Mbj 50women 2012

The Mississippi Economic Council congratulates the ” Top 50 Women in Business“ Thank you for being an inspiration to us and the rest of Mississippi The contributions made by women who are leaders within the business community throughout Mississippi have brought about positive change in our state’s economic competitiveness, educational achievement and quality of life.

Moving Mississippi forward requires a continuation of the partnership between leaders in both the private and public sectors. This is why it is so important that leading businesswomen in all regions of our state remain at the forefront.

Blueprint Mississippi creates a strategy to position Mississippi in “The Place of Greatest Opportunity.”

As leaders your input is vital to make sure this comprehensive plan is implemented. Stay up-to-date on the progress by going to www.blueprintmississippi.com.

Your involvement will help ensure a brighter future for Mississippi.

www.blueprintmississippi.com

www.mec.ms

MEC … a proud sponsor of “Top 50 Women in Business” for 13 years.

P.O. Box 23276 : Jackson, MS 39225-3276 (601) 969-0022 1-800-748-7626 Fax: (601) 353-0247 or 1-888-717-2809

CONTENTS

INSIDE Editors column: Leading business women mean business......................... 5 News: The Judging; Work and Life........................................................ ..6-7 Alumni: 50 Leading Business Women in Mississippi (classes 1997-2011) ..48 Photo pages: Announcement celebration ..........................................45-46

2012 CLASS

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

AA/EOE/ADAI

Amy Wisdom Ainsworth ............................................................................................8 Mende Malouf Alford ....................................................................................................9 Penny Bowen ....................................................................................................................10 Scotta Brady ......................................................................................................................11 Cindy Brinson ..................................................................................................................12 Gwen Caples ......................................................................................................................13 Tammra Cascio ................................................................................................................14 Sherry Chance ..................................................................................................................15 Wilma E. Mosley Clopton ..........................................................................................16 Bethany L. Cooper ........................................................................................................17 Deirdre M. Danahar ......................................................................................................17 Monica E. Daniels ..........................................................................................................18 Danielle Davis ..................................................................................................................19 Carolyn Hinton DuPré ..................................................................................................19 Lise Foy ..............................................................................................................................20 Wendi Garrison ................................................................................................................21 Cheri Turnage Gatlin ....................................................................................................21 Susan J. Graves ..............................................................................................................22 Tonyatta Hairston ..........................................................................................................23 Janet Y. Harris ................................................................................................................23 Gina Smith Haug............................................................................................................24 Kourtney W. Hollingsworth ....................................................................................25 Debbie Hudson ................................................................................................................25 Nicole Kemp ......................................................................................................................26 Janice M. Knight ............................................................................................................27 Angela A. Ladner ..........................................................................................................27 Mary Ellen Landry ........................................................................................................28 Samantha Barnett Lofton ........................................................................................29 Stephanie R. Mayfield ................................................................................................29 Melinda McGrath ............................................................................................................30 LaToya C. Merritt ............................................................................................................31 Sharon E. Moulder ........................................................................................................31 Yuki Northington............................................................................................................32 Bonnie Nowell ..................................................................................................................33 Jocelyn Pritchett ............................................................................................................33 Carolyn Redd ....................................................................................................................34 Martha D. Saunders ....................................................................................................35 Bonnie Bridgers Smith ..............................................................................................35 Cathy Smith ......................................................................................................................36 Meredith Johnson Stringfellow..............................................................................37 Cindy Tauchar ..................................................................................................................37 Cynthia Thompson ........................................................................................................38 Penny S. Walker ............................................................................................................39 Wendy Diane Walker ....................................................................................................39 Christi Hamblin Webb ................................................................................................40 Lydia E. Weisser..............................................................................................................41 Cathy Thompson Wesson..........................................................................................41 Donna Haynes Williams ............................................................................................42 Karma Brantley Williams ..........................................................................................43 Bonnie A. Wilson ..........................................................................................................44

SOUTHERN MISS ALUMNAE are

BUILDING BETTER BUSINESS

Congratulations to

SHERRY CHANCE and MARTHA SAUNDERS who have been selected in this year’s 50 LEADING BUSINESS WOMEN IN MISSISSIPPI.

3

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Our name says it all.

PUBLIC SERVICE

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NATIONAL DEBATE

CRISIS GAVE METROPOLITAN OPPORTUNITIES IT NEEDED

BANKING AND FINANCE

ALABAMA SAYS IMMIGRATION REFORM COSTLY

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COMMISSION

Deadline me t, Commission ers mull proposed Kemper orde rs

By CLAY CHAND LER clay.chandler@msbusin I

ess.com Last Monday was the deadli submit propo ne for parties to sed Mississippi Power final orders related to generation plant Company’s lignite coal-fi red in Joining longtim Kemper County. e advers

By TED CARTER I STAFF WRITER aries MPC Mississippi chapte r of the Sierra and the ted.carter@msbusiness.com Flori da-ba Club was sed Entegra Power Alabama’s immigration ID law will cost the state Group, which 70,000 to 140,000 direct and indirect jobs annually in markets electri and could put a dent of $2.3 billion to $10.8 billion c power from natthe state’s GDP. ural gas-fueled So says a report issued Jan. 30 by the University of plants to whole Alabama’s Center for Business and Economic sale custom Research. ers.

In their submi Mississippi’s is making a far different calculation. ssions, each entity Gov. Phil Bryant said at a press conference last week will for how the offers its preferred scenar that he expects immigration reform in Mississippi io Mississippi Commission save the state $25 million a year in costs related to should handle Public Service the ect in light of social services, education and law enforcement. the Mississippi Kemper projSupreme Court 9-0 decision Bryant said he did the calculation in 2006 during March ’s an to grant the plant’s 15 that the PSC’s decisio his time as state auditor and based his findings on n ience and necess certificate of public conven assumed undocumented migrant population in the ity was not based tial eviden on reached “subst office his said ce presen anstate of 49,000 people. He Commissione ted.� rs voted in April the $25 million figure after deducting income tax the project to move forward, 2010 to allow withholdings collected from the unauthorized work- MPC capping the cost could pass on ers. to ratepayers lion, and at Bryant concedes, however, that he has not ana- charge stipulating that customers $2.4 bilcouldn d for the plant lyzed the economic impact to agriculture of an until it was operat ’t be That essentially for ional. endorsed has he bill killed immigration Alabama-style the projec

By CLAY CHAND saying it couldn LER ’t build the plantt, with MPC Mississippi. He said he has not looked into he costs condit clay.chandler@msbusin I

under ions. ess.com because he does not think Mississippi farmers are amounted The power company filed those to a motion for what using undocumented workers. reconsideration, Since March ing for the cost Vicksburg has 2011, the old Mississippi The head of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federal,and for custom cap to be raised to $2.88 askbillion, ers to be charge River five times.been struck by barge traffic River bridge in Randy Knight, put the costs to the state’s agricultural d for the projec on the Missis an t That many sippi sector in the “hundreds of millions� of dollars over impacted on impacts explain why the extended time. the Mississippi bridge is the See KEMPE U.S. Coast Guard River, mostR, Page 6 Alcorn State University agriculture economist . Since the 1970s according to figures from of the , when statist Magid Dagher puts the impact closer to the “tens ics started being millions� of dollars over time. More immediately, the be will uncertainty over whether sufficient labor available could cause growers of specialty crops such as fruits and vegetables to reduce the acreage they

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Journal STEPHEN McDILL / The Mississippi Business

in the Jackson market Curt Gabardi will cement the bank’s presence Right: Metropolitan Bank founder and CEO (see construction above) at the end of the month. with the opening of a new headquarters in Ridgeland

>> Gabardi’s idea was to cultivate a niche space in which Metropolitan’s bankers would compete against other bankers — not other banks

>> WATCH MBJ-TVs VIDEO TOUR of the new Metropolitan Bank www.msbusiness.com/video

MBJ FOCUS

Advocates want more flexible charter school bill >> Some propose to limit

See IMMIGRATION, Page 3

Begins page 15

FILE/ Mississipp

i Business Journal

kept, the bridge Greenville bridge has been struck 76 times. was replaced Before the old ed bridge on the Mississippi in 2010, it was the mostimpactRiver system The Vicksburg . fic, with Kansa bridge, built in 1930, is open s of the bridge. City Southern Railways being only to rail trafThat company to Burlington periodically leases the primary user Northern Santa use of the bridge The last strike Fe came in mid-M Railroad. grain barges arch, when broke the bridge’s pier loose from their tow. nearly three dozen Some of those 4. struck Before that, the bridge was from 2011’s histor last struck July ic flood were 7, as the waters fourth strike slowly recedi in about four months. On March ng. That was the 20 and March 23, See

BRIDGE, Page 6

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PUBLIC CO. &

program

I STAFF WRITER

By AMY McCULLOUGH amy.mccullough@msbusiness.com

A popular targ et

FULL STORY PAGE 2

EDUCATION

>> State calls it moneymaker

MANUFACTUR

ING

INSURANCE & EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

believe this is Charter school advocates i to make progress in the year for Mississipp school choice through more flexible charter legislation. school In his first State of the State address, Gov. Phil Bryant said now is the time for Mississippi to pass a “workable� charter school

by Barksdale law. A 2010 law passed the state Legislature allows public schools that have been chronically underperforming for three consecutive years to be conif verted to charter schools parents from the failing schools petition the state board of education. No Thigpen charter schools have been law. this created under lment public Charter schools are open-enrol the rules, some of schools that are freed from that apply to other statutes and regulations for accountability for public schools in exchange the College of producing certain results.

Chair Gray will accomm odate the next 30 years, Committee Education Senate for an Business’ growth sponsor a bill that to USM business college Tollison is expected to soon WRITER >> Donor: $5 million gift school officials say. in the Legislature.

By TED CARTER I STAFF Page 10 years that USM’s should have some traction investment — not a payback, And it is in those for comment at achieve notice ted.carter@msbusiness.com Business intends to Tollison could not be reached of College of Mississippi.�

The University of 90,000 square-foot home a year ahead of as “The School of Business for press time. is y HATTIESBURG — Universit fall is Center for for State College of Business an opening planned Just as Mississippi A coalition of the Mississippi ng school Southern Mississippi’s over schedule, with million building will get the First, the its prestigious engineeri law, the future somewhere Public Policy (MCPP), Mississippi 2014. The $30 circa known for not looking for its medicine and has found it situatout of the cramped and Ole’ Miss for the rainbow. The College between M.M. business school Hall, where a space gravel 9 1960s Joseph Green to See CHARTER, Page ed on an expanse of limiting enrollment McCarty Hall.

10 See GROWING, Page Roberts Stadium and han-expected fund- squeeze has been 2,150 students.

Thanks to quicker-t the new address around 1,200 seats, the new building be will lot gravel With raising, the state-of-the-art for the College of Business’

ess USM’s College of Businns io growing its expectat >> College expects to break

home new 90,000 square-foot ground this summer on

MBJ FOCUS

Begins page 12

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COLUMN

Leading business women mean business Annual list of 50 Leading Business Women truly represents some of the best leaders Mississippi has to offer in the business world There was a book written in 2007 that could be a manual for those who care to know anything about the 2012 class of 50 Leading Business Women named by the Mississippi Business Journal. “Why Women Mean Business� tackles the point that gender is a business issue, not a women’s issue.

According to a review of the book, “Never before has there been such a confluence of international attention to the economic importance of women. Their position as consumers, employees and leaders is being recognized as a measure of health, maturity and economic viability. They are becoming central to labor market solutions to the challenges of an ageing workforce, falling birth rates and skill shortages. Countries and companies are urgently seeking policies to enable women to fulfill their potential.� “Why Women Mean Business� takes the economic arguments for change to the heart of the corporate world. Women today are a majority of the talent pool and make up to 80 percent of consumer purchases. This powerful new book brings together in a single, concise volume the multiplicity of opportunities available to companies that really understand what motivates women in the global workplace and marketplace.

For more than a decade now, the Mississippi Business Journal has been recognizing that the optimization of women’s talents will boost business performance.

Women in Mississippi, like the rest of the world, have made their mark on the marketplace.

And according to new statistics, they are beating men in the rush to be their own boss.

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We want to take the opportunity to dedicate this year’s 50 Leading Business Women publication to the memory a 2011 honoree, Liza Vaughn.

Liza, after many months of treatment at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, died in April from complications of breast cancer. She was 43.

The wife of a banker and daughter of a bank president, Liza told us last year in a story for this magazine that “I definitely have some banker background in my blood.�

After graduating with a degree in management from Delta State University in 1995, Liza worked in banking for 17 years. She worked for her husband Edward Vaughn’s small family bank, Cleveland Community Bank. In 2008 Cleveland Community Bank was sold to Planters Bank‚ where Vaughn’s father retired as president of the Greenville branch of Planters Bank.

She didn’t have any time to miss the bank job before being hired as assistant alumni director for DSU, which she said was her dream job.

Our thoughts and wishes go out to her husband, two sons and all of her family. She will be missed.

MBJ STAFF ALAN TURNER Publisher alan.turner@msbusiness.com • 364-1021 ROSS REILY Editor ross.reily@msbusiness.com • 364-1018 WALLY NORTHWAY Senior Writer wally.northway@msbusiness.com • 364-1016 TED CARTER Staff Writer ted.carter@msbusiness.com • 364-1017 CLAY CHANDLER Staff Writer clay.chandler@msbusiness.com • 364-1015 STEPHEN MCDILL Staff Writer stephen.mcdill@msbusiness.com • 364-1041 TAMI JONES Advertising Director tami.jones@msbusiness.com • 364-1011

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

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NEWS

Susan always stands out.

The judging Selecting winners not easy prospect

But this time, she’s made us especially proud.

A lot of hard work goes into the 50 Leading Business Women program each year. There is a special publication to create and publish, seemingly countless details to nail down for the program’s special events, etc.

However, perhaps the most daunting task is the very first one — choosing the winners.

“I think anyone who sees both the quality and quantity of nominees we get each year agrees that choosing just 50 women to honor is a monumental task,” said Alan Turner, publisher of the Mississippi Business Journal. “I cannot say enough about our judges and the work they do. They work in anonymity, and it's pro bono. They do it for one reason alone — they care.

“The MBJ could not put on the 50 Leading Business Women program without the help of a lot of people, and it all starts with our judges.”

An anonymous panel of judges in cooperation with staff of the MBJ editorial team selected this year's class of 50 Leading Business Women.

For the 2012 class, well over 100 nominations were received. It took judges nearly three weeks to make their final choices.

Not only do the judges have to choose between businesswomen representing a broad cross section of businesses and entities, they must make those selections inside the program's criteria. The judges must look at nominees' professional abilities and success. This includes: most significant professional accomplishment; how their division, department or company has grown as a direct result of their abilities; roles in decision making and extent of those roles; demonstration of positive growth trends, programs, products/services and profits; as well as special skills and abilities.

Judges also review nominees' professional recognition such as licenses, degrees and areas of professional expertise, honors and awards and promotions, partnerships, published work, etc.

Nominees also must show significant levels of influence. The judges assess such things as number of employees they manage or rank in company, the size of the budget under their authority, significance of contribution to the business community, extent of involvement in professional organizations and significance of skills and abilities.

Finally, nominees are judged on their work outside the office. Judges are charged with reviewing nominees' active service and membership in community organizations and honors and awards received due to community involvement.

“Anyone chosen as one of our 50 Leading Business Women earned it,” Turner said.

“The criteria are rigorous. So, perhaps the only thing harder than winning the award is choosing the winners.”

— Wally Northway

Susan Graves, congratulations on being named one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women.

We’re proud to work with you, and we appreciate all you do to help our business stand out, too.

Sincerely, Your Partners & Colleagues

6

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

NEWS

Work and life Year in and year out, when asked their biggest challenges 50 Leading Business Women most often list balancing work with all of their duties and responsibilities at home and in the community.

Just as the challenges can be varied — children, civic service, church — so, too, are the methods businesswomen utilize to meet their push-me, pull-me demands.

“I don’t balance it — I sleep, eat and breathe work,” quipped entrepreneur Lauren McGraw of Flora (50 Leading Business Women class of 2003). After a big laugh she added, “For me, it’s all about priorities. God, family, work. That’s the order. If you get those things out of kilter, you defeat everything you’re trying to do.”

Gay Saxton, director of training at Hinds Community College’s Eagle Ridge Conference Center (50 Leading Business Women class of 2004), has no children. But she has returned to school to earn her master’s degree in education. Going to school three nights a week, working and maintaining a household could take its toll.

“I try never to take work home with me,” Saxton said. “I might have to work late, occasionally do a few things from home, but I leave work at work. My husband is the

same way.”

Ironically, Fran Weeks, owner of Turkoyz in Jackson and (50 Leading Business Women class of 2009), was on the road with her children when she was contacted for this story. She asked if she could respond later — talking business while with her children is one Weeks’ pet no-no’s.

“I think everyone has their own formula for balancing all of the many demands of life today. I find the most important elements are focus, good time management and down time.

“I don’t do well bouncing back and forth so I try to schedule things so that I can really have enough time to accomplish something.

For instance, if I know my children have multiple activities or appointments, I try to make sure that my calendar is clear and I try my best not to be on the phone/text when I am with them. On the other hand, if I have work to do, I try to avoid distractions. It is really difficult for me to be creative or to solve problems when I am not focused.

“Thankfully, technology is a great help in

utilizing my time. I hate waiting with nothing to do. I am always armed with folders of work, an iPad and my phone to make the most of every minute.

“I have a pretty strong work ethic and commitment to get the job done. But I am also a huge proponent to getting away and completely getting my mind off things. I find when I return from a break that I am much more productive and creative.”

— Mississippi Business Journal

Saluting the women who define Regions – and our communities.

There’s nothing that gives us more pride than our communities.

Our neighbors inspire us and shape who we are as a bank. So we’re always excited to help invigorate the cities and towns we call home. To the many women who are constantly working to improve our company and our communities, we offer our thanks, our assistance and our commitment to making great neighborhoods even better.

You provide the vision, passion and commitment. We’ll help you with the rest.

1.800.regions | regions.com © 2012 Regions Bank.

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

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Amy Wisdom Ainsworth Client Development Specialist, Terracon Consultants Inc. in Ridgeland

I

By LYNN LOFTON

n her position with Terracon Consultants, Amy Ainsworth has worked to turn the office of engineers, scientists, geologists, field crews and administrative professionals into a true team. It may not be a tangible accomplishment, but it’s one that affects all employees and their families.

“The culture of our office has shifted from one where everyone thought of themselves, their workload and their revenue to one of a cohesive unit that works together and looks out for each other,” she said. “We also work together on charitable drives and make Terracon a great place to work.”

Ainsworth is working to increase the company’s presence in Mississippi by being involved with various trade and professional associations. “I love that part of my job,” she said. “All of Terracon’s employees are more involved with professional associations and charitable organizations now than they were two years ago, and they really enjoy it.”

Craig Carter of Carter Consulting in Canton says Ainsworth has a positive outlook in her work and life in general and has been an inspiration to him. “While we competed professionally, I knew that Amy would be honest, fair and have great character,” he said. “In the business

Congratulations, Bonnie Nowell, the Best of the Best!

We LOVE You!

world, I can tell you first hand that Amy’s abilities in her field are above and beyond outstanding.”

A former marketing assistant at the Omni Hotel in Atlanta, Ainsworth’s areas of expertise are business development, business-to-business marketing and extensive networking for environmental and geotechnical engineering and construction materials testing services. Terracon works with soil, air, water and building conditions to ensure safe design, construction and environmental conditions on projects throughout Mississippi.

With common sense, loyalty and the ability to identify opportunities and communicate, Ainsworth puts behindthe-scenes teams together for economic development projects and educates industries and municipalities on how Terracon can handle their environmental issues.

She has lived in different parts of the U.S. and in Frankfurt, Germany, and finds Mississippi the best place to live. “I am proud to be a Mississippian,” she said. “I know our state has issues, but I sincerely believe it’s up to us to do all in our power to address the problems.”

Ainsworth is active in the Fondren Neighborhood Association, Salvation Army and Stewpot Community Services. She has also rung the Christmas bell for the Salvation Army and sponsored children on the Angel Tree as long as she can remember. She and her husband work to distribute the gifts too.

She helped her sister overcome bulimia in 1990 when the disease was not well known. “Educating myself about bulimia, I made it my mission to make sure my family took it seriously,” she said. “Twenty years later my sister is healthy and happy, and we work together to educate others on the symptoms and seriousness of this disease.”

The Ainsworths enjoy spending time outdoors, camping, canoeing, hiking and grilling. They also like to travel the state’s back roads, taking photos along the way.

Congratulations to Catherine Wesson for being recognized as one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women in 2012.

Cathy T. Wesson, MBA Agency Sales Director Registered Representative 601-499-3014 cwesson@metlife.com

©2012 Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, NY, NY 10166. L0812276529[exp0913][MS] 1208-3095

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Jocelyn Pritchett for being chosen as one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Mende Malouf Alford General Manager/Owner, Old Capitol Inn Boutique Hotel in Jackson

M

By BECKY GILLETTE

ende Malouf Alford has turned being in the hospitality business into a fine art that has led to her Old Capitol Inn Boutique Hotel being the “in” place for many area gatherings ranging from weddings to non-profit fundraisers. The hotel featured four times in Southern Living magazine has won numerous awards such as Hotel of the Year 2005 by the Mississippi Hospitality Restaurant Association, and Hotel of the Year 2005 and 2011 by the Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Alford oversees 50 employees and an annual budget of about $2 million for the 24-room boutique hotel.

“I use a hands-on management style to ensure that our day-to-day operation runs efficiently and effectively,” she said. “Excellent service and customer satisfaction are the primary goals of our business.”

Active with the Jackson Chamber of Commerce, Alford has chaired several major events such as Red White and Jackson and Authenticity. The latter event raised more than $100,000 for the police department and $40,000 for the fire department.

Alford is admired for her business success even in a down economy, said David L. Powe, chief administrative

officer, University of Mississippi Medical Center.

“This is indicative of her prowess to maximize a marketing scheme that personally touches her customers and attracts them to a warm and caring environment that is second to none in service and special attention,” Powe said.

“This creates the magnet for the customers to return to a great experience and to spread the word of the jewel located in downtown Jackson. She has used imagination, knowhow, and lots of hard work in minimizing the problems that small businesses encounter.”

Powe also admires Alford’s strong sense of citizenship shown by her involvement in many community activities and organizations. “She is a true servant leader and gives back to her community through countless hours supporting others in the community,” Powe said.

Alford has also been active with the Jackson Group of Executive Women International (EWI), a group that promotes personal and professional development. Former Jackson EWI president Diane Luckett, internal communications coordinator for Irby, said Alford served on numerous committees and as treasurer of EWI, drawing people in with an outgoing personality and lively spirit.

“She is a beautiful, impeccably well-mannered ‘Southern belle’ who treats everyone with kindness and respect,” Luckett said. “Mende epitomizes the term professional business woman.”

Alford is also an active volunteer with her children’s school, St. Richard’s, where she has helped raised more than $30,000. She considers her highest personal accomplishments marrying Jesse Alford, “the man of my dreams,” and parenting three girls, Truus, 7, Hala, 6 and Riena, 3.

St. Dominic’s Congratulates

Janice Knight on being named as one of

Mississippi Business Journal’s 50 Leading Businesswomen.

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

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Penny Bowen Owner, Penny Bowen Designs Inc. & Bella Interiors in Columbus

I

By BECKY GILLETTE

nterior designer Penny Bowen worked at an architecture firm for five years and then at a carpet center before starting a business out of her home in 1996 providing design and drafting services.

“I worked with several architects, builders and homeowners to design and draw additions and renovations to existing homes as well as provide full sets of custom home plans,” Bowen said. “As I grew confident of the market’s need for my services, I relocated my business office to further establish myself as a professional residential and interior designer.”

