Top 30 Woman 2017

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

VOLUME ll

5th EDITION

2017 Name Title of Company Positiion

Name Title of Company Positiion

Name Title of Company Positiion

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Directory

The 2017 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Cynthia Cisneros Vice President Community Affairs, ABC 13/KTRK-TV

Shauna Johnson Clark

Head of Employment and Labor - United States, Norton Rose Fulbright

Deborah Duncan Television Host/ Personality, Great Day Houston/KHOU-TV

Vanessa D. Gilmore

United States District Judge, Southern District of Texas

Carrin F. Patman Board Chair, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO)

Ann Stern

President & CEO Houston Endowment

State Representative Senfronia Thompson District 141, Texas House of Representatives

Dawn Ullrich President & CEO Houston First Corporation

Dorinda Walker

Vice President Consumer Strategy and Key Initiatives Multicultural Marketing, Prudential’s U.S. Businesses

Juuhi Ahuja President, Founder & CEO Wise Men Consultants

Margaret Allen, DDS Owner Amazing Smiles, PLLC

Johnte’ Archer, JD CEO and Founder J. Archer Insurance Group and SHE IS A CEO Foundation

Karina Barbieri Vice President Mediplus Panama, S.A. & Philanthropist

Lea Bogle CEO Premier Wireless

Carol B. Brace, MS, LSSBB, CTL, CIL, SCOR, PMP Lecturer/Business Development Specialist, Davies College of Business, University of Houston - Downtown

Dr. LaQuita Carter Assistant Superintendent of Performance Management Spring Independent School District

Twila Carter Executive Director Astros Foundation

Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin President and CEO Cobbin & Associates Consulting, LLC.

Tamar Davis Grammy-Nominated Artist and Edu-Tainment Advocate Syren Music Group, LLC.

Cheryl L. Duncan BSN, RN, CVRN Founder Ashley Jadine Foundation

Diane Englet Senior Director - Corporate Community Relations CenterPoint Energy

Diedra Fontaine Executive Director Office of Development Prairie View A&M University

Karina Gonzalez Principal Dancer Houston Ballet

LaTreace Harrison RN, MS, CMCN Director of HealthCare Management Services Amerigroup Texas

Karen Hill, MD Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer Community Health Choice

Carneta Hunte-Larkin BSW,MSHEA,MBA Founder and CEO I Love My Children, Inc.

Antoinette M. Jackson Partner Jones Walker, LLP

Courtney Johnson Rose Principal Broker George E. Johnson Properties

Ige Johnson Broker/Owner, RE/MAX and CEO, GLO Beauty Bar

Torsha Johnson First Lady & Author Higher Dimension Church

Regina Mellinger President & CEO Primary Services LP

Cydonii Miles Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel & Assistant Secretary American Capital Ltd.

Mary Moreland Director of Strategic Planning Latin America Quanta Services, Inc.

Anhlan Phuc Nguyen DBA, PMP Director of Development and Marketing, Institute for Civic Education in Vietnam

Nicole Streeter, MPH, MA VP/Chief Governance Officer Harris Health System Board of Trustees

Kristin Tassin President Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees & Co-Founder, Father’s Joy

Kelley Taylor Chief Executive Officer Taylor Construction Management

State Representative Shawn Thierry District 146 Texas House of Representatives

Carla Kuaiwa, BS, MA, MBA Owner & Managing Director Cross OD Consulting, LLC

Delesa O’Dell-Thomas Principal Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy

Barbara Vilutis Executive Vice President Amegy Bank of Texas

Monica Lewis Paula McHam Founder/CEO & Certified Account Executive and Community Etiquette Consultant Involvement Lead Monica Lewis School of Etiquette Cigna South Texas / Louisiana

Debra Clark Stewart Director of Supplier Diversity & Diversity Outreach Shell Oil Company

Dr. Cynthia Wilson Chief of Staff Houston Independent School District

Kimberly Gee Stith Vice President and General Counsel - Employment & Benefits Waste Management

Mary L. Young Executive Director & Chief of Police Department of Public Safety Texas Southern University

Congratulations 2017 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Message From the President & CEO MR. D-MARS “How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!”

– Maya Angelou

In 1849, Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman to graduate from medical school in the United States, Amelia Earhart made the first solo flight by a woman across the Atlantic in 1932, and in 1993, Toni Morrison became the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize for literature.

Women endure so many challenges – from being underpaid to developing careers in many male-dominated fields – but they still continue to make great contributions to society. It’s no wonder that women are so influential. They are the foundation for raising our youth into productive stewards of their community. Women don’t always receive the accolades they deserve, so it’s important that we recognize these heroic women because there’s a younger generation out here – many who are lacking the guidance and wisdom that our honorees possess. By casting a light on what these phenomenal women do every day in their communities, businesses, and at home, the youth in our communities will have a blueprint for success. d-mars.com wants to not only recognize the courageous, strong, inspirational women in our communities, but we want to congratulate them on their success and thank them for being a positive influence on so many young girls who will be motivated to aim higher and achieve!

Sincerely, Keith J. Davis, Sr. President & CEO d-mars.com

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Message from Chief Operations Officer Ms. Kimberly Floyd

Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.”

– André Gide

Our group of Influential women come from different backgrounds, share different beliefs and have overcome different obstacles to get to the level in which they are today. But that alone does not make them influential. All of these ladies at some point in their lives ‘lost sight of the shore.’ They took calculated risks, believed in their abilities and embraced change. The courageousness and resiliency of these women is immeasurable.

A fearless attitude allowed them to break glass ceilings and establish themselves as leaders in their respective fields. They believed in themselves, even when it may have been hard to do so. That’s what makes them influential. d-mars.com is proud to celebrate our pioneering group of Top Influential Women in Houston!

Sincerely, Ms. Kimberly Floyd Chief Operations Officer d-mars.com

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Honorary Co-Chairs

April Day President Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance

Carlecia Wright Director City of Houston - Office of Business Opportunity

Mistress of Ceremony Please follow me on @KHOURekhaMuddaraj @RekhaKHOU Email: muddaraj@khou.com

Staff: Anita Bates, Taelor Smith, Rockie Hayden, Angel Rosa, Eugenie Doualla, Andrea Hennekes, Booker T. “Pops D-MARS” Davis, Jr. and Antoniece Portis

Rekha Muddaraj KHOU-TV News Anchor

Photographers: Grady Carter Mailing Address: 7322 Southwest Fwy., Suite 805 Houston, TX 77074

Contact: Phone: (713) 272.9511 Fax: (713) 272.6364 Email Us: contact@d-mars.com Web: www.d-mars.com d-mars.com @dmars_com @dmars_com dmarsmarketing Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

TABLE OF CONTENTS SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Dorinda Walker.......................................................... Vice President, Multicultural Marketing – Prudential.................................................................................... 30

ICON HONOREES: Cynthia Cisneros........................................................ Vice President of Community Affairs, ABC 13/KTRK-TV................................................................................. 34 Vanessa D. Gilmore.................................................... United States District Judge, Southern District of Texas................................................................................. 35 Shauna Johnson Clark................................................ Head of Employment and Labor - United States, Norton Rose Fulbright........................................................ 36 Deborah Duncan........................................................ Television Host/Personality, Great Day Houston/KHOU-TV............................................................................. 38 Carrin F. Patman......................................................... Board Chair, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO).......................................................... 40 Ann Stern................................................................... President & CEO, Houston Endowment........................................................................................................ 41 State Representative Senfronia Thompson................... District 141, Texas House of Representatives................................................................................................ 44 Dawn Ullrich.............................................................. President & CEO, Houston First Corporation................................................................................................. 46

HONOREES: Juuhi Ahuja................................................................ President, Founder & CEO, Wise Men Consultants........................................................................................ 50 Margaret Allen, DDS................................................... Owner, Amazing Smiles, PLLC...................................................................................................................... 52 Johnte’ Archer, JD....................................................... CEO/Founder, J. Archer Insurance Group and SHE IS A CEO Foundation......................................................... 54 Karina Barbieri........................................................... Vice President, Mediplus Panama, S.A. & Philanthropist................................................................................ 56 Lea Bogle................................................................... CEO, Premier Wireless................................................................................................................................. 58 Carol B. Brace MS, LSSBB, CTL, CIL, SCOR, PMP.......... Lecturer/Business Development Specialist, UH-Downtown........................................................................... 60 Dr. LaQuita Carter...................................................... Assistant Superintendent of Performance Management, Spring Independent School District.......................... 62 Twila Carter............................................................... Executive Director, Astros Foundation........................................................................................................... 64 Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin..................................... President and CEO, Cobbin & Associates Consulting, LLC.............................................................................. 66 Tamar Davis............................................................... Grammy-Nominated Artist and Edu-Tainment Advocate, Syren Music Group, LLC........................................... 68 Cheryl L. Duncan, BSN, RN, CVRN............................... Founder, Ashley Jadine Foundation............................................................................................................... 70 Diane Englet.............................................................. Senior Director, Corporate Community Relations, CenterPoint Energy............................................................ 72 Diedra Fontaine.......................................................... Executive Director, Office of Development, Prairie View A&M University......................................................... 76 Karina Gonzalez......................................................... Principal Dancer, Houston Ballet.................................................................................................................. 78 LaTreace Harrison, RN, MS, CMCN.............................. Director of HealthCare Management Services, Amerigroup Texas................................................................ 104 Karen Hill, MD............................................................ Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer, Community Health Choice.................................................... 106 Carneta Hunte-Larkin, BSW,MSHEA,MBA.................... Founder and CEO, I Love My Children, Inc.................................................................................................. 108 Antoinette M. Jackson................................................ Partner, Jones Walker LLP........................................................................................................................... 110 Courtney Johnson Rose.............................................. Principal Broker, George E. Johnson Properties........................................................................................... 111 Ige Johnson................................................................ Broker, Re/Max & Owner, GLO Beauty Bar.................................................................................................. 112 Torsha Johnson.......................................................... First Lady & Author, Higher Dimension Church............................................................................................ 114 Carla Kuaiwa, BS, MA, MBA....................................... Owner/Managing Director, Cross OD Consulting, LLC................................................................................. 116 Monica Lewis............................................................. Founder/CEO & Certified Etiquette Consultant, Monica Lewis School of Etiquette....................................... 118 Paula McHam............................................................. Account Executive and Community Involvement Lead, Cigna South Texas/Louisiana.................................... 120 Regina Mellinger........................................................ President & CEO, Primary Services LP......................................................................................................... 122 Cydonii Miles............................................................. Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel & Assistant Secretary, American Capital Ltd......................... 123 Mary Moreland.......................................................... Director of Strategic Planning - Latin America, Quanta Services, Inc............................................................. 126 Anhlan Phuc Nguyen, DBA, PMP................................ Director of Development and Marketing, Institute for Civic Education in Vietnam........................................ 127 Delesa O’Dell-Thomas................................................ Principal, Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy............................................................................. 128 Debra C. Stewart........................................................ Director of Supplier Diversity & Diversity Outreach, Shell Oil Company........................................................ 130 Kimberly Gee Stith...................................................... Vice President and General Counsel - Employment & Benefits, Waste Management.................................... 132 Nicole Streeter, MPH, MA........................................... VP/Chief Governance Officer, Harris Health System Board of Trustees.......................................................... 134 Kristin Tassin.............................................................. President, Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees & Co-Founder, Father’s Joy........................................................ 135 Kelley Taylor............................................................... Chief Executive Officer, Taylor Construction Management........................................................................... 138 State Representative Shawn Thierry............................ District 146, Texas House of Representatives.............................................................................................. 139 Barbara Vilutis............................................................ Executive Vice President, Amegy Bank of Texas........................................................................................... 140 Dr. Cynthia Wilson...................................................... Chief of Staff, Houston Independent School District.................................................................................... 142 Mary L. Young............................................................ Executive Director/Chief of Police, Department of Public Safety - Texas Southern University......................... 144 4

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

CITY OF HOUSTON

Sylvester Turner Mayor P.O. Box 1562 Houston, Texas 77251-1562 Telephone – Dial 311 www.houstontx.gov

August 26, 25,2016 2017 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

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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 2017 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 your thoughtful and praisworthy Thank you 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

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

August 25, 2017

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

August 25, 2017

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

BORRIS L. MILES STATE SENATOR

DISTRICT 13

COMMITTEES: Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs, Health and Human Services, Natural Resources and Economic Development and Nominations

BORRIS L. MILES SENATOR DISTRICT 13 BORRIS L. MILES August 25, 2017 STATE BORRIS L. MILES STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 13

COMMITTEES: Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs, Health and Human Services, Natural Resources and Economic Development and Nominations

STATE SENATOR

DISTRICT 13

COMMITTEES: Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs, Health and Human Services, Natural Resources and Economic Development and Nominations

August 25, 2017 Greetings,

COMMITTEES: Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs, Health and Human Services, Natural Resources and Economic Development and Nominations

August 25, 2017 August I would25, like2017 to welcome all attending the d-mars.com Top Greetings, 30 Influential Women of Houston Awards Gala.

Greetings, The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Awards Gala Greetings, I would likeand to celebrates welcome all the d-mars.com recognizes theattending diverse group of women inTop 30 Influential Women of Houston Gala.

Houston who encompass tenacity, Awards discipline and diligence.

I would like to welcome all attending the d-mars.com Top The honorees have broken barriers in their respective fields 30 Influential of Houston Awards Gala.

Iand would like toWomen welcome all d-mars.com The Topan 30indelible Influential Women Houston AwardsI GalaTop left mark on attending theofface ofthe Houston.

30 Influential Houston Awards Gala. recognizes andWomen celebrates the diverse groupin of women in commend them on theirofaccomplishments their The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Awards Gala Houston who tenacity, discipline and diligence. profession andencompass in the community. recognizes and celebrates the diverse group of women in The 30 Influential Women of Houston Awards Gala The Top honorees have broken barriers in their respective fields Houston who encompass tenacity, discipline diligence. recognizes and celebrates diverse group ofand women and left an indelible mark on the face of Houston.

I inthe I extend best wishes to allthe attending this event to honor The honorees have broken barriers in their respective fields Houston who encompass tenacity, discipline and diligence. commend them on Women their accomplishments Top 30 Influential of Houston. in their and left an and indelible mark on the face of Houston.

I fields The honorees have broken barriers in their respective profession in the community. commend on their in their I and left anthem indelible markaccomplishments on the face of Houston. profession and in the community. commend them on their accomplishments in their I extend wishes to the all attending to honor the Keep thebest Faith, Keep Fight, this event profession and in the community.

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston.

I extend best wishes to all attending this event to honor the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston.

I extend best wishes to all attending this event to honor the Top Influential Women of Houston.

Keep30the Faith, Keep the Fight, Keep theBorris Faith, Senator L.Keep Milesthe Fight, Keep the District 13Faith, Keep the Fight, Senator Borris L. Miles District 13 Senator Borris L. Miles District Senator 13 Borris L. Miles Capitol Office District 13 3.S3

Central Houston Office 5302 Almeda, Suite A Houston, TX 77004 713-665-8322

P.O. Box 12068 Austin, TX 78711 512-463-0113 Capitol Office Central Houston Office 10 3.S3 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017 5302 Almeda, Suite A P.O. BoxOffice 12068 Houston, TX 77004 Capitol Central Houston Office

Fort Bend Office 2440 Texas Parkway, Suite 110 Missouri City, TX 77489 281-261-2360 Fort Bend Office 2440 Texas Parkway, Suite 110 Missouri City, TX 77489 Fort Bend Office

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Dear Friends,

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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 August25, 18,2017 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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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

August 25, 2017

2017

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

August 25, 2017

5th

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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, 25, 2014 2017

d-mars.com 5 4thth Annual Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017 2016 Awards Congratulations to the honorees of the 2017 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.

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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 25, 2017

August 18, 2016 Dear Honorees, 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 2017 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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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

August 25, 2017

Dear Friends,

As State Representative for House District 146, it is my privilege to welcome all attending the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Awards Gala. I also extend my appreciation to the d-mars.com organization for hosting this spectacular annual event.

The 5th Annual Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Award Ceremony recognizes and celebrates women who have demonstrated outstanding excellence in their respective professions and fields of expertise. The honorees reflect a diverse group of accomplished women who are regarded as leaders and role models in a variety of industries. I salute each of the phenomenal women for the contributions they have made towards the growth, betterment and success of the Houston community, and the great state of Texas.

It is my honor to be recognized at this year’s Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Award Ceremony. I am proud and privileged to stand shoulder to shoulder with my fellow esteemed recipients.

Warm Regards,

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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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 20

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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 *Companies and titles in 2013

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

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 22

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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, *Companies and titles in 2014

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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 Heather Holland - TransCanada

ICON HONOREES: Dr. Selina M. Ahmed - Texas Southern University

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Dr. Judith Craven - The United Way of the Texas Gulf Coast Deavra A. Daughtry - Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation International State Representative Jessica Farrar - Texas House District 148 Melanie Johnson, Ed.D. - The Health Museum: John P. McGovern Museum of Health and Medical Science Susan A. McEldoon - KHOU-TV

Connie Kwan-Wong - CKW LUXE Magazine Raquelle Lewis - Tx-DOT - Houston District Petria McKelvey - Precision Medical Billing, Inc. Katie Walthall Mehnert - Pink Petro Dr. Felecia M. Nave - Prairie View A&M University Krista L. Olson, M.D. - Baylor Facial Plastic Surgery Center Erma Palmer - Autos R Us Collision Center Crystal Perkins - My Legacy Foundation Letitia D. Quiñones - Quiñones & Associates, P.L.L.C.

