Top40 2013

SPONSORS

2 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

nt More eve , photos Pages 20-26

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

The 2013 Class

Deryll Stegall / Stegall Imagery

Class member ............................................Profile page Shane Aguirre ........................................................................................................5 J.R. Armstrong ........................................................................................................5 RoSusan D. Bartee ................................................................................................6 Heather Bennett ....................................................................................................6 Christina Moranda Berry ....................................................................................7 Roy Brittany Blacklidge ......................................................................................8 Rachel Bolanos ......................................................................................................8

Jennifer Boydston..................................................................................................9 Arnetrius Branson................................................................................................10 Adam Breerwood ................................................................................................10 Vaiden Clark ..........................................................................................................11 Nicholas Coughlin ................................................................................................12 Kyle Curran..............................................................................................................12 Scotty Elliott ..........................................................................................................13 Samuel â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trentâ&#x20AC;? Favre ..........................................................................................14

$ #

! "

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

William R. Flatt ....................................................................................................14 Christopher Ray Fontan ....................................................................................15 Brandi Granderson ..............................................................................................16 Tray Hairston..........................................................................................................16 Shawn Hanks..........................................................................................................17 Corey Hinshaw......................................................................................................18 Andrea Jones-Davis ............................................................................................18 Justin C. Martin ....................................................................................................19 Lindsay Martin-Nez............................................................................................28 Chance McDavid ................................................................................................28 Charles Ford Moore Jr. ......................................................................................29 Tonya Moore ........................................................................................................30 Ira Murray ..............................................................................................................30 Lee Nations ............................................................................................................31 Nikki Nissen............................................................................................................32 Troy Farrell Odom ................................................................................................32 Scott Pedigo ..........................................................................................................33 Ryan Roper............................................................................................................34 Alton Shaw............................................................................................................34 Jason Siegfried ....................................................................................................35 Ken Sones ..............................................................................................................36

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 3

Scott Stinson ........................................................................................................36 Michael Todaro ....................................................................................................37 Elizabeth Upchurch ............................................................................................38 Pamela Weaver....................................................................................................38

MBJ STAFF ALAN TURNER Publisher alan.turner@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1021 ROSS REILY Editor ross.reily@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1018 WALLY NORTHWAY Senior Writer wally.northway@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1016 FRANK BROWN Staff Writer/Special Projects frank.brown@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1022 TED CARTER Staff Writer ted.carter@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1017 CLAY CHANDLER Staff Writer clay.chandler@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1015 STEPHEN MCDILL Staff Writer stephen.mcdill@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1041

TAMI JONES Advertising Director tami.jones@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1011 MELISSA KILLINGSWORTH Account Executive melissa.harrison@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1030 ASHLEY VARNES Account Executive ashley.varnes@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1013 VIRGINIA HODGES Account Executive virginia.hodges@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1012 TACY RAYBURN Production Manager tacy.rayburn@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1019 CHARINA RHODES Administrative Assistant charina.rhodes@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1044 MARCIA KELLY-THOMPSON, Business Assistant marcia.kelly@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1044 Subscription Services (800) 451-9998

www.msbusiness.com

Our name says it all.

!

" ! # $ %&

! "

The only statewide business newspaper.

Mississippi owned. Mississippi proud.

For Subscription Services call (601) 364-1000 or (601) 364-1045 or email subscriptions@msbusiness.com Subscribe online at http://msbusiness.com/become-an-mbj-insider/ PLUS MAGAZINES & SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS: Book of Lists COME SEE US: Tourism, Meetings & Conventions in Mississippi NEXT: A Guide to Life After High School PULSE: Mississippi Health Care and many more...

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

Shane Aguirre Montgomery Enterprises

F

OR SHANE AGUIRRE, just learning to walk is what he considers his greatest accomplishment in life. Aguirre was born with cerebral palsy, but it hasn’t stopped he Tupelo native from becoming successful.

Since he became chief financial officer for Montgomery Enterprises in Fulton, Aguirre has improved the company’s accounting procedures and has helped Montgomery expand its operations by 17 percent.

Aguirre earned his masters of business administration at the University

of Mississippi in 1997. Before working at Montgomery Enterprises, he was finance director for Mantachie Rural Healthcare.

