, she served as Vice President of External Relations for Texas Southern University and was the first director of the University’s Barbara Jordan Public Policy Institute. Formerly a City Attorney for the City of Houston, she has also worked for the California State legislature and for the International Labour Office (ILO) in Beijing, People’s Republic of China. Williams is an active member of her community, serving as Treasurer for the Greater Channel Chapter of Jack and Jill, Inc., a graduate of Leadership Houston Class XXIX, a former Board member of the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce and the Midtown Redevelopment Authority. Williams is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and a member of the Houston Chapter of the Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR Houston).
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imberly J. Williams is Deputy Chief Procurement Officer for the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO). She is responsible for procurement, purchasing and contract administration. Williams also manages METRO’s award-winning Small & Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program. In addition, she is the President of Capstone ADR, where she is a mediator, arbitrator, and facilitator with over 20 years of experiences specializing in employment
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and business disputes.
Williams is a graduate of Howard University and Wayne State Law School, where she served as Survey Editor of the Wayne Law Review. Williams is a foodie, music lover, and sports fan, who enjoys traveling, running, and skiing. She is the proud mother of one daughter, MacKenzie.
Williams is immediate Past President Emeritus of the Houston Chapter of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) and serves on its National Legislative Affairs and HUB Committees. She also serves on the Procurement & Materials and Small Business Committees of the American Public Transit Association (APTA). She is a recent graduate of Leadership APTA, the premier leadership development program in the transit
Kimberly J. Williams, J.D. Deputy Chief Procurement Officer Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County METRO 1900 Main Street P.O. Box 61429 Houston, TX 77208-1429 713-739-4992 kimberly.williams@ridemetro.org
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• Residential Construction • Commercial Construction • Design/Build Imani Quality Concepts LLC was founded by Hardy Jones, III in 2006 and provides professional services ranging from general contracting, sub-contracting, design-build and specialty trade services, such as painting and trim carpentry. Imani Quality Concepts LLC clients include TxDOT, Texas National Guard, Texas Youth Commission and other privately/public sectors.
Imani Quality Concepts LLC is a certified City of Beaumont MBE, a TxDOT DBE, a member of the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council, a State of Texas HUB and it’s certified as a U.S. EPA Lead Renovator Firm. Imani Quality Concepts LLC strives to expand business objectives and strategic partnerships, while servicing clients.
I.Q.C., self-performance capabilities and experiences include: • New Construction • Carpentry • Fire Restoration • Painting • Drywall
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October 17-22
TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
HOMECOMING
ALUMNI & FORMER STUDENTS HOMECOMING ACTIVITIES THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20
Tiger Paw Classic Golf Tournament
8:00 a.m. – shot gun start Two-man scramble Hermann Park Golf Course
ReMEMBER The Times Alumni welcome Reception
7:00 p.m. – Sterling Student Life Center on Campus FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21
ReMEMBER The Times Luncheon
STATE OF THE UNIVERSITY
9:30 a.m. Sterling Student Life Center Tiger Room
12th President of Texas Southern University
(Celebrating Classes of the Decades: 1936, 1946, 1956 (50 Years), 1966, 1976, 1986, 1991 (25 years), 1996 and 2006 train ReMEMBER largest soul line ever! The Times tribute to:
The king, Michael Jackson; the queen, Whitney Houston; and the prince, Prince Rogers Nelson featuring a
KTSU DJ SHOWCASE and DJ/RAPPER
EXTRAORDINAIRE
For more information about all alumni Homecoming activities.
Sterling Student Life Center Cafeteria
Please contact cochrancl@tsu.edu
Attire: Maroon & White
Doug E. Fresh 7:00 p.m.
at 713-313-1363 or the Office of Communications/Marketing. This will be one of the BEST Homecoming Events EVER!
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sharp so be on TIME
1:00 p.m. - Tiger Room
or the Office of Alumni Relations
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Tailgating begins at 6:00 a.m.
The Grand Tiger DR. AUSTIN A. Parade Lineup will begin at 8:00 a.m. LANE Parade begins at 10:00 a.m.
(All alumni and former students are invited to attend. Complimentary breakfast will be provided before the meeting at 9:00 a.m).
713-313-1861.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22
Keynote Speaker:
Join us for the
Alumni General Body Meeting
ReMember the Times
Route: TSU’s campus and the Third Ward community.
THE ULTIMATE
ReMEMBER The Times TIGER
TAILGATE
All Day Transportation provided from campus to the game
Homecoming Football Game
Texas Southern Tigers INDOOR VIP CABANAS vs. Jackson State Tigers are available 2:00 p.m. BBVA Compass Stadium Tailgating continues…
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w w w. A n d e r s o n D A . c o m pd pol ad Friends of Devon Anderson
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YOU HAVE MOST DEFINITELY ARRIVED.
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Uptown Houston 111 North Post Oak Lane 713.680.2626 | 800.231.2759 Houstonian.com
2015
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