Wanda Thornton Mott, M.D. - Houston Women’s Obstetrical and

Dr. Kamala Raghavan - Texas Southern University

Gynecological Associates

Liliana L. Rambo - Houston Airport System

Stephanie D. Nellons-Paige - USA Funds

Nannette Ray, MBA - Medical Information Records, LLC

Page Parkes - Page Parkes Center of Modeling & Acting

Mary Redmond - Redmond Management-McDonald’s Theresa Roemer - Theresa Roemer, LLC

HONOREES:

Lina Sabouni - AUTOARCH Architects, LLC

Devon Anderson - Harris County District Attorney’s Office

Rhonda Skillern-Jones - Houston Independent School District (HISD)

Dell H. Braunsdorf, M.D. - Amerigroup

Joyce Tyler-Williams - Frost Bank

Camille Cash, M.D. - Camille G. Cash, M.D., Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jennifer Yen, M.D. - UH Medical School,

April Day - Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance

Baylor College of Medicine & Author

Dr. Marla Fielder, R.Ph. - The Kroger Co. - Southwest Division Samille Frazier-Savoie, LPCS, LCDC, NCC - The BES Group, Inc. Kim Gagne - Steve Harvey Marian Harper - Houston Astros

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

UNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: LaShonda Pierce and NaKeitha Ross - I.C.O.N. Women’s Organization

*Companies and titles in 2015

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2016 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston SPECIAL GUESTS: Sheila Jackson Lee Community Achievement Award Roxann Thomas Chargois, Director, The Western Area of The Links, Incorporated

ICON HONOREES: Yolanda Adams - Grammy Award-Winning Gospel Artist Suzan Deison - CEO/President/Founder, Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce Zina Garrison - CEO, Zina Garrison Foundation & Former 4th-Ranked Tennis Player in the World Nathelyne A. Kennedy, P.E. - President, Nathelyne A. Kennedy & Associates Dr. Laura Murillo - President & Chief Executive Officer, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Sallie Sargent - President & CEO, Houston Super Bowl Host Committee

HONOREES: Farida Abjani - Co-Founder/CEO, Shining Nightingale, Inc. Wanda Adams - Board of Education First Vice-President & District IX Trustee, Houston Independent School District (HISD) Sehba Ali - Chief Executive Officer and Superintendent, KIPP Houston Public Schools

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 Debbie Drury - President, Market Doctors Amanda K. Edwards - Attorney & Houston City Council Member At-Large Position 4 Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz - Board Secretary & District IV Trustee, Houston Community College Sameera Faridi - Director & Designer, Poshak Fashion & Style Victoria A. Guster-Hines - McDonald’s Vice President, Operations and Franchising - Houston Region Ana Hernandez - State Representative, District 143 Loren Lane - First Lady, Texas Southern University & Key Account Manager, EMD Serono Nancy J. Li - President, Easton Resource Development, Inc. 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

Jackye Alton - President, Almeda Travel

Sonia Rivera - National President, National Hispanic Professional Organization & Owner/Consultant, Genesis Consulting, Inc.

Erin Asprec - Regional President, Memorial Hermann Health System

Ingrid M. Robinson - President, Houston Minority Supplier Development Council

Dr. Kimberly Beatty - Vice Chancellor of Instructional Services, Chief Academic Officer, Houston Community College

Kim Roxie - Creative Director, LAMIK Beauty

Mary Benton - Director of Communications and Strategic Projects, Harris County Precinct One

Sonya Stevenson - Executive Director, The Fort Bend Church

Marianna Brasel - General Manager, Porsche of West Houston Carlotta Outley Brown, M.Ed. - Principal, Lora B. Peck Elementary School – Houston Independent School District Victoria Ai Linh Bryant, PharmD - President, World Chamber of Commerce Texas & Founder, Ambassadors Caregivers Frances Castaneda-Dyess - President, Houston East End Chamber of Commerce

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Graciela Saenz - Founder & Attorney at Law, Saenz Burkhardt P.L.L.C. 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

*Companies and titles in 2016

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Dorinda Walker

Vice President Consumer Strategy and Key Initiatives - Multicultural Marketing, Prudential’s U.S. Businesses viding financial services and solutions to diverse communities.

Since joining Prudential in 1999, Walker has held a variety of positions within Group Insurance, Individual Life Insurance and Finance.

Walker is a past co-chair of the Black Leadership Forum, a business resource group at Prudential that provides personal and career development resources for African American and other employees of color. She is an Advisory Board Member for Hispanicize; a Board of Trustees Member for Ironbound Film and Television Studios and Truth; and former Board of Trustees member for the Jersey Explorer Children’s Museum. Walker is also personally involved with several non-profit and charitable organizations that support women’s empowerment, financial freedom for all and the African American faith-based community.

A number of organizations have honored Walker for her outstanding work within the multicultural and women’s market.

Some of these honors include:

D

orinda Walker is Vice President of Consumer Strategy and Key Initiatives within Multicultural Marketing for Prudential’s U.S. Businesses. Walker is responsible for supporting, planning and executing profitable growth strategies among diverse consumer segments. To expand new business opportunities, she incorporates strategic planning, targeted marketing campaigns, program management, event planning and community engagement. In addition, she is accountable for sharing cross-cultural data, insights and behaviors regarding increasingly diverse customer groups with all of Prudential’s Business Units.

An important aspect of her job is directing the expansion of consumer engagement strategies. She supports the company’s mission to help consumers both grow 30

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

and protect their wealth, by incorporating the company’s Total Market strategy, data & research and her team’s out-of-the-box creativity. This, in turn, helps to promote financial education, wealth management and legacy building to diverse segments of the U.S. population.

• 2016 The Great Girlfriends Award for contributions and support of women’s empowerment • 2016 The Merge Summit Corporate Award for contributions and achievements in the areas of business and ministry

• 2016 The Simuel Simmons Whitfield Organization Honoree for support of women and the African American comThese consumer engagement strate- munity gies bring positive business impact via experiential sponsored events, market- • The Network Journal’s 2017 Twentying initiatives, B2B and B2C content Five Influential Black Women in Business management and social media. Team leadership and staff development are Dorinda Walker also integral to Walker’s role.

She is a frequently sought-after featured presenter and panelist at national conferences and programs. Her presentations demonstrate Prudential’s strong social purpose and commitment to pro-

Vice President Consumer Strategy and Key Initiatives Multicultural Marketing Prudential’s U.S. Businesses 751 Broad Street Newark, NJ 07102

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Prudential congratulates Dorinda Walker for being recognized as one of the 2017 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Prudential supports Dorinda and all of the action-oriented women who are making a difference in the Houston community.

Prudential is a strong advocate for organizations and initiatives that help meet the needs of women and empower them to reach their full potential. Our commitment is to help all individuals build financial strength so they may have a brighter, more secure future.

Prudential Financial Inc. Newark, NJ 0308580-00001-00

prudential.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Final HEB Diversity Red ads.qxp 4/7/08 11:24 AM Page 5

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Cynthia Cisneros

Vice President of Community Affairs, ABC 13/KTRK-TV among migrant workers, which caught the eye of executives at ABC news.

Cisneros joined Eyewitness News as a general assignment reporter in August 1989. She’s covered hurricanes and other adverse weather stories, as well as breaking news. Over the years, she’s won several awards for her coverage of spot news and human interest stories.

Cisneros has been honored by the Mexican American Bar Association as a Media Pioneer, LULAC 402 Woman of the Year, Fiestas Patrias Distinguished Hispanic, Solo Mujeres Journalist of the Year. Cisneros is also a member of Harris County Hispanic Elections Advisory Committee, COH Citizenship Month Executive Committee, Aga Khan Southwest Advisory panel, Catholic Charities Advisory board and AAMA school board. Cisneros has created campaigns at ABC13 for voter registration, college registration and bone marrow donation. She has brought to the forefront, several community events including the historic MLK Oratory Contest, the City of Houston Veterans Day Parade, and the Cinco De Mayo and Fiestas Patrias Parades. She has helped to lead the station’s historic campaigns for food donations, back to school supplies, electronics for recycling and pet adoptions to record breaking levels.

I

n 2012, Cynthia Cisneros was appointed Vice President of Community Affairs at ABC13.

She was hired at ABC13 in 1989 and while no longer filing daily reports, she is deeply involved in community efforts. As a native Houstonian, Cisneros has witnessed much of the city’s astounding growth firsthand.

Cisneros began her broadcasting career in 1982 in Jacksonville, Texas, at a local radio station where she hosted a morning talk show. While there, she received several local and regional awards for her spot news coverage and educational stories. In 1986, while still in radio, she became a television news reporter in Longview for KLMG-TV covering news in several east Texas cities.

Growing up in the city of South Houston, Cisneros later attended and graduated from the University of Houston, graduating with a degree in journalism. As a teen, she worked summer jobs at Foley’s and Astroworld.

A year later, she went to KBAK-TV in Bakersfield, California. While there, Cisneros’s reporting duties included extensive coverage of Caesar Chavez and the United Farmworkers Union. She also won awards for her coverage on human rights issues

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But Cisneros says her greatest accomplishment has been the birth of her two children. She enjoys time with her husband of 28 years and their two children, a daughter and a son. Cisneros still likes to go to South Houston to catch up on neighborhood news and she enjoys running into old high school buddies.

Cynthia Cisneros Vice President of Community Affairs ABC13 | KTRK-TV | ABC owned station 3310 Bissonnet Houston, TX 77005 Ph. 713.663.4630 cynthia.cisneros@abc.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Vanessa D. Gilmore

United States District Judge, Southern District of Texas

I

n 1994 when Judge Vanessa Diane Gilmore was sworn in, she was then the youngest sitting federal judge in the nation.

The native of Silver Spring, Maryland was also the youngest member of her freshman class at her alma mater, Hampton University in Virginia. Gilmore decided to undertake a career in law after she represented herself and won a minor civil lawsuit. She graduated from the University of Houston Law Center in 1981.

In 1982, Gilmore began a 13-year tenure at a Houston law firm known as Vickery, Kilbride, Gilmore and Vickery where she specialized in civil litigation. Gilmore also became an active member of the Houston civic community, serving on the boards of a number of civic and charitable organizations including a term as president of the YWCA of Houston. She also became involved in the Texas political arena while serving as counsel and teacher in the area of election law.

Her civic activities outside of the courtroom brought her to the attention of Governor Ann Richards who in 1991 appointed Gilmore to the Texas Department of Commerce Policy Board, where she also served as chairperson from 1992 to 1994. Her appointment to that board made Judge Gilmore the first African-American to serve on this board responsible for increasing speaker on issues related to these chilbusiness, promoting tourism and developdren and their families. She has worked ing job training in Texas. on initiatives to help these families with In 1993, she also served as chairperson access to resources for their children, inof Texans for NAFTA. In this capacity, she cluding the development of a legal clinic worked regularly with diplomatic leaders, at Texas Southern University. Gilmore is including the President of Mexico, to in- the author of three other books includcrease U.S. trade opportunities. Judge ing “Saving the Dream”, a fiction novel Gilmore was nominated to the federal that Gilmore hopes will encourage other bench by President Bill Clinton in 1994 families and single people to pursue their and became the first University of Hou- own dreams of parenting through adopston graduate to be appointed to the tion. Gilmore also serves as president of Federal bench. her minor son’s business, the “Sleepover Judge Gilmore is the co- author of “A Boy Bed Tent” company, which was formed Named Rocky”, a book for the children to market his patented invention, the of incarcerated parents and is a frequent Slumber Separator. Gilmore also enjoys

working as a voiceover artist for commercials, industrial and promotional videos and radio, and as a house announcer at sporting events through her company, Voices by Vanessa. She is the recipient of numerous awards for community service.

She served for seventeen years on the board of trustees of Hampton University and most recently on the board of trustees of the River Oaks Baptist School.

Vanessa D. Gilmore United States District Judge Southern District of Texas 515 Rusk St., Room 9513 Houston, TX 77002 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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Shauna Johnson Clark

Head of Employment and Labor - United States, Norton Rose Fulbright ing in over 50 offices worldwide. Clark’s extraordinary leadership helped grow the law firm to be an international legal giant.

Her vital strategic direction, strong fiscal management, exceptional oversight and corporate governance, and outstanding interpersonal skills have been instrumental to the evolution and success of Norton Rose Fulbright. Excellence is Clark’s hallmark.

As a highly-valued business and legal adviser, Clark routinely handles major litigation and provides strategic advice to global and national corporations on a broad array of complex governance, regulatory, employment, business, and enforcement matters. A seasoned trial lawyer, she is often chosen to try “bet-the-company” cases. Clark’s management and leadership skills also benefit the Houston community, where she actively participates in significant governance matters including, but not limited to, serving as a Member of the Board of Trustees of Baylor College of Medicine and a Member of the Board of Directors of the American Heart Association.

S

hauna Johnson Clark runs one of the world’s five largest combined global law firms and manages its US operations. A born leader, she has long managed many aspects of her law firm, including serving as: a Global Executive Committee Member; a US Management Committee Member; the US Head of Employment and Labor; a Steering Committee Member of the Global Employment and Labor

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Practice, and a past partner-in-Charge of Houston, the US operation’s largest office. A key member of Norton Rose Fulbright’s management, Clark has adeptly led the law firm through a combination with the international Norton Rose law firm and a merger with a major US East Coast law firm, creating an internationally acclaimed global law firm serving major international and national corporations through its 4,100 attorneys work-

Her skillful leadership, exceptional legal prowess, and strong corporate governance experience often result in significant professional recognition, including being named a 2017 Acritas Star, one of Savoy Magazine’s 2015 Most Influential Black Lawyers, Profiles in Diversity Journal’s 2014 Women Worth Watching, Human Resource Executive and Lawdragon’s 2013-2017 Nation’s Most Powerful Employment Attorneys, and regular inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America and Chambers & Partners.

Shauna frequently presents at major legal and business conferences.

Shauna Johnson Clark Head of Employment and Labor United States Norton Rose Fulbright 1301 McKinney, Suite 5100 Houston, TX 77010-3095

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Norton Rose Fulbright congratulates and celebrates Shauna Johnson Clark for being honored as a Top Influential Woman of Houston!

Shauna Johnson Clark Head of Employment and Labor, United States

Financial institutions | Energy | Infrastructure, mining and commodities Transport | Technology and innovation | Life sciences and healthcare More than 50 locations, including Houston, New York, London, Toronto, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney, Johannesburg and Dubai. 1 866 385 2744

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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Deborah Duncan

Television Host/Personality, Great Day Houston/KHOU-TV las, where she started a talk show called “Good Morning Texas” at WFAA-TV, the sister station of KHOU-TV. Duncan and her co-host were eventually asked to anchor the morning news.

After three years, Duncan moved to New York City to co-host a talk show for Lifetime Television called “Our Home.” Although she loved New York City, her heart was still in Texas. When ABC executives approached Duncan about doing a talk show for possible national syndication, they wanted her to do the show out of New York or Los Angeles. Eventually, they agreed that it could start in Houston. When she finished her contract with ABC, Duncan decided it was time to return to her roots in the business, and that was news.

In December 2002, Duncan joined KHOU-TV Channel 11 as an anchor on 11 News This Morning.

After six years at the news desk, she returned to the talk show format as host of Great Day Houston. The show, produced locally by KHOU-TV, airs weekdays at 9:00 a.m. on Channel 11. Duncan Duncan is the recipient of many local and national awards for television excellence, including seven Emmy Awards, two Gracie Allen Awards and a Telly Award, amongst other honors. Her achievements on the air, however, are transcended by her commitment and dedication to community service.

W

hen you look at the way Deborah Duncan grew up, it is no surprise that she ended up in the communication business.

Raised in a military family, her early years were spent in Taiwan and Japan. As her family constantly moved around, young Duncan attended five different elementary schools. At each school, determined to learn everything about her “new friends,”

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Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

Duncan honed her interviewing skills.

She completed grade school in San Antonio where her father retired. Duncan then enrolled at the University of Texas in Austin and earned a degree in RadioTelevision-Film. After a couple of years in radio, Duncan made the switch to television as a reporter at the CBS station in Austin and then became an anchor at the ABC station. She later moved to Dal-

Duncan is passionate about many causes and chairs numerous community events.

In addition, she serves on the National Board of Directors for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and is a Board Member for the Palmer Drug Abuse Program (PDAP).

Deborah Duncan Television Host/Personality Great Day Houston/KHOU-TV 1945 Allen Pkwy Houston, TX 77019

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Carrin F. Patman

Board Chair, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) a senior trustee of the UT Law School Foundation.