He is a former director of American Legion Boys State and is an active member of the Mississippi State University Alumni Board. He volunteers with the Helping Hands Food Pantry.

His colleagues and friends consider Aguirre outgoing and friendly. He is an avid outdoorsman, enjoying boating and hiking. He’s also a huge Mississippi State fan and can be found attending Bulldogs sporting events on the weekends.

J.R. Armstrong May & Company

B

ECOMING A partner at Vicksburg accounting firm May & Company before the age of 30 might have been J.R. Armstrong’s greatest professional accomplishment thus far, but the Forest native gives all the glory to God. At May & Company, his responsibilities include supervising tax and consulting engagements while striving to deliver ethical and creative solutions to his clients’ challenges.

He is active in the Vicksburg commu-

nity, serving as a committee chairman for several nonprofits, including the Vicksburg Kiwanis Club, United Way and the Vicksburg Art Association.

Armstrong is a Mississippi State University graduate and is active with the school’s alumni association and the MSU Advisory Council.

He takes a “don’t sweat the small stuff” approach in life, and believes that his sense of humor is his most valuable personal trait. In his spare time, he enjoys golf, fishing, riding four-wheelers and following college football.

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 5

6 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

RoSusan D. Bartee University of Mississippi

D

R. ROSUSAN BARTEE was the first African American woman to earn the rank of tenured professor in the academic department at the University of Mississippi, and she has made a profound impact in educational leadership.

She is a professor and program coordinator in the Department of Leadership and Counselor Education, and her academic focus is on research, teaching and service.

Bartee was raised in Shubuta and

earned her doctorate in education policy studies at the University of Illinois.

Before joining the faculty at Ole Miss, she was associate director of the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education in Washington, D.C. Over the course of her career, Bartee has authored or edited three books and published nearly 30 journal articles, book chapters and other academic works.

She is an accomplished classical pianist who enjoys listening to a wide range of music. She also enjoys entertaining friends, cooking and traveling.

Heather Bennett W.G. Yates & Sons Construction Company

H

EATHER BENNETT is corporate counsel of W. G. Yates & Sons, one of the 50 largest building contractor groups in the United States.

Since joining Yates more than six years ago, Bennett has assumed a lead role in problem solving, dispute resolution and employee training with the company. As a corporate counsel, Bennett was instrumental in negotiating contract terms with clients like Chevron

and Southern Company. She also has led multiple training courses for Yatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; employees, project managers and superintendents in support of these and other business projects.

Bennett earned her law degree from the Emory University School of Law and is active with the Mississippi Bar. She also serves on the board of directors for both the Mississippi Women Lawyers Association and Mississippi Corporate Counsel Association. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and traveling.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 7

Christina Moranda Berry City of Columbus

I

T WAS ONLY 3 ½ years ago that Christina Moranda Berry was spending her days looking for a job after being laid off. Finding an urban planner job proved difficult but the Mendenhall native never gave up.

Today, Berry is the city planner for Columbus and serves as technical advisor to the mayor and city council. She manages the city’s long- and shortterm planning projects and works

closely with developers.

Berry is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi and earned her master’s in urban and regional planning from Jackson State University.

She also believes in giving back to her city. She organized 100 volunteers and raised money to paint the homes of 10 elderly residents. Berry is a single mother, but finds time to enjoy traveling, dining out, photography and playing with her boxer puppy Roc.