Her work has gained fame not only in the Golden Triangle area, but far beyond. In 2010, her work was featured on HGTV in an episode of “Hometown Renovations.” The original desire for the show was to have four different companies provide input and furnishings for one room each.

“After realizing that my company had four designers with separately distinguished styles, the production company excitedly agreed to have Bella Interiors provide the design and furnishing services for the entire house,” Bowen said. “We collectively met with the star of the show, Billy Brasfield, to coordinate what items would be necessary to

furnish the home. Mixing our professional design skills with show biz made for an exciting experience and one that was in no way typical.”

She has also gone international, having worked on a 10,000-square-foot winter home being built in Akumal, Mexico, and on two projects in Canada.

Other indications of her success include a 2006 Mississippi Heritage Trust, Award of Merit for Historical Restoration of a Residence, in association with Sam Kaye, AIA. In 2009 she had a cover and feature article in Condo Owner magazine for a penthouse she decorated at La Riva Resort. In 2010 she was named Mississippi University for Women (MUW) Entrepreneur of the Year.

“Her home-based business grew rapidly and led to the creation of a design shop, Bella Interiors, in downtown Columbus with several interior designers,” said MUW interim vice president for university relations and advancement Allegra Brigham. “Her shop is beautiful and has greatly enhanced the downtown business district. Her design work is incredible, having been featured on design magazine covers and interior pages, as well as design television programs. Her creative design skills have enhanced numerous homes and businesses throughout this region as well as beyond.

Along with her thriving business, she is involved in a number of community organizations.”

Bowen said one of the most important talents in custom residential design is the ability to really listen to her client’s wants and needs.

“For every project, I closely monitor all details throughout the process to ensure that every client is thoroughly satisfied in the end,” she said.

Congratulations

Tammra

Caisco

Proudly Congratulates Our Members

Sherry Chance Monica Daniels Lise Foy Nicole Kemp

We are proud of you!

La’Verne Edney, Esq. Serena Rasberry Clark, Esq. Farish Percy, Esq.

United Way of the Capital Area’s Staff and Board of Directors Congratulates

Monica Daniels

on being chosen as Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women United Way of the Capital Area

www.madisoncountybusinessleague.com 601.832.5592

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Serving Hinds, Madison and Rankin Counties

As being chosen as one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women 2012 2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

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CONGRATULATIONS TO

Danielle Davis On being chosen as one of

Mississippi Business Journal’s

Top 50 Leading Business Women!

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Jackson’s leading business marketing exchange group, congratulates our members;

Gina Haug

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Amy Ainsworth

Cindy Tauchar

Cindy Brinson

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Director of Sales, Hilton Jackson in Jackson LYNN LOFTON

indy Brinson has found her niche in hotel sales, handling personnel and team management and customer service with efficiency and dedication.

Responsible for all sales activities of the Hilton Jackson, she fills a number of roles, including revenue management, developing the yearly marketing plan, budgeting and coordinating marketing efforts.

“I’m passionate about making a difference,” she said.

“When I’m involved with a project at work, I want to do my best to achieve success. I feel the same way about what I do in my personal life.”

As COO for Lane Hospitality, Wayne West III has known Brinson since 2004 and says she’s a shining example to her employees, co-workers and community. “She excels in her role at the Hilton Jackson and does so while also balancing being a wife and mother,” he said. “Cindy’s enthusiasm, professional demeanor and unwavering commitment to exceeding her employee’s and customers’ expectations have led to her appointment as a mentor for all of Lane’s sales efforts. She is able to handle a high-volume workload while maintaining an outstanding level of service and does so with an infectious and upbeat personality.”

Brinson has won several professional awards, including

Congratulations to Karma Williams on being named Top 50 Leading Business Women To all of us that know her, Karma isn’t just Top 50 — she’s one in a million.

We take our hats off to Karma.

www.BankPlus.net

© Copyright 2012 Bankplus.

12

the Spirit of Hilton from Hilton Worldwide and the Hometown Hero from the Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau. She is proud that she was able to keep a hotel conference in Mississippi when the group considered taking it out of state. She is part of the Hilton sales team that has broken all-time high sales numbers, and was selected as one of only three employees company-wide to represent the entire portfolio on Lane Hospitality’s advisory committee.

“My accomplishments come from watching my team’s success,” she says. “It is an incredible feeling to be able to mentor, support and watch each team member achieve and exceed their goals.”

She is a member of Hilton’s Blue Energy Team. “This is a committee that is a steward of the Hilton Hotels and Resorts culture,” she said. “Our direct responsibility is to maintain a service culture that will support the hotel team’s ability to live our values, deliver our promise and celebrate our stories — continually focused on the experience we are creating for guests, team members and communities.”

Additionally, she works with the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence, participated in the Leukemia and Lymphoma walk, helped set up a food drive for Stewpot, purchased gifts from the Mustard Seed to show support, collected soft drink tabs for the Ronald McDonald House and is an active member of five area chambers of commerce.

Brinson considers her son, Jacob Taylor, her best personal accomplishment.

As First Vice President of BankPlus, Karma is one of our finest. So we’re proud, but not surprised, that she has been chosen for this honor.

Karma has a bachelor of science degree in banking and finance from the University of Mississippi, and graduated from the Louisiana State University School of Banking. Karma has over 25 years of banking experience and has been with BankPlus since June of 2000. In the community, Karma has served in leadership roles in both the Junior League of Jackson and the First Presbyterian Day School fundraiser, Holiday Potpourri. She has served on the board of the Assisi Early Learning Center, and chaired projects for the American Heart Association and Cancer League. Karma is a member of the Women’s Fund and Christ United Methodist Church.

Member FDIC.

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Gwendolyn Caples Director of Alumni & Constituency Relations, Jackson State University in Jackson

A

By LYNN LOFTON

s an employee of her alma mater, Gwendolyn Caples works to promote Jackson State University through the Division of Institutional Advancement and the National Alumni Association. She encourages alumni to remain connected and engaged with the university as volunteers, advocates and contributors.

She was pleased to work with the two groups to raise $2.5 million from alumni across the nation. The gift was presented to JSU president Dr. Carolyn W. Meyers during the week of her inauguration. Caples was also on the subcommittee to plan the new president’s reception for alumni and friends.

Caples was instrumental in forming the JSU Retirees Association, helped establish the Madison and Byram Alumni Chapters and formed a new student recruiters group to enhance enrollment.

JSU assistant director of annual giving Constance V. Lawson says Caples is a proud Mississippian who believes in giving back to her hometown of Jackson through outreach, community service and by working closely with alumni and friends of JSU to support the next generation of leaders. “Her (Caples) leadership and organizational skills have

We are proud to congratulate

SCOTTA BRADY on being recognized as one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women 2012!

been invaluable,� Lawson said. “Gwen is a born leader.

She’s focus-driven and reaches enormous heights in any capacity she serves. She has a high aptitude for taking on new projects and defeating challenges.�

Caples likes that her job gives her the opportunity to meet alumni from all walks of life across the U.S. “I feel that my involvement with JSU alumni serves as a catalyst for engagement with JSU faculty, staff and students,� she said. “Hopefully, I am helping alumni obtain knowledge about university and chapter events and helping them excel personally and professionally.�

Prior to joining the staff of JSU, Caples was public relations director for Mississippi Public Broadcasting where she was responsible for promoting programs and events. She is skilled at mobilizing groups to reach a common goal and has the ability to work on several projects simultaneously with detail and precision. “I admire people who are self-motivators — who do good deeds without expecting any award or recognition; who give freely and generously to causes that are dear to their hearts and who are honest, dependable and full of character, strong faith and a positive attitude,� she said.

She graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in political science from Jackson State and earned a master’s in mass communications at Mississippi College. Honors include listing in the 2011 edition of “Who’s Who in Black Mississippi;� Outstanding Management and Performance in Alumni Affairs by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund; an award as the coordinator of the JSU National Alumni Association 2007 Biennial Conference; and, membership in the JSU President’s Club.

Caples enjoys being a freelance mistress of ceremonies and songstress and writing. Her first book, “Sweet Surrender,� was self-published, and she has completed a second manuscript.

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

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Tammra Cascio General Counsel, Gulf Guaranty Life Insurance Company in Jackson

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By BECKY GILLETTE

elected by The Mississippi Bar as a Woman Lawyer Trailblazer, 2012, Tammra Cascio, general counsel for Gulf Guaranty Life Insurance Company, is considered one of the leading authorities in Mississippi in regard to banking-related insurance products and the body of law governing those products.

Cascio assisted in the drafting of the Mississippi Creditor Placed Insurance Act and helped get it passed by the Legislature. She has been invited to speak at numerous events on the subjects of corporate counsel perspective, insurance and banking-related law, health insurance issues, legislative and governmental issues affecting corporations in Mississippi, balancing career and family and the advancement of women in the legal profession.

Jackson attorney A. La’Verne Edney said Cascio is very intelligent and forward-thinking, making her a key component to the success of Gulf Guaranty.

“Tammra has continued to excel over the years,” Edney said. “She has been very active in community, professional and civic organizations.”

Cascio was awarded the 2010 recipient of The Mississippi Bar Distinguished Service Award for her leadership as Chair of the Women in the Profession. She also

Congratulations Carolyn Redd On being recognized as one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women.

We are proud of your accomplishment!

served as the first female president of the Mississippi Corporate Counsel Association.

Her work with Gulf Guaranty includes oversight and management of the company’s litigation, risk assessment and risk management. “Additionally, my duties include regulatory compliance and legislative and governmental relations, review and drafting of legislation, hiring and management of outside counsel and preparation of company witnesses,” she said. “I also review and prepare contracts and assist in drafting and revision of policies.”

Very few women in Mississippi have held such a position of authority, and Cascio has often been in environments in which she was the first and sometimes only woman to be at the table or to serve in a particular capacity. In addition to setting a good example of a female professional who is capable, knowledgeable and fair, she has also taken time to mentor other women. She has hired other female attorneys to handle matters for Gulf Guaranty, and has recommended outstanding female professionals to other companies and organizations.

“Becoming general counsel of Gulf Guaranty and having the opportunity, authority and responsibility that has come with that position has enabled me to open doors for others and to ensure that a woman’s voice was being heard in many forums where one otherwise wouldn’t have been heard,” Cascio said.

Cascio enjoys sports events, travel and exercise with her two boys, Robert and Reed. The former Boy Scout den mother was named Parent of the Year at Ann Smith Elementary.

“I can think of nothing more crucial or rewarding than being a positive and encouraging presence in the lives of my children and others,” Cascio said. “The future of this community and this world, after all rests in them.”

proudly congratulates

Wilma Mosley-Clopton for being chosen as one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women 2012

Congratulations Kourtney Hollingswort h

on being selected as one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women.

With Much Love, Your Family “Changing the way women view sports!”

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Sherry Chance Campus Director, Tulane University, Madison Campus in Madison

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By BECKY GILLETTE

herry Chance doesn’t leave excellent in education to chance. Her responsibilities as director of Tulane University’s School of Continuing Studies, Madison Campus, cover a broad range of duties from supervising the staff and 64 adjunct faculty to determining course offerings and semester schedules, hiring and training faculty, overseeing special events and marketing the campus.

Chance has had a long and stellar career in education.

She taught elementary education in Biloxi, was an elementary principal and teacher in California and was an elementary principal at the Madison-Ridgeland Academy. She also worked at Belhaven University and was executive director of the Kindness Foundation in Jackson from 2002 to 2004.

“When I was executive director for the Kindness Foundation, I had the opportunity to work with teachers in Russia and Ukraine through training exercises that provided for cultural exchange and the development of a values-based curriculum,” Chance said. “The exchange experiences allowed teachers and students to travel to Mississippi to learn about history, language and culture. The exchange experiences also allowed teachers from the USA, Russia and Ukraine to learn from each other regarding teaching methods.”

Chance considers her most significant professional

accomplishment to be similar to a tapestry, one that is comprised of students’ lives and successes woven together to form a meaningful image.

“Over the years I have received feedback from students and their families that confirms that my greatest contributions have come from an ability to create educational environments that provide positive, nurturing atmospheres that facilitate learning,” she said.

Chance has also been active in volunteer activities. She chaired a City of Madison Sister City Committee for the city’s relationship with Solleftea, Sweden. Beth Kellogg, Creative Partners Public Relations, worked with Chance on the committee to build an economic and educational relationship with Solleftea.

“Not only did we travel to Sweden to work on the relationship, but spent countless hours planning Swedish festivals, setting up a student exchange program and promoting the relationship throughout the state,” Kellogg said.

Two other projects the two worked on together are the Madison City Chamber of Commerce Ladies Night Out annual fundraiser and the Distinguished Young Woman Program committee.

“Not only did Sherry work on the Ladies Night Out committee each year, but she was named president of the chamber board, as well,” Kellogg said. “During that year, she implemented the Junior Ambassador Program into the chamber.”

Chance has also been president of the MadisonRidgeland Rotary Club and is actively involved with Madison Countians Allied Against Poverty and efforts to promote literacy in the county and state. She is a graduate of Leadership Madison County.

Chance has a B.S. in education from the University of Alaska, and a M.S. in educational leadership from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Our Leading Ladies Congratulations to

Janet Y. Harris Interim CEO and Chief Nursing Officer University Hospitals and Health System and

Cathy Smith Chief Human Resources University Hospitals and Health System for being named among the 2012 50 Leading Business Women in Mississippi by the Mississippi Business Journal.

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

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Wilma E. Mosley Clopton, Ph.D. Filmmaker/Writer/Producer/Director, NMHS Unlimited Film Productions in Jackson

D

By BECKY GILLETTE

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r. Wilma E. Mosley Clopton is a filmmaker, author, writer, producer and historian with a passion for preserving the history of African Americans in Mississippi.

Clopton is the president and CEO of The Negro in Mississippi Historical Society Unlimited Inc., dba as NMHS Unlimited Film Productions. Combining her interests in history with her skills as a public relations/marketing specialist, she has produced many documentaries including “Pathfinders to a Legacy,” on the lives of Aaron Henry, Medgar Evers, Margaret Walker Alexander and Fannie Lou Hamer.

“Through My Brother’s Eyes” is a documentary about Evers told through the eyes of his brother, Charles Evers, and “In Spite of it All: The Olive Brown Shirley Story” and “The Ride for Freedom” detail the stories of Mississippians involved in the Freedom Rides.

Former Gov. William Winter greatly appreciates Clopton’s creative work.

“Dr. Molsey Clopton has used her incredible artistic talent and her business acumen to create a number of acclaimed documentaries highlighting the historic contributions of African Americans to Mississippi,” Winter said.

“Several of these productions have been used as the basis for education materials used in school classrooms both at the high school and college level. She has been the recipient of numerous awards in her distinguished career including the Women of Achievement Award and the 2011 Mississippi Humanities Educator Award.”

Clopton also has a television show, “It’s about You,” which celebrates the diversity of the South through film and food. Current shows provide network coverage for Jackson businesses.

“From business owner and historian, to author, filmmaker and television personality, Dr. Clopton has dedicated her life to serving, informing and inspiring others,” said Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson. “It is that drive and determination to make a difference in the lives of others that has enabled her to excel as president of the Central Mississippi Steel Magnolias Affiliate of Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Dr. Clopton was instrumental in moving the race to Jackson, bringing 20,000 people to Downtown Jackson.”

Clopton, a 14-year breast cancer survivor, moved to Jackson in 2004 from St. Louis, Mo. Her previous business experience included serving as executive director of the St. Louis Minority Business Council. She received the Minority Small Business Advocate of the Year award from the SBA for the states of Missouri and Illinois. In 1990 she returned to the entrepreneurial arena through the formation of her company The Clopton Group Inc. Clopton considers her appointment to the Mississippi Civil Rights Education Commission a significant opportunity to be a part of the positive growth of our state.

“It is the vision of our leaders that our children, black and white, will no longer have to labor under the ruse of limitations imposed by ignorance and fear,” she said.

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With Appreciation We Congratulate

Melinda McGrath For Recognition Of Her Consummate Leadership

Asphalt - Mississippi Rides On Us! 16

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Bethany Cooper Director of Corporate Relations and MBA/MHA Services, University of Mississippi School of Business in Oxford

S

By LYNN LOFTON

ince joining Ole Miss’ School of Business from the University of New Hampshire four years ago, Bethany Cooper has made a positive impact. She has increased enrollment in the on-campus MBA program from 40 students to 96 and the online program from 23 to 60.

“I achieved this success by rebranding the program, utilizing social media and search engine optimization, recruiting actively across the South and beyond, developing the alumni community and alumni board of directors and creating cutting-edge mentor/career programming,” she said.

Additionally, Cooper received certification from Mississippi Technology Alliance Venture Academy to coach entrepreneurs on successfully preparing for and launching new ventures. She manages the Ole Miss Gillespie Business Plan Competition for students and works closely with the school’s incubator and the entrepreneurial community in Oxford.

Cooper, who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of New Hampshire, was chosen staff member of the year in 2011 by the Ole Miss School of Business along with winning a staff service award. She spoke on the topic of ways women can create and manage their professional images for the Evelyn Gandy Lecture Series.

Deirdre Modesta Danahar Owner, InMotion Consulting and Coaching, LLC in Jackson

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By LYNN LOFTON

aking busy professionals from chaos to calm is Deirdre Danahar’s goal. As a coach and consultant she accomplishes this task everyday, working with individuals and such diverse organizations as the Mississippi Department of Health, Farm Bureau Insurance Company, the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Cherokee Nation Behavioral Health System in Oklahoma.

“My creative approach is grounded in what we know about human development and growth across the lifespan, drawing from science and spirit,” she said. “My work is grounded in six key elements that build on strengths and honors people’s individuality.”

Paula Shelton of Genesis Training & Development was impressed with Danahar’s professionalism and trustworthiness when she met her a few years ago. “Deirdre is an accomplished speaker and coach,” Shelton said. “She has the ability to help people de-clutter their lives, work towards their goals and achieve balance personally and professionally.”

During the past eight years, Danahar has done a significant amount of research about workforce development and knowledge transfer. She sees an increasing interest in applying coaching skills in supporting these functions in a

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

She counsels prospective students on admission, manages speaker series, business plan competitions and serves as a liaison with the business community. “I provide a critical bridge between industry and education. Employers rely on me to help connect them with talent as well as to share industry trends with students,” she said.

Cooper believes in balancing visionary creativity with tactical skills. She is not only a big-picture person, but also manages details well. “I find value in connecting people,” she said. “Problems are opportunities to me. I am able to drive a project from germination to completion.”

Dorothy Berry, a vice president with FedEx Services, describes Cooper as one of the most impactful women leaders in Mississippi. “Bethany’s contribution to the Mississippi economy is through her pivotal role in shaping our future business leaders,” she said. “As a member of the Ole Miss Business School Advisory Board, there have been numerous occasions to observe first hand Bethany’s contributions to the health and vitality of higher education, which is indispensable in the health and vitality of Mississippi’s future.”

Cooper advises women not to wait for other people to make things happen. “No one is looking out for you the way you are,” she said. “Take initiative and don’t be afraid to be aggressive as long as you are polite. You can have a big impact simply by speaking up.”

She is most proud of the work she does with students.”

It is incredibly gratifying to feel I am able to positively impact the life of students,” she said. “I try to listen and get to know them so I may offer advice and support while they are at Ole Miss.”

Cooper is an avid food blogger and photographer with Urbanspoon ranking her blog as number 10 in the state.

She also makes jewelry which she sells at the Taylor Farmer’s Market.

variety of settings from industry leaders such as Microsoft to health care organizations, state governments and organizations that support change happening through contract, grants and cooperative agreements.

“Leadership and management is increasingly a demanding art form and the traditional approaches simply may not be the best fit,” she said. “Organizations, their leadership and staff are often charged with serving as facilitators of change or growth in complex systems that are continually evolving.”

Danahar is a member of the 2012 class of Leadership Madison County and is active in the Madison County Chamber of Commerce, serving on the membership committee. She is a member of the Jackson Professional Woman’s Association, the National Association of Social Work, American Association of Public Health and the International Coach Federation. She is a monthly contributor to the Fox 40 AM radio program and a regular contributor to Jackson Free Press and BOOM Jackson.

She describes herself as a keen observer of people. “I listen deeply and respect the value of others, and then I strive to support them in cultivating their signature strengths,” she said. “Each of us has a spectacular and singular constellation of skills and strengths that make us just a little bit different from the rest of the crowd.”

She admires the way her mother, Gema Danahar, fulfilled the American Dream after immigrating from Lithuania six years after World War II ended. “She embodies all the leadership skills I look for in others, and she gives her heart and mind unselfishly to her family, friends and community,” she said. “Throughout my life she has been an excellent role model and parent. She taught us to try everything, figure out what we loved and then go for it with all we have, learning from the failures as well as successes.”

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17

Monica E. Daniels Vice President of Resource Development, United Way of the Capital Area Inc. in Jackson

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By BECKY GILLETTE

onica E. Daniels has a passion for improving the quality of life for the less fortunate in the Jackson area. As vice president of resource development for the United Way of the Capital Area, her work includes managing a resource development budget of about $400,000, which is part of the $3.5-million annual United Way of the Capital Area budget that is invested within Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties to address three focus areas of community need education, income and health.

“Monica’s enthusiasm and caring for others is second to none,” said Tina Lakey, Mississippi district director for CenterPoint Energy. “Her commitment and drive to our community makes me want to stretch myself and do more.

Monica is a true leader.”

Barney Daly, president of the North Metro Region, Trustmark National Bank, said Daniel’s work ethic and willingness to put others before herself is seen on a daily basis.

“Apparently, other have begun to take notice of Monica’s successes,” Daly said. “She was recently selected by United Way’s corporate office to join the International Resident Fellows program with United Way Worldwide. This elite designation is not only an honor

for Monica personally, but for the United Way of the Capital Area and the entire state of Mississippi.”

Daniels considers completion of the yearlong Global Resident Fellows Program her most significant professional accomplishment to date.

“This is a learning and development initiative, which builds leadership capacity, strategically positions its participants for enhanced leadership roles, and prepares them to make a greater difference and advance the common good in their communities,” Daniels said. “Through the international Fellows Program, I was able to work with professionals from across the globe around the areas of community impact, fund-raising, team-building and personal growth.”

Other accomplishments include inviting young leading professionals across Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties to launch a tri-county leadership development group in 2009.

This group, Young Leaders in Philanthropy, is now a viable and growing group of strong, upcoming leaders.

In addition, Daniels implemented Imagination Library (a partnership with the Dolly Parton Foundation), an early childhood literacy effort that provides free books to children from birth to five years.

Daniels said her most significant personal accomplishment is parenting two daughters, Rose, 13, a budding musician, and Callie, 20, who was born profoundly deaf.

“Yet she found her voice and through an auditory/oral education has learned to listen and talk, to speak and be understood and to advocate for herself,” Daniels said. “She is now a college sophomore majoring in journalism. If a child born deaf can accomplish such, then who am I to bury my head in the sand on a bad day?”

Daniels has a M.S. in behavior analysis and therapy from Southern Illinois University, and a B.A. in psychology from Delta State University.

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Congratulations Deirdre Danahar

on being selected as one of Mississippi Business Journal’s 50 Leading Business Women – Class of 2012.

4270 I-55 North Jackson, Mississippi 39211 (601) 352-2300

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Danielle Davis Principal Partner/Operations Director, Dollars & Sense Creative Consulting/Mangia Bene Restaurant in Jackson

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By LYNN LOFTON

ince she was in middle school, Danielle Davis has known she wanted to be involved with restaurants.

She feels fortunate that she opened and managed a sports grill in Ruston, La., with her parents while she was attending Louisiana Technical University.

Davis moved to Jackson two years ago and is already making her presence known. As operations director for a busy restaurant group that includes BRAVO!, Broad Street Baking Company and Sal & Mookie’s, she manages all processes and procedures, including company computers and technology. She has helped the $9-million-per-year company streamline day-to-day processes.