Some prior activities include serving as a board or executive committee member of the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Legacy Community Health Services Endowment, Texas Appleseed, Girls Inc. of Greater Houston and Sheltering Arms Senior Services. Patman was vice chair of the Houston Bar Foundation, and former president of the University of Texas Law Alumni Association and UT Law Review Association.

Patman has chaired or co‐chaired fundraising events for worthy causes, including for Interfaith Ministries of Greater Houston, American Leadership Forum, the Texas Defender Service, the Houston Area Women’s Center, Girls Inc. of Greater Houston, the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, and the Houston School for Deaf Children (now the Center for Hearing and Speech). She most recently served on the National Finance Committee for the ‘Hillary Clinton for President’ campaign.

C

arrin Patman is chair of the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County. She is METRO’s first woman chair, appointed in 2016 by Mayor Sylvester Turner. She previously served on the board from 2010 to 2013.

Patman graduated from Duke University (with honors) and from the University of Texas School of Law (Texas Law Review).

In 2014, Patman completed a year‐long Advanced Leadership Fellowship at Harvard University. One area of focus concerned transportation (including urban Patman was a partner of Bracewell where transit) and infrastructure. She is also for three decades she worked as a trial an American Leadership Forum Senior lawyer representing diverse clients in Fellow (Class XXIX). major litigation involving commercial dis- Patman’s civic involvement reflects her putes, securities matters, antitrust and passion for community service. Currently, competition issues, and regulatory com- she is on the University of Texas Health pliance. She was the first woman elect- Science Center at Houston Development ed to the firm’s seven-member Manage- Board. She is a founding board member ment Committee. Patman retired from of the Center for Women in Law at the Bracewell in 2016.

University of Texas, School of Law and

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Patman’s awards for professional achievements and community service include becoming the first woman to receive the Karen H. Susman Jurisprudence Award, given by the Anti‐Defamation League Southwest Region. In 2000, she was selected as a Woman on the Move by the Houston Chronicle, Channel 11 and Texas Executive Women. In 2012, she was inducted into the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame, and in 2013, received the Pacesetter Award from the Ivy Educational and Charitable Foundation of Houston.

Carrin F. Patman Board Chair Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) 1900 Main Street PO Box 61429 Houston, TX 77208-1429

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Ann Stern

President & CEO, Houston Endowment

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nn Stern is President and CEO of Houston Endowment, a private foundation whose mission is to enhance the vibrancy of greater Houston and advance equity of opportunity for the people who live here. With assets totaling approximately $1.6 billion, Houston Endowment invests approximately $80 million each year in organizations that support and promote arts and culture, education, the environment, health and human services.

Prior to joining the Foundation in 2012, Stern served as general counsel and then as Executive Vice President of Texas Children’s Hospital. While at Texas Children’s, she had the privilege of helping to develop the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute and the Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women. Prior to joining Texas Children’s, she practiced law with Beck, Redden & Secrest and Andrews Kurth, and she taught business law at the University of St. Thomas.

Stern received her bachelor’s degree in Plan II from the University of Texas at Austin, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. She also received a Juris Doctorate from the University of Texas at Austin.

She has received a number of honors, including the Distinguished Alumnus Award for Community Service from the University of Texas Law School and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from St. John’s School.

Stern currently serves as a director of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas and of the Invesco Funds Board. She is also a board member of the Holdsworth Center, which is dedicated to the development of strong public school leaders in Texas. She is a past president of the Junior League of Houston.

She previously served as the chairman of St. John’s School and on the boards of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

– Houston Branch and Texas Children’s Ann Stern President & CEO Hospital.

Houston Endowment

Stern and her husband, Karl Stern, an 600 Travis Suite 6400 attorney with Quinn Emanuel, have two Houston, TX 77002 children and two grandchildren.

Ph. 713.238.8110

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State Representative Senfronia Thompson District 141, Texas House of Representatives

ple. Early in her career and using money from her own pocket, Rep. Thompson rooted out racism in funding of Prairie View A&M. Because of her efforts, Prairie View A&M receives its fair share of federal and state funding.

She has achieved an impressive legislative resume and is the author of the James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Act, the Sexual Assault Program Fund, the Contraceptive Parity law, the state’s current minimum wage law, laws combatting human trafficking, laws creating drug courts, laws requiring insurance companies to pay for anticancer oral medication and 3D mammograms, Texas’ first-ever alimony law and scores of other laws benefitting women, children and the elderly.

Although her Texas’ Equal Pay Act was vetoed, Rep. Thompson remains committed to ensuring Texans receive equal pay for equal work.

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ep. Senfronia Thompson’s legacy is one built from strong principles of faith, an unwavering defense of freedom, and a staunch belief in fairness.

She exemplifies the American ideal that one person can make a difference.

Texas native Senfronia Thompson represents District 141, which includes Northeast Houston and Humble. A Houston attorney, Rep. Thompson is currently serving her 23rd term in the Texas House of Representatives and has the distinct honor of being the longest-serving woman and African-American in Texas history.

She has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from TSU, a Master of Education from Prairie View A&M; a law degree from Thurgood Marshall and a Master of Law from the University of Houston.

and stable home for her grandson. She has two sons, one grandson, one granddaughter and one great-granddaughter.

An award-winning legislator and acknowledged civil rights leader, Rep. Thompson, affectionately known by her colleagues as “Ms. T”, was inducted into the prestigious Texas Women’s Hall of Fame on May 6, 2014. She is a recipient of the “National Sojourner Truth” Meritorious Service Award from the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. In June 2017, Texas Monthly named her one of the Top 10 Best Legislators. She is the last founding member of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus still serving in the Texas Legislature and the only recipient of the Rosa Parks Award.

She has passed several criminal justice reform bills to give first time non-violent offenders a “second chance” in obtaining employment and housing by allowing their records to be sealed; allow offenders to get their records expunged for certain misdemeanors at a much lower cost; require high school students to learn how to best interact with police officers during traffic stops; require law enforcement officers to take de-escalation training; prevent persons from going to jail because they cannot afford to pay traffic tickets or other misdemeanor fines; laws banning racial profiling and the Michael Morton Act, creating a fairer criminal justice system in Texas.

Rep. Thompson is a proud member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

State Representative Senfronia Thompson District 141 Texas House of Representatives Her toughness and compassion in stand- State Capitol, Room 3S.6 After the loss of her daughter, Sarah, Rep. ing up for the “little dogs” has earned her P.O. Box 2910 Thompson continued to provide a loving the respect and admiration of many peo- Austin, TX 78768 44

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Dawn Ullrich

President & CEO, Houston First Corporation Council confirmed that appointment shortly thereafter. In 2004, Ullrich also became the President of the Houston Convention Center Hotel Corporation, the local government corporation which owns and operates the Hilton Americas Houston. In July 2011, the Hotel Corporation became Houston First Corporation as a result of the consolidation of the Department and the Hotel Corporation. Ullrich’s titles and the scope of her responsibilities remain unchanged. In July 2014, Houston First realigned its efforts with the Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau. Ms. Ullrich is President and CEO of the aligned organization.

The Corporation is responsible for the management and operation of the Hilton Americas-Houston, George R. Brown Convention Center, Miller Outdoor Theatre, Wortham Theater Center, Jones Hall, Talento Bilingue de Houston, Jones Plaza, the Theater District Parking garage, and a host of smaller municipal properties.

The Department also serves as the City’s contract administrator for agreements with Bayou Place, Hobby Center, Toyota Center, The Aquarium and others.

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awn Ullrich grew up in Barron, Wisconsin and attended the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, majoring in political science and business administration.

During college, she worked summers at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico where she met her husband, Lee, a native Houstonian. Following graduation, she moved to Houston and received a law degree from the University of Houston in 1982.

While attending law school, she began working as a legal assistant in the City’s

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Legal Department. Upon receiving her law license, she became an assistant city attorney in the Corporate Section. Her responsibilities included oversight of the City’s legislative program as well as negotiation and drafting a variety of City contracts and regulatory ordinances. Those tasks entailed many assignments related to the Convention & Entertainment Facilities Department and led to an opportunity to join the staff as the assistant director in 1992.

Dawn is a member of the International Association of Venue Managers, Texas Bar Association, and First United Methodist Church and on the boards of the Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau, Alley Theatre, Houston Children’s Charity, Hotel & Lodging Association of Greater Houston, and Central Houston. Ms. Ullrich also serves as an ex officio member of the Buffalo Bayou Partnership, The Heritage Society and the Houston Downtown Management District.

She has been married for 38 years and has three children. Dawn enjoys Western history, reading and knitting.

Dawn Ullrich President & CEO Houston First Corporation 701 Avenida de las Americas, Suite 200 In 2002, the Mayor appointed Ullrich Houston, TX 77010 as the Department director and the City Dawn.Ullrich@houstonfirst.com

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Juuhi Ahuja

President, Founder and CEO, Wise Men Consultants ebrated Entrepreneur award in 2012 & 2013, and Indo American Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Business Woman of the Year in 2010. HBJ ranked Wise Men as the 13th Largest MWBE Company in Houston in 2015. Ahuja sits on the Board of the Ovarcome Foundation, a charity for Ovarian Cancer and the Indo American Chamber of Commerce Ahuja’s main line of thinking is: “If I am not networking, then I am not working”.

Networking is one of the best ways to build your business in today’s environment. HMSDC, IACCGH, and WBEA have provided Ahuja the platform to meet large corporate members and Wise Men owes its success to these organizations. Wise Men’s business philosophy is based on 3 principles: Quick, Quality and why do 2 when 1 will do. If something is worth doing, one must do it quickly and with high quality.

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uuhi Ahuja is the Founder, President & CEO of Wise Men Consultants. Since its inception in 1997 Wise Men has grown from an IT Staffing firm into a full blown technology service provider offering IT Solutions, Consulting, Outsourcing, Managed Services and Support with 600+ employees and offices in the US, India and Dubai. Ahuja’s focus is to provide clients with quality service at the right price. Ahuja began her career in New York City in the insurance industry.

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ness that includes an MBA from the New York Institute of Technology.

As the CEO, Ahuja oversees Wise Men’s business strategy, fosters client relationships & partnerships. She directly manages Wise Men’s Staffing and Recruitment Division and is an active member of many local organizations such as Houston Minority Supplier Diversity Council, Indo American Chamber of Commerce and Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance.

Born in Mumbai, India in a business family, Ahuja’s father was a serial entrepreneur who brought many new electronic products to the Indian market place.

He won several awards, including the President of India Award for Innovation in 1972. Her father is her inspiration and he would often say, “You can be anything you set your mind to”. Ahuja is a certified yoga teacher from the Yoga Institute in Mumbai and practices meditation daily. She enjoys music, walking, traveling, reading and watching movies. Ahuja is married to Omprakash, a hotelier who builds and owns franchise hotels like Sheraton, Hilton and Marriott. They have one daughter who is their pride and joy.

Juuhi Ahuja President, Founder and CEO Wise Men Consultants 1500 S Dairy Ashford Ste 285 Houston, TX 77077 Ahuja was given the HMSDC Supplier of Ph. 281.953.4500 the Year in award in 2014, HTC’s Cel- juuhi@wisemen.com

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Houston Energy Corridor

Stylish Rooms

Reunions

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Meeting Room

All the extras you’ll love

www.fourpointshoustonenergycorridor.com

18861 Katy Freeway Houston, Texas 77094 T 281 492 6300

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Margaret Allen, DDS Owner, Amazing Smiles, PLLC

to care for patients while undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments because practicing dentistry is her life’s passion. Her motto is, “If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.”

Dr. Allen is a top dentist with 22 years of experience and the owner of Amazing Smiles, PLLC, with 2 locations - Sugar Land and a Houston office, located inside the Church of Bethels Place Empowerment Center. She understands the complexities of business proprietorship and the importance of delivering excellent services. This has led to a successful dental enterprise.

Dr. Allen also likes to give back locally as well as abroad. Dr. Allen has been on several mission trips to Africa, Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Dr. Allen provides dental treatment for women, men and children in these poor countries. She also donates supplies for the mission trip when she wasn’t able to go.

Dr. Allen is grateful for the opportunity to share her story with patients. In addition to reminding patients to get periodic dental check-ups, she is also known to encourage annual mammograms and prostate screenings.

When Dr. Allen is not practicing dentistry, you may find her shopping, dining out or just relaxing, spending quality time with her daughter Myah and her family.

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r. Margaret Jeanelle Allen was born in Lafayette Louisiana, the youngest of nine children. Dr. Allen knew in high school that she wanted to work in the field of dentistry. She enrolled into the Debakey High School for Health Professions and it was then that she decided to become a dental hygienist.

earned a degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of Texas Health Science Center. Dr. Allen’s passion for dentistry was clear and she decided to enroll in dental school. In 1995, Dr. Allen graduated from the Howard University College of Dentistry with a degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery.

Margaret Allen, DDS Owner Amazing Smiles, PLLC 14090 Southwest Freeway, Ste 402 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Ph. 281.240.8080 Amazing Smiles #2

Dr. Allen knows that she’s blessed; she 12660 Sandpiper, Ste 043 Dr. Allen went on to study Biology at was diagnosed with breast cancer in Houston, TX 77035 the University of Houston. She also 2015. During this time, she continued Ph. 713.723.5700 52

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Johnte’ Archer, JD

CEO/Founder, J. Archer Insurance Group and SHE IS A CEO Foundation participant in the Texas Legislative Internship Program (TLIP), The Mickey Leland Congressional Internship Program, and as a Legislative Aide for the US House of Representatives. She is a champion for girls and children evidenced by her early service as a law clerk with the Children’s Law Center in Los Angeles, CA and Guardian Ad Litem work with Child Advocates.

Archer is also the Founder/CEO of The SHE IS A CEO Foundation, a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization founded to encourage entrepreneurship, enrich character and develop a love for charity among girls. Through its programs, the foundation strives to create entrepreneurs one little girl at a time and support other organizations that educate and enrich the lives of girls. Archer is proud to say that the organization will have served over 700 middle school girls through its Entrepreneurship Academy, Conference and Pitch competition since its inception in 2015.

Supporting her community, girls and other women in business is Archer’s passion.

She serves as the finance chair for the board of St. John’s Downtown, is an active board member of the Bread of Life, Inc. and Temenos CDC/II & III. She also proudly served as a host committee member for the Heroes for Children’s Annual fundraiser for families with children battling Cancer, “Heroes for Handbags.”

Above all, her proudest accomplishment is her family, spiritually led by her husband, Ike and grounded by the daily adventures ohnte’ Archer, JD is the CEO high net worth individuals to multi-nationof their 2 ½ year old son John Christopher. of J. Archer Insurance al public and private organizations.

Group/Archer Commercial Archer is a proud graduate of the UniverInsurance Group, a multinational independent insurance broker- sity of Houston (Go Coogs!) and Pepper- Johnte’ Archer, JD age. Founded in 2009, the affluent firm, dine School of Law in Malibu, CA where CEO/Founder is a notable Arthur J. Gallagher and Willis she earned her law degree. She is no J. Archer Insurance Group and Towers Watson Diversity Solution partner, stranger to community service and ad- SHE IS A CEO Foundation an M/WBE firm selected based on their vocacy with roots firmly planted through 5252 Westchester St., Suite 260 proven capabilities and their track record her membership into the illustrious Epsi- Houston, TX 77005 of exceptional performance. The firm has lon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Kappa Al- Ph. 281.501.8331 experience serving the risk management/ pha Sorority, Inc. in the Spring of 1998. www.archerinsgroup.com insurance needs of clients ranging from She has a distinguished background as a www.sheisaceo.org

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Karina Barbieri

Vice President, Mediplus Panama, S.A. & Philanthropist and donating her time and resources to several charitable foundations such as: March of Dimes, Houston Ballet, Houston Symphony, Latin Women’s Initiative, Institute of Hispanic Culture of Houston, UNICEF, Cancerforward, Virtuosi of Houston, Recipe for Success, The Women’s home, among others. In addition, Barbieri is very passionate about fashion and has been recognized as one of Houston’s most stylish women, voted by Culturemap readers as the winner of Houston’s Stylemaker in 2015.

She served in the boards of Latin Women’s Initiative and the Hispanic Institute of Culture of Houston.

She received recognition for the Greater Women Houston Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame. She was also named the 2017 role model for the Board of Directors of the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

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arina Barbieri was born in Venezuela, daughter of doctors and the youngest of six. She is married to the love of her life, Carlos Barbieri, an Italian petroleum engineer graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and with an MBA from MIT. They have been married for over twenty years. Barbieri is the mother of their three wonderful children: Alberto, Paola and Roberto, two graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, the youngest still in university. Their daughter continued on to law school.

from a very young age and is well known for her generosity. She studied psychology at the Andres Bello Catholic University in Venezuela.

She chaired events including: Latin Women’s Initiative special events for several years, the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft’s Margarita Madness 15th anniversary, the 20th anniversary gala of Virtuosi of Houston to benefit Young Artist’s Chamber Orchestra, the 15th anniversary of the Latin Women’s Initiative luncheon and fashion show, the 51st Las Noche de Las Americas gala, to benefit the Hispanic Institute of Culture of Houston, and the Delicious Alchemy Banquet to benefit the Recipe for Success Foundation. The Woman’s Hospital of Texas Labor Day Luncheon to benefit The March of Dimes.