Congratulations to LEE NATIONS on being named TOP 40 UNDER 40 Aladdin Construction Co.,Inc. ..........................................................................Biloxi, MS Benchmark Construction ................................................................................Jackson, MS Can’t Be Beat Fence Co., LLC ..................................................................Perkinston, MS Coleman Hammons Construction Co. ........................................................Brandon, MS D. Carroll Construction, LLC. ..........................................................................Oxford, MS Dan Hensarling, Inc. ......................................................................................Gulfport, MS David Smith Construction, Inc. ..................................................................Inverness, MS Edgin Construction............................................................................................Natchez, MS Fletcher Construction Co., Inc.................................................................Pascagoula, MS Fountain Construction,....................................................................................Jackson, MS George P. Hopkins, Inc. ..................................................................................Gulfport, MS Glenn Miller Construction ................................................................................Cruger, MS H. Gordon Myrick, Inc.....................................................................................Gulfport, MS Harris Constructors, Inc. ............................................................................Ridgeland, MS Harvey Construction ........................................................................................Jackson, MS High Point Contractors, Inc. ..........................................................................Gulfport, MS Irby Construction Company ............................................................................Jackson, MS J. A. Moss Construction Company, Inc. ....................................................Florence, MS J. Levens Builders, Inc.............................................................................Long Beach, MS J. O. Collins Contractors, Inc. ..........................................................................Biloxi, MS J. W. Puckett & Co...........................................................................................Gulfport, MS Jennic Construction & Management, LLC ..............................................D'Iberville, MS Johnson Construction ..........................................................................................Pearl, MS Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. ............................................................Peachtree City, GA Leflore Construction, LLC................................................................................Jackson,MS Mid-State Construction .................................................................................. Jackson, MS Nall Construction ............................................................................................Madison, MS Panola Construction Company, Inc. ..........................................................Batesville, MS Perry Construction Co. ............................................................................Philadelphia, MS PSC Corp.........................................................................................................Ridgeland, MS Raybourn Construction ................................................................................Columbia, MS Roy Anderson Corp ..........................................................................................Gulfport, MS

Samuel B. Day Construction, Inc. ................................................................Gulfport, MS Southern Highway Solutions, LLC ..........................................................Moss Point, MS Starks Contracting Company, Inc.....................................................................Biloxi, MS Stewart Construction Co. ..........................................................................Pascagoula, MS T & M Steel Erectors, Inc. ..........................................................................Columbus, MS T L Wallace Construction Co.......................................................................Columbia, MS Thrash Commercial Contractors, Inc. ........................................................Brandon, MS Walters Construction Co., Inc. ........................................................................Laurel, MS A & C Industrial Inc. ..................................................................................Long Beach, MS Delta Constructors, Inc. ................................................................................Flowood, MS Dirtworks Inc. of Vicksburg ........................................................................Vicksburg, MS Eubank Construction Co., Inc. ..................................................................Booneville, MS Eutaw Construction Co., Inc. ......................................................................Aberdeen, MS Graham Construction ..................................................................................Escatawpa, MS Hemphill Construction Co., Inc. ..................................................................Florence, MS Holliday Construction, LLC ........................................................................Poplarville, MS Kappa Development & General Contracting ..............................................Gulfport, MS Moody Construction Co. ..............................................................................Louisville, MS Perma Corporation ......................................................................................Columbus, MS SCI, Inc. ................................................................................................................Biloxi, MS Shannon Engineering & Construction, Inc. ................................................Belzoni, MS Thweatt Const, Inc. ..........................................................................................Canton, MS Utility Partners, LLC. ......................................................................................Gulfport, MS

8 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Roy Brittany Blacklidge Blacklidge Emulsions

A

S AN ADULT, Roy Brittany Blacklidge has never worked anywhere other than Blacklidge Emulsions, a company launched by his father, Ronnie, who taught him the meaning of hard work and the importance of perseverance in the business world.

Blacklidge Emulsions was one of the Mississippi Business Journal’s 50 fastest growing companies in 2010.

As president of the Gulfport firm, Blacklidge has several single or joint U.S. worldwide patents or patents pend-

ing in asphalt technology.

Blacklidge helped build NASCAR’s Homestead International Speedway and Daytona Speedway.

He is a graduate of the 2011 Mississippi Gulf Coast Economic Development Master Class. He also is active in the Gulfport community, donating his time to the Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport, Boys and Girls Club, Gulfport and Biloxi city schools and the Feed My Sheep charity.

When he’s not working, Blacklidge enjoys fitness activities, hunting and deep-sea fishing.

Rachel Bolanos Hilton Garden Inn in Madison

A

S A FORMER INTERN with Walt Disney World during her college years, Rachel Bolanos learned a customerfocused philosophy that she has been able to implement as director of sales for the Hilton Garden Inn in Madison.

With a passionate attitude and strong desire to succeed, the Jackson native tries to make sure all aspects of her involvement are perfect. In addition to formulating sales strategies,

Bolanos is responsible for creating and updating the hotel’s annual business plan. In her first year as director of sales, she exceeded the hotel’s annual revenue projections.

Away from the job, Bolanos serves as a volunteer with Restoration Hope, Stewpot Community Services and Webster Animal Shelter.