“Mangia Bene’s restaurants are not only known for original marketing, but also innovative technology,” she said. “I constantly research a vast array of systems to ease the operations of our entire team.”

Davis also launched a consulting company with partners Jeff Good and Dan Blumenthal to help new and existing small businesses develop processes, procedures, technical enhancements, marketing plans and branding. “With my partners, I am assisting many businesses to develop new strategies to help them succeed,” she said. “It was a dream to have people trust my capability to apply my skills in their

Carolyn Hinton DuPré Vice President for Fiscal Affairs, Alcorn State University in Lorman

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By LYNN LOFTON

arolyn DuPré’s accounting career has spanned the diverse fields of county finances, school districts, public accounting health care and presently a university, giving her a wide range of accounting knowledge.

“In my position at Alcorn I have significant responsibility and feel it’s an accomplishment to be entrusted with the university’s budget, which is approximately $86 million per year,” she said. “My responsibilities include supervising and overseeing all the fiscal operations and reporting. I am the primary liaison between the university and its external auditors, banking community, Institutions of Higher Learning finance staff, vendors and other constituents.”

Working directly under the senior vice president for finance and administration, DuPré is involved with financial aspects of all departments of the university and is a key member of the President’s Cabinet.

Upon graduation from the University of Southern Mississippi, DuPré began her accounting career with the Perry County Tax Collector’s Office. She went on to work with schools, Hinds County and the Jackson Hinds Comprehensive Health Center.

She earned a master’s of public accountancy degree

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

businesses. Taking my experience as a business woman and helping others achieve their goals is extremely rewarding.

It’s a pleasure to go to work each day.”

A long-time family friend, Barbara Gibbons of Dallas, Texas, recalls that Davis managed the front and back of the family’s restaurant in Ruston and increased sales revenue each month with her persistence. “Danielle is a fine example of a contemporary woman entrepreneur,” she said. “She is driven to achieve goals and is a strong competitor in a male-dominated industry. But most importantly, she is an advocate for women and enabling women to be aware of their powers as consumers.”

While living in Ruston, Davis organized and hosted a benefit to honor two friends who were killed in the Iraqi War. “Because of these events, I decided to honor all soldiers killed or wounded in action,” she said. “Each year we donated the proceeds to different organizations that support wives and children of soldiers killed or wounded in action.”

Now that she’s settled in Jackson, Davis hopes to use her passion for horses and helping children to work in equine therapy for Asperger’s and autism. “This is a perfect way for me to combine the two,” she said.

She also would like to help the local Alzheimer’s Association because of the experience she had with her grandmother. “When my grandmother passed away, it was bitter sweet,” she said. “We had lost the person we knew about a year before her death. Helping others cope with this disease would be a great honor.”

from Jackson State University and reached a major milestone by becoming a certified public accountant. “It was the most difficult thing I’ve had to accomplish in my career,” she said of becoming a CPA. “It took time and dedication. It was definitely worth the blood, sweat and tears. I accomplished this while I was a single mother with a young child, which made it even more significant for me.”

Teaching is also important to DuPré. She’s been an adjunct professor in Alcorn’s School of Business for a year and has taught online classes in accounting for the University of Phoenix. She has helped businesses with their accounting and bookkeeping efforts, presented workshops and seminars on accounting to community leaders and worked in finance with non-profit and religious organizations.

“I believe we are blessed to bless others,” she said. “I have implemented a public service component in our department at ASU. We commit to a public service project in the community each month. This has been a helpful and rewarding project for our staff and the communities we assist.”

DuPré wants people to know they can rely on her when she commits to a project and strives to be dependable, dedicated and honest. “Dedication to a cause is the key to completing assigned tasks,” she said. “My character and faith keep me honest and humble.”

She admires writer Maya Angelo for portraying a strong woman who has stuck with her beliefs for many years. “I do not believe you have to always be in the spotlight and flamboyant to be intelligent and a strong leader,” she said.

Rearing her daughter — now a college senior — to be a healthy, intelligent young adult gives her pride in her personal life. DuPré is a member of several professional organizations and also Jackson 2000 and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, participating in service projects and serving as financial secretary.

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Lise Foy Executive Director, Canton Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Association in Canton

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By BECKY GILLETTE

ise Foy is known for the kind of enthusiasm that inspires people to work together to transform their community. “In Greenwood, where Lise Foy served as executive director of Main Street Greenwood for four years, you will find many people in diverse communities across our town who not only think, but know, she is tops in everything she does,� said Beth Williams, general manager, The Alluvian Hotel. “The years she spent at the helm of Main Street were transformative for our town, and many of the positive and creative ideas were hers. She has a strong talent for turning ideas into action and developing consensus among diverse groups of citizens. Her efforts to improve our community were tireless and her leadership is greatly missed by our city and county.�

Williams said Canton’s gain, when Foy was named their Main Street executive director, was certainly Greenwood’s loss. Foy left behind a legacy of tangible progress such as the Greenwood Farmers’ Market, the River to the Rails festival, numerous streetscape improvements and the Bikes, Blues and Bayous statewide bike race.

Foy is now making her mark in Canton.

“In this position, Lise is making a difference in Canton, including the growth in the Canton Chamber,� said Lenita Knight, co-chair of Leadership Madison County. “Lise has a drive that requires and inspires participation. She leads by example, and is an asset to the City of Canton and Madison County.�

Foy oversees the development, coordination, administration, documentation and implementation efforts put forth by the Canton Chamber Main Street Association for the revitalization, development and growth of Canton. Her work includes budget development and management, volunteer management, business prospecting and marketing. “I serve as a full-time enthusiastic advocate for the community of Canton,� she said. “I possess the ability to produce many types of events including large community festivals, arts and community heritage events, county fairs, fundraisers and farmer’s markets. I am responsible for advertising, selling sponsorships and logistical management of these events.�

Foy brings a novel educational background to her current position. She has a B.S. in agricultural pest management from Mississippi State University and an M.S. in agronomy from the University of Wyoming. She also has a diploma of landscape and garden design from the Anna Gresham Design School. She had an article published in the April 2012 issue of the American Society for Horticultural Science newsletter titled “Helping Start Farmer’s Markets for Community Growth� about using her horticultural background in her current position.

Foy lives on an 80-acre farm in north Madison County with her husband, Jamie. She has launched own vegetablefarming business, Farmgirl Grocery, with sells at the Canton Farmers Market.

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Wendi Garrison Marketing Consultant, A Fluent Vision in Ridgeland

A

By BECKY GILLETTE

fter six years as director of marketing and partner relations with Business Communications Inc. (BCI), Wendi Garrison recently started work with a national marketing consulting company specializing in technology called A Fluent Vision.

“Grounded by 13 years of experience and a love for all things technological, she guides clients through the ever-changing marketing world with insight, confidence and wisdom,” said Tiffany Whitmore, TME, LLC. “She successfully grows clients’ businesses by extending their sales efforts, making them more visible and communicating their message. Like the technology industry she works in, Wendi lives at a fast pace. She is the quintessential modern businesswoman. She effortlessly balances running a company, raising two boys, volunteering her skills and time to causes that benefit Mississippi, and manages to squeeze in mountain biking.”

Michele Chiantera, director of marketing for Americas Partner Marketing, said Garrison is a bright and proven businesswoman who thinks outside of the box and is always focused on the end goal.

“Wendi is a true leader, both motivating and inspirational to men and women in the technology industry,”

Cheri Turnage Gatlin Managing Partner, Burr & Forman, LLP in Jackson

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By LYNN LOFTON

raduating first in her class from the Mississippi College School of Law, Cheri Gatlin was sure to become an outstanding lawyer. Not only is she managing partner of her firm’s Jackson office, she is an AAA construction arbitrator and serves as senior lead counsel for ThyssenKrupp Stainless USA, one of the world’s largest steel producers. In this capacity she is managing all legal matters for the construction of the multi-billiondollar stainless steel facility in Alabama.

“I count my work over the past five years with the ThyssenKrupp plant as my most significant professional accomplishment,” she said. “Including both steel and stainless entities, the complex rang in at $6 billion, and at one point was the largest construction project underway in the world.”

Gatlin represents national and international corporations in the resolution of significant disputes, including complex commercial contract, fraud and breach of contract cases. In her construction practice, she represents contractors, owners and sureties in the work out and resolution of construction defaults, and has defended contractors, owners and engineers in construction-related mass tort cases,

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Chiantera said. “One of her greatest strengths is her exceptionally high EQ (emotional intelligence), which has allowed her to establish solid relationships that generate tangible benefits in all her business endeavors.”

Garrison considers her most significant professional accomplishment building a marketing and inside sales team at BCI. When she started in the role of BCI marketing manager in 2006, there was no marketing department.

She grew the department to a team of five and created and executed strategic go-to-market strategies to further the profitability of BCI. Garrison has been recognized for creating unique and profitable marketing campaigns that offer total technology solutions and that include ecosystem manufacturer partners. She has consistently exceeded campaign goals in attendance numbers for online and offline campaigns.

Her advice to others for success is to find something you feel passionate about and learn everything about it.

“Learn the advantages and challenges, then begin evangelizing,” she said. “Knowledge and passion affect change.”

From 1999 to 2005, Garrison worked for Lanier Worldwide, where she created a conversion team that successfully transitioned administrative and support staff positions as a result of mergers and acquisitions. She also created an “onboarding” manual for all administrative personnel hired as a result of a merger or acquisition.

From 1997 to 1999, Garrison worked for SkyTel Paging as a major accounts billing representative and then supervisor.

This volunteer for Habitat for Humanity considers her most significant personal accomplishments being a parent to two sons, Alan, 5, and Jake, 2. She is a homeroom mother for the St. Richard’s Catholic School. She is a member of the Tri-County Mountain Biking Association.

including claims for exposure to asbestos, silica, lead, mold, arsenic and other contaminants.

“I thoroughly enjoy working in the Mississippi construction industry,” she said. “I believe finding a solution for complicated issues has helped my clients and Mississippi businesses that count on construction for a livelihood.”

In 2009, she argued and won a complex, multi-party commercial insurance case before the Mississippi Supreme Court. The outcome resulted in insurance coverage for thousands of insured businesses for years to come.

Chambers USA named Gatlin a Leading Practitioner in her Field for the area of litigation construction. The publication noted that she is “praised by clients as a businessminded litigator who comes up with good strategies.”

Portico recognized her as a top ten up-and-coming lawyer in the area. She was also included in the Mississippi Business Journal’s inaugural class of Leadership in Law. She is a member of numerous state and national professional organizations.

“I look for others who are passionate about their professional goals,” she said. Great leaders are people who are serious about their occupation as well as their responsibilities. I enjoy working with people who are passionate about the law and can use the legal system to positively help clients.”

She believes professional and personal life should be fulfilling. Her personal life is filled with the joy of raising four sons, Jack, Louis, Asa and JoJo, with the help of her husband, Joel Gatlin. There are lots of little league sports to attend and activities with the St. Andrews Episcopal School Parent Association. She also manages to find time to garden, read and volunteer with Stewpot Community Services and Woodland Hills Garden Club and serve as the Susan G. Komen Annual Kids for the Cure Program Race Coordinator.

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Susan James Graves Executive Vice President/CFO/Partner, GodwinGroup in Jackson

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By BECKY GILLETTE

odwinGroup CFO Susan James Graves used finance strategies and money management skills to help GodwinGroup navigate the 2008-2009 economic downturn that was catastrophic to much of the advertising industry without borrowing a dime or extending terms with their many production and media vendors, said Phillip Shirley, chairman and CEO of GodwinGroup, which has 57 full-time employees and an annual budget of $15 million.

“With each increase in responsibility, Susan has demonstrated effective leadership skills and earned the respect of her associates at every level,” Shirley said. “It is worth noting that GodwinGroup continues year after year to be recognized nationally in the top three percent of the nation’s more than 13,000 ad agencies as measured in revenues, so her influence extends well beyond the borders of Mississippi.”

CFO since 2007, Graves is one of five partners who own the firm. In addition to serving on the team that manages the operations of GodwinGroup, she is also secretary/treasurer of the board of directors.

“It is my duty to direct and advise on all financial decisions, prepare and present financial reporting for the com-

pany, as well as oversee cash management,” Graves said. “I directly manage and supervise the accounting/finance, information technology, human resources and administrative support areas of the firm.”

Earlier in her career Graves worked in the banking industry where she helped develop operating budgets for a $100-million bank. When she worked for Magnolia Federal Bank for Savings, she was part of the team that worked on the prospectus that took the company public in 1991.

Graves has successfully implemented and managed the conversion and training of three different accounting and operations software systems in her 27 years in accounting.

She also has found time for giving back to the community.

“Susan has been an active participant in the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) signature fundraising Event Relay For Life,” said Robert O. Morris, vice president of the ACS. “Susan has helped the ACS raise over $200,000 with her direct fundraising efforts and connections. This accomplishment is significant as it impacts the lives of the more than 130,000 Mississippians who have been diagnosed with cancer during the time that Susan has been supporting the ACS.” Graves is treasurer of the Mississippi Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Her father was a physician who was a paraplegic due to polio.

“My father learned how to do everything a normal physician could do, standing and walking on crutches to take care of patients,” Graves said. “I miss him dearly, losing him to pneumonia three years ago after he suffered from Alzheimer’s for nine years. I am working on a manuscript of his life and our life as a family and the obstacles which were always overcome.”

Graves and her husband, Buddy, have been married 25 years, and have three daughters, Amanda, 20, Selah, 16, and Hannah 13.

The Hilton-Jackson

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for being selected as one of

Cindy Tauchar

on being chosen as one of

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1001 E. County Line Rd. 601.957.2800 | jackson-hilton.com

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Tonyatta Hairston Optometrist/Owner, EnVision Eye Care in Jackson

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By BECKY GILLETTE

leven years ago when Dr. Tonyatta Hairston graduated from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tenn., her hope was simply to examine eyes and make a difference in the lives of patients.

“I never dreamed that my career would lead me to a place where I would have a business that includes three practices,” Hairston said. “I never thought I would be helping other optometrists and individuals on the EnVision team through employment. EnVision Eye Care employs four optometrists, 12 support staff and serves thousands of people each year. We volunteer in the community at churches, schools and with non-profit organizations. When I stop to think about the impact this organization has on others, it makes me proud.”

EnVision Eye Care has helped to bring economic development to the area, and in 2011 expanded from having offices in Belhaven and Magee to open an office at One University Place on the campus of Jackson State University.

With those accomplishments, it is no surprise she was named the 2011-2012 Helen St. Clair Young Optometrist of the Year, an award which recognizes an eye doctor in Mississippi who is within 10 years of graduation, has made

Janet Young Harris

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Chief Nursing Executive Officer, University of Mississippi Health Care in Jackson

By LYNN LOFTON

anet Harris has a big job with the University Hospitals and Health System, but it’s a job where she’s made a positive difference. As the chief nursing executive officer and member of the senior executive team, she played a major role in decreasing the nursing turnover rate in the hospitals and increasing patient satisfaction.

“I was given an opportunity to overcome great turmoil and strife when I rejoined UMHC in January 2007,” she said. “Nursing turnover rates were 22 percent overall and 34 percent in the Children’s Hospital, despite a $9.5-million investment by the organization in agency nurses over the previous two years. This costly expenditure put a significant financial strain on the budget and did little to alleviate the shortage.”

Harris says the hospital had to recruit nurses in the Philippines and that morale was poor with nurses tired and frustrated. A nurse-retention task force was implemented and a formal plan developed.

“Over the next two years, I led the implementation of the recommended strategies,” she said. “An important component included increasing visibility of the senior level team through routine rounding on all shifts, holding open forums and meetings and one-on-one meetings between myself and nurse managers so I could listen to their con-

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

significant contributions to eye health and who has furthered the goals of the Mississippi Optometric Association.

Her volunteer work with the Mississippi Optometric Association includes doing public relations creating, maintaining and providing press/media information.

“Dr. Hairston exemplifies the quality of an outstanding and talented leader who possesses a generous spirit, personal integrity and a thoughtful and deliberate approach,” said Kimberly D. Hilliard, Ph.D., director of the Center for Community-Based Development at Jackson State University. “She applies innovative methods and business savvy to continuously develop best practice solutions. Yet, she has an equal commitment to her own personal development as demonstrated by her participation with the Class of 2012 of Greater Leadership Jackson.”

Shirley Tucker, vice president of leadership development, Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership, said that Hairston has been chair of two active committees while participating in Greater Leadership Jackson.

“Although Tonyatta has a demanding career where she oversees three clinics, she still obligates a great deal of her time and resources to making society better,” Tucker said.

“Her stunning personality allows her to tackle multiple challenges without wavering. Tonyatta’s dedication and loyal service to this community has made us proud that we selected her as one of our leaders. She continues to function in leadership roles professionally and in the community at a level that exemplifies the best of Metro Jackson.”

Hairston also serves as a mentor to JSU students and others, and volunteers with Junior League of Jackson.

Hairston was featured in 2012 in the National Publication for Women in Optometry and was the 2012 Featured Alumni of Tougaloo College. Her hobbies include Pilates, walking, playing classical piano and traveling.

cerns and begin to break down barriers to excellence.”

As impressive changes were made, the nursing turnover rate dropped to 6.2 percent, which is far below national averages. “Even more impressive is the positive impact of improved nursing engagement on our customer service scores,” Harris said. “As of last quarter, UMHC is leading more than 100 academic medical center members of the University Health System Consortium in scores on the patient satisfaction question ‘willingness to recommend’ the hospital.”

David G. Putt, CEO of UMHC, says Harris is head and shoulders above contemporaries with virtually unlimited potential. “She is a quick-thinker and makes positive decisions that are easily supported,” he said. “Her professional attitude radiates to subordinates, causing them to respond in kind with full support and cooperation.”

Harris has won numerous awards, including Nurse Executive Recognition Award from the Mississippi Hospital Association, Distinguished Alumni of the Decade from the UMMC School of Nursing, and Nursing Mentor of the Year from the Mississippi Nurses Association. In 2005, she coauthored a chapter in “Nursing Management Principles and Practice” that won the American Journal of Nursing’s Book of the Year Award in the leadership category.

An active member of state and national nursing organizations, Harris has written professional papers, served on the Commission on Magnet that accredits nursing organizations, served as a member of the Regional Action Committee in Mississippi and chaired a successful search for the University of Mississippi School of Nursing’s new dean.

“I am most proud of my ability to mentor and encourage my direct and indirect reports to further educational and professional development, she said. “I delight in their resulting successes.”

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Gina Haug Meetings & Specialty Groups Director, Mississippi Association of Realtors in Jackson

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By LYNN LOFTON

orking with the 5,700 members of the Mississippi Association of Realtors keeps Gina Haug busy. Additionally, she serves as the state association executive for the special groups of Mississippi Commercial Association of Realtors and the state chapters of Certified Commercial Investment Members, Certified Residential Specialists, Institute of Real Estate Managers and the Realtors Land Institute. Her list of responsibilities is extensive.

Brain E. Estes, principal of CP1 Commercial Property, says Haug has done an outstanding job organizing and leading the commercial realtor associations. “As a board member and president of several of these local realtor associations, I have witnessed Gina’s organizations skills at work, and she has helped grow our local associations even in these trying times,” he said. “Our Institute of Real Estate Managers chapter placed second in the nation based on our growth in membership. This was due to Gina’s involvement, not only with our local chapter but our national association as well. She has been instrumental in working with our political leaders in Washington to help the realtor organization and its members.”

Haug counts her lobbying in Washington on behalf of

commercial real estate as a highlight of her professional career during the past three years. During this time, she also earned certification as a professional standards administrator.

“I am certified to work within the Realtor code of ethics identifying antitrust issues and whether concerns go to arbitration and/or are pursued through other legal means,” she said.

Other certifications held by Haug include Certified in Facilitation of Valuing Diversity; Delivering Performance Appraisals; Risk Management; Worker’s Compensation 101; Certified Professional Recruiter; Business Code of Conduct; and, Resolving Conflict. She is pursuing accreditation as an Association Certified Executive.

“I am often consulted on personal and professional development, ethical advice, connecting others in similar fields, providing forums for business leaders and political leaders to have open dialogue,” she said. “I am also responsible for the leadership program of MAR to develop the association’s future leaders.”

Haug, whose past employment includes sales and marketing positions, believes the ability to step up and take ownership and involve others along the way are the best leadership skills to have. “I say to other women who want to make a difference, put your best foot forward every day.

Stay the course and success will come,” she said.

She has held fund-raising and special event duties with non-profit organizations, including serving as race chairman for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure for four years. “Once I understood the power the organization possesses to better women and men’s lives and have a serious impact on the eradication of breast cancer, I stayed involved for years, “ she said. “I made many lifelong friends through this organization.”

For several years Haug left the workforce to care for her two children, which was a meaningful time for her. She is an avid crossword puzzle solver and enjoys boating and fishing.

M ADISON R IDGELAND R OTARY Congratulates...

Melinda McGrath on being named one of

Sherry Chance Nicole Kimp Sharon Moulder Monica Daniels

The Mississippi Community Education Center & New Learning Resources, Inc. Proudly congratulations

Christi Webb for being chosen as one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women 2012.

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Kourtney W. Hollingsworth

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Regional Broadband Coordinator, e-BEAT Governor’s Project in Senatobia

By LYNN LOFTON

n the work she’s doing, Kourtney Hollingsworth is the eyes and ears of communities in North Mississippi and the voice and representative for a better connected state. Overseeing 11 counties in the Governor’s Broadband Initiative Project, she leads through educating and expanding broadband to help Mississippi businesses compete on a larger scale.

“The Internet allows businesses to be able to get more customers, communicate, grow and develop,” she said. “I am the economic developer for the business community. I fight for their right to stay in business.”

Hollingsworth is responsible for getting web presence for 15 cities and training more than 2,500 people in less than four months. She has organized regional councils, launched a regional newsletter and written articles on projects for various publications.

Gloria Blair, vice president of In House Connections says Hollingsworth has helped her organization excel beyond measure since 2003. “Kourtney did all the research, planning, public relations and outreach for a huge non-profit child facility coming soon to Mississippi,” Blair said. “She is very flexible and adaptable and is a sweet, loving person

Deborah L. Hudson President/CEO, Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce in Natchez

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By LYNN LOFTON

hen she moved to Natchez four and a half years ago, Debbie Hudson assumed a challenge by becoming the leader of the Chamber of Commerce, a position that had been vacant almost a year. She realized she would like to try to make a difference in that position.

“I knew that to make this Chamber a viable entity for this community would be a challenge — one that would take a lot of commitment, trust, patience and getting people to work together to insure the future of the chamber as well as the community,” she said.

A former educator, Hudson also worked for the Mississippi Department of Employment Security and Southwest Planning and Development District. In Natchez, her focus has been to facilitate the cooperation necessary to bring positive change in the area. She led the charge to work with neighbors across the Mississippi River in Louisiana in a first-time collaborative effort of regional economic development.

Adams County Supervisor David Carter says Hudson strives to prepare the area for the future. “She has been an advocate of economic development by helping to create Natchez Inc., our economic development agency,” he said.

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

who always encourages people around her.”

Excelling is nothing new for Hollingsworth. She was selected for Leadership Jones County while a senior in college. In 2008, she was the youngest member of Leadership Mississippi. She won the National Thomas Jefferson Award from the United States AmeriCorps, was chosen as the Pride of the Pine Belt by WDAM News, won the Governor’s GIVE Award and was one of the Mississippi Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40 in 2010.

She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Mississippi State University and William Carey University and will have a doctorate of business administration conferred in 2014. Her university studies included a semester as a national exchange student at Bowie State University and study abroad in London and Jamaica.

One of nine children — who attended rival state universities — she loves Mississippi. “Everything I have ever learned I have wanted to bring back to help Mississippi,” she said.