Barbieri is an entrepreneur as a vicepresident of Mediplus Panama.

Barbieri is already dedicated to 2018 Barbieri is a former prima ballerina, and charity activities: as the chair in the participated in several international tours. UNICEF gala.

Later she became a ballet teacher in several studios.

Karina Barbieri

When she came to Houston from the Vice President Netherlands she was inspired to help Mediplus Panama, S.A. & Philanthropist those less fortunate. She has been involved in philanthropic efforts in the Barbieri is a passionate philanthropist Houston community by raising money

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Lea Bogle CEO, Premier Wireless

when working with their clients and they help them leverage the technology to do more, to reduce expenses, to increase operational efficiency, and to communicate better. They achieve this by listening to their clients, understanding their goals and their operational challenges and they offer a wide variety of solutions that address the needs of their clients. Some of the solutions include dispatch and GPS solutions, electronic forms that minimize and eliminate errors in the field, and IOT solutions that reduce operational costs and provide real-time information.

Growing up in a single parent home, with a mother who had been run over by a drunk driver, she learned early how to be self-sufficient and how to take care of others early in life. Bogle has never forgotten the numerous strangers and friends who helped care for her and her brother during her mother’s numerous surgeries and has lived her life trying to pay it forward.

She believes in mentoring other people and has successfully helped many of her former employees gain the skill sets necessary to start their own businesses.

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or over 30 years, Lea Bogle has been a trail blazer in the wireless industry and has served as President and CEO of Premier Wireless since 1993. She started at the bottom, working as a telemarketer in 1983, selling pagers. She spent nearly 10 years in the paging industry and was always ranked in the top 5 across the country, no matter what position she held.

On September, 30 1993, Bogle’s position was eliminated and she woke up on October 1st unemployed for the first time in her life. After interviewing with a couple of companies, Bogle decided that the next time she was unemployed, she would be the first to know, not that last. With that, she found an office, bought her first computer, read her first entrepreneurship book, The e-myth, and on November 12,

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1993, Premier Wireless began.

Celebrating her 24th year in business, Bogle is still driven to be the best. She is a recent graduate (Cohort 8) of the Goldman Sach’s 10,000 Small Businesses program in Houston. Today, Bogle serves on the board of the Dalton Dehart Photographic Foundation, has previously served on several other Boards with other non-profits and now volunteers at the Montrose Center in Houston. Bogle has 2 daughters and lives in Sugar Land.

In the beginning, she focused her efforts on small and mid-size construction and service companies and began providing the bare bone communication basics, a pager. In 1997, she expanded and began providing push-to-talk radios, cell phones, and accessories to both construction companies and service companies. By the year 2000, Bogle had expanded again and was providing cell phone service to local government agencies, including Fort Lea Bogle Bend ISD and Fort Bend County—two of CEO her clients to this day.

Bogle is one of the few women entrepreneurs in the wireless industry and Premier Wireless is the only MWBE, HUB Certified dealer on the State of Texas DIR contract for any of the four major carriers. Today, Premier provides a consultative approach

Premier Wireless 12220 Murphy Rd., Suite F Stafford, TX 77477 Ph. 281.575.8500 lea.bogle@premierwirelesstx.com www.premierwirelesstx.com WBE / SBE / HUB Certified

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Carol B. Brace MS, LSSBB, CTL, CIL, SCOR, PMP Lecturer/Business Development Specialist, Davies College of Business, University of Houston - Downtown

National and WEWEN and she chartered ABWA’s second national student business league ABWA University Park Express Network (UPEN).

She currently volunteers at The Women’s Home through The Zonta Club of Houston.

Here she shares her talents by helping women in crisis regain their self-esteem training them in team building, time management, organizational skills, financial education, and other related topics.

Also to her credit, Brace received the 2017 Women of Excellence Award, through the Federation of Houston Professional Women for demonstrated excellence in her profession and the community, and lasting impression left on those organizations she serves and the people she helps.

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arol Brace (Lecturer/Business Development Specialist) brings, to the University of Houston Downtown, 25-years of global supply chain - logistics experience 20 years from Compaq Computer Corporation/Hewlett Packard. The past 12 years focused on managing global supply chain logistics out of Shanghai and Taiwan. Brace also serves as a missionary traveling to countries around the world to share her masonry, plumbing and building skills. Brace’s academic preparation includes a BS in Industrial Management from University of Akron, a Masters in Occupational Technology from the University of Houston, and certifications in CTL, CIL, PMP, SCOR, and LSSBB. A Native Houstonian, she is driven to give back to her community. Touched by the needs of the thousands of displaced workers that were affected by layoffs due to the retirement of the Space Shuttle

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program she initiated and customized a LSSGB, LSSBB, PMP, and Logistics program bringing in leaders from various industries and creating a partnership with Mayor Annise Parker’s office.

January 2016, Brace and a core group of 19 women formed, an American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) charter was sought and obtained, kickoff luncheon was planned and on May 4, 2016 ABWA announced its 15th business league in the Greater Houston region, Women Empowering Women Express Network (WEWEN) and more than 100 women and men were in attendance “You are part of the largest formational meeting the national organization has ever had,” attendees were told as the luncheon began. “This area of northwest Houston is growing and so are the opportunities for business women” (Houston Chronicle, 2016). Then in October 2016, she enlisted the support of ABWA

She serves on the following boards: ABWA WEWEN - Pres., ABWA UPEN Chair, American Latino Center for Education Research & Justice - Chair, FHPW Education Foundation - Corresponding Secretary, Klein ISD Business & Marketing Education - Advisory Committee, while being actively involved in: APICS, Chambers of Commerce – Cy Fair, East End, Northwest Houston and Tomball, CSCMP, ITMA, Leadership North Houston XXII, UHDNW MD Anderson Blood Drive, NAPM, NDTA, PMI, Zonta Club of Houston and works closely with our Corporate University Partner Hewlett Packard.

Carol B. Brace MS, LSSBB, CTL, CIL, SCOR, PMP Lecturer/Business Development Specialist Davies College of Business University of Houston - Downtown Northwest Campus at Lone Star College-University Park UHD Northwest Campus at LSC - University Park 20515 State Hwy 249, B12.201_H Houston, TX 77077 Ph. 713.237.5407 bracec@uhd.edu

HP Invite .pdf 1 8/16/2017 8:08:35 AM

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HP Congratulates Carol Brace for being recognized as one of the 2017 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston.

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Dr. LaQuita Carter

Assistant Superintendent of Performance Management, Spring Independent School District strategic planning, and mentoring support.

In addition, the company also specializes in capturing the moment through photography.

Dr. Carter is a fellow with the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators Texas Education Policy Institute, president of The Woodlands Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, an ex-officio board member of the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and a member of the steering committees for the Harris County Department of Education for Leadership Impact and Chi St. Luke’s Montgomery County Violence Prevention. She was recently nominated and accepted to participate in Leadership North Houston, a program designed to develop and strengthen leaders who work and live in the Houston area. She also contributes and adds value to a host of other committees that support community and children.

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r. LaQuita Carter is a passionate educator who has been touching the lives of children and families for more than 25 years. Influenced by her life-story; she is a servant leader with a giving heart – not only valuing community but working to create community as well. She takes great pride in having received a public school education and is forever grateful for growing up in the inner city of Chicago. Recalling her past experiences of overcoming feelings of isolation, Dr. Carter is committed to equipping others to be great no matter their circumstances.

portunity to lead in a variety of areas in education including serving as a principal, assistant principal, literacy coach, teacher and adjunct professor in some of the nation’s largest education providers including Chicago Public Schools, Detroit Public Schools, Houston Independent School District, Concordia University and University of St. Thomas. In each of her roles she has remained true to “keeping children first”. Through her innate ability to coach and develop others, she’s been able to move school systems forward, push leaders past their limits and provide experiences to children that they will treasure for a lifetime.

Dr. Carter currently serves as an assistant su- She is co-founder of THQ Investment Enterperintendent in Spring Independent School prises, which focuses on providing leaderDistrict and is humbled to have had the op- ship coaching, organizational development, 62

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Dr. Carter is a native of Memphis but grew roots in Chicago and spent some time in Detroit. She now calls Houston home and can’t imagine being anywhere else. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Chicago State University, two Master of Arts degrees from Saint Xavier University and a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University.

She enjoys experiencing life with her husband, Dana and their three future leaders; Trinity, Harrison, and Quincy. She treasurers spending time with her friends and family who help her stay balanced while living life to the fullest. She believes in health and fitness and strives daily to live on purpose with the intent God has for her life.

Dr. LaQuita Carter Assistant Superintendent of Performance Management Spring Independent School District 16717 Ella Blvd.

Houston, TX 77090 lcarter1913@hotmail.com www.springisd.org

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Twila Carter

Executive Director, Astros Foundation 2,500 volunteers participating on behalf of the organization through many different outreach programs.

Carter also heightened the Astros partnership with the Houston Independent School District through many efforts such as instating the Fun At Bat program in elementary schools and launching the Astros Foundation Literacy Bus in partnership with the Friends of the Houston Public Library and sponsored by Phillips 66, created to encourage family reading in Houston-area communities by distributing free books to children in grades K-5 at various city-owned baseball and softball parks, summer and after school programs and other local youth initiatives.

Since March 2017, over 5,000 books have been distributed by the Astros Foundation Literacy Bus. Prior to her current role, Carter served as the project manager for many of the recent Minute Maid Park renovations, including the Diamond Club, Union Station, Astros Team Stores and the Astros Clubhouse. Carter has overseen the development of numerous projects for Crane Capital Group, including the construction of the Crane Worldwide headquarters which opened in April of 2012.

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wila Carter enters her fourth season as Executive Director of the Astros Foundation and Senior Vice President of Community Relations for the Astros. She made the transition to baseball in 2011 with Jim Crane’s purchase of the Astros franchise and has worked with The Crane Group in various capacities since 1998.

Carter oversees all fundraising, community outreach and volunteer efforts of the Astros and the Astros Foundation. Cornerstone programs include the Community Leaders Program, a multi-million-dol64

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lar partnership with the City of Houston’s Parks and Recreation Department and the Astros MLB Youth Academy at Sylvester Turner Park in Acres Homes. Under Carter’s leadership, the youth baseball and softball program participation has grown to over 40,000 participants, 23 fields at 9 Houston area parks have been refurbished and are currently maintained by the foundation and over 15,000 free baseball and softball uniforms have been donated to participating youth. The Astros Foundation Volunteer Program was established in 2014 and now has over

Carter has held numerous elected and appointed positions with several service and community organizations. She was named2016 Inspire Women’s Business Woman of the Year, 2014 Kingwood Women of Achievement for Community Service and received the 2013 State Community Service Award from the Texas Daughters of the American Revolution.

Twila Carter Executive Director Astros Foundation 501 Crawford Street Houston, TX 77002 Ph. 713.259.8904 tcarter@astros.com

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Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin President and CEO, Cobbin & Associates Consulting, LLC.

sultant, and technical writer for profit/ non-profit organizations. She taught as an adjunct professor at St. Thomas University, and University of Houston, as well as a grants consultant for Lamar University and the University of Houston-Victoria.

Dr. Cobbin served as Executive Director of Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy, CEOWomen of Windsor and presently sits on the Women’s Partnership board for the College of Biblical Studies. She praises and worships with the Gospel Company Choir of Windsor Village UMC and comments that “God has His hand over my life. With spiritual and intellectual knowledge, you are a powerful individual.”

In 2009, she opened a “Galleria-style Store”, Divine Closet by Jackie in Southwest Houston. With one successful consultant business to her credit, Dr. Cobbin is a fashion consultant and true “southern girl” from Memphis, Tennessee.

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ueled by a passion for her God given purpose, Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin has thrived as a multi-dimensional entrepreneur with an influential role in the field of education as CEO of Cobbin & Associates Consulting, LLC and as a Professional Service Provider for the Texas Education Agency.

Dr. Cobbin is engaged in mission work as a philanthropist and fundraiser for KBC Orphanage in Kenya, and supports local youth scholarships for Angels Surviving Cancer, the Houston Area Urban ous talks shows. Her most recently pub- League, Suburban Sugar Land Women, lished book, According to His Purpose Earth Angels and Windsor Village UMC landed Dr. Cobbin the 2015 Influential CEO ministry.

Authors Award.

As a widow to the late, Sullie Eugene Dr. Cobbin holds a Doctorate of Educa- Cobbin, Dr. Cobbin is especially proud of tion degree in Education Administration her son, Charles Horton, Jr. (Toni), her emphasis on Curriculum & Instruction grandchildren, Haileigh (interning in Brawith Superintendent Certification from zil), Hannah the “artist” and Christopher Texas Southern University. She was the “singer.” one of the first inductees (along with Dr. Dr. Cobbin is an active member of Delta Rod Paige) into TSU’s “Education Hall of Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Fame” and selected as a National Teacher Corps Associate, one of 30 across the country. She studied leadership at the University of Wisconsin upon completing Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin a Masters in Education and Bachelor of President and CEO Cobbin & Associates Consulting, LLC. Science degrees. Dr. Cobbin is currently 5826 New Territory, Suite 320 enrolled in professional development at Sugar Land, TX 77479 Harvard University.

Fort Bend Business Journal recognized her as “one of the most effective and results oriented consultants in America” and she was nominated to receive the African American Business Achievement Pinnacle Award by Houston Citizen Chamber of Commerce. Over the span of her career, Dr. Cobbin is a recipient of numerous awards and congressional recognition. As a “national speaker of choice” she has a unique way of reachPh. 832.715.6830 ing her audiences through the release of With a purpose-driven mandate on her jcobbin2@sbcglobal.net audio teachings and appearing on vari- life, Dr. Cobbin serves as a mentor, con- www.jcobbin2.wixsite.com/drcobbin 66

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d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Designing Excellence since 1991

AUTOARCH Architects, LLC is a comprehensive woman-owned architectural and planning firm with 26 years of successful practice dedicated to designing K-12, higher education, career and technology, civic and community centers, and healthcare. With highly qualified employees firm wide, our services are comprehensive in nature. In addition to architecture, we offer facility programming/ system master planning, facility assessment and consulting, technological consulting, program management, and construction administration services. We serve our clients as trusted advisors, combining localized expertise with a global perspective.

The success and the continued growth of AUTOARCH over the last twenty-six years is due to the insistence on producing quality products and services that are the best available in the design profession.

713.952.3366 WWW.AUTOARCH.NET

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Tamar Davis

Grammy-Nominated Artist and Edu-Tainment Advocate, Syren Music Group, LLC. tives: The Tamar Davis Project (an international, educational and artistic project designed for singers, artists, musicians, writers, painters, composers, choreographers, and dancers to benefit from opportunities that will become catalyst to successfully launch their careers under the watchful eye of industry professionals turned mentors), the Syren Arts Academy (a custom 6-week artistic and educational curriculum), and the College, Career, and Empowerment Summit USA (an annual conduit that fosters a city-wide college-going culture amongst millennial.) Tamar has used her gifts in the presence of our former 42nd President and First Lady Barbara Bush (“Celebration of Reading”), our 43rd President George W. Bush (“Helping a Hero”), and our former Secretary of State (“The Men of Distinction” dinner.)

Tamar’s music continues to garner sales from Japan, Belgium, Barcelona, the United Kingdom, Canada, the Netherlands and the United States and has shared her tumultuous journey with

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he New York Times describes Tamar as “Having a voice that can fill 3 stadiums and the moves of Tina Turner.”

Tamar, known as the muse and favorite singer of her mentor Prince, gained notoriety for being the music legends “Protégé” while co-writing their Grammynominated duet “Beautiful, Loved, and Blessed” (Universal Republic). A native Houstonian and graduate of University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music, Tamar recently released her independent, sophomore album “I Am the Storm” through her company Syren Music Group. With recent jaw-dropping performances on NBC’s “The Voice: Season X,” Tamar recently made a de-

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Glamour magazine, Essence Magazine, VIBE magazine, the New York Times, US Weekly, Sophisticate’s Black Hair and the Vegas Tribune, with complementing appearances on Great Day Houston, Saturbut in Broadway’s “A Night with Janis day Night Live, Good Morning America, Joplin,” starred as Sarah Vaughn at the and the BET Awards.

Tony Award Winning Crossroads Theatre in New Jersey, and toured in the First Tamar is also the co-founder of DocFest National Tour of Broadway’s “Motown, and The Next Level Houston. the Musical.” Tamar has toured with Tyler Perry’s “Madea Gets a Job” prior to touring with “Madea’s Big Happy FamTamar Davis ily,” “Laugh to Keep from Crying,” and Grammy-Nominated Artist and “A Madea Christmas;” Lionsgate producEdu-Tainment Advocate tions set to home DVD rentals.

Syren Music Group, LLC.

Through her creation of Syren Music www.TamarDavis.com Group, LLC, an entertainment company SyrenMusic@SyrenMusicGroup.com that specializes in the advancement of independent music by investing in artistic startups, Tamar creatively expresses her desire to “pay-it-forward” through (3) philanthropic and edu-tainment initia-

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Cheryl L. Duncan, BSN, RN, CVRN Founder, Ashley Jadine Foundation

University in Richmond, Kentucky, May, 1983 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society - Theta Nu Chapter.