She lives in Madison with her husband and dog Primo. Bolanos enjoys reading and is a big fan of Harlan Coben novels.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

Jennifer Boydston Law Offices of Richard C. Roberts

J

ENNIFER BOYDSTON thoroughly enjoys her career as a family law attorney with the Law Offices of Richard C. Roberts in Ridgeland, but the Georgia native also takes pleasure in devoting her non-working hours to cultural endeavors.

She stays active with Mississippi Museum of Art and the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, and last year served as chair of the Jackson Symphony Leagueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spring Luncheon. In 2011, she assumed the role of chief

financial officer for the annual Symphony Ball, the Leagueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s principal fund-raising activity.

Boydston earned her law degree from the Mississippi College School of Law in 2002. Before joining the Roberts law firm, she served as the staff attorney for the 11th Chancery Court District of Mississippi.

Boydston is an avid tennis player and participates on two different league teams and the River Hills JLTA squad.

In her spare time, she enjoys traveling abroad with her husband.

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 9

10 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Arnetrius Branson Jackson Municipal Airport Authority

W

ORKING AT the state’s largest and busiest airport can be challenging but Arnetrius Branson takes it all in stride.

The Canton native is accounting and finance manager of the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority.

Branson is responsible for the daily activities and operations of the Finance Department, including payroll, invoicing, cash receipts and accounts payable.

Before joining the airport authority, she served as an accountant with the

State of Mississippi and as a financial analyst with WorldCom. Branson received an MBA in accounting from Mississippi College and is an alumna of Alcorn State University.

Branson believes her most valuable skill is her critical thinking abilities, and she describes herself as “methodical.”

Branson is active in several professional organizations, including the Institute of Finance and Management and the American Association of Airport Executives.

She also enjoys spending time with her family.

Adam Breerwood Pearl River Community College

B

EING A FIRST-generation college graduate taught Adam Breerwood the importance of an education early on in his life. Now, as vice president for Pearl River Community College, Breerwood is responsible for the administrative oversight of Pearl River’s main Poplarville campus and the Hancock Center.

Before his work in administration, he was the college’s head soccer coach and assistant baseball coach. In 2005, Breerwood was inducted into the Pearl

River Community College Sports Hall of Fame.

Breerwood is a graduate of William Carey University and earned his doctorate in higher educational administration from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2003.

He is president of the Poplarville Rotary Club and is a board member of the Pearl River County Crimestoppers.

Breerwood is an avid runner and enjoys coaching his son’s 12-year-old select baseball team.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 11

Vaiden Clark Merchants and Farmers Bank

V

AIDEN CLARK likes to think outside of the box when it comes to banking.

When he launched the ORE Division for M & F Bank in 2009, the real estate market had collapsed and previous values were irrelevant. But Clark and his new team sold more than $50 million in properties, contested property taxes and saved the bank more than $100,000 in his first year.

In February, Clark was rewarded with a promotion to vice president for

corporate banking. The Mississippi Delta native earned his law degree from the Mississippi College School of Law and an MBA from MCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Graduate School of Business.

He considers his greatest role model to be his mother, who taught Clark the meaning of hard work, grace and humility.

Clark is an active member of Christ United Methodist Church of Jackson and has been a volunteer for Gateway Mission, the Mississippi Arthritis Foundation and the Mississippi Society for Disabilities.

APPLAUSE, APPLAUSE! Justin Martin

Ford Moore

- *) + ' ( $) *& "%

$ %' ' ( $) %*) + $

%$ ' )*" ) *() $ ') $ $ %' %%' %' # ! $ %*' %##*$ ). )) ' &" $ %' ) ' 1 %& $ ' 2 , ' ) ( , "" ( '+

MISSISSIPPI |

ALABAMA

| FLORIDA

| TENNESSEE

CommunityBank.net 0 %##*$ ). $! / # '

12 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Nicholas Coughlin Innovate Mississippi

T

HERE AREN’T MANY young Mississippi professionals who can say they were fired by billionaire Donald Trump, but Nick Coughlin can.

One of 26,000 applicants for Season 10 of NBC prime time hit “The Apprentice,” Coughlin made it into the Top 20 before he was cut. A few months later, he was chosen to star on ABC’s “Expedition Impossible” reality show.