A special accomplishment for her was the creation of D.O.L.L.S., an organization to help young women learn the meaning of community service and realize their self-worth.

“I worked with young ladies who had attempted suicide, had learning disabilities, low self-esteem and family issues,” she said. “I was able to teach them that by serving others, you heal yourself.”

Hollingsworth believes in getting involved and learning things from the ground up. “If I am to teach or convince others, then I have to utilize the information and put it in practice myself,” she said. “After I have climbed, I always leave the ladder down and the door open for others to come aboard.”

She has a heart to serve and is involved with a number of non-profit groups, including Dare to Dream, NAACP, AmeriCorps, T.E.E.N. Talk and Delta Sigma Theta.

“She has been available to be of service to the Adams County Board of Supervisors and the city to help with any cause from marketing new ideas to planning events.”

Hudson has worked with a diverse constituency, bringing people of different backgrounds and thinking together to forge a common purpose. “In my role and with a persistence that is part of my personality, I then assist in ensuring that the plans that have been made actually come to fruition,” she said. “Talk is cheap unless it is followed by action and a determination to find the best solutions to any situation.”

She has been a teacher, grant writer, facilitator, motivational speaker and musician playing piano, flute and hand bells. In 2010, she won the Caring Woman Award–Leadership Division from Natchez Community Hospital. Past honors include the Rotarian Exchange Program and Teacher of the Year in Natchez-Adams County. She respects the “7 Habits of Highly Successful People” and works to utilize those practices with goal setting and strategic planning.

Hudson’s parents are 90 years of age and are an important part of her life. She and her mother and daughter read from the same devotion book daily. “I guess you can say we start our day on the same page,” she said. “I treasure my parents’ sacrifices as well as the lessons they have provided me over the years.”

She takes special pleasure watching her son and daughter in their occupations and daily lives, the way they treat others and handle situations.

Hudson is active in professional organizations, Rotary Club, Christmas in Natchez Committee and First Presbyterian Church where she serves as an elder and choir member.

When not working, she enjoys traveling, reading, playing tennis, walking, swimming and bird watching.

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25

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Janice M. Knight Corporate Services Manager, St. Dominic Health Services in Jackson

D

By LYNN LOFTON

During Janice Knight’s 23 years with St. Dominic Health Services, she has worked in various positions, planned large events and mentored younger women employees.

“I am proud of being a friend and mentor to the younger generation of women in my office,” she said. “I am grateful to help guide these young ladies into the outstanding women I know them to be. I consider it a privilege that I’m in a position to help.”

Another outstanding accomplishment has been working along side the Dominican sisters during the construction of the Chapel at St. Dominic’s Hospital. “Working behind the scenes with the sisters, helping mold and form their vision through the planning process into the construction phase and onto the magnificent place of worship it is today is the professional accomplishment of which I’m most proud,” she said.

In her current position, Knight supervises all administrative employees in the Corporate Suite, facilitates the advisory board of directors, coordinates marketing efforts of the corporate office, plans large events and programs and serves as a representative in the community.

“Organizing corporate marketing and communication with

Angela Abraham Ladner Executive Director/Lobbyist, Mississippi Psychiatric Assn. in Jackson

A

By LYNN LOFTON

ngela Ladner is changing history for herself and others by taking action to make a difference in Mississippi’s obesity problem. She handles numerous responsibilities for the Mississippi Psychiatric Association while also managing her own company, Changing History Promotions.

She launched the business after meeting Patrick House, season 10 winner of NBC’s “The Biggest Loser,” and his wife, Bradley, on a plane during his time on the show. “Before I knew it, I was writing his speeches, giving him career advice, helping him negotiate contracts and ultimately building a company around him,” she said.

Ladner became House’s publicist and agent and is organizing the tour for his newly released book. With House, she is tackling the issue of childhood obesity with his program for school children called LEAN ON ME. “I am juggling two endeavors with the Psychiatric Association and Changing History Promotions and it is hectic, yet amazingly gratifying,” she said. “Who better to develop a program like this for children than two individuals who understand it so well? Patrick and I were overweight children. I was teased and bullied in school. Neither of us wants to see this trend continue in Mississippi schools.”

Her work with the Psychiatric Association helps her understand how bullying can affect a child. Already they

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

the local community and non-profit organizations has aligned the marketing efforts of St. Dominic Health Services with the goals and aspirations of community organizations,” she said.

Carol A. Trevathan, director of program and fund development for Mississippi Blood Services, says she can always depend on Knight’s support, guidance and motivation throughout any project or program. “I have worked with Janice 14 years on various committees and projects, and she exhibits the leadership traits of initiative, integrity, knowledge and loyalty,” she said. “She has the ability to make solid decisions quickly and will acquire the information she needs and make a decision with confidence.”

Knight and Trevathan worked on an honorarium for a prominent Mississippi leader, deciding to approach the project not as a fund development but as a group of people giving this person a gift of respect and love. “It was one of the most successful campaigns Mississippi Blood Services has completed. Janice’s communication skills are flawless as she speaks with knowledge and caring,” Trevathan said.

Because of her mother’s illness, Knight has a special link to the Alzheimer’s Association, assisting with the planning of programs and fund-raising efforts and serves as a board member. In 2010 she was named the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year for the Brain Injury Association of Mississippi. She has also worked with the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women program, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and Hardy Middle School’s Book Buddies program.

Knight is a past president of Executive Women International-Jackson Chapter and the Association of Healthcare Administrative Professionals. Additionally, she serves on committees for United Way, Mustard Seed, The Women’s Fund, St. Dominic Auxiliary, the Jackson Zoo and Boy Scouts of America.

have reached more than 15,000 students in 31 elementary and middle schools since September 2011. “Through grants and sponsors we have gone to those schools at no cost to the schools,” she added. “We have received testimonies and feedback that our program is changing approaches, and we know we have even saved a life.

Changing a child’s history is what we are doing and that can have lifelong implications.”

Ladner doesn’t just talk the talk; she also walks the walk. At the time she served on the American Medical Association’s Council on Legislation, a group that determines the advocacy agenda for the AMA, she was the only non-physician member. “While sitting there, I looked at my physical appearance and wondered how I could be sitting in the company of some of the most gifted physicians in the country and weigh over 300 pounds,” she recalls. “I decided it was time to lose weight and by October 2008 I had lost 100 pounds and was on my way to a much healthier life.”

Her boot camp=style training led to the loss of an additional 40 pounds without surgery. This success intrigued her medical associates, and thus the idea of a Fit 4 Change Legislative Fitness Challenge was born in partnership with her trainer, Paul Lacoste. Teams were organized in both branches of the Mississippi Legislature with Ladner developing materials and recruiting sponsors.

Because of this successful program, Ladner was presented a LEAP Award from the American Medical Association Alliance for outstanding achievement in legislative advocacy and education.

Ladner is the mother of triplet daughters — a responsibility she says is awesome — is married to a “phenomenal man” and active in a number of community

www.msbusiness.com

27

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Gotta Be a Top 50 Nicole Kemp Lise Foy

Meredith Stringfellow Sharon Moulder Deidre Danahar

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Congratulations Cindy Murphy Tauchar!

We are proud of your accomplishment!

Love, Glenda and George Murphy

CINDY BRINSON! Congratulations to you all!

From Lauren McGraw, Top 50 alumnus

We are proud of your accomplishment!

Love, Russ & Jacob

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Samantha Barnett Lofton

A

Manager, Barnett’s Body Shop in Ridgeland

By BECKY GILLETTE

s a young child Samantha Barnett Lofton spent hours sorting bolts from metal bins to find just the right one her father needed.

“Watching him work trained my eye to appreciate detail and fine craftsmanship while instilling a strong work ethic,” Lofton said. “My parents, Freddie and Mary Barnett, started Barnett’s Body Shop in 1968. In 1986 after graduating from the University of Mississippi, I started working at Barnett’s Body Shop.

With the help of my brothers, Jeff and Greg Barnett, and the knowledge and support from my husband, Joel Lofton, we have grown our business to four locations. Taking pride in our quality and supporting our community, we continue to grow and develop our business.”

While it is unusual to have a woman managing a body shop, Lofton said success in the collision repair business depends on knowing what people want and being able to deliver a sense of quality and comfort.

“I believe women are especially gifted in this area,” Lofton said.

Jennifer W. Anderson, executive director of the Flowood Chamber of Commerce, worked for 10 years at the body shop.

Stephanie Mayfield Marketing Executive, Jones Companies in Columbia

A

By BECKY GILLETTE

s a marketing executive for Jones Companies, which has a number of businesses in timber, construction, recycling and transportation, Stephanie Mayfield organizes and implements the evolution of marketing materials.

“My goal is to be proactive and generate new and creative ideas to keep active marketing campaigns that reflect the Jones Companies in a tasteful and professional manner, as well as to expand, research and evaluate all avenues to reach our target demographics,” Mayfield said. “I also direct event planning such as tradeshows, conferences and organize customer relations by organizing special events and activities for clients. Jones Companies is comprised of a wide variety of companies targeting very diverse industries on a local and national level.”

Prior to going to work for Jones Companies, Mayfield was an owner and broker for SRM Real Estate, LLC, established in 2006, and worked for York Development in Hattiesburg as project manager and real estate broker for Bellegrass Community and for York Development’s commercial properties.

“While working for York Development, I helped develop and manage, quite literally from the ground up, a 600-lot

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

“I worked with her through my high school and college years,” Anderson said. “I attribute her strong leadership skills and motivation in molding me to be the leader I am today. As you can imagine in the auto body industry, not many women are in this field of work. She is very well respected across the state, being only one of a few women in the industry and recognized for her knowledge of the business. She is very involved in her community, and has distinguished herself as a reliable and energetic pillar in Ridgeland.”

Paula Shelton, Genesis Training & Development, said Lofton has always been incredibly driven.

“When she went to work for her dad, there was one business location,” Shelton said. “Now there are four locations. Through her leadership, drive, motivation and the vision for the business, she quickly opened another location in Ridgeland. Ridgeland was first a satellite location. I remember when Samantha managed Ridgeland solo and had cars taken to the location in Jackson for repairs and bodywork. She was determined for this to be successful.

She had a vision for where she wanted this business to go early on.”

Lofton doesn’t just stay in the office either. It isn’t unusual to find Lofton on the ground under your vehicle, said Carolyn Boteler, president of TempStaff.

“She has certainly earned her own way in a ‘man’s world,’” Boteler said.

In addition to a vision for growing the company, which now has 90 employees, Lofton also has promoted green technology using water-based paint that is better for the environment.

Lofton and her husband are parents to two boys, Corey and Luke Lofton.

community and generated the sale of 40 percent of Bellegrass within the first year of completion of the community,” Mayfield said. “Then I moved to become the entirety of the marketing department for Jones Companies, which is comprised of 11 companies. We have since then been asked to help other companies promote their businesses with the same efforts we have done with the various Jones Companies.”

As a volunteer with Homes of Hope for Children, a Christian children’s home for underprivileged kids, since 2009, Mayfield helps with marketing needs and special events.

Homes for Hope administrator Michael Garrett came to Mayfield in February 2011 and asked for help marketing Homes of Hope for the Pepsi Refresh Project.

“When he explained that we were competing for a $250,000 grant against 1,000 other organizations across the nation, I told him we would put our best effort into it, but have to admit I guarded against getting my hopes up to actually win,” Mayfield said. “We developed a network of supporters, and made routine contacts to encourage more outreach. The odds were against us, but with continued attention to outreach and positive communication, the initiative moved forward with full force and it paid off. They have since then won over $500,000 to benefit children in our area in need.”

Mayfield and her husband, Dr. John K Mayfield III, have two children, Madelyn Ann Mayfield and John Knox Mayfield IV. Mayfield has a priority on spending time with her family and friends and on physical fitness. She wakes up early to get in a workout at least three days a week.

“Regarding the outdoors, give me some time at the pool and my day is complete,” she said.

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29

Melinda Littlejohn McGrath Executive Director, Mississippi Department of Transportation in Jackson

F

By BECKY GILLETTE

ew government agencies have been more male-dominated than the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT). The first woman to head MDOT is civil engineer Melinda Littlejohn McGrath, who worked her way up through the MDOT ranks before being named interim director in February 2011, a position that became permanent in early 2012.

MDOT is one of the largest state agencies with more than 3,300 employees across the state. While knowledge of civil engineering is critical, so is the ability to manage finances for the agency that awarded $629 million in construction contracts in 2011.

“It is essential that we produce results in a timely manner as our state’s economy relies heavily on a safe and vital transportation system,” McGrath said. “Unfortunately, our transportation infrastructure is aging, with needs that far outstrip available federal, state and local funding. The primary source of transportation funding in our state is fuel tax revenues, which are declining as vehicles become more fuel efficient, people find new ways of traveling and some choose to drive less. At the same time, materials and labor costs are increasing at a dramatic rate.”

With pressing needs and difficult economic conditions,

McGrath said it is paramount that MDOT be a wise steward of its resources. “Squeezing the most benefit out of every tax dollar is a necessity,” she said. “We’re taking a hard look at our budget and operations to see where cost efficiencies can be realized. We also focus on areas where infrastructure improvements will encourage commerce and economic development across a community or region.”

Gulfport Mayor George Schloegel said McGrath’s skills have positioned her well to success in a “man’s world.”

“Melinda is a consummate business woman,” Schloegel said. “Following Hurricane Katrina, Melinda administered over $1 billion in recovery money. She administered over $600 million in Mississippi’s first public design/build program that produced two major bridges over the Bay of St. Louis and Back Bay in Biloxi, on time and under budget.

These two magnificent bridges reconnected life and activity in the three coastal counties along the Gulf of Mexico.”

Schloegel said McGrath quietly commands the position of competent professional. “She understands her task and knows her role,” the mayor said. “Mississippi’s taxpayers dollars are on the line, and she does her job.”

McGrath’s position requires a lot of travel and people skills. A typical day might see her handling an employee matter, meeting with a legislator, mayor or supervisor, dealing with a contactor and facilitating a meeting in one or more of the six MDOT districts.

McGrath and her husband, Hoyt, have three children, Margaret, Katherine and Jacob. McGrath has supported World Vision Ministries in Cambodia and Helping Hands Ministries in Uganda. Their two daughters have been on mission trips.

We always knew it.

Now everyone else does too.

CONGRATULATIONS to

LYDIA WEISSER!

Love from your boys, Bud, Alex, Webster, & Wylie 30

www.msbusiness.com

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

LaToya Cheree Merritt

A

Partner, Phelps Dunbar, LLP in Jackson

By BECKY GILLETTE

LaToya Cheree Merritt showed a lot of promise as far back as junior high school when she was elected student body president. Considered one of Jackson’s leading young lawyers, Merritt was named to the Nation’s Best Advocates: 40 Lawyers Under 40 Award in 2010 by the National Bar Association.

Fred L. Banks, a former Supreme Court Justice in Mississippi, said Merritt has fulfilled all the promise she showed coming out of law school at the top of her class.

“She is a skilled trial lawyer in both the labor and employment arena, and in defense of municipalities and other government actions,” Banks said. “Beyond that, her resume attests to the fact that she has emerged as a leader in her profession. Additionally, she devotes her skills and a substantial amount of her time to community service.”

Merritt is a partner in the regional law firm of Phelps Dunbar, LLP, where she practices law in the area of labor and employment assisting public and private entities throughout the state in matters involving race, sex, sexual/workplace harassment, discrimination and retaliation claims.

An important part of her practice isn’t representing employers in the courtroom, but rather keeping them out

Sharon E. Moulder

L

Small Business Department Manager, Lighthouse/Sanders CPA Firm in Madison

By BECKY GILLETTE

ack of a college degree has not been an impediment to Sharon E. Moulder, who is manager of the Lighthouse/Sanders CPA firm’s small business department and president of the Madison County Chamber of Commerce.

“I do not have a degree,” Moulder said. “I was educated through on-the-job training and continued my informal education through continuing education classes.

The lack of a degree has not hindered my advancement or my education. In fact, I often train accounting graduates when they start their careers within firms where I have been employed.”

Moulder grew up in a family where her parents hadn’t finished high school, and didn’t encourage continued education. When at the age of 28 she started working at a CPA firm, Riggs & Dunaway, her employer saw her potential and starting teaching her. After a few years of typing financial statements, she insisted her employer get a computer.

“My employer then bought the computer and accounting software and said, ‘Here you go. Now figure it all out so you can teach us,’” Moulder said. “I was very successful in setting up the system and using the software, eventually training other bookkeepers in the firm and converting the

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

of court. Her work involves training, planning and employment advice.

“Specifically, I provide management and/or corporate counsel advice regarding performance evaluation/appraisal systems, development of employment policies and practices, employee handbooks and municipal employment liability,” Merritt said. “I also provide extensive training to clients regarding managing diverse workforces. I conduct diversity training and educational programs for numerous companies throughout Mississippi and the South.”

As the deputy practice coordinator of the firm’s labor and employment practice group in Jackson, Merritt supervises 10 attorneys, one paralegal and three legal secretaries.

A fan of her native city of Jackson, Merritt can often be found working to improve the community. She received a commendation from Commissioner Patricia Gatling, chair of the City of New York Commission on Human Rights, for service to those affected by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

That recognized her work with Cookie’s Department Store in New York City to secure school uniforms donations for new students displaced by Katrina from Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast to assist with complying with Jackson Public School’s mandatory school uniform policy.

In 2008, she co-founded the Jackson chapter of Shoes That Fit, a non-profit that provides new shoes to children in need. She has served as a mentor at several schools throughout the Jackson Public School District for the last 12 years. She also provides pro bono labor and employment advice to the NAACP. Merritt graduated cum laude from the North Carolina Central University School of Law in 2000 after graduating magna cum laude from Grambling State University in 1997.

office from pencil and paper to utilizing computers and software to prepare financial statements and tax returns.”

Later she went to work for a medical billing firm where she did bookkeeping and traveled all over the U.S. hiring and training bookkeepers for the company. Then she worked at a couple of CPA firms before taking her present position.

Moulder became an expert at QuickBooks, and now is an Advanced Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor who teaches classes, including free classes to help small business owners.

“She is considered the community expert on QuickBooks having taught courses at both Holmes Community College and at the WIN Job Center,” said James M. Jeter, St. Dominic Health Services Foundation. “She is very well respected in her profession and by her clients.”

Jeter admires Moulder’s desire to serve her community and fellowman. She is 2012 president of the Madison County Chamber of Commerce, treasurer for the BNI Profit Builders and is active with the Madison/Ridgeland Rotary Club.

“Sharon has a passion to help the poor and underprivileged in Madison County,” Jeter said. “She is a strong advocate for Madison Countians Allied Against Poverty and serves as its treasurer.”

As president of the chamber, Moulder frequently participates in ribbon cuttings and speaks at chamber events.

She considers public speaking quite an accomplishment as she grew up very quiet and introverted.

“Now I speak publicly often, teaching classes, QuickBooks presentations, media interviews and meeting new people,” Moulder said. “I am more self-confident today than I have ever been. When I tell my friends and employers how quiet I was, they are surprised.”

Moulder also has a black belt in Taekwondo.

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Yuki Northington Owner/Buyer, Social Chair and Yuki Art & Interiors in Bay St. Louis

A

By BECKY GILLETTE

fter the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, interior designer Yuki Northington took on helping with the complete rebuilding and renovation of the Hancock Medical Center.

“The hospital services the entire county and is an anchor in our community,” said Northington, whose interior design business has a specialty in health care design. “I was proud to be able to work for the hospital before the storm, help them get it put back together and now finishing the complete renovation.”

“In addition to being an extraordinary interior design professional, Yuki is also an accomplished artist, a small business owner and, most importantly, a caring wife and mother of four children,” said Hank Wheeler, director of facilities services, Hancock Medical Center. “She gives freely of her time, always working hard to be a community partner who is willing to share her talent and expertise in support of any project that will enhance the quality of life on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She is also a long-standing active member of the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce. She sets a leadership example to follow and is a catalyst in the revival and success of small business activity and growth in downtown Bay St. Louis.”

Northington’s fame has also spread beyond the Coast and Mississippi. She was one of 12 designers chosen from 2,500 applicants to participate in season seven of “Design Star” on HGTV. “I consider this a huge professional accomplishment because it has the national audience to help publicize Bay St. Louis,” Northington said. “After spending so many years volunteering for the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce and the Tourism Bureau, it is easy for me to recognize the positive national exposure that we could never afford to buy, that this show is giving our area.”

Over the past three years, Northington has been able to grow her design business enough to hire a full-time office manager and triple the size of her store in downtown Bay St. Louis, Social Chair.

“We are now located in a historic building that previously sat vacant for years,” she said. “The store has transformed a ‘dead zone’ on Main Street into an anchor. This move and renovation has helped bring more customers to all of the merchants in the area.”

Art installations are also a large part of her practice.

Many of her art installations include logos, images, plans and interior finishes from the spaces that they inhabit.

Northington has received ADDY (American Advertising Federation – Illustration) awards in 2007 and 2011. In 2009, she was named Main Street Merchant of the Year by the Mississippi Main Street Association. The Hancock County Chamber of Commerce gave her an Outstanding Citizen Award in 2008.

Congratulations to on this most deserving honor!

Thank you for your dedication and commitment

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Bonnie Jean Nowell President and Sole Proprietor, B&B Distributors in Brandon

L

By LYNN LOFTON

ike many of her generation — born in 1927 — Bonnie Jean Nowell had to go to work when she graduated from high school. She has had two successful careers in sales and is still working as an independent distributor for products of the Shaklee Corporation, a Fortune 500 company.

“I help people learn how to achieve a higher quality of living,” she said. “We promote a proactive approach to good health through nutrition, natural food source vitamins and minerals, immune-system-supporting herbs, chemical-free age-defying skin care products and earth-friendly cleaning products.”

She started her own business in 1980. Additionally, she helps others start businesses like hers and enjoys seeing them own a piece of the American Dream. The 2,000 distributors in the network she created produce sales of approximately $500,000 per year.

“I consider my greatest professional accomplishment the successful establishment, creation and growth of more than 25 home-based businesses and my work helping young people, particularly young women, improve themselves, serve others, realize their dreams, conduct themselves with proper dignity and become their best version of themselves,” she said.

Nowell retired with 27 years as a service representative

Jocelyn P. Pritchett President, Pritchett Engineering & Planning in Flowood

S

By LYNN LOFTON

uccess is no stranger to Jocelyn Pritchett. She was elected the first woman president of the Mississippi Engineering Society, served on the advisory board for the Civil Engineering Department at Jackson State University that led to the school’s accreditation and started her own thriving engineering firm during a national recession.

She serves as president and owner of the small civil engineering and environmental planning firm she began three years ago. The firm now has 18 employees within three divisions environmental, archaeology and roadway design. “I maintain and negotiate most of the contracts for the firm, actively market the firm and work closely with the controller to maintain all the financial records and invoices,” she said. “In my spare time, I get to do a little ‘real work’ and assist with feasibility studies and environmental documents for civil projects for clients.”

While a student at Mississippi State University, Pritchett worked at the Grand Gulf Nuclear Station in the cooperative program. She went on to work with engineering firms and the Mississippi Department of Transportation and earned two master’s degrees in engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

with BellSouth where she earned the top sales award for many months. “At my phone company retirement party, the regional manager said, ‘If Bonnie sold somebody a jar of Mississippi mud, she would have the buyer whistling a tune over the great deal he just got on it.’ I think he was complimenting my sales skills, but I think my most valuable skills are my people skills,” she said. “My best skill is an ability to listen to people. Sales or any other advancement in business happens when you are listening, not when you are talking, as so many seem to think.”