Some of the honors she has received include: MEDVAMC Advanced Practitioner Poster Presentation, 1st place for “Time Is Muscle” 2007 and 2008, Department of Veteran Affairs Contribution Award, and Who’s Who Among Nursing Professionals.

Cheryl stays busy with the following organizations: Greater Houston American Association of Critical Care Nurses, Fort Bend County Black Nursing Association, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated - Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter – in which she co-chairs the Health Committee, Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church - First Aid Care Team and Financial Empowerment Ministry and Brentwood Baptist Church – Veterans Ministry.

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heryl L. Duncan, BSN, RN, CVRN - Founder of the Ashley Jadine Foundation (AJF). AJF was started in loving memory of Cheryl’s daughter, Ashley Jadine Duncan, who died by suicide five years ago, at age 17. The Foundation’s mission is to increase community awareness about teen suicide prevention and help stop the stigma of mental health. The Centers for Disease control report that teen suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among 15 to 24-year-olds, behind accidents and homicides. Also, among children aged 10 – 14, suicide is the 4th leading cause of death.

These statistics drive AJF’s mission daily!

The Ashley Jadine Foundation Board consists of women and men who volunteer their services at health fairs, conferences, schools, and other community events to encourage mental health wellness and Hope Heals. In addition to this, AJF has hosted 4 of its own events including an art festival and health fair / walks. This year, we will host our very first gala in celebration of our 5th year and to continue growing a strong, collaborative village to expand the reach of 70

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our mission. The gala will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2017 at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, with a theme of A Shining Star Gala – Let your Light Shine!

Annually, we partner with Houston Baptist University’s Psychology Department for the Sharon Burrows Conference: Suicide Prevention and Awareness. AJF has been telling Ashley’s story and informing others to “Hold on There’s HOPE”. Duncan has spoken on suicide prevention across Texas and in Kentucky. She has participated in numerous health fairs, symposiums, workshops and conventions relating to this topic.

The Foundation has worked closely with the National Alliance of Mental Illness and the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention. The Sandy Hook Promise Foundation in Connecticut has shared Ashley’s story in a special documentary film, What They Left Behind, which may be viewed on Netflix and through a link on that site.

Duncan grew up on Ashley House Farm O’Rear in Versailles, KY, where she helped her father with livestock and tobacco. During her secondary school years, she played basketball as a starting guard / forward at Woodford County Junior High and High Schools. She has one son, Anthony Thomas Duncan, who graduated from Morehouse College, May, 2013, with a Bachelor of Chemistry. Anthony works in New York City. Duncan is hardworking, loves helping others, and believes strongly in getting an education. Duncan loves the Lord who gives her strength, faith, and grace to press on and move forward through life.

She believes that you should let your light shine out of darkness and pray the Serenity Prayer. Her message to parents and the community is to stay tuned to children and teens through social media. Social media is the major outlet for expression with today’s young people and one of the best ways to “hear” what young people are thinking.

Duncan strives to Stop the Stigma, Shame, and Silence of suicide and mental illness and encourages teens and young adults to Talk More, Text Less!

Professionally, Duncan has been a Registered Nurse for thirty-four years, specializing in cardiology, critical care, cardiac catheriza- Cheryl L. Duncan, BSN RN CVRN tion and electrophysiology laboratory nurs- Founder, Ashley Jadine Foundation ing. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky www.ashleyjadine.org

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Diane Englet

Senior Director, Corporate Community Relations, CenterPoint Energy also accompany her mother to sing to the elderly at the assisted living facilities, arrange flowers for the church and deliver food baskets to those less fortunate. Each day, Diane proudly continues her mother’s legacy of giving back.

Englet is proud to serve on several nonprofit boards, including Trees for Houston, Houston Center for Literacy and the Houston Downtown Management District.

She is also Chair of the Board of Boys and Girls Harbor, an organization that is very close to her heart. Its mission is to provide healthy, comprehensive residential care for children who are victims of abuse, neglect, abandonment or family hardship.

Diane has chaired the Harbor’s Fantasy Football Draft Night for the past four years and is delighted to have raised more than $1 million for the cause.

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iane Englet is Senior Director of Corporate Community Relations for CenterPoint Energy. She leads the company’s philanthropic efforts, volunteer activities, and community and education outreach initiatives. In this position, Diane often sees the hardships that people – and communities as a whole – can face. Fortunately, she and her team are able to help make positives impacts in all of the communities that CenterPoint Energy touches.

People often say that CenterPoint Energy is “Always There,” and that’s true. The company’s culture empowers employees to give back to their communities and make a difference to help those in need. Whether coordinating employee volunteer activities,

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teaching students about electric and gas safety, or supporting environmental initiatives through tree planting, Diane’s team demonstrates each day that CenterPoint Energy is a responsible community partner.

In 2016 alone, the company’s employees completed 237,500 volunteer hours, and more than 2,000 grants were donated to qualified nonprofit organizations.

As a proud New Orleanian, Diane attributes her love of life and cuisine to her upbringing in the picturesque “Big Easy.”

At an early age, she learned the value of giving back to the community from her mother who was an avid volunteer. In fact, Diane has vivid memories of joining her mother to help hurricane flood victims – by the end of the day they were no longer strangers, they became family. She would

Englet is married to Tobin Englet and is a proud mother of two sons, Duncan and Stephen. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management from the College of Business at the University of New Orleans and a Center for Corporate Citizenship Certification from Boston College. Diane also completed an Executive Development Program at the University of Idaho. She is a graduate of Leadership Houston and Leadership Texas, as well as a Senior Fellow with the American Leadership Forum. In 2016, Houston Woman Magazine named Diane one of Houston’s Fifty Most Influential Women and she was honored as a Breakthrough Woman during the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber 2016 No Limits Conference for Women.

Diane Englet Senior Director Corporate Community Relations CenterPoint Energy P.O. Box 1700 Houston, TX 77251-1700 diane.englet@centerpointenergy.com www.centerpointenergy.com

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CenterPoint Energy congratulates employee Diane Englet for being recognized as one of the 2017 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston.

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Diedra Fontaine

Executive Director, Office of Development, Prairie View A&M University

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iedra Fontaine is the Executive Director of the Office of Development for Prairie View A&M University. Fontaine previously served as the Director of Diversity for United Airlines. Fontaine holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Computer Information Systems from the University of North Texas and a Master of Business Administration from Texas Southern University.

Fontaine is the recipient of several awards including the Founders Award for the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund, Legacy Hero Alumnae from Texas Southern University, the IMPACT award from Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and honored as a Women of Distinction by the Crohns & Colitis Foundation, a Woman on the Move by the Texas Executive Women Inc. and inducted into the Houston Women’s Business Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame.

Fontaine is a proud native Houstonian.

She is very active in the Houston community and serves on several boards including The Ensemble Theatre, Dress for Success Houston, The Holocaust Museum and Theatre Under The Stars.

Fontaine is a graduate of Leadership Houston and an active member of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, The Links, Inc. – Houston Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Jack & Jill of America- Houston Chapter.

Fontaine is married to Terrance H. Fontaine and they have one daughter, Courtney.

Diedra Fontaine Executive Director Office of Development Prairie View A&M University P.O. Box 519 M.S. 1200 Prairie View, TX 77446 Ph. 936.261.1592 dbfontaine@pvamu.edu 76

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Karina Gonzalez Principal Dancer, Houston Ballet

The Tempest; John Neumeier’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Edward Lian’s Murmuration; Justin Peck’s Year of the Rabbit; Wayne McGregor’s Dyad 1929 and Harald Lander’s Etudes.

Gonzalez has been a guest artist at the Gala International Colombia (2006) and at the New York International Ballet Competition’s Gala (2009). Ms. Gonzalez has also guested with Ballet Estable del Teatro Colon in Argentina, performing the role of Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty. In 2011, she participated in the Career Transition for Dancers’ 26th Anniversary Jubilee in New York City, New York and The Festival de Danza Cordoba in Mexico. In the summer of 2012, Ms. Gonzalez performed in the International Ballet Gala in Malaysia and was invited as a guest artist with Michele Wiles and Charles Askegard’s up and coming company Ballet Next at the Joyce Theater in NYC. In 2014, she was invited with The Australia ballet to dance the role of Nikiya in Stanton’s La Bayadere.

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arina Gonzalez is a native of Caracas, Venezuela and a silver medal winner of the New York International Ballet Competition in 2007. She trained at the Gustavo Franklin Ballet School in Caracas, Venezuela and has danced professionally with Ballet National of Caracas and Tulsa Ballet, where she reached the rank of principal in 2007.

Ms. Gonzalez joined Houston Ballet as a soloist in 2010, and was promoted to principal dancer in 2013. She has danced principal roles by the world’s foremost choreographers, including Ben Stevenson’s Cinderella, Dracula, Romeo and Juliet, and The Sleeping Beauty; Andre Prokovsy’s The Great Gatsby; John Cranko’s The Taming of the Shrew; AiGul Gaisina’s staging of Giselle; George Balanchine’s Western Symphony, Ser-

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enade, Four Temperaments, Emeralds, Theme and Variations and Ballet Imperial. Sir Kenneth McMillan’s Elite Syncopations and Manon. Nacho Duato’s Por vos Muero, Remansos, Gnawa and Jardi Tancat; Jirí Kylián’s Forgotten Land, Sinfonietta, Petite Morte, Wings of Wax, Falling Angels and Stepping Stones; Twyla Tharp’s Nine Sinatra Songs and The Brahms-Hayden Variations; Stanton Welch’s Bruiser, Maninyas, Tu Tu, The Core, Indigo, Divergence, Clear ,Tapestry, Of Blessed Memory, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, and Swan Lake; Christopher Bruce’s Rooster, Intimate pages and Ghost Dances; William Forsythe’s The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude and Artifact Suite; Jerome Robbin’s In the Night, West Side Story Suite and Other Dances; Jorma Elo’s ONE/end/ONE; James Kudelka’s Passion; David Bintley’s Aladdin and

Gonzalez has been featured on the cover of Pointe Magazine’s February/ March 2008 issue, Dance Magazine’s November 2011 edition and A+C Houston Magazine’s November 2011 edition. Gonzalez was name “Best dancer” 2013 by the Houston Press and was one of Pointe magazine’s favorite performances of the year. Also, Gonzalez was featured in Kimberly Clark’s and Honda Civic’s 2016 Television and Marketing campaign. In December 2016, Gonzalez was recognized by The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at their annual Gala.

Karina Gonzalez Principal Dancer Houston Ballet 601 Preston St. Houston, TX 77002 www.houstonballet.org karinadvgg@hotmail.com

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YOU HAVE MOST DEFINITELY ARRIVED.

Uptown Houston 111 North Post Oak Lane 713.680.2626 | 800.231.2759 Houstonian.com

2017

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LaTreace Harrison, RN, MS, CMCN Director of HealthCare Management Services, Amerigroup Texas

Fort Worth, El Paso, Houston, Lubbock, and San Antonio. As the Texas-Wide Director of Health Care Management Services, Harrison oversees the company’s Case Management Department, which includes OB, Pediatrics and Adults with chronic illnesses. She also heads up a second division within the company; Amerigroup’s Clinical Programs, which is comprised of the Sickle Cell Crisis Prevention Program, Wound Care Program, In-Home Practitioners Program, and the Emergency Room Program. Harrison is passionate and committed to empowering those insured by Amerigroup to be equipped with the knowledge of accessing and navigating the healthcare system and understanding how to maximize their healthcare benefits.

Harrison makes a conscious effort to strive for a healthy balance when it comes to work, her social and personal life, which is why she is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Jack and Jill of America. She also serves as an Executive Board Member for the Monarchs’ Baseball Organization.

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aTreace Harrison grew up in Houston, Texas and graduated from Jack Yates Sr. High School. After graduating from Yates High School, Harrison went on to pursue both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Health Education from Prairie View A&M University. She has 25 years of nursing experience, with 19 of those years in the managed care sector. Harrison began her nursing career at Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Texas Medical Center as an ICU nurse. Her experiences at Prairie View A&M College of Nursing and as an ICU nurse gave her the discipline and 104

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courage to excel in her field. Harrison had the desire to teach those less fortunate the importance of understanding their health and the healthcare delivery system. In her current role, Harrison is employed by Amerigroup, a managed healthcare organization that is committed to serving the underserved. Amerigroup is a subsidiary of Anthem, Inc., a Fortune 50 healthcare company. Harrison graciously serves as Director of Health Care Management Services for the State of Texas. She is responsible for over 800,000 lives within the Texas service delivery area. Members span throughout Austin, Beaumont, Dallas-

Harrison thanks God for her continued blessings and credits her ambition to her loving mother, Barbara Wilson, who raised 3 children as a single mom. She is married to husband, Gregory “Greg” Harrison. Both Harrison and Greg are the proud parents to daughter, Auset Harrison and son, Malik Harrison. Harrison is a long-time member of Windsor Village United Methodist Church.

Her life’s motto is simply summed up in three words, “Just Do It,” (Nike) which is supported by her love for life and sports, as she actively participates with her son’s baseball involvement.

LaTreace Harrison, RN, MS, CMCN Director of HealthCare Management Services Amerigroup Texas 3800 Buffalo Speedway, Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77098

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Karen Hill, MD

Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer, Community Health Choice While continuing in her practice she continued to diversify her interests and was offered a part time position as Associated Medical Director at Amerigroup Corp, a company who served the Medicaid population in Houston, Austin, San Antonio and Corpus Christi, particularly pregnant women and children. In this position, Dr.Hill helped to develop programs to improve quality of care and outcomes for this population. This experience prompted her to attend the University of Houston Bauer School of Business to earn an executive MBA. In 2014 she accepted a position as a Senior Medical Director at Cigna Health Spring and currently is Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Community Health Choice which is a leader in providing care to the underserved Medicaid and CHIP populations as well as those that receive insurance as a result of the Affordable Care Act.

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r. Hill was raised in Columbus, Ohio and was number 7 of 8 children. Her siblings set a high bar for education and career accomplishments and continue to keep her humble. She knew she wanted to be a doctor in kindergarten when girls were traditionally encouraged to pursue nursing. She graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Microbiology. She attended the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine where she met her husband, Chester Brown. They moved to Houston where she completed a dual residency and board certification in both Internal Medicine and 106

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Dr. Hill is active in the community as a member of The Houston Chapter of Jack and Jill. She served both as a co-chair and chair of their historic Debutante Ball. She chaired the scholarship brunch for the Houston Medical Forum and is a member of the Houston Chapter of Links Incorporated where she is chair of the scholarship committee. She is an active parent and is excited to help her son transition to the UniPediatrics. She started practice as Clini- versity of Miami for Mechanical Engineering cal Assistant Professor at Baylor College of and support her daughter in her last years Medicine where she split her time between of high school at St. Agnes Academy. private practice and academic medicine She enjoys spinning, biking and boot teaching and supervising medical stucamp for exercise. She has not found a dents and residents. She served on the home improvement project she won’t atboard of directors for Baylor~Methodist tempt and enjoys spending time with her Primary Care Associates. husband and two children Benjamin 18, In July 2000, she opened her solo prac- and Camryn 16. tice Internal Medicine and Pediatric Associates. Here she cared for the entire family Karen Hill, MD from birth until death. Her interest always Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer focused on prevention which led her to de- Community Health Choice velop “The Life Long Weigh”, a successful 5420 Dashwood Dr. weight loss and integrative medicine prac- Houston, TX 77081 Ph. 713.661.9550 tice within her practice.

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CARING IS THEIR PRACTICE.

Community Health Choice’s Medical Affairs leadership team, from left to right: Dr. Lisa Fuller, Associate Medical Director, Dr. Karen Hill, Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Valerie Bahar, Associate Medical Director

Thank you, Drs. Karen Hill, Lisa Fuller and Valerie Bahar, for all you do to open doors to better health for everyone. The world is a better place because of your intelligence, skill and compassion. * Dr. Karen Hill is an Honoree at tonight’s 2017 Top 30 Women of Houston Awards Gala.

CommunityHealthChoice.org

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Carneta Hunte-Larkin, BSW,MSHEA,MBA Founder and CEO, I Love My Children, Inc.

academic endeavors and strive for academic excellence. Hunte-Larkin had the pleasure of working as an adjunct professor, teaching critical thinking & problem solving, along with other courses.

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In 2004, Hunte-Larkin founded Pinnacle Care Management, Inc, a Florida based company that provides geriatric care management, business development, social work consulting/social work compliance audits and healthcare sales and marketing services. Working for various healthcare organizations, she has generated millions of dollars in annual revenue in her role as a sales and business development professional. In 2017, Hunte-Larkin recently incorporated and founded I Love My Children, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating and providing a safe-haven for young children that have been abused, neglected and exploited.

Her nonprofit organization provides academic tutoring to children that are in the foster care system as well as children that are at risk or academically failing. She will be implementing a literacy program for kids in Pre-K to 8th grade to promote and foster a love for reading.