Today, the Clinton native works for Innovate Mississippi as the company’s

Angel Network manager, a position designed to help startups with fundraising strategies.

Before joining Innovate, Coughlin worked as a project manager for the Mississippi Development Authority and developed a video website dedicated to showcasing young athletes.

He was overweight as a child, and considers his dedication to staying healthy and fit as his most significant personal accomplishment. In his spare time, he enjoys weightlifting, hunting and fishing.

Kyle Curran BancorpSouth

D

URING HIS 15-year banking career with BancorpSouth, Kyle Curran has worked in several markets, including Jackson, Olive Branch and Collierville, Tenn. But it’s his latest stop they may be the sweetest. Curran today is a BancorpSouth president based in Louisville.

He oversees the day-to-day operations of the Louisville branches, entrenching himself in the Winston County community to meet the needs

of his clients.

Curran is a graduate of the LSU Graduate School of Banking.

Curran said that to make a difference in the world, one has to get involved, find something that matches their passions and work to serve that cause.

He is a former Eagle Scout and serves on the board of directors for the Louisville Chamber of Commerce. He also is a member of the local Rotary Club.

Curran has a daughter and a son and enjoys playing golf and spending time with his family when he’s not working.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

Scotty Elliott One Life America Insurance Company

B

EFORE JOINING One Life America Insurance Company in Meridian, Scotty Elliott excelled in both the classroom and athletic arena. He is a member of the Mississippi College Hall of Fame and earned team MVP honors as the Choctawsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; starting quarterback his senior year. He has also been a public schoolteacher and coach.

As chief executive officer for One Life America, Elliott is responsible for the

day-to-day operations of a company employs 150 and boasts 1,000 contracted agents across the nation. In his leadership role, he recently launched a financial services division at One Life and rebranded the company. He also is a Life Management Institute Fellow.

He is a member of the Meridian Rotary Club and the 2013 Leadership Lauderdale class. Elliott teaches Sunday School at Westwood Baptist Church and has served on the District 5 Fellowship of Christian Athletes board of directors.

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 13

14 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Samuel ‘Trent’ Favre Jones Walker Law Firm

B

ORN AND raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Trent Favre is living his dream of practicing law with one of the region’s most respected legal organizations.

As a partner with Jones Walker law firm in Gulfport, Favre has experience litigating disputes for engineering firms, contractors, insurance companies and real estate developers. He is a member of the Mississippi Board of Bar

Admissions Committee on Character and Fitness.

Favre sits on the boards of the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce and the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, and the Bay-Waveland affiliate of Habitat for Humanity.

He is a deacon at First Baptist Church of Bay St. Louis, and teaches Sunday school.

In his spare time, Favre enjoys playing tennis, hiking and kayaking.

William R. Flatt Oxbow Ventures

W

ILL FLATT CAME from what he calls a “modest background,” but has accomplished much during his young

professional life.

He graduated magna cum laude from Millsaps college, then earned an MBA from the prestigious University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

Today, Flatt is managing director of Oxbow Ventures, a private equity and advisory partnership he co-founded

with Jim Barksdale and Ken Sones.

Before joining Oxbow, the Gulfport native worked for 16 years in a variety of capacities with Jackson real estate trust firm Parkway Properties.

Flatt is a member of the Board of Trustees and the Advisory Board to the Else School of Management at Millsaps.

He also was selected by former Gov. Haley Barbour in 2011 to join a study commission of the Mississippi Public Employment Retirement System.

Flatt is the father of two daughters and enjoys reading in his leisure time.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 15

www.msbusiness.com

Christopher Ray Fontan Brunini Law Firm

C

HRIS FONTAN joined the Brunini Law Firm in 2006, shortly after receiving his juris doctorate summa cum laude from the Mississippi College School of Law. Though the Meridian native has extensive labor and employment litigation experience, Fontan also handles training for employers on a variety of workplace topics, including sexual harassment, Title Seven, EEOC compliance and the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Before attending law school, he served as program director for the Aphasia Hope Foundation.

Fontan is a member of the Jackson Young Lawyers Association and the Society of Human Resource Management. He also serves as human resource legal advisor for Habitat for Humanity of Metro Jackson.

The father of two pre-school-aged children and an avid runner, Fontan enjoys spending the majority of his free time engaged in family activities.