With her gift for sales and marketing, Nowell received the Lifetime Sales Award from BellSouth and the Million Dollar Round Table and Executive Coordinator awards from the Shaklee Corporation. She was also inducted into Shaklee’s Hall of Fame and was named North Jackson’s Best Citizen in 1969 by The Northside Sun. Her advice to other women is to choose work you love, get a vision, set goals, stay focused, don’t quit, work hard, get a mentor, be a mentor and to love God and people.

Nowell was instrumental in the building of a charity kitchen at Christway Church in Flowood and was given an award of appreciation for her service. “The real accomplishment is seeing people being fed and loving each other in the fellowship of brothers and sisters,” she said.

She also is the leader of women’s ministries and the annual banquet for Women Reaching Women at Christway Church and serves on the board of directors for the Center for Pregnancy Choices.

In 2004, her husband of 59 years died. The couple reared three children, and Nowell continues to nurture six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She enjoys gardening, family, entertaining, wedding planning, mentoring and teaching etiquette.

She notes that she is a model of the health products her organization promotes and provides.

“I was a partner in a local engineering firm when I had my first child at age 40. After she was born, things changed for me, and I realized I needed more flexibility and control over my time,” she said. “So I started Pritchett Engineering & Planning in January 2009. In three years we’ve gone from an office of one person with annual billings of approximately $150,000 to a staff of 18 with annual billings of close to $1 million.”

Pritchett wanted to create a place where smart professional people could work on their own schedules at any location they chose. Her company has no receptionist, no phone system and no paper files with most employees working an average of 30 to 35 hours a week from a home office or a location close to their homes. “This arrangement has provided extremely low overhead, allowing us to offer perks to employees such as iPhones, powerful laptops, iPads, 100 percent paid health insurance and higher attendance at conferences, training and memberships in professional societies,” she said.

In addition to her service with professional organizations, Pritchett serves on a technical committee on rural roads for the World Road Association through the American Council of Engineering Companies and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. She is pleased that Jackson State’s Civil Engineering Department has become Mississippi’s third board-accredited engineering school. She assists students with their final senior projects and provides feedback for those seeking jobs and internships.

LaTonya Y. Graham, manager of Pritchett Engineering & Planning, says Pritchett started the company with the idea of offering jobs to moms who would be able to work from home, but it has turned into much more than that. “Our staff shows more passion for their work and our clients receive a better product because of it,” she said.

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Carolyn Redd Senior Account Manager, WAPT-TV in Jackson

A

By LYNN LOFTON

lthough Carolyn Redd refers to herself as a jack of all trades and master of few, her professional and personal accomplishments indicate otherwise. In her position with WAPT-TV, she is accountable for sales, responsible for new spot and digital business development, successfully sells sports and special packages and performs a host of other duties.

Before moving to Jackson, this University of Houston graduate established her own business, Game Faces, a sports marketing firm for professional athletes, and served as local sales manager for KTXH-TV in Houston.

Because of ethical issues, she walked away from a $100,000+ position to start Game Faces. “Most of my friends thought I was crazy,” she said. “My parents taught me to never compromise my values for money, and to do what you love and the money will follow.”

Launching the business allowed Redd to tap into her talents, including making killer presentations, creating fundraisers, working with young people and giving back to the community. “I also wanted to do business the old fashion way with honesty and integrity,” she said. “Owning a business taught me so many things that I use every day, and I’m proud that I represented some of the best athletes

in the world.”

After a 25-year career in sales, Redd admits she is a born sales person but that she never stops honing her skills. She has also lent her sales ability to the Distinguished Young Women’s Program, taking responsibility for ad sales and increasing sales each year for the past three years. This year she also was integral in helping start a mentors program for the young ladies participating in the scholarship program. The Hinds County program named Redd the 2012 Volunteer of the Year.

Beth Kellogg, director of the program for Hinds County (formerly Hinds County Junior Miss), says Redd has provided wonderful support and been a role model for the young women. “Carolyn has worked with our contestants in so many ways,” she said. “With each activity, she is encouraging these young women to become their best selves.”

Redd also counts event-planning, fundraising and gift wrapping among her areas of expertise. “I have established two 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations and partnered with several others. It is always rewarding,” she said.

As for gift wrapping, she recalls her first job at age 15 during the Christmas holidays in a Lufkin, Texas, pharmacy.

“I loved making the gifts look perfect,” she said. “Think about it — people love receiving beautifully wrapped gifts.”

Other milestones in Redd’s life include being elected Miss University of Houston by the student body and serving as the school’s head cheerleader, the first female in that position and first African-American on the squad.

Redd feels she is blessed and has goals for the future that include finishing the book she is writing, owning another business and creating a concept for a reality TV show.

salutes

8 ¼

Carolyn Hinton-DuPrè

May yfiel fiel ld

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S

Alcorn State University

Step Stepha phanie nie

on her recognition as one of 50 Leading Business Women in Mississippi 2012.

FOR BEING NAMED

Without great employees, we cannot be a great university. Alcorn provides an environment where talented people like — Carolyn Hinton-DuPrè — can grow and flourish.

Congratulations to you and the Alcorn family for the work you do to make our communities a better place to live and do business.

ONE OF

Mississippi’s

50

LEADING BUSINESS

Women OF 2012

Where Knowledge and Character Matter

ENROLL TODAY ! 800.222.6790 www.alcorn.edu

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Dr. Martha Saunders Professor, University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg

A

By BECKY GILLETTE

sked to characterize herself in one word, Dr. Martha Saunders chooses “driven.” That may be particularly apt considering this woman who was the first female president of the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) also has reared and educated seven children.

The USM alumnus was chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater from 2005-2007 before being chosen to lead USM. Recently, after five years in that position, Saunders decided to return to faculty status, and will be a professor in the mass communications and journalism department.

Saunders brought experience as an accredited public relations professional whose primary research area was crisis communication and public communication campaigns to the job of being president of USM. While at USM she increased national media coverage of the university by more than 800 percent.

Saunders brought an attitude of cooperative governance to the helm at USM. “I am good at spotting talent, building a team and getting people to work together toward common goals,” Saunders said.

While at USM Saunders oversaw the work of 3,400 full

Bonnie Bridgers Smith Owner/Lawyer, Bridgers Smith Law Firm in Oxford

A

By LYNN LOFTON

fter practicing law for 18 years, Bonnie Bridgers Smith started her own firm last January. An experienced litigator, her solo practice focuses on all areas of litigation, including insurance, products liability, consumer fraud, domestic and probate issues, Medicare and Medicaid, commercial litigation, workers’ compensation and collections.

Smith is licensed to practice before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit and all state and federal courts in Mississippi. She was chosen the Jackson Legal Professional Association Boss of the Year in 2007 and in 2011 was listed in the Mississippi Business Journal’s Leaders in Law. “I have seen my practice grow into areas I never imagined,” she said. “In addition to continuing to practice in the areas I practiced in before, I am now handling probate and domestic cases, criminal and collection matters, premises and personal injury cases.”

For eight years Smith supervised Forman Perry’s silica litigation practice group, which consisted of seven attorneys and a large support staff. “I was responsible for the coordination of discovery among all of the companies we represented in silica litigation,” she said. “During a time when the [ITAL]Wall Street Journal[ITAL] referred to certain ven-

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

and part-time employees at the university with about 18,000 students enrolled. The university has six different teaching and research sites with an annual overall operating budget of approximately $380 million.

Saunders also had a strong focus on economic development at the university, and developed a new position at the university, director of the Trent Lott National Center for Excellence in Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, to serve as liaison with the community with the specific goal of attracting and enhancing business in the community. Saunders also served on the Area Development Partnership board of directors.

Other major accomplishments under Saunders include record enrollment four years in a row, record fundraising, record alumni participation, building projects in excess of $255 million dollars and reconstruction of post-Hurricane Katrina damage on the Gulf Coast campus. Her revision of the budget process resulted in greater efficiencies, more stable reserves and raises for employees.

Saunders has won the Stevie Award for Women in Business, a national award recognizing entrepreneurship. She also won the Silver Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of America for work during USM’s centennial.

“Our Centennial Celebration probably yielded some of the best moments of my time as president,” Saunders said.

“It was a great year-long celebration during which we reflected on the fine history and traditions of our university and turned our thoughts to our second century of service.”

Saunders said she decided to return to teaching because “teaching lies at the heart of what we do. I can think of no better way to use my time and experience.”

Saunders was induced into the USM Alumni Hall of Fame in 2010, and has been featured in a number of national publications for leadership. Her hobbies include gardening and saltwater fishing.

ues in Mississippi as judicial hellholes, our team worked to develop a new strategy for defining silica products liability actions. Our efforts were unprecedented in mass tort litigation, resulting in exposure of widespread fraud on the part of litigation doctors in multiple states.”

Studying the intricacies of federal statutes specific to Medicare, Smith learned a new area of law. She has spoken on Medicare topics at two national conferences. In 2011 she wrote a paper, Understanding Medicare Set Aside Accounts, in connection with educating mediators for Kids Chance of Mississippi, a scholarship fund established by the Mississippi Bar Association to provide scholarships for children of parents who have been killed or permanently disabled as a result of a work related injury.

Smith has worked as a community volunteer for 15 years. “Through those efforts, I have gained an understanding of the needs of the community and have earnestly tried to make a meaningful contribution in the Jackson area,” she said.

Melissa Reynolds, a friend and client of Smith, asks “Where do you begin sharing your feelings about a person who just dropped into your life like an angel?” The two met through the Professional Women’s Association. “There was just something about her that was inviting and genuine,” Reynolds said.

A graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi and the University of Mississippi School of Law, Smith has the philosophy that everyone matters and deserves respect, regardless of age, opinion or situation.

She is not only the owner of a new law firm and mother of two active children, but describes herself as “homeroom mother for a kindergarten class, general manager of fourth-grade homework and comptroller of all things house related.” Therefore, her most valuable personal skill is the ability to multi-task.

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Cathy Smith Chief, Human Resources, University Hospitals Health Care System in Jackson

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By LYNN LOFTON

eing responsible for the coordination of human resources for 5,500 employees is a big job, but Cathy Smith handles it with aplomb. She provides strategic leadership in implementing and evaluating initiatives to assist the organization in its goal to become the employer of choice.

A large part of that goal is reducing voluntary employee turnover. Under her leadership a turnover measurement tool allowing historical analysis of turnover trends was developed. “In 2005, the organization was experiencing significant turnover of 18 percent and 28 percent for registered nurses,” she said. “We lacked a way to track and trend turnover. I helped develop an electronic tool to monitor trends and led work to measure and improve employee engagement, including selection of an employee survey vendor. My team and I are responsible for employee engagement survey administration, result reporting and analysis and action planning at the organization and unit levels.”

The work of Smith’s team helped achieve significant decreases in employee turnover with a turnover rate of 5.03 percent and 5.4 percent for nurses in fiscal year 2011. “This decrease in turnover is contributing to improved opera-

tional performance for the organization,” she said.

Smith serves on several councils including the University Health System Consortium and vendor groups. In 2010 she received the Distinguished Service Award from the Mississippi Hospital Association Society for Humana Resources Administration.

“I have been able to bring best practice initiatives that have worked in my organization to others,” she said.

“Because of the success of our work with employee engagement, I speak at various conferences and user groups nationally.”

Smith earned a B.A. degree in English from the University of Mississippi, has teacher certification and is enrolled in the master of science in leadership program at Belhaven University.

She is accustomed to handling multiple assignments simultaneously, often within stringent time and budgetary constraints. Additionally, she has a reputation for diligence, follow-through and dedication to quality outcomes. She believes the best leaders help unify and motivate people, balancing their courage and dedication to excellence with professionalism, strong values, humility and masterful communication. “Given my limited experience with managing teams in my early career, my exposure to effective leaders with these attributes was central to my early success,” she said.

Her grandfather, Waldo Regnier, had a great influence on her life. The oldest of five children, he worked his way through medical school and ensured his siblings also went to school. All four boys became physicians and the sister became a nurse. “He was a servant leader,” Smith said.

“There are countless stories of him traveling to homes at all hours to meet peoples’ medical needs. He always made time for people and made them feel special. From him I learned the meaning of service, compassion, commitment and family.”

Old Capitol Inn

Proudly Congratulates

The road to success is always under construction.” - Lily Tomlin

Mende Malouf Alford

Congratulations to

on being chosen one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women

Melinda McGrath Executive Director of the Mississippi Depar tment of Transpor tation on being named one of Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women.

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Meredith Johnson Stringfellow Owner, Stringfellows, LLC (Couch’s Country Store and The Blue Rooster) in Bentonia & Flora

‘A

By BECKY GILLETTE

-gainst all odds” is how one friend describes the life of Meredith Johnson Stringfellow. After suffering a broken back and many other serious injuries in a car wreck when she was 14, Stringfellow was given little chance of walking again.

“Her injuries required surgery, weeks in intensive care, an extended hospital stay and years of rehabilitation,” said family friend Phyllis M. Smith. “She and her family refused to accept the doctor’s statement that she would never walk again. I visited her often during her therapy and would try to cheer her up and offer positive motivation. But somehow after each visit, I was the one who came away feeling motivated.”

Mark W. Johnson, headmaster of the Tri-County Education Foundation, considers Stringfellow one of the most amazing people he has ever known.

“Meredith met all challenges with her best efforts and decided that being in a wheelchair the rest of her life was not something she wanted to do,” Johnson said. “After three grueling years of physical therapy, Meredith is able to walk again with assistance from braces that she wears on her paralyzed lower legs.”

Johnson said her handicap has not hindered her ability

Cindy M. Tauchar

U

Senior Account Executive, Ricoh in Ridgeland

By LYNN LOFTON

Using her ability to connect with people from all walks of life has fueled Cindy Tauchar’s successful career in sales and design as well as her contributions to professional and community organizations.

Debi Green of the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership has watched Tauchar grow personally and professionally and notes her development of Clinton Career Women, a successful networking program. “Cindy is also a member of the Steering Committee for Women Information Network (WIN), a premier program founded by the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership,” Green said.

“She is active in several chambers throughout the greater Jackson area, is involved in the Professional Women’s Association, and has served on the school board for Covenant Christian School and as an officer for the Junior Civic League of Clinton.”

Green says Tauchar gives freely of her time and embraces any project she takes on with great passion. “I can attest that Cindy has made a tremendous impact for the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership through her involvement in our networking program and the WIN program,” she added.

Currently, Tauchar works with outside sales of business technology for Ricoh, formerly IKON. In that position she

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

to be a wonderful spouse, maintain a household, manage three small businesses, do countless community services, and be a steadfast member of the Ogden Baptist Church.

After the accident it was a long journey until she could walk again, and that was only the beginning of her accomplishments. She finished high school, got a business management degree from Mississippi State and has gone on to be a successful businesswoman working with her husband, Ryan, to operate Couch’s Country Store, which has The Blue Rooster restaurant attached, and another The Blue Rooster in Flora. They also own a small R.V. park next to the store. Stringfellow is responsible for overseeing employees at all locations, all bookkeeping, ordering, stocking and customer service.

Stringfellow often worked at Coach’s Country Store when she was home from college when her parents owned it. That gave her experience before taking over the business herself. She has also been in the restaurant business now for more than three years, operating two locations of The Blue Rooster.

“Owning and operating The Blue Rooster has added another level of expertise,” Stringfellow said. “The ordering of merchandise is much more complicated as the level of business is so unpredictable. The management of employees has also presented a much greater challenge in the restaurant business.”

The Blue Rooster in Flora has been featured in Mississippi magazine. and the restaurants have also gotten good reviews at www.EatJackson.com.

Stringfellow recently gave birth to her first child.

Johnson Dru Stringfellow was born June 4.

evaluates businesses’ workflow to assess their business technology needs and create a solution combining equipment, software, IT services and network management to help make workflow more efficient and drive costs down.

“Business is about relationships and I almost always can find a connection or common interest with anyone I meet,” she said. “I was a stay-at-home mom for 20 years and was able to transition into the workplace with success in a short time. The economy has guided me to change professions during the short course of my return to the workplace, and I feel I’ve been successful with all of the transitions I’ve encountered.”

Tauchar has also worked as a kitchen and bath designer and in real estate, remodeling and selling homes. She has several professional affiliations, including membership in the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the American Society of Interior Designers.

Notable among her civic activities are work with the Major League Baseball Wives Association, which organized monthlong summer camps for inner city children in five cities; board member of the Garth Brooks Teammates for Kids Foundation, which raised over $1 million each year; and, with the San Francisco Inner City Baseball League, which started youth leagues for inner-city children to play league baseball.

Her involvement in the Jackson area includes Voice of Calvary Ministries Baseball League and serving on the advisory board of the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.

“Cindy is very focused and moves quietly about assuming her responsibilities without a lot of fanfare,” said Jan Cossitt, program director of Baptist Healthplex at Mississippi College. “She is a diligent worker who can accomplish much. Her positive attitude and caring spirit makes her well respected by her peers.”

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Cynthia Thompson Vice President, Mortgage Banking, Trustmark National Bank in Ridgeland

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By LYNN LOFTON

aving worked since age 14, banker Cynthia Thompson has a strong work ethic. She’s done a variety of jobs, including working as a nursing assistant, in retail management and as business manager of athletics for Millsaps College. .”Thompson has been in banking 10 years, and considers her position with Trustmark, at age 34, as a significant professional accomplishment. “I have worked very hard and made my share of good and bad choices,” she said. “To be a vice president with such a distinguished bank and work with my colleagues who continue to help me grow and develop into a better banker every day is an accomplishment in itself.”

Loretta Jackson-Williams, associate dean for academic affairs at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine, met Thompson through the Leadership Mississippi Program and banking. “I have found Ms. Thompson to be thorough and professional,” she said. “On a personal level, she is warm, engaging and generous of her time and energy. She does a wonderful job of creating balance in her life.”

In addition to her duties of originating quality mortgage loans, Thompson provides financial education to customers and the general public. She also assists clients to further

their financial goals and is known as the go-to person in banking for grant information, first-time homebuyers and financial counseling. “I have a strong desire to help those who are under served or first-time homebuyers,” she said.

“Helping new homeowners through a purchase transaction from start to finish is one of the main reasons I love what I do, helping them reach the American dream.”

Thompson has won banking awards and has served on the board of directors for Housing Education and Economic Development for three years. “Sharing my knowledge with others and learning through them helps to contribute to our banking community and in turn benefits our mutual clients in the business community,” she said.

She describes herself as a people pleaser and a listener.

“My clients know they can trust me with their most personal financial information and that I will provide honest and straight forward answers,” she said. “My ability to be a strong and serious lender, yet also personal with my clients, is strength in my eyes. We may be a $10-billion bank, but I know that I will remember your name and my associates will, too.”

Thompson looks for compassion and honesty in others and feels those who truly lead by example are the best kind of leaders. “Never be afraid to make a mistake and admit it. It’s when you recognize and correct to show others how to be better that you’re a strong leader,” she said.

Her immediate supervisor, Paula Warren, is one of her role models. Warren has been in mortgage banking more than 25 years, and Thompson said she works relentlessly in managing all mortgage personnel, budgets and regulations and keeps a great attitude.

The Alzheimer’s Association

Congratulates Congratulates

Dr. Tonyatta Hairston

and

on being chosen as one of the

Janice Knight

Susan Graves

on their outstanding achievements as

Mississippi Business Leaders and as

Volunteer Leaders of our Association.

800.272.3900 alz.org/ms

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196 Charmant Place, Suite 4 Ridgeland, MS 39157

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Penny S. Walker, MD, MBA Senior Medical Director for the Southeast Region, UnitedHealthcare in Ridgeland

A

By BECKY GILLETTE

s senior medical director for the Southeast region of UnitedHealthcare, Penny S. Walker, M.D., MBA, has been able to execute healthcare affordability initiatives at the regional/market level that have resulted in savings of $23.7 million. She also takes improving the health care ranking of Mississippi very seriously.

“She not only sees her job as reducing health care costs for our community, but improving the health of all of our population,” said UnitedHealth Group Gulf States Region CFO Bridget Galatas. “She is proactive in her work and is continuously searching for new ways to improve the overall health of Mississippi. She makes outreach calls during her free time to help provide additional support to both our members and our hospital/physician partners.”

Walker directs a $9-million annual budget and oversees clinical excellence, medical affordability, relationship development and enhancement and growth for health plans in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida. More than 3.5 million lives are covered by the company in those states.

Walker is responsible for leading the health plans to successfully deliver affordable, quality-based health pro-

Wendy Walker

S

Advertising & Communication Manager, Stuart C. Irby Company in Jackson

By BECKY GILLETTE

tuart C. Irby Company advertising and communication manager Wendy Walker had only a couple of years of college studying business administration under her belt when she began working in advertising. After college, she feels very fortunate she got a job with a local advertising agency, where she started her career at an entry-level position and worked her way up.

“Once I got a taste of marketing, I knew that was what I wanted to do,” Walker said. “When I came to work at Irby, I took an entry-level position in the credit department and waited patiently for a position in the marketing department to become available. It took me two years, but I got there.

I’m blessed to have the position I have. I love my job and work for a company I respect.”

The ability to juggle multiple tasks at one time is one of her most valued professional skills. Currently Walker manages advertising for 61 branch locations. That work includes placing advertisements in local and national publications, writing company news releases and overseeing branch level sponsorships. She also is responsible for managing the Irby company store inventory, the literature fulfillment site, graphic design and promotional items.

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

grams to members, including broad access to health care professionals and consumer-friendly tools to improve the overall health and well-being of the population served.

Walker’s most valued personal skill is communication.

“Being able to communicate to a broad audience and to break down complicated information into a form that is understandable is my gift,” she said. “I have been able to teach second-graders about the function of bone, educate and inform employer groups about developing a benefit design that will address the specific needs of their employees and improve the quality and efficiency of a hospital’s care by sharing best practices with key decision makers.”

Prior to joining UHC in 2008, Walker worked for Humana of Louisiana and for BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois. She also spent 11 years as an emergency department physician in Chicago and Southwest Michigan areas.

Her most significant personal accomplishment is successfully raising three boys as a single mother.

“At age 16, my oldest son suffered a stroke,” Walker said. “As a family we were able to pull together, support his recovery, and today he is a senior at Tulane University. My middle son has autism and with the help of numerous community resources, incredible educators, friends and family, he is now a freshman at Southeastern University.

Finally, my nine-year-old fills me with pride and joy. He is curious, intelligent and full of humor.”

Walker is also training a rescue dog to be a therapy dog, taking the dog to visit a nursing home once a week.

“It is so heart warming to see the simple joy she brings the residents just by nuzzling their hand or letting them pet her,” Walker said.

“Our marketing group is also responsible for the planning and execution of company-wide promotions and the publication of our market segment bi-monthly newsletters,” Walker said.

The electrical supply distributor has offices in 22 states, and employs about 875 people. Irby just moved into a new facility after being housed in the same location that the company started in 1926.

Businesses linked to the building industry have been impacted by the recession that started in late 2007.

“With the economy in the condition it’s in today, it’s difficult to stay positive and maintain a professional attitude,” Walker said. “I believe that I do that, and it shows in my work and life.”

Walker believes a good leader possesses the ability to not only complete tasks that are assigned, but to know when to delegate.

“There are a lot of good leaders out there, but the best ones know their limitations,” Walker said.

Over the past few years, the Irby marketing group has won more industry awards than any of their competitors’ marketing departments. Recently the Irby marketing group traveled to Chicago to accept an award at the AdVenture Marketing Conference.

Walker feels her most valuable personal skill is her ability to find a healthy balance between family and work.

Walker married her husband, Johnny, 11 years ago. She has a stepson, who is 26, and is helping raise a grandchild, Mackenzie, 7.