She has been inducted into Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., National Women of Achievement, Inc., and is a member of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., (Life Member and Bethune Heights Recipient 2016), Greater Houston Frontiers Club, Inc. and the Junior League of The Woodlands, Inc., as well as other esteemed organizations. Hunte-Larkin was honored and recognized by the National Women of Achievement, Inc. Cy-Fair Chapter Tea & Roses Profiles of Prominence in 2016 for her service, leadership and for her passion to make a difference in the community and in the healthcare industry.

Hunte-Larkin earned her B.A. in Social Work from Alabama A&M University (HBCU), and obtained a M.S. in Higher Education Administration from Barry University in Miami, Florida. She went on to earn a second Masters in Business Administration (MBA) and is pursuing her third Master’s Degree in Human Resources Management. She is also a doctoral learner and attends Grand Canyon University, College of Doctoral Studies pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Health Hunte-Larkin strongly believes in giving Care Administration. Her research studies back to the community through voluntawill focus on leadership and healthcare rism, philanthropy and humanitarian efdisparities. forts. Hunte-Larkin volunteers her time with community activities that seeks to Hunte-Larkin cherishes her family, and empower women, seniors, the disabled, is married to her undergrad college love children and families. Hunte-Larkin and Lance Larkin of 17 years, who is a mechanher husband, Lance supports various or- ical engineer and Georgia Tech graduate. ganizations by providing college scholar- They have two beautiful daughters- Taylor ships, school supplies, and school clothes (11) and Megan (8). When Hunte-Larkin for children in need as well as many other is not busy with the activities listed above, causes that is near and dear to her heart. mommy duty never ends, but she enjoys She is a firm believer that it is important traveling, spending quality time with her to invest in our children and youth, and to family, and being a life-long learner. help others in need. Hunte-Larkin is business savvy, extremely passionate about voluntarism, has a heart for service, and Carneta Hunte-Larkin, BSW,MSHEA,MBA Founder and CEO is truly a humble servant leader.

arneta Hunte-Larkin was born on the beautiful island of Christiansted, St. CroixUnited States Virgin Islands (USVI) and was raised in Baytown, Texas.

Hunt-Larkin serves as President and Social Work Consultant for Pinnacle Care Management, Inc. and Founder and President for I Love My Children, Inc. bringing forth her successful experience as an entrepreneur, social worker, educator, advocate and healthcare provider.

Hunte-Larkin has worked in the healthcare industry for more than 20 years with experience in the areas of community mental health (former co-owner of a partial hospitalization program), long-term care, assisted living, home health and hospice. She has committed her career to educating the community and speaking about healthcare disparities, heart healthy initiatives, and various health concerns. Additionally, her area of interest is in foster care, human trafficking, mentoring, leadership, fundraising and literacy. Hunte-Larkin has a passion for I Love My Children, Inc. teaching in higher education and encour- Hunte-Larkin serves on the Board of Di- Ph. 713.447.6565 ages many young adults to pursue their rectors for World Youth Foundation, Inc. Connie@HunteLarkin.com

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Antoinette M. “Toni” Jackson Partner, Jones Walker LLP

ing and other community development endeavors. She also handles state and local legislative matters in the areas of affordable housing, construction, specialized financing tools and other real estate issues. In 2016, Ms. Jackson served on Mayor Turner’s transition team in the area of housing. Jackson frequently serves as a speaker in the area of affordable housing and community development law.

In August 2017, an essay by Jackson was published by the American Bar Association in a collection entitled GRIT, The Secret to Advancement: Stories of Successful Women Lawyers. She was also recently recognized by the National Bar Association as a recipient of the prestigious Wiley A. Branton Award which is presented to “a person demonstrating leadership on the cutting edge of law for civil, social and economic justice”.

After the historic success of SuperBUILD 38 where Houston Habitat built 38 houses for Super Bowl XXXVIII, Toni again successfully chaired SuperBUILD 51 during Super Bowl LI. Ms. Jackson is the former chair of the ABA Forum on Affordable Housing and Community Development Law and former president of the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers.

She is a life member of the National Bar Association, former board chair for Houston Habitat for Humanity and a member of the Texas Southern University Foundation Board and TMSL Advisory Board.

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ntoinette M. “Toni” Jackson is a commercial real estate partner at the law firm of Jones Walker concentrating in affordable housing and community development law. Ms. Jackson focuses on closing transactions utilizing specialized public/private financing structures including tax credits, bonds and other specialized financing. Jackson has represented clients developing multifamily housing and mixed-use developments throughout the southeast.

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While representing the Galveston Housing Authority, Ms. Jackson successfully led the revitalization of public and affordable housing units destroyed in Galveston, TX following Hurricane Ike. She has also worked to rebuild other communities impacted by natural disaster including New Orleans, Houston and southern Mississippi. Throughout her 25+ years of practicing, Toni has worked both in her personal and professional capacity to build and improve communities through the development of affordable hous-

Jackson is a proud graduate of both the University of Virginia and the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University.

Antoinette M. “Toni” Jackson Partner Jones Walker LLP 811 Main Street, Suite 2900 Houston, Texas 77002 Ph. 713.437.1888 tjackson@joneswalker.com www.joneswalker.com

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Courtney Johnson Rose

Principal Broker, George E. Johnson Properties

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ourtney Johnson Rose is the Principal Broker of George E. Johnson Properties LLC, an affiliate company of George E. Johnson Development Inc. GEJ Properties is a full service real estate firm specializing in residential and commercial brokerage services co-owned by Courtney Johnson Rose and her father, George E. Johnson.

In her role as Principal Broker, Rose is responsible for overseeing all operations of the firm, business development and management of all the licensed real estate agents operating under the GEJ Properties brand. Under her leadership, the firm has obtained several institutional clients including Houston Independent School District, FDIC, Mental Health and Mental Retardation Association of Houston, Veterans Administration and Fannie Mae. The firm has also represented Liberty Bank, Lone Star Bank and Chase Bank on the disposition of real estate assets. In addition to their corporate clients the firm works with several small businesses, families and individuals on their real estate needs.

Rose obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics from the University of Texas at Austin and earned her Master’s in Community Development from Prairie View A&M University, where she is currently an adjunct professor for their commercial real estate certification program. Rose is also a graduate of the Texas Association of Realtors Leadership Program, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, the Graduate Realtor Institute and she has obtained the distinguished Certified Commercial and Investment Member (CCIM) designation, making her one of the few real estate professionals in the country to have this designation in commercial real estate.

Houston Association of Realtors as one of their “Top 20 under 40 Real Estate Professionals” in the Houston area. She was also chosen by Women’s Magazine as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Houston for 2016. In 2007, Rose was featured on the cover of Realtor Magazine as one of their Top 30 Under 30 real estate professionals in the country, in a special edition highlighting her success in real estate before the age of 30.

An active member in the community, Rose currently serves as the Chair of Rose was featured in the Houston Busi- the Board for the Greater Houston Black ness Journal Inaugural Class of their Top Chamber of Commerce and as President 40 under 40 Business Leaders and by the of the Texas Association of Real Estate

Brokers. Rose is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – Suburban Ft. Bend Chapter and serves as an appointed Commissioner for the Missouri City Planning and Zoning Commission.

Rose has been married to Teeba Rose for 13 years and they have been blessed with two children, Carter and Taylor.

Courtney Johnson Rose Principal Broker George E. Johnson Properties 2700 Lake Olympia Parkway Missouri City, TX 77459 Ph. 713.721.5555 ext. 116 www.gejproperties.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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Ige Johnson

Broker/Owner & CEO, RE/MAX and GLO Beauty Bar essentially unlimited options in an incredible atmosphere Glo clients slip away into self-care and rejuvenation that exhilarates.

As a former educator Johnson’s outgoing personality, along with her zest for life and love of children led her to pursue a career in Elementary Education. Johnson taught first grade and pre-k for six years. Before she continued her education in marketing and mortgage consulting.

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ge Johnson is celebrated as the broker and owner for the RE/ MAX of Texas 2016 Rookie office of the Year, for RE/MAX Generation. Ige Johnson, a Houston Top 100 Realtor and 13 year Real Estate industry professional that serves buyers and sellers in the greater Houston area. Johnson delivers her unmatched skills, dedication and industry knowledge to her clients, team and colleagues every day. A 2017 nominee for TRLP (Texas Realtors Leadership Program) further fuels her drive to serve the real estate market as high-level producer and industry influencer. Johnson’s passion for the governance and fidelity within the real estate industry is demonstrated daily through her commitment to professional accountability and integrity.

Strong industry relationships ensure that transactions flow smoothly, coupled with e-friendly services the RE/MAX Generation team is equipped to deliver exceptional customer service that keeps them informed at every step of the real estate process. Johnson has dedicated her career to serving clients for life. As a result, most of her clients come to her by referral

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Family and quality time are a top priority for Johnson. As a wife and mother, she uses extraordinary methods to require balance in her life. Taking time for family, friends and fun to “Have a Life Worth Living.” Johnson encourages others to do the same. A proud Houstonian, when not working, Johnson enjoys entertaining and spending time with family and friends, traveling, confrom friends, family, and happy past cli- necting with new people and experiencents. They refer to her without reservation ing diverse cultures. because they know they can trust her to give her honest opinion, even if it means “This is their dream, protect it. Don’t “No sale.” They know they can trust John- turn their dream into a nightmare.” son to protect her clients with a “win- Ige Johnson win” or “no deal” way of negotiating, and to work tirelessly to solve any problems, Industry Designations: ABR (Accredited while keeping the Golden Rule in mind.

Buyer’s Representative), ALHS (AccredGuided by her relentless focus as an en- ited Luxury Home Specialist), CNE (Certrepreneur Johnson’s pursuits include tified Negation Expert), SRES (Seniors other interests and holdings. Johnson is Real Estate Specialist), and TRLP (Texas empowered by the ability to achieve busi- Realtors Leadership Program) ness success while influencing the econoRecent Award my. Creating employment and offering op• 2016 RE/MAX Rookie Franchise portunities for others to excel and become Office of the Year in the State of Texas best in class industry professionals.

• 2016 “Woman of Power” Glo Beauty Bar, a luxury medi spa is an • 2016 Top 100 Realtors experience that creates an oasis within • 2015 Top 50 Professionals and the city that provides an experience where Entrepreneur beauty and luxury meet. Glo offers wom• 2010-2016 Top Producer en and men an opulent environment that awakens your spirit and lifts the cares of Ige Johnson the day away as you drift into a therapeu- Broker/Owner & CEO tic massage, cupping therapy, noninvasive RE/MAX and GLO Beauty Bar lipo, 24 carat gold facial service, a laser hair 8650 N. Sam Houston Pkwy E #180 & 190 removal experience, or a hair styling. With Humble, TX 77396

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Torsha Johnson

First Lady & Author, Higher Dimension Church Lady J as she is affectionately called, is committed to building a vibrant, Godhonoring ministry alongside her husband, Terrance H. Johnson, aka Pastor J. She is the organizer of You Are Loved (URL), a ministry organization designed to offer acceptance through the love of a Jesus Christ to sex-workers and women enslaved in sex-trafficking, to bring awareness to the Westwood Community at large and to provide assistance through resources and partnerships with existing organizations to help as many women as possible receive the love and grace of God and break free to a new life in Christ. With great passion, she is empowering women and helping them understand their true worth and purpose in life.

Although this calling is an enormous challenge it is one she has wholeheartedly embraced.

As co-author with her husband of The Answer Book and catalyst of The Answer Movement, Lady J is committed to helping singles, couples and families achieve relationship success and not just survive, but thrive.

When not effectively partnering with Pastor J to raise four well-rounded, diverse, and innovative children, Lady J is committed to serving as mother, mentor, and support for thousands of women by following a simple yet profound missionto Love God, Love People, and Reach the Community.

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Torsha Johnson First Lady & Author Higher Dimension Church 9800 Club Creek Dr. ing women of Higher Dimension Church Houston, TX 77036 and across the nation. As a supportive Ph. 713.271.7217 wife, mother of four and church leader, www.higherd.net

eing a wife, mother and church leader are at the core of this astonishing woman of God. Johnson is committed to helping women Torsha Johnson is spiritually gifted in and young girls discover their purpose leading women to the heart of God by and reach their potential through their developing and mentoring and nurtur- relationship with God.

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Carla Kuaiwa, BS, MA, MBA Owner/ Managing Director, Cross OD Consulting, LLC

guests of the hospital feel welcomed.

Prior to Memorial Hermann, Kuaiwa served in the United States Air Force in Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana and Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX. She now serves as the liaison to the Texas National Guard Family Support Foundation – an organization that takes active steps to build family resilience to strengthen military families and provides medical and financial assistance to military members their family members during times of crisis.

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arla Kuaiwa has been married for 22 years and has two children in college attending Texas A&M in College Station.

She owns a Consulting Firm, Cross OD Consulting, LLC, providing services in HR Compliance, Leadership Development, and Talent Acquisition. She focuses on small to medium size businesses, serving as a dedicated contractual HR Department. Her career in Houston began with Memorial Hermann Health System in 2003 after leaving the United States Air Force after serving for 13 years.

At Memorial Hermann, Kuaiwa was first hired as an Internal Consultant, focusing on leadership and employee effectiveness.

She then served as a Regional Human Resources Director for four years. After that, she moved into Business Development

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as a Service Line Administrator for Orthopedics, Internal Medicine, In-Patient Rehabilitation, and Asian Services. Finally, Kuaiwa served as the Director of Community Relations, Community Benefits, and Volunteer Services. She was responsible for educating the community on the healthcare impact of having another Level II trauma-designated hospital in Houston. She partnered with different organizations and employers to educate and share resources on how to manage community and employee health, emphasizing the importance of prevention and early detection of chronic diseases.

Kuaiwa also worked with a team that led the hospital’s community outreach programs, such as school drive and blood drive. She managed over 300 adult and student volunteers, ensuring patients and

She is a Board Member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce, which fosters economic development in the Houston Asian-American communities and promotes trade between Houston and Asian countries. She is an advisor to SoleAna Stables Board of Directors, providing Therapeutic Riding to individuals with Special Needs, such as Autism, Down Syndrome, and PTSD, and raising capital funds to continually expand its capacity. She is a member of the Royal Oaks Lions Club, Houston Metropolitan Chamber, Asian Pacific American Heritage Association, and Southwest Management District- Economic Development Committee. Kuaiwa is a volunteer with Women’s Voice for Better America, providing education and resources to empower women, particularly those within the ethnic minorities, in civic engagement, health management, and career management. Recently, Kuaiwa was named as One of the 50 Most Influential Women of 2016 by Houston Woman Magazine.

She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Psychology, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, and a Master’s Degree in Organization Development and Human Resources.

Carla Kuaiwa Owner/ Managing Director Cross OD Consulting, LLC Ph. 713.550.0881 Crossodconsulting@gmail.com

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Monica Lewis

Founder/CEO & Certified Etiquette Consultant, Monica Lewis School of Etiquette business leadership, working with Fortune 500 companies like AIG, American General Life, American General Securities, VALIC, and Sun America. Mrs. Lewis is also a contributor, and protocol advisor featured on FOX26 Houston, KPRC Houston Life, and KBXX 97.9 FM. In 2009, she established the Monica Lewis School of Etiquette. Students, parents, professionals, business leaders, non-profit/ community leaders and corporations frequently request Mrs. Lewis’ insight about business development, protocol, marketing, branding, and business etiquette.

Her practical, honest, and engaging presentation style has made her a trusted consultant to companies like Comcast, Service First Automotive, AIG Financial Network, Alief ISD, Aldine ISD, Klein ISD, Spring ISD, Fort Bend ISD, Harris County Department of Education, Royal Beauty Careers, University of Houston, Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse, The Woodlands Country Club, The Spring-Klein Chamber of Commerce, National Sales Network, and The Society of Women Engineers.

Life is balancing act, and that is clearly evident the moment you enter Lewis’ home. Monica, along with her husband and business partner Darian manage their etiquette empire and family life with military precision. Monica is a proud mother of five: Darian Jr., Dillon, Mark, Dexter and Megan.

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onica Lewis is a leading expert in the industry of etiquette and protocol.

She is also an avid believer that social presentation and behaviors are important to be successful in today’s society. Seeking to promote awareness of this fact, Monica is a passionate instructor who is dedicated to providing quality and professional training to her clients. Mrs. Lewis is renowned for her vibrant personality and highly interactive presentation skills.

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Certifications: She’s the author of “Say Yes to Manners” (dual language English/Spanish), “Practice Good Manners” Workbook and co-author of the “Breaking BAD in Business” series. As an author, motivational speaker, wife, and mother, Monica is committed to bringing positive change everywhere she goes. She is actively involved in her church, community organizations, and schools. She also devotes many hours mentoring teenage girls and boys across the country.

• Children’s Etiquette • Teen Etiquette • Business Etiquette • International Business Etiquette

Monica Lewis Founder/CEO & Certified Etiquette Consultant Monica Lewis School of Etiquette Ph. 281.974.6701 www.mlsoe.com She has over 20 years of experience in info@msloe.com

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Paula McHam

Account Executive and Community Involvement Lead, Cigna South Texas / Louisiana is also involved with initiatives to improve the health of the community at large by developing and promoting collaboration between businesses and local health organizations as well as client specific programs.

McHam began her tenure with Cigna in January, 1989 serving in management positions in operations and client services. Prior to joining Cigna, she held various management positions with Diabetes Treatment Centers of America, Medical Networks, Twelve Oaks Hospital, LifeMark Corporation, and the Montgomery County Medical Center where she was the first hospital Social Worker.

McHam received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Rehabilitation from Sam Houston State University and a Masters of Science in Health Care Administration from Texas Women’s University. She serves on the Board of Directors of Recipe for Success, a foundation addressing childhood obesity through healthy eating and nutrition, the Board of Directors of the Fire Fighters Foundation of Houston, the Mayor’s Go Healthy Houston Task Force, the March of Dimes Steering Committee for African-American Outreach and is past President of the Gulf Coast Council affiliated with the Texas Diversity Council. McHam is a proud recipient of a 2012 Diversity Champions Award and a 2014 Trailblazer Award from the Texas Diversity Council.

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aula McHam currently serves two roles for Cigna in the Houston market. As Account Executive working with the City of Houston, a Cigna client, she is the primary liaison with the City for its medical benefits administration as well as health and wellness engagement programs of-

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fered by Cigna. In her role as Community Involvement Lead she is focused on growing Cigna’s footprint in the communities in which they do business. This includes engagement in local organizations as well as special interests of Cigna’s client and producer partners. As an executive sponsor for wellness, McHam

Paula McHam Account Executive and Community Involvement Lead Cigna South Texas / Louisiana 2700 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 700 Houston, TX 77056 Ph. 713.576.4408 Paula.McHam@cigna.com

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Regina Mellinger President & CEO, Primary Services LP

the 2017 Women’s Business Enterprise Supplier of the Year Award.

In addition to growing Houston careers, Mellinger and the Primary team also work to make an impact on the community around them. One of her and Primary’s longest standing and most cherished community relationships is with Change Happens!, a non-profit that offers a variety of programs to economically disadvantaged families in Houston. Mellinger has worked closely with Change Happens’ youth programs for over 12 years, assisting with strategic fundraising and program development. She and the Primary team coordinate and run a calendar of events including career development days, holiday gift-giving, and health programs. The Mellinger family was honored for their and Primary’s contributions at Change Happens’ annual fundraising breakfast in 2015, an event the Mellingers also chaired.

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egina Mellinger is President and CEO of Primary Services. Mellinger stands for creating an expanding world where people are valued, their opportunities are realized, and their contributions improve the future. She drives the formulation and execution of Primary’s strategic direction; heads the senior leadership team; and partners with Primary’s portfolio of Fortune 500 customers at the executive level to advise on cutting-edge talent delivery and program enhancement solutions. She launched Primary Services in 1988 and began her family only 2 months later. Giving birth to her first of three children didn’t stop her from

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reaching her first-year business goals within 3 months.

Mellinger has led Primary from its inception, growing the company through her strong partnerships with long-served clients; innovative business solutions; and commitment to service excellence. Her dedication to performance excellence has been recognized by her clients and several professional organizations, including ConocoPhillips’ 2013 Gene Hudsonpillar Award in recognition of being the top diverse-owned supplier and NRG 2011 Supplier of the Year Award. Most recently, Primary was recognized by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council with

Additionally, as a member of the SuperBowl 2017 Volunteer Advisory Board, Mellinger contributed her expertise to successfully hiring and coordinating the 9,000 volunteers to support the 10 day event. Mellinger donates to and volunteers with a number of organizations such as the Women’s Home, the MS 150, and the Post Oak School. Primary’s team is similarly active in the community, lending hundreds of hours of their personal time to local animal shelters, food banks, academic programs, and other worthy causes. Mellinger promotes activism at Primary through volunteer days with the Houston Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, and other charitable causes.

Regina Mellinger President & CEO Primary Services LP 520 Post Oak Blvd #550 Houston, TX 77027 Ph. 713.850.7010 sales@primaryservices.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Cydonii Miles

Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, Assistant Secretary, American Capital Ltd.

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ydonii Miles is a prominent corporate lawyer, with almost 20 years of corporate finance, governance and securities law experience. As Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel and Assistant Secretary of American Capital, Ltd., a publicly-traded private equity firm and global asset manager, she has served for the past 13 years as the lead in-house attorney on all corporate finance transactions, including over $30 billion in IPOs, secondary offerings, credit facilities, debt restructurings and securitizations. She also advised the boards of directors and senior management teams of several public companies and private investment funds, including the second largest mortgage REIT in the U.S. by assets, on SEC reporting, strategic planning and regulatory compliance matters and had primary responsibility for enterprisewide corporate governance for the fund group. Miles was recently recognized by InsideCounsel as one of 100 female attorneys poised to assume the position of general counsel of a Fortune 500 company in the next three years.

Prior to working at American Capital, Miles was a member of the corporate and securities and private equity practice groups of Arnold & Porter LLP, a leading international law firm, where her practice focused on representing clients in public and private securities offerings, credit facilities, securitizations and other financings, and advising on general corporate law matters. She also served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Inez Smith Reid on the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. Miles graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Maryland at College Park with a Bachelor of Science, summa cum laude, in Finance and received her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School.

corporate governance and in-house legal department topics. She also serves on the boards of several local nonprofit organizations and governmental entities, including the Greater Southeast Management District, which promotes, develops and maintains commerce, transportation, housing, arts, entertainment and public safety within southeast Houston, and the Advisory Board for Miller Outdoor Theatre, which provides the largest program of free, professional-caliber performing arts and musical performances in the United States.

Incorporated. She is passionate about giving back to her community and raises funds annually to provide college scholarships to disadvantaged youth. She also spends a significant amount of her time and resources supporting various community-based programs that promote financial literacy, education, arts and health-related issues.

Cydonii Miles Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel and Assistant Secretary (Fmr.) Miles is married to State Senator Borris American Capital, Ltd. Miles is a frequent speaker at The NAS- Miles and is an active member of Wheel- Two Bethesda Metro Ctr. DAQ Stock Market and conferences, on er Avenue Baptist Church and The Links, Bethesda, MD 20814 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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Mary Moreland

Director of Strategic Planning - Latin America, Quanta Services, Inc. and oil and natural gas industries.

The bulk of Moreland’s 20-year legal career has been spent working on transactions outside the United States, principally in Latin America. With her understanding of international transactions, legal background and fluency in Spanish, Moreland is often the facilitator between differing perspectives, laws and business practices. In addition to her transactional work, Moreland has vast and deep knowledge of ethics and compliance matters and served as Quanta’s Chief Compliance Officer prior to assuming her current role.

In 2014 and 2015, Moreland was honored by the Houston Business Journal as a Finalist for Best Associate General Counsel. She is a past Board Member of the Association of Women Attorneys.

Moreland is frequently invited to speak at legal conferences on compliance and ethics topics and has served on the planning committees of several. She has also been a guest speaker at the University of Houston Law Center’s class on ethics and compliance.

Mary Moreland Director of Strategic Planning - Latin America Quanta Services, Inc. 2800 Post Oak Blvd. Suite 2600 Houston, TX 77056 Ph. 713.335.6373 mmoreland@quantaservices.com www.quantaservices.com

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ary Moreland is the Director of Strategic Planning - Latin America, at Quanta Services, Inc.

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Quanta Services safely provides engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for comprehensive infrastructure needs in the electric power

Moreland is the proud mother of two sons. She greatly enjoys mentoring other female professionals to support them in realizing their full potential. She is a member of the President’s Society of Washington & Lee University in Lexington, Virginia, and is co-founder of the J. Marvin Moreland, Jr. ‘56 and Mary Louise Moreland ‘91 Scholarship Endowment at Washington & Lee, to help and encourage deserving Texas students to attend the University.

Moreland graduated cum laude from Washington & Lee University and Tulane University School of Law. In addition to earning her law degree, Moreland earned a Certificate in Maritime Law and was the Articles Editor of the Tulane Maritime Law Journal. She also holds a Practice Diploma from the College of Law England and Wales/IBA in International Antitrust Law.

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Anhlan Phuc Nguyen, DBA, PMP Director of Development and Marketing, Institute for Civic Education in Vietnam

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r. Nguyen currently works as the Director of Development and Marketing for Institute for Civic Education in Vietnam (www.icevn.org), a US based 501(c) (3) non-profit organization specializing in civic education and humanity science for the students in Vietnam and worldwide.

She has been a community activist and an educator all her life. Dr. Nguyen believes the future is in the hands of the young. Her accomplishments include the establishment of the Vietnamese Youth Center of Toronto, Canada; the National Youth Leadership Development Camp “Len Duong” for young community activists from across USA and Canada; and the hosting of numerous community programs aimed at developing Asian-American youth and young adults. Nguyen’s passion has inspired her to lead numerous humanitarian efforts for the hurricane and flood victims in Central America and in Vietnam. Dr. Nguyen is currently the Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Vietnamese Culture and Science Association (www.vcsa.org). In 2012, she was appointed by President Barack Obama to serve on the Board of Vietnam Education Foundation (www.vef.gov), a national foundation established by U.S. government to foster the relationship between United States and Vietnam through education. In 2014, she was the elected Board Chair and she served this role until the last board term in 2016. The foundation established a strong bridge between U.S. and Vietnam through educational exchange and scientific research collaboration initiatives and helped to train 600+ Ph.D. and Masters’ students in Science and Technology, Mathematics and Environmental Science.

Dr. Nguyen has received numerous awards and recognitions including “Americanism Medal” by The Honor Society of Daughters of American Revolution (DAR) in 2017; “Top 25 Women in Houston” award by Comerica Bank and Steed So-

ciety in 2010; “Asian American Heritage Award in Science and Technology” by Asian Heritage Society in San Diego, California in 2013; “Texas Women’s Leadership Empowerment” by Texas Women Empowerment Foundation in 2011; “Local Hero” by Bank of America in 2006 and “Five Outstanding Young Houstonians” by Houston Jaycee in 2000. Dr. Nguyen graduated Summa-Cum-Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science in 1989 and received a master’s in Computer Science from the University of Toronto, Canada, in 1993.

She attained her Doctoral Degree in Busi-

ness Administration specialized in Project Management from Northcentral University in 2015. She is a life-long learner and continues to follow her passion in education through ICEVN and VCSA work.

Anhlan Phuc Nguyen, DBA, PMP Director of Development and Marketing, Institute for Civic Education in Vietnam 9888 Bissonnet St., Suite 660 Houston, TX 77036 Ph. 713.271.2728 Email anguyen@icevn.org www.icevn.org Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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Delesa O’Dell-Thomas Principal, Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy

sity, Dean’s Roundtable. In 2014 she received the Education in Excellence Award from the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce. In May 2015 she was honored by Young Audiences and as of 2017, O’Dell- Thomas was the recipient of the Smahrt Girls Award and honored by the Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. Humble Chapter.

As a classroom teacher at Henry Middle School, she was named Teacher of the Year by her colleagues. In addition, she was the reading department chairperson and assistant principal.

Delesa O’Dell-Thomas Principal Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy 1906 Cleburne - HISD Rt. 6 Houston, TX 77004-4131 Ph. 713.942.1441 dthomas1@houstonisd.org

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s. Delesa O’Dell-Thomas, a distinguished educator with 26 years of education expertise in teaching and administration. She has successfully educated, motivated and encouraged students to succeed despite any obstacles. She instills in her students to believe their future is limitless. She is a native New Orleanean who moved in 1994, and now considers Houston home.

O’Dell-Thomas is the proud founding Principal of Houston Independent School District’s first all girls school, the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy, which opened in August 2011 and HISD’s Board partnered with the Foundation for the Education of Young Women to open its sixth school in Houston. The process normally would take about 13 months but O’Dell-Thomas had to complete the process in six months. Prior to becoming the principal of the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy, she has taught in Orleans Parish School System

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in New Orleans, Louisiana. Ms. Thomas was the principal of M.C.Williams Middle School for seven years, which was T.E.A.’s Recognized status, twice for the first time in the school’s history. Also, O’Dell- Thomas served as an assistant principal at Patrick Henry Middle School for seven years.

In 2007 O’Dell- Thomas was named Secondary Principal of the Year by the Davis/ Washington Feeder Pattern. In 2009 she was an Ivy League Trailblazer in Education Recipient and honored by Top Ladies of Distinction. In March 2012, she was honored by Married Ladies Social & Art Charity Club of America, Incorporated as an Outstanding Pioneer Woman. In the spring of 2013, she was honored by the TX Legislative Black Caucus and featured in two editions of Black Houston’s, Who’s Who publications. In November of 2013, O’Dell-Thomas was awarded the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) John and Drucie Chase Young Builder’s Award and the recipient of Texas A&M Univer-

O’Dell-Thomas attended Southern University at New Orleans where she was on the Dean’s List numerous times, and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary English Education. In 1993, O’DellThomas graduated from Xavier University of New Orleans with a Master’s degree in Secondary School Administration. She attended Texas Southern University where she completed her Texas teacher certification and principalship certification.

Summer 2006, O’Dell-Thomas notes her studies at Harvard University’s Summer Leadership Program, as her most memorable collegiate experience. O’Dell-Thomas is currently pursuing a Doctorate’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Houston.

She is a member of Houston Association of Secondary School Administrators, the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, Houston Alliance of Black School Educators, and the National Coalition of Girls School.

O’Dell-Thomas took on her rightful duty to rear her niece Janaye, as her own, after her sister lost her battle to breast cancer in 2008.

O’Dell-Thomas is a firm believer that with a solid education and lots of hard work-- comes success! She loves people and has the heart of a servant leader. Her passion is to educate all children, and to change the world one girl at a time.

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Debra Clark Stewart

Director of Supplier Diversity & Diversity Outreach, Shell Oil Company POWER, Shell’s inter-network for multicultural women. She is a Senior Fellow of the American Leadership Forum (Class XXXVI), serves on the board of directors of Target Hunger, a Houston based United Way agency, and on the advisory board of Pink Petro, an innovative social media enterprise aimed at connecting and developing women in the energy industry.

She chairs the Petrochemical & Energy Industry Group of the National Minority Supplier Diversity Council, serves on the Board and Executive Committee of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, and is active in many other regional and national organizations supporting economic development through supplier and workforce diversity.

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ebra Clark Stewart is Director of Supplier Diversity and Diversity Outreach for Shell.

In this role, she leads a team responsible for developing and implementing strategies and programs that support U.S. supplier diversity, a critical component of U.S. local content, and for leading Shell’s collaboration with major U.S. diversity advocacy organizations.

With a Bachelor and Master Degree in Polymer Engineering from Case Western Reserve University, Debra began her career in R&D and technical sales roles with Exxon Corporation. As a result of her early R&D work, Stewart and her co-patent authors in 2001 were awarded Exxon130

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Under Stewart’s leadership, Shell has been recognized by numerous organizations and publications for excellence and leadership in supplier diversity and STEM workforce development. Individually she has been repeatedly recognized by Minority Business News and Women’s Enterprise USA publications as one of the country’s top leaders in supplier diversity.

She is a frequent speaker for diversity events both inside and external to Shell.

Stewart was inducted into the 2013 Hall of Fame of the Greater Houston Women’s Mobil Chemical’s Most Valuable Patent Chamber of Commerce.

Award for the success of a new line of A native of Chicago, Stewart and husband materials for automotive applications. Tony have two adult sons, a grandson and In 27 years with Shell, Stewart worked granddaughter. She has a wide variety of across a spectrum of businesses in roles interests, including reading, dancing, and of increasing responsibility in market and studying, teaching and writing about the business management, technical man- Bible. She holds a graduate Certificate in agement, international marketing, merg- Biblical and Theological Studies from Dalers/acquisitions/divestitures and project las Theological Seminary, and serves as management prior to assuming her cur- church Administrator for LifePoint Church, rent role in 2010. a new church in the Houston area.

Throughout her career, Stewart has also served as a leader in support of the external community and diversity in Shell.

In the ‘90s she led in the start-up of employee affinity groups in the company and serves as executive co-sponsor of

Debra Clark Stewart Director of Supplier Diversity & Diversity Outreach Shell Oil Company debra.stewart@shell.com

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2017 HMSDC

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Kimberly Gee Stith

Vice President and General Counsel - Employment & Benefits, Waste Management • Conducting and designing compliance training • Establishing procedures for and conducting internal workplace investigations • Managing arbitrations under collecting bargaining agreements • Implementing compliant drug testing and background check programs • Internal budget management • Selecting and managing activities of and billing by outside counsel with respect to employment and employee benefits-related matters • Affirmative action planning and audits • Executive compensation and benefits • Minimizing risks and liability under union multi-employer plans • Settlement negotiations and mediations in pending and threatened litigation • Immigration Compliance; and • Managing the Company’s eDiscovery process and policies

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im Stith has practiced employment law for over 26 years and is currently Vice President and General Counsel at Waste Management contributing to the Company’s Employment Law, Benefits, Compliance, Security and Executive Compensation strategies by providing leadership and legal counsel for matters impacting the Company’s 40,000 employees across the United States and Canada.