Walker is a member of Rehobeth Baptist Church in Leesburg, and is active in local charities including United Way, Stewpot and Habitat for Humanity.

www.msbusiness.com

39

Christi Webb Executive Director, Family Resource Center of Northeast Mississippi in Tupelo

A

By LYNN LOFTON

lot was accomplished in Christi Webb’s first 18 months at the helm of the Family Resource Center of Northeast Mississippi (FRC). During that time a bank loan was repaid and audit trouble with the Mississippi Department of Human Services was cleared with no financial obligation to the FRC. Now in her sixth year at FRC, the transformation has continued. In the past five years, more than 4,000 square feet have been added to the center, the entire building has been redecorated to include new furnishings and the lawns are finely manicured with a playground and patio area in the fenced back yard. Two computer labs have been added for the 11 full-time employees.

Webb is pleased that the employees now have salaries and benefits comparable to other non-profit organizations and sate agencies in the area. A Children’s Advocacy Center has been added, which is the second largest in the state and one of five centers accredited by the National Children’s Alliance in Mississippi.

Work is also being done with Lee County students who are in the GED program. “The FRC partners with Itawamba Community College by offering evening GED classes for adults,” Webb said. “Free child care has been added to

anyone attending GED, parenting, healthy relationship, and fatherhood classes at the FRC. Group counseling has also been added as a service to the center. Every service is free to anyone who attends any activity at the FRC.” A graduate of Blue Mountain College, Webb earned a master’s of science degree at the University of Mississippi and has accrued 30 postgraduate hours. She is listed in Who’s Who in American Community Colleges, was named Headway Honoree by Northeast Mississippi Community College and under her leadership the FRC was honored as Social Service Agency of the year in 2010 by the Mississippi Conference on Social Welfare. Currently she serves as state treasurer of the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Mississippi.

“I have helped bridge the gap between the business community and the non-profit agency,” she said.

“Hopefully the FRC plays a major role by partnering with law enforcement, the Department of Human Services, judges, attorneys and others in keeping children safe from harm and child perpetrators off the streets.”

Webb’s advice to other women who want to make a difference is, “Don’t be afraid to speak up and take a chance.”

She has the ability to motivate others and admires those who can work independently, make decisions and get along with co-workers.

Her parents, who are in their 80s, are her role models because they are hard working, honest and intelligent.

“They have lived through World War II and the Great Depression and have seen the hardest of all times,” she said.

Webb is proud of her 32-year-old daughter, who is the mother of four children and a master’s-level nursing instructor at Itawamba Community College.

The Members of the

Mississippi Psychiatric Association congratulate their Executive Director,

Angela Ladner & their colleague,

Lydia Weisser, D.O. on being chosen as Mississippi Business Journal’s 50 leading business women class of 2012.

Angela Ladner

Lydia Weisser, DO

601-957-9800 or mpa39206@aol.com

40

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Dr. Lydia Weisser Medical Director, Mississippi Department of Mental Health in Whitfield

L

By BECKY GILLETTE

ydia Weisser could be described as a Renaissance woman. With undergraduate and graduate degrees in music, she went on to become a physician and psychiatrist, and earned an MBA and a certificate in psychiatric administration and management.

All that education plus prior experience in health care made Weisser the perfect pick for appointment as the first Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) medical director. That position was created during the 2011 legislative session.

“Dr. Weisser has exceptional ability and talent,” said Jacqueline A. Fleming, who is a licensed clinical social worker. “She is an accomplished psychiatrist, as well as an accomplished musician. Dr. Weisser is a woman who manages her professional duties and is a diligent wife, mother and musician for her church.“ What Fleming finds the most impressive is that Weisser has been resourceful and encouraged creativity with those working with her as the DMH has moved toward transformation.

“Dr. Weisser is passionate about her work and willing to go beyond the call of duty,” Fleming said. “She exemplifies a true leader.”

Weisser oversees a $100-million budget for the

Catherine (Cathy) Thompson Wesson Agency Sales Director, Mississippi, MetLife Financial Group of the South in Ridgeland

A

By LYNN LOFTON

n award-winning financial sales leader, Cathy Wesson is responsible for the development and management of new MetLife representatives as well as the day-to-day management of an office and staff. She works closely with small business owners to develop plans for business succession and avoidance of estate tax issues and analyzes individuals’ financial situations to make recommendations for investments.

“Since I first began, my dream was to run an agency,” she said. “I was fortunate to have an opportunity to pursue a career in management.”

But shortly after she began that career, life dealt her a blow with the loss of her father. As an only child, she made the decision to leave management for a time and re-enter the sales force. “I worked hard for a few years and was approached by MetLife to become the agency sales director for the state,” she said.

Wesson supervises 24 employees and is responsible for a large budget. She prides herself on working to do things that make a difference for others. “I help develop representatives who conduct business ethically and morally to help their clients achieve their dreams and goals,” she said. “I

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Mississippi State Hospital, and has input on the $250-million DMH budget. She provides clinical oversight for 12 state-operated facilities. She also serves on the DMH legislative team, which interfaces with state senators and representatives during the legislative session, participating in the agency’s budgeting process. She also is an advisory to the DMH executive director.

Weisser’s many responsibilities include overseeing issues of facility accreditation, compliance with state/federal regulations, utilization/census management, quality assurance, cost containment and safe, effective patient/resident care.

“I constantly strive for ‘raising the bar’ and improving the quality of staff, patient care and processes within the DMH,” Weisser said. “I am deeply committed to the largely underserved and indigent population who make up the majority of our clients. I feel a sense of responsibility to the taxpayers of this state, as well as other stakeholders and advocates for the Mississippi mental health system. I look for ways in which to identify and implement operational efficiencies.”

Weisser likes to lead by example and never asks someone to assume a task she would not do herself. In addition to being very self-motivated and driven to see tasks through to completion, she enjoys team-building, inspiring others to bring forth new ideas and projects, assisting in workforce development and identification of new talent.

“I dislike micromanagement,” Weisser said. “I have a sense of humor and never take myself too seriously. I believe I am fair and impartial, encouraging, and patient.”

Weisser is also a cancer survivor since 1979, and the first and only person in her family to graduate from college.

Weisser and her husband of 31 years, Roland “Bud” Weisser, have a 16-year-old son, Alex, who recently became an Eagle Scout and is an honor roll student at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School.

actively participate in organizations and programs that will not only better me, but others in the community.”

As a single mother, Wesson completed an undergraduate degree at Belhaven College and a master’s degree at Millsaps College. “That was a significant accomplishment for me,” she says. “I was raised to work hard and make a situation versus letting a situation make me. It became my philosophy and has helped me overcome many barriers in life.”

Wesson is a motivator of others and strives to continually improve herself and her talents. She looks for these same leadership skills in others. “Many job skills can be taught, but things such as being coachable and striving to be ethical, honest and hard working are qualities that can’t be taught,” she said. “I advise other women to not let situations make them. You make the situation.”

Her role models are diverse, including former First Lady Laura Bush and NASCAR driver Danica Patrick. “Laura Bush has a ministry through education and literacy and advancing women’s causes. She’s a true inspiration,” she said. “Patrick is working every day to set herself apart and make a name for herself in a male-dominated sport.”

Wesson feels she was blessed after years of searching to uncover her adoption records and reach out to her birth family. “Life has many doors and through all of them God is leading the way. I am richly blessed in both my personal and professional life,” she said. “I am a wife and a mother to three beautiful children.”

She loves to be outdoors hunting, fishing and shooting.

Last April she completed in her first Warrior Dash and plans to compete again. She devotes time to Relay for Life and Fannin Baptist Church, helping educate the public on the missions and goals of these organizations.

www.msbusiness.com

41

Donna Haynes Williams Chief Operating Office/Founder, Haynes Electric Co. & Haynes Integrated Technologies in Gulfport

D

By LYNN LOFTON

onna Williams had always planned to join her family’s business, but her father’s untimely death propelled her into a leadership position with Haynes Electric sooner than expected. Her career in sales with Fairmont Hotels and Biloxi’s Beau Rivage and as the owner of a small business prepared her to oversee daily management of the successful electrical company.

“I think I have developed the ability to draw from each learning experience and apply new ways of thinking to new industry opportunities,” she said. “I’ve discovered that being surrounded by talented, dedicated people who share a common vision is more important than having expertise in a particular discipline.”

Her goal is to create a work environment that allows people to first take care of their families, and secondly to give them the tools and opportunities for personal growth and job satisfaction. “That in turn fosters loyalty, not only among employees, but with our customers as well,” she said.

After graduating summa cum laude from Southern Methodist University, Williams worked in Dallas and New Orleans before returning to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. At Haynes Electric she plans and directs all aspects of opera-

tion, procedures, objectives and policies. “I strive to insure that all departments operate cohesively, maintain accountability and the highest level of quality and customer service,” she said, “while most importantly, making sure principles and values on which Haynes Electric was founded continue to be the foundation of our business and guide every employee in each daily decision.”

Williams has gained the trust of the staff and implemented changes for the betterment of the company while navigating the worst economic downturn the business has ever seen. “In some regards, entering the business from another industry was advantageous,” she said. “It allowed me to assess our business practices completely objectively and identify ways to be more cost effective and efficient.”

With entrepreneurial spirit, Williams seized an opportunity to start Haynes Integrated Technologies, a separate company that specializes in structured cabling and fiber optic systems and customizes security, CATV and data com systems or integrates customers’ existing systems. “Although only in its infancy, the new company is growing exponentially, and we are serving customers throughout the Southeast on new construction projects and retrofits,” she said.

Williams is involved in the community in business and professional organizations, including the Gulf Coast Business Council, and non-profits that include the MakeA-Wish Foundation, Gulf Coast Carnival Association and Westminster Presbyterian Church. She is a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast and is serving as a trustee for this year’s class.

The mother of four children between the ages of four and 11, Williams balances the demands of family life and work. “There have been numerous other accomplishments, recognitions and things in which I take pride, but raising my children and instilling strong values and moral compasses is the greatest gift and most fulfilling accomplishment I can ever imagine,” she said.

CONGRATULATIONS to our representatives in Executive Women International for being recognized as

TWO OF MISSISSIPPI’S TOP 50 BUSINESS WOMEN. JANICE KNIGHT St Dominic Health Services MENDE ALFORD Old Capitol Inn

We a r e s o p r o u d o f y o u !

42

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2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

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All information is conďŹ dential. Once all nominations are received, a follow up packet will be sent to each nominee.

-!), 4/ -"* . #/.'2%33 34 35)4% *!#+3/.

-3 /2 &!8 Rules: Nominee must be a resident or employed in Mississippi; self-nominated or by someone else; an owner, partner, president, CEO, CFO, COO, board chair, senior executive manager, or a woman with signiďŹ cant authority for the decision making in either a for-proďŹ t or non-proďŹ t organization. Nominees who hold political ofďŹ ce will not be considered solely on the basis of political achievements. Age is not an issue. Nominee may not be an employee or company member of MBJ. Women who have been previous recipients of this award are not eligible. Judges recuse themselves from evaluating associates in their own companies.

Class of 1997 Mary Connor Adcock Carlene Alfonso, CRB, CRS Bianca Bare Jane Patterson Boykin Melody K. Bradley Linda D. Cochran Dr. Barbara Corry Donna F. Cox Tamara Craddock Carol Puckett Daily Bonnie Johnson Daniels Debbie Shelby Dees Juanita Sims Doty Diane L. Evans Evelyn Sawyer Forte Cheryl Freeman Kim Gianakos Alice G. Gorman Becky Harmon Beth Henry Brenda Moreland Higginbotham Jean Magee Hogan Linda Howard Bobbye Imbragulio Donna M. Ingram Wanda Heary Jacobs Gwen C. James Cynthia S. Joachim Grace P.C. Lee Liza C. Looser Deidre McGowan Jacqueline M. McLemore Mary Lee McNeil Carolyn White Manning Cindy C. Mitcham Chris Mize Melia D. Peavey Clara Taylor Reed Dr. Clyda S. Rent Robin Joyce Robinson Martha J. Rogers Rosemary D. Roosa Jamie Eichelberger Ross, D.M.D. Anne C. Sanders Carolyn C. Shanks Frances Permenter Smith Sister Mary Dorothea Sondgeroth Suzanne P. Stephens, CTFA Sallye M. Wilcox Teri Sims Williams

48

McCullough Steel Products Inc./Flowerdale Properties Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty Inc. Bianca Bare Inc. The Mississippi Forum on Children and Families Jackson County Port Authority/Port of Pascagoula Ductwork Services Willowood Developmental Center The Ramey Agency Jubilations Inc. The Everyday Gourmet/The Everyday Gardener Alliant Foodservice Phelps Dunbar, L.L.P. Lextron Corp.

Fun Fashions Manufacturing Company AddStaff Inc. Freeman & Associates Inc. Gianakos Associates Mississippi State Tax Commission Methodist Medical Center Tempo Inc. First Family Financial Services Phelps Dunbar, L.L.C. Howard Industries Inc. Rainey Day Broadcasting Inc./WVIV Radio May & Company, CPAs and Consultants The Mississippi Press Register Coldwell Banker Don Nace Inc. Century 21 Harry J. Joachim Inc. REALTOR Trilogy Communications Inc. The Cirlot Agency Insight Ltd. The Cupboard Gifts and Interiors Gulf Coast Business Services Corp.

BellSouth Mitcham Strategic Partners Inc. Rightway Travel Agency Peavey Electronics Mid Delta Home Health Inc. Mississippi University for Women Sanderson Farms Inc. Bank of Morton Gulf Coast Coors Inc. Ross Dental Clinic Brunini, Grantham, Grower and Hewes, PLLC Entergy Nuclear Inc. Tome Warner Cable/Capitol Cablevision St. Dominic Health Services Pinnacle Trust Co. Mississippi Baptist Medical Center Staub Robinson Williams Architects, P.A.

www.msbusiness.com

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

VP/CEO (McCullough); Managing Partner (Flowerdale) Tupelo CEO Gulfport Owner/President Jackson President Jackson Port Director Pascagoula President Horn Lake Executive Director Jackson Senior Vice President/CFO Ridgeland Owner/President Columbus President Jackson Vice President-Human Resources Pearl Partner/Attorney Jackson Executive Assistant to the President Jackson Owner Macon President Jackson Owner Jackson President Meridian Director of Administrative Services Jackson Vice President Jackson President Jackson Branch Manager Macon Partner Tupelo President Laurel Owner/General Manager Brandon Principal/Stockholder Vicksburg Publisher/CEO Pascagoula Residential Division President Hattiesburg Owner/President Biloxi Vice President of Corporate Planning Pearl CEO Jackson CEO Jackson Co-Owner Clinton President/CEO Gulfport N/A Jackson President Jackson Regional President Jackson President Meridian Founder/CEO Belzoni President Columbus Manager-Human Resources and Development Laurel Chairman of the Board Morton President Gulfport Owner/Dentist Morton Partner Jackson Vice President of Finance and Administration Jackson Division Director for Community Affairs Jackson President/Board Chair Jackson Executive Vice President-Personal Financial Management Ridgeland Assistant Executive Director Jackson Partner Tupelo

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Class of 1998 Jill M. Beneke Judy G. Blackburn Carolyn Ann Boteler Betsy Bradley Aletha Burge Sandra Person Burns Marsha B. Burton Allison Crews Trudy D. Fisher Marion W. Francis M. Jane George Therese L. Hanna Susan C. Harrison, CLU Cynthia Marshall Hodo Karen Kahler Holliday Peggy A. Horne Linda Howard Cindy B. Howington, CPA Michelle Kimball Jack Cynthia S. Joachim Mina S. Jones, CPA Pat Permenter Jones Julie Jordan Jamie Planck Martin Connie Smith McCaa, M.D., Ph.D. Chris Mize McMillan Janie E. Mortimer Dinetia M. Newman Shirley Olson, Ph.D. Anne Griswold Peirce, R.N., Ph.D. Teresah Ann Ponders-Caire Lou Ann Poynter Linda G. Raff Brenda Tanner Redfern Betty Lou Reeves, CPA Karen Robbins Susan Bell Shamoon Ollye B. Shirley, Ph.D. Christine Lindsay Smilek, CPA DeLois L. Smith Creda Stewart Janita R. Stewart Brenda Thornton Jan Holland Townes Carol A. Trevathan Patricia A. Turner Laverne C. Ulmer, Ph.D. Nancy Virden Margaret Williams Rita Wray

Deposit Guaranty National Bank Southern Farm Bureau Tempstaff Inc. Mississippi Arts Commission United Way of South Mississippi Mississippi Health Partners Inc. Print Placements Inc. Grogan & Crews Brunini, Grantham, Grower & Hewes, PLLC Jackson-Hinds Library System North Mississippi Health Services Inc. Department of Finance Administrator CLU William Morris & Associates Quest Marketing, L.L.C. Karen Kahler Holliday, Financial Communications Consultant Integrity Health Plan of Mississippi Howard Industries Inc. May & Co. CPAs and Consultants Union Planters Bank, N.A. Century 21 Harry J. Joachim Inc, Realtor Davenport, Holliday & Spring, CPAs Heritage Insurance Agency Ayrix Technologies Inc./The Internet Learning Co. Butler, Snow, Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mara, Stevens & Cannada, P.L.L.C. University of Mississippi Medical Center World Wide Travel Service Inc. Tate County Economic Development Foundation Phelps Dunbar, L.L.P. Olson Consulting Group University of Mississippi Medical Center U.S.D.A., Natural Resources Conservation Service Union Planters Bank, N.A. Catholic Charities Inc. Office of Administrative Services, Mississippi Dept. of Transportation Smith, Turner, Reeves, P.A., CPAs Eagle Ridge Conference Center, Hinds Community College Shamoon Advertising & Marketing Inc. Visions 2000 Plus Inc. Smilek & Associates Doleac Realtors, Better Homes and Gardens Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians U.S. Small Business Administration AmFed Companies, L.L.C. Prudential Securities Inc. Mississippi Blood Services Methodist Healthcare-Jackson Hospitals Jones County Junior College Bank of Anguilla Wise, Carter, Child & Caraway Choices Inc.

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Senior Vice President Assistant Vice President/Account Manager President Executive Director Director of Agency Relations Executive Director President Vice President Attorney Executive Director Vice President/Controller State Insurance Administrator Group Benefits Manager Owner/Partner Principal/Owner President/CEO President Principal and Stockholder Vice President/Human Resources Manager Owner Principal Owner/President CEO Partner Director of General Services/Refractive Surgery Regional Vice President Executive Director Attorney Owner/President Professor/Dean, School of Nursing Walthall County District Conservationist Chairman/CEO Executive Director Director Vice President/Secretary-Treasurer (tax partner) Marketing Coordinator Publisher & Editor, Life in the Delta President Partner Broker/Owner Director of Public Information District Director Executive Vice President/CIO First Vice President-Investment Sales Director of Development Vice President Business Division Chair/Instructor Vice President Shareholder/Board of Directors CEO

Jackson Ridgeland Jackson Jackson Gulfport Jackson Flora Canton Jackson Jackson Tupelo Jackson Jackson West Point Belden Jackson Laurel Vicksburg Jackson Biloxi Ridgeland Starkville Columbus Jackson Jackson Jackson Senatobia Tupelo Jackson Jackson Tylertown Hattiesburg Jackson Jackson Jackson Raymond Greenville Jackson Biloxi Hattiesburg Philadelphia Jackson Ridgeland Jackson Jackson Jackson Ellisville Rolling Fork Jackson Brandon

www.msbusiness.com

49

Class of 1999 Lynn Arnold Sue Ellen Babb, CPA Mary Ann Bacon Kathryn Yerger Becker Sheila Bell-Espy Melinda Ray Bell Mindy Boggs Carmen B. Capers Joyce P. Caracci, R.N. Montyne “Tina” King Clay Stella Connell Judy H. Corts Dr. Bettye Rogers Coward Dr. Bettye Ward Fletcher Britton Davis Gammill Glenda Glover Debbie A. Golebiewski Jackie Granberry Terry Lynn Hamm Rubye Del Harden Carolyn P. Harrison Linda Howard Elizabeth Corso Joachim Mary Ann Downey Kirby Lucille “Cille” M. Litchfield Jill McClure Lowery Deborah W. Martin Jacquelyn Byrd Martin Robin Y. McCormick, CPA Sheilia Ann Sikes McGraw Bobbie G. Miller Virginia Ellen Morris Maura B. Phillips Judy Pratt Evelyn McDade Roughton Jayne B. Sargent, Ed.D. Janet J. Scott Debra K. Shafer Debbie N. Shempert Donna Addkison Simmons Donna E. Smith Donna Kennedy Sones Sherry N. Stevens Johnnie Stone Tolleson Barbara Travis Sara Thomason Wade Marguerite Hossley Wall Felicia Lee Warren Denise Westerfield Jonell B. Williamson

50

DeSoto Council, Hernando Main Street/Chamber of Commerce Eaton, Babb & Smith, P.A. First American Bank High Cotton Techsource, LLC Employee Benefits Consultants Associate, AFLAC Boggs & Associates Powerhouse Service & Supply Inc. Sta-Home Health Agency State Farm Insurance Southeast Media & Literary Associates RE/MAX Real Estate Partners Inc. Academic Affairs, Mississippi College Jackson State University Fat Mama’s Tamales Inc. Professional Fitness Inc. Contract Computer Services Institutional Advancement, Hinds Community College New Stage Theatre Sprint Print and S.N.A.P. Results Inc. Capitol Staffing Inc. Howard Industries Inc. Frank P. Corso Inc. Chancellor Media/SeaStar Communications Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration Mediasource of Mississippi Service Specialists Ltd.-Human Resources City of McComb Watkins, Ward & Stafford, P.L.L.C. T & S Computer Consulting Community Health Clinic Inc. Jackson Office, Armstrong Allen Prewitt Gentry Johnston & Holmes Mississippi Partnership Office, Fannie Mae Corp.