Stith is a strategic business partner known for providing practical advice to senior leadership and key stakeholders, minimizing risks and delivering cost conscience results. She oversees a team consisting of lawyers, paralegals, inves-

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Prior to joining Waste Management, Stith was a partner in Littler Mendelson’s Houston office where she advised clients on and litigated cases involving all aspects of employment law. tigators and security professionals man- Stith began her legal career in Houaging a broad range of issues, such as: ston at Bracewell LLP (then known as • Establishing best practices and poli- Bracewell & Patterson) in its Labor & cies for the Company on a wide range of Employment section after receiving her legal employment matters, such as ADA, law degree from the University of Virginia ADEA, Title VII, FMLA, FLSA, and related School of Law in 1991. She received a federal, state and local laws, rules, and Bachelor’s degree with honors from the regulations University of Texas at Austin in 1987.

• Collaborating with senior leadership, Most importantly, Kim has been married for human resources and management on 21 years to Thomas Stith II, and they are employment relations issues the parents of one son, 14-year-old Max. • Managing class action and single plaintiff litigation

Kimberly Gee Stith

• Protecting the Company’s confidential VP & General Counsel data and trade secrets

Employment Law and Benefits

• Representing the Company before Waste Management state and federal regulatory agencies kstith@wm.com

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

If innovation has an official color, it would undoubtedly be green.

At Waste Management, sustainability is the chief motivator in our transformation from a waste collection and disposal company to one that views and uses waste as a resource.

Getting there has led us to some pretty innovative ideas – from design-with-intent approaches to our current partnerships with more than 30 technology companies working to process residual materials from waste streams into renewable energy, renewable fuel and even green chemicals.

Innovation takes many forms … many of them green.

See for yourself at thinkgreen.com.

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Nicole Streeter, MPH, MA

VP/Chief Governance Officer, Harris Health System Board of Trustees

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icole Streeter is a native Houstonian with an exceptional background and strong commitment to community service in her hometown. Ms. Streeter has been a young leader in the community for many years and has had many unique opportunities to build and support the infrastructure of our community. She has proven to be an outstanding leader and is an experienced change agent for leadership opportunities. She has made several significant contributions to the community in her field of philanthropy and governance and is a tireless community servant ready to test and challenge her current leadership framework in her commitment to personal growth.

Ms. Streeter is the Vice President, Chief Governance Officer for the Harris Health System. As Vice President, Ms. Streeter has guided the Harris County Board of Trustees in Healthcare Reform strategic planning initiatives, emphasizing utilization of our core resources including: the Harris County Hospital District Foundation to increase philanthropic giving in programmatic and service areas at risk of being discontinued; and, Community 134

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Health Choice, Inc. to increase the organization’s network capability to refer excess capacity to neighboring healthcare facilities. She serves as Chief Liaison to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive Officer and as representative to the Harris County Commissioners Court. She is responsible for forging partnerships and enhancing consensus building among the board members, as well as, facilitating relationship management among the board members and executive leadership. Prior to her position as Vice President, Ms. Streeter served as Executive Director of the Houston Texans Foundation and Director of Community Development for the Houston Texans Corporation, where she spearheaded a myriad of strategic community partnerships, including the Houston Texans and the YMCA partnership. This partnership resulted in the first YMCA to be named after a National Football League Team, which is now the Houston Texans YMCA. Ms. Streeter was also the Houston Texans strategic lead in a multilateral partnership for the Hurricane Ike Relief Fundraising $5.2M for hurricane victims within two weeks of the disaster with HEB, Reliant Energy and the United Way. Ms. Streeter’s philanthropic career includes a position held as Interim Executive Director and Director of Major Gifts for the University of Texas Medical School in Houston, where she was the principal fundraiser for the medical school and for the $84M Research Replacement Facility Campaign. Also, as External Affairs and Fund Development Project Director for the World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Supportive Cancer Care, where she improved the sustainability of global multi-disciplinary pain management protocols by implementing strategic fund development initiatives that raised over $6M from federal, corporate and philanthropic funders. She has also raised funds for the National Medical Association in Washington, DC, and Martin

University and the YMCA Urban Mission in Indianapolis, Indiana.

In 2001, Ms. Streeter was awarded the William Randolph Hearst Philanthropy Fellowship from Indiana University Center on Philanthropy, and in 2002 she was the first African-American to be awarded the Bentz Whaley Flessner Fundraising Fellowship from the Association for Fundraising Professionals. She also received the Texas Leader of the Future Award from Senator Rodney Ellis while serving as a member of the Texas Legislative Program. Ms. Streeter holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology with a minor in women’s leadership from Sweet Briar College in Virginia, a Master of Arts in philanthropic studies with a special concentration in Healthcare Philanthropy, a Master of Public Health with a concentration in policy, management and community health practice from the University of Texas School of Public Health, and she has earned a certificate of nonprofit executive management from Indiana University School of Environmental and Public Affairs. She serves as a member of Society of Corporate Governance and as Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors and Chair of Governance for Executive Service Corps of Houston and as a board member of the Local Initiatives Support Corporation of Greater Houston. She is a member of the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce –Women’s Health Network Committee, Project Blueprint Class XXXII, American Leadership Forum Class XXXIX, Community Investment and Organizational Review teams of the United Way of Greater Houston.

Nicole Streeter, MPH, MA VP/Chief Governance Officer Harris Health System Corporate Office Board of Trustees 2525 Holly Hall, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77054 Ph. 713.566.6420 Nicole.Streeter@harrishealth.org

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Kristin Tassin

President, Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees & Co-Founder, Father’s Joy

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ristin Tassin’s passion for equal opportunities and a high-quality education for all children has guided both her personal and professional life. Her personal experiences with her own children, as well as her professional experiences with the children of many others in the Fort Bend community, have shaped her strong belief that all children deserve to be educated in a safe, challenging and inclusive environment and that this can only be achieved through an atmosphere of open, collaborative communication between parents, educators and administrators.

Tassin was elected to the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees in 2014 and is currently serving her second term as Board President. She is a graduate of Louisiana State University, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Quantitative Business Analysis (Computer Science option).

She also earned her Juris Doctor from Louisiana State University Law School.

Tassin is an attorney at Dry & Tassin and has had her own law firm for 21 years.

She practices intellectual property litigation, business torts, contract, and special education law. Tassin is a member of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, Houston Young Lawyers Association and the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. In 2011, she was named a Texas Rising Star by Texas Super Lawyers magazine.

After her oldest daughter was born with Down syndrome, she and her husband founded a non-profit organization, “Father’s Joy,” which supports families who have children with disabilities. Since its inception in 2003, Tassin has worked through Father’s Joy to organize, plan and provide educational training, workshops and conferences for educators, parents, attorneys and medical professionals in the areas of differentiated instruction, inclusive education best practices, curriculum modifications and accommodations, special education law, positive behavioral supports, delivering a diagnosis of Down

syndrome, and other topics. In addition, she has written papers, created presentations and spoken on many subjects related to inclusive education and special education law and has been a monthly guest lecturer for pediatric interns at Texas Children’s Hospital.

With her three children, Tassin has experienced all aspects of education in FBISD including the regular education curriculum, the gifted program, and special education and related services.

a Missouri City resident since 1996. Tassin has three children who currently attend Fort Bend ISD schools, one in elementary school and two in high school.

Co-Founder Father’s Joy www.fathersjoy.org Kristin.tassin@fathersjoy.org

Kristin Tassin Tassin has been married to her husband, President Shannon, for over 20 years and has been Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees

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Kelley Taylor

Chief Executive Officer, Taylor Construction Management failure bolsters her overarching goal: TCM will alleviate the misnomer that emerging minority businesses cannot grow capacity and ultimately compete as prime firms.

Taylor was recently awarded as a 2017 MBE Magazine “WBEs Who Rock!” at the WBENC National Conference in Las Vegas, NV. She is an alumni of Leadership Houston and the Goldman Sach’s 10,000 Small Businesses program.

In her spare time, Taylor enjoys traveling, exercising, and reading novels.

Taylor Construction Management (TCM) is a Houston-based project management consulting firm at the forefront of mission critical facility improvement projects.

TCM satisfies unique leadership needs by delivering on a tight budget, ensuring fast-track completion, and/or managing stringent regulatory requirements.

Kelley Taylor Chief Executive Officer Taylor Construction Management 1301 Texas Avenue, Suite 216 Houston, TX 77002 Ph. 713.393.8725 Kelley@tcm-llc.com

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s founding Partner and Chief Executive Officer, Kelley Taylor oversees strategic growth projections for TCM. Her executive oversight spans accounting, administration, staff development, legal, and marketing for the firm. She brings with her a 17-year track record that includes talent acquisition consulting and leading special projects at multiple Fortune 100 firms in the USA. Taylor obtained an undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, an MBA from Prairie View A&M University, and the 138

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professional in human resources (PHR) certification. She now uses this intensive range of specialties and practical experience to carry out TCM’s local project management expertise on a global scale.

Her vision has enabled TCM to provide project management leadership to private firms in China since its inception.

This leadership was also extended previously to firms in Vietnam and Germany.

With Taylor at the helm, TCM has grown annual revenue by 300% and is currently managing more than $2B in construction project costs in Texas alone. Taylor’s appreciation for challenge despite fear of

d-mars.com Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

State Representative Shawn Nicole Thierry District 146, Texas House of Representatives

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tate Representative Shawn Thierry represents House District 146, a district that covers numerous communities in the Southeast and Southwest parts of greater Houston.

Representative Thierry is a native Houstonian as well as a life-long resident of House District 146. Thierry spent her early childhood in the South Park community. She is the proud product of the public education system as she attended Patt Neff Elementary in the Sharpstown community.

Her family subsequently relocated to the Fondren Southwest neighborhood (also in HD146) where she attended Welch Middle School and graduated from Westbury Senior High School. Thierry was admitted to Howard University in Washington, DC and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Management and a minor in Business Administration. She went on to receive her Doctor of Jurisprudence from the renowned Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University in 1996. She has practiced law at the law firms of Jackson Walker, LLP and Wickliff & Hall, PC. Ms. Thierry is presently the proud solo practitioner of her own law firm, Law Offices of Shawn Thierry.

Thierry takes pride in her upbringing and comes from a very close-knit and hardworking family. She currently resides in the Northfield community of HD 146 with her daughter, Klaire Bijou. She enjoys cooking, reading, and most of all, giving encouragement to others who need support. Thierry deeply believes in giving back to her community and has volunteered and served on numerous boards of various professional, civic and charitable organizations.

Thierry has been a member of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church for thirty-five years.

Affairs Committee and the Committee on Juvenile Justice and Family Issues.

Representative Thierry looks forward to shaping good public policy on behalf of her constituents by being a formidable Thierry cites her personal life creed from legislator in the great state of Texas. the quote of Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single State Representative Shawn Thierry bit of talent left and I could say, ‘I used Texas House of Representatives, District 146 everything that you gave me.’”

Thierry is a strong advocate for protecting the interest of the underserved. Thierry possesses a stellar body of professional and community work and is known for her sharp negotiating skills.

District Office: 713.667.4146

From representing the rights of injured Thierry currently serves the Texas Capitol Office: 512.463.0518 victims, employees, to assisting children Legislature as a member of the House of www.thierryhd146.com and families needing legal recourse, Representatives and sits on the County Shawn.Thierry@house.texas.gov Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2017

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Barbara Vilutis

Executive Vice President, Amegy Bank of Texas

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arbara Vilutis has over 30 years of financial experience. Vilutis joined Amegy Bank in 2002 to establish the Wealth Management Group. She currently is the Executive Director of Strategic Growth at Amegy Bank. She leads the bank’s initiatives for extending market coverage, improving community relationships and managing strategic relationships. She previously served in various senior roles in Private Banking for JP Morgan Chase and predecessor banks in Houston.

Vilutis is active in the Houston community serving on not-for-profit boards. She is the current Chair of the Board of the American Red Cross, Houston Region and has served as a board member since 2011. Vilutis has served on the Board of Goodwill Industries since 2004.

Vilutis is active with The Greater Houston Partnership and has served in various leadership roles with the Executive Women’s Partnership, which she previously chaired. Vilutis also served as Chairman of the American Bankers Association’s Wealth Management and Trust Conference from 2013-2016.

Vilutis received her undergraduate degree, graduating cum laude, in Business Administration from Millsaps College in Jackson, MS and an MBA in Finance from the University of Mississippi. She currently holds Series 7 and 63 securities licenses.

Vilutis has been married over 30 years and has two adult daughters.

Barbara Vilutis Executive Vice President Amegy Bank of Texas 1717 West Loop South Houston, TX 77027 Ph. 713.232.1094 140

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Help us Sound the Alarm about fire safety.

Every day 7 people die in home fires. You can help change that.

This fall, the American Red Cross will team up with fire departments, volunteers, and partners to Sound the Alarm with home fire safety and smoke alarm installation events.

Volunteers will install 100,000 free smoke alarms in more than 100 at-risk communities across the country. We’ll also mark a major milestone—our 1 millionth smoke alarm installation since 2014!

Help us prevent these needless tragedies.

Go to SoundTheAlarm.org to learn how you can make a difference.

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Dr. Cynthia Wilson

Chief of Staff, Houston Independent School District In her current HISD role, she is responsible for facilitating coordination and communication among the direct reports of the superintendent to ensure the superintendent is informed about current issues.

Dr. Wilson earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Austin and a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Houston. She later earned a doctoral degree in educational leadership from South Carolina State University.

Throughout her career as a public-school educator, Dr. Wilson has championed the right of every child to receive a quality education that prepares them to realize the vision they have for their future.

During her tenure as a superintendent, she led the school district through many initiatives that led to increased graduation rates, additional school choice options, increasing public/private partnerships and initiating efforts that supported struggling male students of color. She is highly regarded for her support of a diverse and multilingual student enrollment and achieving high academic results for all students.

Dr. Wilson is married to Livy Wilson and they have a son Stephen Wilson.

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r. Cynthia Wilson currently serves as the Chief of Staff of the Houston Independent School District. She began this role in April of 2017. Dr. Wilson previously served as Chief of Staff of the Dallas Independent School District.

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perintendent of the Orangeburg Consolidated School District 5 in South Carolina.

During her 29 years as an educator she spent 22 years in the Houston Independent School District, having served in various roles, including a regional and area superintendent, school principal, assistant principal, and teacher.

Dr. Cynthia Wilson Chief of Staff Houston Independent School District Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center 4400 West 18th Street Houston, TX 77092-8501 Ph. 713.962.1227 cynthia.wil@att.net

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Mary L. Young

Executive Director/Chief of Police, Department of Public Safety - Texas Southern University the history of Texas Southern University’s Police Department to hold this position.

When asked how she felt about this appointment, she marveled and stated with excitement, “I’m blessed!” She continues to set the bar high and mentors females in Law Enforcement and other young ladies by helping them explore their passion to understand their purpose.

Young stays busy and on task. She is a strong community servant, recipient of several prestigious awards, A Diamond Life Member of the illustrious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and a security consultant for Professional Athletes and Entertainers. However, nothing compares to motherhood! As a Mother of a 16 year old college student, her best living has just begun. Her “mini-me”, Maia, is as electrifying, smart and talented as her mother but the inward and outward beauty is icing on the cake.

Young is the epitome of what a Phenomenal Woman looks like. “Now you understand just why my head’s not bowed. I don’t shout or jump about or have to talk real loud.

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product of private, catholic, and public schools, Mary Young breezes through life knowing her strength comes from above. She graduated from James Madison Senior High School at the age of 16 years old and already determined she would do something special with her life.

She earned several degrees respectively and she credits much of her success to her life-time coach and mentor of Prairie View A&M University, the Legendary Coach Barbara Jacket. As a four year Academic All American in Track & Field, Young was able to travel around the world and to places she only thought existed on television.

When you see me passing it ought to make you proud. I say, it’s the click of my heels, the bend of my hair, the palm of sion in college which allowed her to be a my hand the need of my care, cause I’m member of the Student Government As- a woman, Phenomenally, Phenomenal sociation where she became an advocate Woman. That’s me!” for education. Young believes every child, given the time, can learn. She landed her first full-time teaching assignment in Mary L. Young 1991 at Ross Shaw Sterling Senior High Executive Director/Chief of Police School in Houston, Texas and has been Department of Public Safety in and around education ever since. As Texas Southern University a former college professor for over 16 3100 Cleburne Street years, nothing satisfies her more than Houston, TX 77004 seeing students succeed.

Ph. 713.313.7733

On March 24, 2017, with over 20 years Mary.Young@tsu.edu in Law Enforcement with the Houston Police Department, she retired and was appointed Interim Chief of Police at Texas Southern University Department of Public Reading and writing became her pas- Safety. She became the first Female in 144

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To enroll at TSU visit www.tsu.edu/admissions; Join the alumni association at www.tsu.edu/alumni; For information about TSU’s online degree programs, visit www.tsu.edu/onlinelearning; Support Texas Southern University at www.tsu.edu/giving.

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