Kelly Services Inc. Antique Mall, Crown Restaurant/Taste of Gourmet Jackson Public School District ArtsAlliance of Jackson and Hinds County Dux D’Lux Inc. Southern Insurance Group/Southern Insurance of Tupelo Musgrove for Governor Union Planters Bank Hamilton Kennedy Trustmark Insurance Agency Mortgage Lending, Merchants & Farmers Marketlynx Consulting North Mississippi Medical Center Hinds Community College The Greenville Clinic, P.A. The Ad Agency Baker, Donelson, Bearman & Caldwell

www.msbusiness.com

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Vice President/Executive Director Principal President/CEO CEO Assistant Director Owner Vice President President/Owner Co-founder Insurance Agent Owner Broker/Owner Vice President Interim President President Co-owner/President Office Administrator/Vice President Vice President Managing Director Owner President President Owner/President General Sales Manager Administrator President/Media Director President Director of Administration Senior Accountant General Partner Administrator Resident Managing Partner Senior Deputy Director Manager Co-owner Superintendent Executive Director Queen Vice President/CEO Campaign Manager Regional Marketing Director President Sales Coordinator Vice President President Administrative Director Director Clinic Administrator President/Owner Attorney/Shareholder

Hernando Ripley Jackson Jackson Ridgeland Tupelo Ridgeland Escatawpa Jackson Ridgeland Oxford Hattiesburg Clinton Jackson Natchez Jackson New Albany Raymond Jackson Tupelo Jackson Laurel Biloxi Jackson Jackson Clinton Jackson McComb West Point Yazoo City Isola Jackson Jackson Gulfport Indianola Jackson Jackson Starkville Tupelo Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Kosciusko Flowood Tupelo Raymond Greenville Jackson Jackson

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Class of 2000 Nancy Anglin Katherine K. Bailey Lucy Russell Betcher Ellen Blough-Morgan Carolyn Ann Boteler Doris Brumfield Shanon McGhee Brumfield Carol J. Burger Cynthia Payne Childers Elizabeth “Liz” Cleveland Robbie Bratcher Cross Vicki Fioranelli Annie W. Gee Dr. Frances C. Graham Vickie Greenlee Diane M. Jackson Peggy Seaton Johnson Rebecca Laney Helen Luster Adele C. Lyons Janice L. Mabry Lori C. Manley Cyndi Howard McCoy Jennifer Saffore McCoy Beth Branscome McGaugh Liliclaire “Lil” C. McKinnon-Hicks, APR Pamela Hansen McNair Jodi Kemp McNeese Emily T. Myers Denise E. Phillips, M.D. Susan H. Pilgram Helen J. Pinkerton Cassandra F. Price-Perry Saralyn S. Quinn Kathryn “Kathy” L. Shaw Beverly Smallwood, Ph.D Carolyn Vance Smith Natalia Sullivan Robyn M. Tannehill Beth Taylor Helen Whitener Tester Cindy Tyler Marilyn Tyler Kathy Voyles Connie Correro Wells Patricia “Pat” J. Werne NancyKay Sullivan Wessman Shelia M. White Deborah Hall Whitehead Paige York-Losee

Union Planters Bank, N.A. USM, Continuing Ed and Distance Learning USM, Small Business Development Center Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks TempStaff Inc. Valley Bank BellSouth Mobility-Customer Operations United Way of the Capital Area Inc. Swetman Security Services Inc. MDA, Development-International Division The Insurance Mart Inc. Delta State University Department of Social Services Mississippi State University For Travelers Only The St. Paul Companies Mississippi Action for Progress Inc. Center for Yoga and Health Inc. Mid-State Artificial Limb Inc. Greater Biloxi Economic Development Foundation Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, SBDC Saber Systems and Consulting Inc. Howard Industries Inc. City of Tupelo Planning Department Pinnacle Trust Company LIONHEART Public Relations Disposall EFP Inc. American Red Cross, Central Mississippi Chapter Denise E. Phillips, M.D. Ophthalmology American Red Cross, Central Mississippi Chapter Computertots and Computer Explorers Hollywood Casino-Tunica Inc. Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Quest Marketing Leading Resources Inc. Education Travel Associates Inc. Mississippi Consortium for International Development GodwinGroup Letter B Productions Hospice Ministries The Mississippi Gift Company Fitness Lady Health Clubs for Women State Farm Inc. Entergy Nuclear Inc. Mississippi Development Authority Mississippi State Department of Health University of Southern Mississippi-Gulf Coast Sherman Family Clinic York Developments

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Vice President/Branch Manager Southaven Marketing Manager Hattiesburg Director Long Beach Director of Marketing Jackson President Jackson Executive Vice President Greenwood Director Ridgeland President/CEO Jackson President/CEO Biloxi Deputy Director Jackson President/Owner Jackson Director Cleveland Social Worker Advanced Indianola Extension Housing Specialist Starkville Owner/Manager Jackson Surety Group Branch Manager Jackson Director of Family and Community Partnerships Jackson Owner, Director, Yoga Therapist and Instructor Clinton Vice President Jackson Executive Director Biloxi Director Gautier Director of Functional Analysis Jackson President-New Business Development Laurel Neighborhood Planner Tupelo CFO Ridgeland Owner Jackson Manager/Co-owner Gautier Director of Client Services Jackson Director of Marketing and Communications Jackson Owner Jackson Director of Financial Development Jackson Director/Owner Madison Vice President of Finance and Administration Robinsonville Senior Director-Operations Division Jackson Owner/Partner West Point CEO Hattiesburg President Natchez Director of Russian Programs Jackson Senior Vice President Oxford Owner Hattiesburg Director of Chaplaincy Ridgeland President/Owner Greenwood Owner Pearl Agent Ripley Manager-Business Development Jackson Project Manager-Senior Jackson Deputy Director for Communications and Public Relations Jackson Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Recruitment Long Beach Owner, Administrator, Nurse Practitioner Sherman Vice President-New Development Hattiesburg www.msbusiness.com

51

Class of 2001 Anne L. Balazs, Ph.D. Pam Beard Carolyn Ann Boteler Virginia Lee Cocke Barbara S. Corry, Ph.D. Ann Fortenberry Corso Martha Davis, Ph.D., RD, LD Celia Emmerich Rhonda Ferguson, CFP, CFS Trudy Fountain Linda Renfroe Gavin Deborah Golebiewski Jo Ann Gordon Sissye Gory Jan B. Graham Patricia L. Griffin Judy Brassell Hall Spring Heflin Dorothy Baker Hines Cathy Jeffcoats Anna Faye Kelley Susan Marquez Rondah M. Marks Karen Martinson McKie Wendy McLemore Dr. Patsy Malier Mitchell Lee Dogan Murphy Heather Osborne Vicki Fernicola Pevsner Lynn M. Phillips Gail Jones Pittman Scarlett Reichel Robin Joyce Robinson Joni Rowell Earline C. Sawyer Becky Sims Catherine M. Stewart Janita Stewart Bettye Yarborough Sullivan Mitzi L. Tate Shelia B. Thomas Lorrie Smith Tingle Annette Turner Kay Atwood Van Skiver Jo Ann Walton Marsha M. Wells Lou Ann Wilks Sara Williams Donna J. Williams Darienne Wilson

52

Mississippi University for Women Beard & Associates TempStaff Inc. Baptist Health Systems Rankin County Chamber of Commerce Butler, Snow, Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mara, Stevens & Cannada, PLLC Mallory Community Health Center Communities In Schools Inc. Financial Concepts Park Place Entertainment Corporation South Central Regional Medical Center Contract Computer Services Inc. Canton Convention & Visitors Bureau & Film Office Fitness Lady Health Clubs Union Planters Bank, N.A. Pioneer Aerospace Corp.

Riverwind Development MetroJackson Chamber of Commerce City of Macon Pinelake Baptist Church Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College at Gulfport Northpark Mall Hospice Ministries Inc. Green Oak Garden Center & Florist J&R Restaurant Group Inc. Maranatha Education Center Horne CPA Group GodwinGroup Forrest General Hospital/Pine Grove Recovery Center Phillips Financial Advisory Inc. Gail Pittman Inc. Publishing Concepts Inc. Sanderson Farms Inc. EventWorks Inc. Sawyer Real Estate Domestic Abuse Family Shelter Inc. The MONY Group U.S. Small Business Administration, Mississippi Methodist Rehabilitation Center Members Exchange Credit Union Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi Public Employeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Retirement System The Koerber Company, PLLC Atwood Fence Company Training Resources Associates Inc. McCarty Enterprises, LLC Maris, West & Baker Independent Political Fundraiser/Consultant Gilmore Memorial Hospital Inc. Mississippi Development Authority

www.msbusiness.com

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Division Head of Business and Communications Columbus Broker/Owner Vicksburg President Jackson Director of Corporate Communications Jackson Executive Director Brandon Partner Jackson President/CEO Lexington Consultant Greenwood Owner/Financial Advisor Columbus Vice President of Legal and Regulatory Affairs Gulfport Associate Executive Director Laurel Vice President Tupelo Executive Director and Certified Film Commissioner Canton Manager Ridgeland Senior Vice President of Corporate Lending Jackson Personnel Manager Columbia CEO Pearl COO Jackson Mayor Macon Administrator of Childhood Ministries Brandon Vice President for Community Campus Gulfport Marketing Director Ridgeland Marketing Development Director Ridgeland Owner Jackson Controller Jackson CEO, President and Administrator Minter City Senior Manager Grenada CFO and Executive Vice President Jackson Vice President of Behavioral Health Services Hattiesburg Owner Starkville Founder Ridgeland General Manager Ridgeland Dir. of Organization Development and Corporate Communication Laurel Founder/Owner Ridgeland Vice President Gulfport Director Laurel Financial Professional Jackson Director Jackson Executive Director, Wilson Research Foundation Jackson President and CEO Jackson Director of Provider Reimbursement Jackson CIO/Deputy Director of Investments Jackson Senior Manager Hattiesburg Owner/Chairperson/CEO Kosciusko President and Owner Madison Treasurer Ridgeland Vice President of Account Services/Partner Jackson Brandon Vice President of Patient Care Services Amory Director of Tourism Development Jackson

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Class of 2002 Carolyn Wooten Black Laura Brower Beth Burgess Beneta D. Burt Sandra May “Sandy” Bynum Mary Cross Debbie Davidson Alice Doss Kris Davis Judy Moon Denson Cindy Ayers Elliott Wendy Eversole Vivian Farris Tanya Finch Tonya Flesher, Ph.D. Lisa Flynt Donna Foster Kim Fritz Carole Haney Beth Hayden Adrienne Moncrief Hemphill Gwen Herman Gina Jacobs Wanda Jacobs Sara Beth Kimmel Connie Kossen Bernice Linton Lynette Magee Wanda Magers Sharon Maloney Jeanie Malouf Carol Mann Kelsey Mitchell Anita Modak-Truran Beverly Peden Yevonne Prewitt Susan Riley Donna Ritchey Gisselle Russell Jennie Simmons Donna Sims Beth Magee Smith Deborah Kennedy Smith Paige Stowe Myrtis Tabb, Ph.D. Marjorie Taylor, Ph.D. Frances Lucas-Tauchar Patsy Tolleson Sherry Vance Becky Vaughn-Furlow Suzanne Vivier Pat Yeomans

The Center for Special Education Services North Mississippi Medical Center Burgess, Crechale and Necaise, P.A. Urban League of Greater Meridian/Lauderdale County Tourism Bureau MetroJackson Chamber of Commerce Davidson’s Corner Market U.S. Small Business Administration GodwinGroup Author, Professional Speaker Chapman Capital Management Watkins, Ludlam, Winter and Stennis, P.A. Ross & Yerger Insurance Inc. Booneville Area Chamber of Commerce University of Mississippi Butler, Snow, O’Mara, Stevens & Cannada, PLLC A Clean Bill of Health Clinic Inc. Park Place Entertainment North Mississippi Regional Center ADT Security Services Inc. Adrienne’s Creative Services Personal Elder Care Watkins, Ludlam, Winter and Stennis, P.A. The Mississippi Press Register Mississippi Treasury Department Kossen Equipment Inc. Hattiesburg Historic Downtown Association Crye-Leike Realtors Inc. Mississippi State Department of Health Ernst & Young, LLP Jeanie Malouf Real Estate Mann & Associates, LLC CBL and Associates Properties Inc. Butler, Snow, O’Mara, Stevens & Cannada, PLLC Crossgates Methodist Children’s Center USDA Farm Service Agency Nicholson and Company, P.A. GodwinGroup Strategics Inc. Simmons Erosion Control Inc. BankPlus of Madison/Ridgeland Delphi Automotive Systems De-Bar Construction Inc. BellSouth Mississippi Delta State University Greenville Higher Education Center Millsaps College BellSouth Mississippi Mississippi Development Authority Trustmark National Bank Gravity Gallery Coffeehouse and Café Jazzy Dancer

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Executive Director Vice President President President and CEO Executive Director Vice President of Community Development Owner Assistant District Director Vice President, Director of Research

Jackson Tupelo Jackson Jackson Meridian Jackson Canton Jackson Jackson Jackson Senior Vice President Jackson CFO Jackson CFO Jackson Executive Director Booneville Professor of Accountancy Oxford Director of Business Development Jackson President and Co-Owner Pelahatchie Vice President of Marketing Ocean Springs Director Tupelo General Manager Jackson Owner Bay St. Louis Owner Greenville Shareholder Jackson Publisher and CEO Pascagoula Cash Flow and Economic Analyst Jackson Secretary-Treasurer Jackson Executive Director Hattiesburg Broker/Office Manager Southaven Chronic Disease Director Jackson Partner and Director of Tax Jackson Broker/Owner Brandon President Jackson Director of Marketing Vicksburg Partner Jackson Director Brandon County Executive Director Clay County CPA Hattiesburg Shareholder and Senior Vice President Jackson Founder and President Jackson President Lake President Madison Director of Public Relations Clinton President and Owner Ellisville Vice President of Regulatory and External Affairs Jackson Director of the Center for Community Development Cleveland Director Greenville President Jackson Director of External Affairs Jackson Director of Communications Jackson Senior Vice President/Director of Human Resources Jackson President and CEO Clinton President and Co-Owner Ridgeland www.msbusiness.com

53

Class of 2003 Linda Aldy Carla Palmer Allen Tyler Lott Armstrong Amy Arrington Denise Auttonberry Marsha Ballard Ann Barnes Betty Byrd Nancy Darcy Doné Davidson Mary Davis Amy Eifling Barbara Gandy Vickie Graves Lynne Green Monica Harrigill Amy Head Sherri Hilton Sandy Holifield Judith Johnson Frances A. Karnes Gwendolyn Kennard Nancy Kidd Lisa Kirkpatrick Paula Kirkpatrick Lori Ladner Donna Mabus Patsy Mayo Lauren McGraw Suzanne Mitchell Cheryn Netz Maxine Netz Genelle Perrin Rachel Ravenstein Charlotte Reeves Eleanor Rogers Cathye Ross Lisa Rowell Joan Rushing Sarah Sawyer Carol Simmons Elizabeth Stephens Lea Stone Vikki J. Taylor Ann Thompson Gena Vail Sue Waller Jonni Webb Beverly Williams Charlotte Wolfe

54

Aldy & Company CPA Realty MetroJackson Chamber of Commerce Mississippi Hospital Association Auttonberry Associates, LLC Southern Realty & Management Company Prime Care Nursing BellSouth-Mississippi Gold Strike Casino Resort Xcellenet Taylor Power Systems Aspire Inc. Pearl River Community College/Gandy Transport, LLC AMS Mortgage Brunini, Grantham, Grower & Hewes, PLLC Jackie’s International Inc. Amy Head Studio Persnickety Inc. Economic Development Authority of Jones County Eaton Corporation Frances A. Karnes Center for Gifted Studies at USM Little People Learning Center Baptist Memorial Hospital-Union County Mississippi Baptist Medical Center Kirkpatrick & Eaves Info Services Inc. Plato Associates Workforce Development Center, Hinds Community College Gotta Go Portable Toilets Parker Hannifin Wise, Carter, Child & Caraway, P.A. Mid-Delta Home Health Agency Grand Casino Juniker Jewelry Company A-1 Pallet Company Quality Health Services Inc. Park Place Entertainment Mid-South Region Union Planters Bank Tylertown Wear Products Byhalia Area Chamber of Commerce Fairview Inn Squires & Company Memorial Behavioral Health Watkins, Ludlam, Winter & Stennis Dee’s Flowers Family Clinic of New Albany/Green Oak Manor Landmark Contracting Inc. Coffee News/J.R. Webb Pottery Taylor, Covington & Smith, P.A. Northeast Mississippi Community Newspapers/The Itawamba County Times

www.msbusiness.com

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Owner Madison Broker/Realtor Ridgeland Vice President of Special Events Jackson President of Governmental Relations Jackson CEO Madison Owner/Broker Aberdeen President Jackson Administrator for External Affairs Jackson Director of Player Development Robinsonville Regional Business Manager Canton Division Manager Richland President Brandon Senior Workforce Training Manager/Co-Owner Hattiesburg President Madison Partner Jackson Vice President Canton Owner Ridgeland Owner Madison Economic Development Director/Technology Park Coordinator Laurel Manager of University Relations Jackson Director/Special Education Professor Hattiesburg Owner Moss Point Director of Marketing and Physician Relations New Albany Budget Director Jackson President Jackson Secretary-Treasurer Madison President Jackson Director Raymond President Flora Plant Manager Booneville Shareholder Jackson Vice President of Clinical Services Belzoni Director of Hotel Sales Biloxi Sales Associate Jackson President Jackson CEO Biloxi Vice President of Marketing Operations Biloxi Senior Vice President and Retail Executive Officer Jackson President Hazlehurst Executive Director Byhalia Co-Owner Jackson Vice President of Operations Jackson Referral Development/Contract Specialist Gulfport Shareholder Jackson Owner Clinton Owner New Albany President Gulfport Publisher/Owner Canton Administrator Jackson Vice President/General Manager, Editor Fulton

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Class of 2004 Judy Adams Kathryn Fields Herring Albritton Rita S. Bingham Kaye Waldrup Bender Tanya Brieger Beth Carriere Jasmin Chapman, DDS Mary Elizabeth Giles Cornelius Mary Cracchiolo Stephanie Fontaine Davis Hallie K. Duckworth Alicia R. Ellis Beverly Farabee-Lay Robbie Fisher Julie Grantham Dorothy Gray Lori Greer Susan Harkins Brenda K. Hiatt Melissa Diane Anderson Hudson Beverly Wade Hogan Gloria B. Johnson Christy Jones Lynda Jungkind Nancy M. Lane Claudia A. Limbert Sue Lobrano Jana L. Long Tracy J. Stebbins Madar Vickie Mason Debra McGee Marcella McKay Keri Morrell Deanne Mosley Sylvia Napper Lydia Quarles Annette Rand Charlotte Sadler Robin Sanderson Gay Saxon D’Auby Schiel Tessie Schweitzer Dorothy Shaw Janice Shumaker Lynn Spruill Stephanie Summers-O’Neal Charlotte Tabereaux Linda Townes Aline Ward Doris Watson Michelle Whittle

American Council of Engineering Companies-Mississippi Eubank & Betts, PLLC Mississippi Secretary of State’s Office University of Mississippi Medical Center Belhaven College Hancock County Tourism Development Bureau Jackson-Hinds Comprehensive Health Center Cornelius Equipment Company Beau Rivage Resort & Casino Let’s Get Organized! Inc. Mississippi Health Connection Harrison County Development Commission Beverly Hospice Ministries Inc. The Nature Conservancy Mississippi Division for Health Management Associates Inc. GranthamPoole, CPAs Jackson Medical Mall Foundation Watkins & Eager, PLLC PH Associates Magee General Hospital Tougaloo College Entergy Mississippi Butler, Snow, O’Mara, Stevens & Cannada, PLLC Premier Bride of Mississippi Inc. Nancy Lane Commercial Realty Inc. Mississippi University for Women USA International Ballet Competition Cellular South North Mississippi Medical Center Trustmark National Bank BankPlus -Gluckstadt Nissan Mississippi Hospital Association Morrell Agency Inc. Mississippi Attorney General’s Office The Hood Companies Mississippi Worker’s Compensation Commission Mississippi Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau John Jones & Associates Citizens National Bank Hinds Community College Eagle Ridge Conference Center Coast Community Bank Mississippi Families as Allies for CHildren’s Mental Health Inc. Northrop Grumman Ship Systems Community Bank Spruill Property Management Diversified Trade Company Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Center Mississippi State Hospital Southern Company HORNE LLP Mississippi Valley Gas

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Executive Director Jackson Director of Marketing Jackson Bureau Director-Business Services Division Jackson Associate Vice Chancellor of Nursing Jackson Director of Enrollment Jackson Executive Director Gulfport CEO Jackson Owner New Albany Assistant Director of Public Affairs Biloxi President/Owner Jackson Executive Director Ridgeland Commissioner Gulfport CEO Jackson State Director Jackson Director of Marketing and Public Relations Jackson Administrative Partner Jackson Deputy Director and CFO Jackson Medical Analyst Jackson President Meridian CFO Magee President Jackson Director of Customer Service Jackson Attorney and Partner Jackson President Jackson President and Commercial Broker Jackson President Columbus Executive Director Jackson Marketing Director Jackson Director of Wellness West Point Vice President of Marketing and Public Affairs Jackson President Gluckstadt Vice President for Nursing & Professional Affairs Jackson Vice President and Agent Magnolia Director of the Consumer Protection Division Jackson Executive Vice President Jackson Commissioner Jackson Senior Manager Jackson Broker/Realtor, Manager Pascagoula COO Columbia Coordinator of Business and Government Services Madison Chairman & CEO Ocean Springs Executive Director Jackson Director of Staffing, Recruiting & Employment Pascagoula Senior Vice President Jackson Co-Owner Starkville CEO Jackson Executive Director Meridian Director, Community Services, Stubbs Homeless Program Jackson Regional Chief Information Officer Bay St. Louis Director of Employee Benefits Services Jackson Operations Manager, Columbus District Columbus www.msbusiness.com

55

Class of 2005 Nancy Lottridge Anderson Terri Bell Marie Antoon Dianne Bolen Allegra Brigham Linda Boutwell Melissa Callahan Frieda McKissic Bush, M.D. Cecilia Reese Bullock Regina Charboneau Gloria Crechale, CPA Phyllis Sterling Dahl Peggy T. Dykes Tammy Davenport Sheila M. Freely Carol Farris Debbie Ferguson Jennifer Wilson Hall Ricki Garrett Shirley Hall Joan Hamilton Susanna A. Hays Beth Henderson Becky Hudgens Sara Jane Hope Cheryl Johnson Kristina Johnson Charlie Joiner Michelle Jones Linda Keng Donna Ladd Annie Lowery Brenda Lathan Elizabeth Maron Barbara Mauldin, D.D.S. Jennifer McBride Nora Miller Tracie McPherson Mary Pace, M.D. Wendy Polk Pat Nichols Carolyn Price Melissa Pringle, Ph.D. Charlotte Santa Cruz Vivian Taylor Rosie Vassallo Yvonne Stanford Linda Watts Mary Williams Ashley Willson

56

New Perspectives Inc. B Communications Inc. Mississippi Public Broadcasting Mississippi Home Corporation 4-County EPA Vice President of Private Banking Hudson’s East Lakeland OB/GYN Associates Historical Replications Inc. and Riverpointe Construction Co. Twin Oaks Bed & Breakfast/Regina’s Kitchen/Biscuits and Blues Burgess Crechale & Necaise, P.A. Snap & Go Products Inc. Eagle Ridge Conference Center Good Samaritan Physical Therapy U.S, Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development Itawamba County Development Council Mississippi State Hospital Mississippi Manufactured Housing Association Mississippi Nurses Association Hall’s Towing Service Inc. Sta-Home Health Agency Cellular South Inc. Greenwood-Leflore County Chamber of Commerce Methodist Children’s Homes Valley Services Regions Bank Watkins, Ludlam, Winter & Stennis, P.A. USDA Rural Development The Cottage Industry, LLP Watkins, Ludlam, Winter & Stennis, P.A. Jackson Free Press Crudup-Ward Activity Center Director of Research and Business Development Adams and Reese LLP Sole Proprietor Dentist J.M. Digital Corporation Mississippi University for Women Marsh USA Tupelo Medical Group Nissan North America DuPont Titanium Technologies BellSouth Telecommunications Inc. Vice President and Principal Scientist Santa Cruz Insurance Group LLC and Partner in the DelKen Group in Ridgeland Jackson State University, School of Instructional Leadership Madison the City Chamber of Commerce Coahoma Community College Mississippi Power Company Mid-South Hospice Inc. KPMG LLP

www.msbusiness.com

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

President Clinton Owner/President Hattiesburg Executive Director Jackson Executive Director Jackson CEO Columbus Regions/Morgan Keegan Hattiesburg CFO/COO Ellisville Partner Jackson Owner/President Jackson Owner Natchez Partner Jackson President/Owner Liberty Director Raymond Owner/CEO Vicksburg Area Director Starkville Executive Director Fulton Assistant Director Whitfield Executive Director Jackson Executive Director Madison Vice President Richland Administrator Jackson Vice President of Customer Operations Jackson Executive Vice President Greenwood President/CEO Madison Vice President of Training and Development Flowood Senior Vice President/Community bank president Gulfport Shareholder Jackson Program Director, Rural Business Cooperative Service Jackson Co-Owner/Consultant Starkville Shareholder Jackson Editor-In-Chief/Co-Owner Jackson President Forest Columbus-Lowndes Development Link Columbus Partner Jackson Partner, DiMa Homes Petal President Natchez Vice President for Finance and Administration Columbus Senior Vice President Jackson Partner Tupelo Coordinator of Corporate Communication and Public Relations Canton Plant Manager Pass Christian Manager of Alabama/Ms Infrastructure Planning Jackson Eco-Systems Inc. Meridian President/Owner Bay St. Louis Associate Dean Jackson Executive Director Madison Director of Library Sciences Clarksdale Manager of the Coast Division Gulfport CEO Clarksdale Partner Jackson

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Class of 2006 Betsy P. Aloway Diane D. Barrentine Angela L. Beasley Deborah M. Brangenberg LeAnne Brewer Donna Marie Brown Kathleen Bruno Maggie Clark Niani Colom Sherry P. Cook Vickie M. Cook Rachel D. Crews Jane Marie R. Dennis Margaret K. Druetta Scherry Gilliland Angie Diane Godwin Carolyn Ann Guice Vickie Ham Carol Hardwick Janet Y. Harris Amanda K. Jones Laura B. Jones Wanda M. Jones Mary Margaret Judy Katherine S. Kerby Christy Knapp Mary Lee Brooke O. Lewis Rica Lewis-Payton Becky F. Lowe Danada F. McMurtry Virginia Lee W. Mounger Joy L. Phillips Katrina N. Poe-Johnson, M.D. Mandy M. Pope Cathy M. Robertson Julia C. Ross Margaret H. Scurfield Lisa Slay Marilyn H. Smith Pamela P. Smith, Ph.D. Vickie L. Sneed Katherine P. Springer Belinda Stewart Owen E. Stratton Jasmine Pugh Taylor M.D. Danyelle Tedford-Carroll Becky Thompson Wanda C. Wilson Camille Scales Young

Furniture World Davis Pizza Enterprises HORNE LLP Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association Lovecomm Advertising Sales Gulf Hills Hotel & Conference Center Viking Cooking School Maggie Clark Media Services Soul Fleur Communications River Oaks Hospital Smith, Turner and Reeves, CPAs Central Mississippi Medical Center Specialty Contractors & Assoc. Inc. BellSouth Mississippi Mississippi Children’s Home Services Area Development Partnership The People’s Bank Asset Management Pro Audio Center Mississippi Economic Dev. Council Cardinal Health Bradley Arant Rose & White, LLC Mississippi Department of Education Mississippi Office of Nursing Workforce St. Catherine’s Village Gholson Hicks & Nichols, P.A. Oxford-Lafayette County EDF Inc. Frontier Strategies, LLC The Shed BBQ Inc./The Shed Franchise Department of Veterans Affairs St. Dominic Jackson Memorial Hospital Mississippi Department of Transportation Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission Hancock Bank Kilmichael Hospital and Clinic Parkway Properties Inc. BancorpSouth University of Mississippi Seabee Base Wesley Medical Center Metro Christian Living Mississippi Council on Economic Education Regions Bank Biloxi Regional Medical Center Belinda Stewart Architects, P.A. KPMG LLP University of Mississippi Medical Center Mobility Medical Inc. Mississippi Development Authority Jackson Convention and Visitors Bureau Watkins, Ludlam Winter & Stennis, P.A.

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

President and CEO Oxford President Coila Partner Jackson Executive Director Tupelo President and COO Jackson General Manager Ocean Springs Corp. Curriculum Development Manager/Creative Director Ridgeland President Brandon President Columbus Chief Nursing Officer Flowood Partner In Charge Oxford Director Of Marketing and Public Relations Jackson Majority Stockholder/Corp. Sec.-Treas.

Gulfport General Manager of Network Operations Crystal Springs Chief Development Officer Jackson President and CEO Hattiesburg Senior Vice President/Trust Officer Biloxi Co-Owner Richland Executive Director/COO Jackson Director of Clinical Improvement Brandon Partner Jackson Bureau Director of Student Achievement Jackson Executive Director Madison Executive Director Madison Vice President Columbus Vice President Oxford Creative Director Ridgeland Vice President/CFO Ocean Springs Deputy Network Director Jackson Vice President of Ancillary Services Jackson Professional Development Director Jackson Administrative Judge Jackson General Counsel/Senior Vice President Gulfport Family Medicine Physician Kilmichael Senior Vice President/Controller Jackson Executive Vice President Tupelo Head Women’s Basketball Coach Oxford Director of the U.S. Navy’s Fleet & Family Support Center Gulfport Director of Marketing Hattiesburg President Jackson President Jackson President/Branch Sales Manager Oxford Director of Strategic Planning Biloxi President Eupora Audit Partner Jackson Assoc. Vice Chancellor of Multicultural Affairs for Healthcare Jackson Founder Flowood Director, Global Business Division Jackson President/CEO Jackson Government Affairs Representative Jackson www.msbusiness.com

57

Class of 2007 DeAnna Adams Kate Barron Natasha Breakfield Baughman Gemma Douglas Beckley Sheryl Bey Jan Botts Lisa Bradley Vicky Bratton Sharon F. Bridges Donna W. Bruce Angela Cain Ruth J. Cook Penny Danford Ameder W. Danzy Kim Davis Deborah F. Dent, Ph.D. Cynthia Lane Dishongh Andrea La'Verne Edney Tommye Dale Favre Beth C. Fleming Angela M. Gambino Vicki L. Gilliam Cheri D. Green Sandra H. Harpole, Ph.D. Kathryn H. Hester Olivia Brown Host Steffani Jenkins Pat Connor Joachim Julie Johnson Melissa Jones Kay Johnson Kell Susan Lindsay Karen Livingston-Wilson Robyn M. McCrory Aileen S. McNeill Tay Cossar Morgan Kimberly J. Nastasi Barbara Russ Ousby Tammy Phillips Whitney Pickering Rhea Hudson Sheldon Cheryl E. Sparkman Meredith M. Travelstead Angelyn Scardino Treutel Brigetta K. Turner Amy E. West Amy D. Whitten Laurie Rosenbaum Williams Annie Peters Wimbish LouAnn Heath Woodward

58

Mississippi Technology Alliance Innovation Center A Bash Events Quality Manufacturing Group Rust College Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, PLLC North Mississippi State Hospital Gulfport Main Street Association Home Builders Association of Jackson Brunini Grantham Grower & Hewes, PLLC Johnson, Bruce & Host, PLLC Mississippi Association of Realtors Molpus Timberlands Management, LLC TempStaff Inc. Integrated Management Services Mississippi Delta Community College U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center Rankin Medical Center Brunini Grantham Grower & Hewes, PLLC Mississippi Department of Employment Security U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center Hancock Medical Center The Cochran Firm Brunini Grantham Grower & Hewes, PLLC Mississippi State University Watkins Ludlam Winter & Stennis, P.A. Johnson, Bruce & Host, PLLC Trustmark National Bank University of Southern Mississippi-Gulf Coast The Columbian-Progress Quality Manufacturing Group City of Pascagoula Jackson Preparatory School Butler Snow O'Mara Stevens & Cannada, PLLC City of Lexington Watkins Ludlam Winter & Stennis, P.A. Tay Morgan Designs Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce C&B Enterprises Inc. Community Bank of Mississippi Southern Living at HOME Abbott Simses & Kuchler Mississippi Department of Human Services The Women's Clinic Treutel Insurance Agency Inc. Brigetta K. Turner, DDS, PLLC Cadence Bank, N.A. The Whitten Group, P.A. Travelers Insurance Company Hattiesburg Public School District University of Mississippi Medical Center

www.msbusiness.com

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Executive Director Jackson Owner/Event Coordinator Oxford Director of Marketing and Public and Employee Relations Columbia Chair, Professor of the Social Work Department Holly Springs Partner Jackson Nurse Executive Tupelo Executive Director Gulfport Sales and Marketing Director Jackson Partner Jackson Member Jackson CEO Flowood Director of Strategic Planning Hattiesburg Business Development Manager Jackson Vice President of Special Projects Jackson Associate Vice President of Student Services Moorhead Acting Director of the Information Technology Laboratory Vicksburg CEO Brandon Partner Jackson Executive Director Jackson Director Vicksburg Chief Nursing Officer Bay St. Louis Managing Partner Jackson Partner Jackson Associate Vice President for Research Starkville Shareholder Jackson Partner Jackson Vice President/Director of Community Development Jackson Associate Provost Long Beach Advertising Director Columbia Vice President Columbia City Manager Pascagoula Head of School Jackson Partner Jackson Mayor Lexington Shareholder Jackson Owner Jackson CEO Gulfport Vice President Madison Deputy President/Administration Flowood Senior Director Laurel Managing Attorney Jackson Director, Division of Economic Assistance Jackson Practitioner/Partner Jackson Vice President Bay St. Louis Owner/Dentist Jackson Vice President of Human Resources Starkville Owner Jackson Senior Counsel Flowood Superintendent Hattiesburg Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Jackson

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Class of 2008 Cindy Baird Deborah Bermond Nancy Anne Branton Angela Bridges, PHD Debra Brown Rosemary Cargin Virginia Carter Wynelia Cherry Maria Cobb Keri Cole Patti Corder Loranne Paige Curry Melissa Dent Cecelia Derrington Shelia Dickard Morgan Dunn Sherribeth Farmer Lynn Fitch Amanda Fontaine Joey Garner Kathryn Gilchrist Vicki Helfrich Kelly Hogue Claire Ketner Christina Lakey Lynda Lesley Linda Mann Jessica Merrill Sharon Meyers Angel Misenhelter Melanie Morgan Angela Davis Morris Janette Nolan Mary Jean Padgett, PH.D., RN Regina Ramazani Jennifer Hammill Rebich Shelia Reed Teresa Renkenberger Stephanie Rippee Andrea Saffle Angel Sanford Cindy Shackleford Dr. Kathy Shropshire Suzanne Smith Joye Steen, PH.D. Sonia Travis Jaci Turner Ellen Waits Tammy Wood Gwendolyn Woodson

Community Bank Roy Anderson Construction UBS Financial Services, Inc. Grenada School District Phelps Dunbar BancorpSouth Huffman & Company, CPA East Mississippi Community College Rushing & Guice, PLLC Hinds Community College Cutting Edge Medical Magnolia State Bank Bomgar Pontotoc County Chamber of Commerce Region 6 - Life Help Mental Pioneer Health, Inc. BankPlus Mississippi Department of Employment Security MS Firefighters Memorial Burn Association TEC Adams & Reese, LLP Mississippi Public Utilities Staff Blue Sky Auction Brunini, Grantham, Grower & Hewes CenterPoint Energy The Cirlot Agency Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau Regions Bank USM Foundation Southern Eye Center Trustmark National Bank Davis-Morris Law Firm, P.A. Pioneer Aerospace Corporation Mississippi College School of Nursing Garden Park Community Geiger Windsor Health Plan, Inc. Merck Team Realty Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz Turtle Creek Mall McAlisterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corporation Merrill Lynch Mississippi Wildlife Federation Renasant Bank North Mississippi State Hospital Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical City of Pascagoula North Mississippi State Hospital Eagle Ridge Conference Center Grenada County Chamber

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

President VP for HR Account VP Owner Bridges Assoc.

Partner Vice President Manager Student Support Managing Partner Dean of e-Learning President Director Marketing VP Executive Director Dev. Coordinator Vice President Vice President Executive Director Executive Director Vice President Partner Director of Comm.

Owner Attorney District Manager Creative Director VP of Marketing Private Banking Mgr. Associate Director Development Director Dir. Of Corp. Comm.

Managing Attorney Production Manager Dean Director Account Executive Regional Director Realtor Shareholder Marketing Director Vice President Vice President Executive Director First VP Dir. Intervention Center Administrator Program Manager Dir. Intervention Center Assistant Director Community Dev. Director

Indianola Gulfport Jackson Grenada Jackson Jackson Terry Scooba Gulfport Raymond Jackson Jasper Jackson Pontotoc Greenwood Magee Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Gulfport Hattiesburg Hattiesburg Hattiesburg Jackson Clinton Gulfport Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Hattiesburg Jackson Jackson Jackson Tupelo Jackson Brookhaven Pascagoula Batesville Raymond Grenada

www.msbusiness.com

59

Class of 2009 Paula K. April Paula Graves Ardelean Crisler Moffat Boone Teresa Boutwell Sheri Pierce Bryan Sandra Massey Buckley Lindsay Buford Lesley L. Carter Cindi Clark Jennifer D'Aquilla Anne Michelle Daniel Beth Farris Rita Dennis Floyd Julie Jarrell Gresham C. Joyce Hall Margo Hemphill Tricia Herlihy Janet Herman Josie Mayfield Hudson Charmain Kanosky Judy Jones Lindsay Joanna Fulton Lousteau Manisha Sethi Malhotra Dorothy Roberts McEwen Melissa Medley Becky Huston Montgomery Carol Moore Debbie C. Norris Anna Oberhousen Lisa Palazzo Lauren H. Parry Gee Gee Patridge Shirley Reed Jennifer Riley Kathy Scarbrough Tina Ross-Seamans Martha Segars Tricia Stevens-Smith Deborah Steverson Janet Sullivan Anne Sullivan Melanie Sylvester Ann Coleman Thames Tawana Thompson Amy Tuck Lee Ann Turner Fran Weeks Nancy Carolyn Williams Christy Ellison Willis RenĂŠ Woodward

60

Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center Butler, Snow, O'Mara, Stevens & Cannada, PLLC Jackson Preparatory School American Healthtech Inc Cyre-Leike Realtors Mississippi Technology Alliance/CIT ChamberPlus/Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership Business Communications Inc. Super Limo Inc. & LegalTEMPS Inc. Roy Anderson Construction Corporation Community Place Eagle Ridge Conference and Training Center Trustmark National Bank Brunini Grantham Grower & Hewes, PLLC Watkins & Eager, PLLC Oneway Promotional Products, Inc. Watkins, Ludlam, Winter & Stennis, P.A. Mississippi Blood Services Attorney Josie Mayfield Hudson Mississippi State Medical Association Beyond Therapy Pediatric Clinic Canton Family Clinic Internal Med. & Pediatric Associates of Ridgeland, PLLC South Mississippi Regional Center Mississippi Development Authority Mississippi Power Company U.S. Depart. of Com. - Mississippi Export Assist. Ctr. Mississippi College WillStaff Worldwide Staffing Palazzo & Co., PLLC The Overby Company BankPlus U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg SA Technologies Navigator Credit Union Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce First American National Bank Baker Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, P.C. Magnolia Garden Assisted Living Mississippi Department of Transportation, Southern District Magnolia Speech School Grayson Blu Mississippi Department of Mental Health Viking Range Corporation Mississippi State University Perry, Winfield & Wolfe, P.A. Turkoyz Bladder Health Network Coldwell Banker Graham & Associates Jackson Municipal Airport Authority

www.msbusiness.com

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Director of Marketing Biloxi Attorney/Member Focusing on Employment Law Jackson Head of External Affairs Jackson Director of Human Resources Jackson Managing Broker Ridgeland Director of Marketing Executive Director Hazlehurst Senior Accounting Executive Ridgeland President Jackson Vice President of Risk Management Long Beach CEO and Administrator Jackson Professional Development Trainer Ridgeland Director of Organizational Development Attoney Biloxi Attorney Owner Richland Attorney Chief Operations Officer Attorney Vicksburg Director of Government Affairs Jackson Founder, CEO and Physical Therapist Jackson Owner and Nurse Practitioner Canton Owner Ridgeland Director Long Beach Communications Director Community Affairs Manager Pass Christian Director Jackson Vice President for Planning and Assessment Madison Account Manager Terry Administrator and Partner Biloxi Community Liason Ridgeland Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Morgan City Deputy for Small Business Vicksburg Senior Research Associate Madison Chief Communications Officer Pascagoula Executive Director Biloxi Founder, Manager Iuka Office Administrator Jackson Manager Laurel Special Projects Coordinator Natchez Executive Director Jackson President Lousville Director for the Bureau of Workforce Development and Planning Vice-President for Logistics Greenwood Special Assistant Starkville Family Law Starkville Owner Jackson Director of Account Management Pascagoula Realtor Madison Director of Human Resources and Administration

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Class of 2010 Clare Agostinelli Rosemary R. Aldridge Abby Barber Brann Nancy New Boyll Pamela Joy Britt Christine A. Bunting Virginia C. Carlton Serena Rasberry Clark Ann R. Cleland Deborah Walley Coleman Karen L. Cummins Margaret Oertling Cupples Jill I. Dent Cynthia Dobbs Kaye M. Dreifuerst Justice O'Keefe Duhon Evelyn Edwards Julie Ferguson Sherri M. Flowers-Billups Sherry Lewis Franklin Sharon Gray Garrison Natalie J. Gideon Bridget P. Hallett Shun Hatten Patricia R. Hemphill Lurlene Blakley Irvin, Ph.D. Judy L. Johnson Rosi K. Johnson Christi R. Kilroy Kathryn Lewis Konstantina Matheos L. Michele McCain Linda McCarthy Annie McMillan Edith Mitchell Michele Monk Emily Montgomery Joyce M. Plunkett Kendall Poole Mildred Ridgway, M.D. Elizabeth Robinson Linda K. Simmons Romy Simpson Julie Skipper Natalie Moses Smith Dr. Bridgette S. Stasher-Booker Lori Jackson Stewart Cheli Strumila Toni Walker Terrett Ginger Turner

Mississippi College Neel-Schaffer Inc. Hinds Community College New Summit School Mississippi Children’s Home Services Mississippi Blood Services Mississippi Court of Appeals Wise Carter Child HORNE LLP Mississippi National Guard Atmos Energy Corporation Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP Mississippi Department of Human Services Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce Security Credit Services, LLC Stewart, Sneed, Hewes Insurance BancorpSouth Women’s Specialty Center Law Office of Sherri Flowers Hinds Community College Mississippi Center for Justice NetLink Cabling Systems The Hallett Group Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau USACE, Vicksburg District Jackson State University Eaton Corp Mississippi Music, Inc Vicksburg-Warren Chamber of Commence Telling Trees Project Bridge to Recovery Adams and Reese Jackson Convention Complex Area Development Partnership Madison Central Health Integration New York Life Southern Farm Life Insurance River Hills Country Club Womens Specialty Center Blues Candy, LLC / Professional Staffing Watkins, Ludlam Winter & Stennis, P.A. Negrotto’s Gallery Community Foundation of Greater Jackson 16 WAPT University of MS Medical Center Jackson State University Coast Observer Law Office of Toni Walker Terrett Hinds Community College

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Assistant Director, Career Services Clinton Professional Engineer and Vice President Madison Alumni Coordinator Ridgeland Founder/Director Certified Public Accountant Ridgeland Manager of Corporate Training Brandon Judge Jackson Attorney Partner Jackson Counterdrug Coordinator Brandon Southaven Operations Manager Southaven Attorney/Partner Jackson Office for Children and Youth Jackson Public Relations/Media Manager Ocean Springs Executive Vice President Oxford Account Executive Hattiesburg Vice President of Community Reinvestment Practice Administrator Ridgeland Attorney Clinton Pearl/Rankin County Career & Technical Center Director Pearl Communications Director Owner Madison Owner/President Flowood Vice President of Sales Jackson Assistant Chief, Program & Project Management Division Vicksburg Director, Business Development & Economic Research Jackson Diversity Manager President Hattiesburg Executive Director Vicksburg Teaching and Volunteer Artist Owner Partner/Attorney General Manager Jackson Vice President, Community Development Hattiesburg Principal Madison Owner Yazoo City Sales Development Manager Human Resources Manager Jackson Director of Events Jackson Gynecological Oncologist Co-Owner Jackson Cheif Operating Officer Owner/Operator Director of Development & Communications Jackson Sales Executive Jackson Project Director Jackson Director, Student Life Communications & Outreach Jackson Owner Owner Vicksburg District Registrar & Director of Admissions and Records www.msbusiness.com

61

Class of 2011 Heather M. Aby Ivye L. Allen Jennifer Wages Anderson Nuria Arias Celia Barrett Tamika R. Bradley Haley Necaise Broom Jill Conner Browne Amy Lewis Champagne Stacy L. Cobbins Jan Coulter Collins Gretchen W. Cook Pamela Cotton Renee R. Cotton Lane Lawson Craft Sherri Davis-Garner Cecilia Dobbs Ginger Mott Edwards Jan Farve Eula Rodgers Forte Laura Limerick Gibbes Teresa B. Gillespie Pamela E. Gunter Bethany Reed Hairston Dana E. Harbers Janna Hughes Karen Lindsey-Lloyd Marlynn K. Martin Dodie McElmurray Wendy R. Mullins Gail W. Muse Kim Griffing Porter Katja Russell Amy Griffin Schrock Kathleen Shaughnessy Paula Shelton Sheramie Shore Elaine Stevens Mary McDaniel Swoope Helen Rose Taylor Becky Traweek Liza Vaughn Lisa Wade Linda Wagner Christina Nelson Walls Kathryn Walsh Patti Ware Rhea Williams-Bishop Sharen Willis Janet Zito

62

Biggs, Ingram, Solop & Carlson, PLLC The Foundation for the Mid South Flowood Chamber of Commerce Digital Opportunity Trust USA Celia Barrett Design, LLC Jackson State Dukes, Dukes, Keating & Faneca, P.A. Sweet Potato Queens Website, LLC Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC The Source of Mississippi Inc. Madison County Business League Parents & Kids Magazine Saks Fifth Avenue Madison River Oaks Hospital WHOA Ministries AARP City of Biloxi Gingersnaps of Highland Village Elmwood Staffing WAPT-TV Watkins, Ludlam, Winter & Stennis, P.A. Batson Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital Anderson, Crawley and Burke The Dermatology Clinic University Physicians Hughes Advertising Mississippi College Power APAC University of Mississippi Medical Center Arant Boult Cummings, LLP Holmes Community College Griffing and Associates Youth Villages Latitudes AT&T Genesis Training and Development New York Southern Style, LLC IP Casino Resort and Spa Watkins & Eager Brickfire Project Girl Scouts of Greater Mississippi Delta State University Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson Mississippi Blood Services Hinds Community College Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Intentional Friends Ministry Center for Education Innovation Department of Transportation Maris, West & Baker

www.msbusiness.com

* Previous 50 women winners are listed by where they worked and lived at the time of their selection.

Partner President/CEO Executive Director Regional Executive Owner Interim Chair Attorney Novelist Attorney President Executive Director Publisher Senior Human Resources Director Director of Marketing Founder Lobbyist Civil Service Commission Administrator Owner Manager Ad Salesperson Shareholder Chief Nursing Officer Partner Owner CEO Owner Director of Retention and Career Services Arts Director Administrator Special Counsel Coordinator Vice President and Financial Officer Director of Programs Owner/Decorator Region Director Owner Owner Public Relations Manager Business Development Coordinator CEO CEO Assistant Alumni Director Owner Vice President of Regulatory Affairs District Director of Human Resources Sales Manager President Executive Director Right Of Way Coordinator Vice President of Public Affairs

Hattiesburg Jackson Flowood Gulfport Jackson Jackson Gulfport Madison Jackson Canton Madison Jackson Jackson Canton Jackson Jackson Biloxi Jackson Hattiesburg Jackson Jackson Jackson Ridgeland Columbus Jackson Pearl Clinton Jackson Jackson Jackson Ridgeland Jackson Jackson Jackson Gulfport Madison Jackson Biloxi Jackson Columbus Jackson Cleveland Southaven Flowood Raymond Jackson Jackson Jackson Jackson Madison

2012 Fifty Leading Business Women in Mississippi

Eagle Ridge Conference Center... ...the natural choice for the 50 Leading Business Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2012 celebration

Photo by Dr. John J. Woods taken at Eagle Ridge Conference Center.

Nestled between Raymond Lake and the woods, Eagle Ridge Conference Center is the place to meet and learn in a setting close to nature. Come fish our lake and enjoy the wildlife around you after a productive meeting or training session with us. When you begin to plan your next meeting or conference, call:

601-857-7100 s CUSTOMIZED TRAINING s MEETING / BANQUET SPACE

s GUEST ROOMS s CATERING SERVICES

http://eagleridgems.com Raymond, MS Hinds Community College offers equal education and employment opportunities and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability or veteran status in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Dr. George Barnes, Vice President for Administrative and Student Services, 34175 Hwy. 18, Utica, MS 39175, 601.885.7001.

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