Congratulations

Chance McDavid

Vaiden Clark from all of your friends at M&F Bank for being named one of Mississippi Business Journal's

Top 40 Under 40.

Fast. Simple. Local. www.mfbank.com 800.379.5465 2013 M&F Bank

Member FDIC

We are proud of you Daddy!

From your family & friends

16 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Brandi Granderson Graffiti Glam Revolution

G

ROWING UP IN her native Jackson, Brandi Granderson made a commitment to bring awareness to her hometown and Mississippi.

In 2004, she opened her first business. Four years later, Alfred Angelo Bridal Boutique selected her as the store’s first Mississippi manager. Today, she is president and CEO of Graffiti Glam Revolution, an upscale woman’s clothing and accessories boutique.

Granderson is enrolled in the MBA program at Jackson State University and was recently selected as one of 15 students to represent the college through JSU’s China Initiative Program.

She volunteers with several local organizations, including Toys for Tots, Relay for Life and the Salvation Army.

Granderson is a 2012 graduate of Leadership Jackson, and is active with the Junior League of Jackson. In her leisure time, she enjoys traveling and visiting jazz clubs.

Tray Hairston Counsel and adviser to Gov. Phil Bryant

W

HEN TRAY Hairston reports to work every morning these days, he goes right to the top. That’s because Hairston serves as counsel and adviser to Gov. Phil Bryant for economic development, public financing and housing issues.

Hairston is a former project manager with Mississippi Development Authority’s Global Business Division, and now acts as the governor’s liaison to MDA and the state bond commis-

sion. In early 2012, he was instrumental in helping the governor pass the Mississippi Health Zone Industry Act. Before joining MDA, the Jackson native practiced law at Balch & Bingham, where he focused primarily on commercial transactions and tax matters.

In addition to his other duties, Hairston teaches a judicial externship seminar at the Mississippi College School of Law, a class covering the philosophy of judging and research and writing.

In his spare time, Hairston coaches his daughter’s soccer team.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

Shawn Hanks Jackson Municipal Airport Authority

I

N HIS JOB AT the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority, Shawn Hanks is fond of saying his customers are “everyone.”

That’s because as Information Technology Manager at Mississippi’s largest airport, the McComb native provides information to not only employees and airport tenets but also to patrons from all over the world who view the flight information display systems. As IT manager, Hanks is responsible for all telecommunica-

tions design, installation and maintenance within the JMAA. Before joining the agency, he served as a technology consultant for the Mississippi Department of IT Services and as a systems analyst for MCI Worldcom. Hanks is a graduate of Copiah-Lincoln Community College.

Hanks says listening may be his most valuable personal skill. Hanks enjoys spending time with his wife and children and researching changes in technology that could impact his workplace.

C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S to

HEATHER FARRIS BENNETT on your selection to the

MISSISSIPPI BUSINESS JOURNAL’S TOP 40 UNDER 40 for 2013.

We are proud of you!

Your family and friends

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 17

18 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Corey Hinshaw Watkins & Eager

S

ERVING HIS CLIENTS with zeal and integrity is important to Corey Hinshaw, but helping underserved people when they cannot afford representation means the world to him.

Hinshaw is a member attorney with Jackson law firm Watkins & Eager, and has been recognized by both The Mississippi Bar and Jackson Young Lawyers for his pro bono work. At Watkins & Eager, his primary practice focuses on general civil defense, business

defense and medical malpractice cases.

Hinshaw, a Laurel native, graduated magna cum laude from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 2004. He serves on the board of directors for the Mississippi Center for Legal Services Corporation and the Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project.

He is the father of two pre-schoolaged sons and credits his parents for instilling the virtues of hard work and respect for others. Hinshaw is an avid reader of Mississippi history, he enjoys camping in his leisure time.

Andrea Jones-Davis Toot, Teach & Roll of Jackson

I

F ANDREA JONES-DAVIS had one word she’d use to describe herself, that word would be “dedicated.” The owner and chief instructional leader for Toot, Teach & Roll of Jackson was a single teenage mother of two who never gave up on her dream to own her own business.

At Toot, Teach & Roll, the Grenada native is responsible for professional development training for parents, and remediation and enrichment for students pre-K through the high school.

Before founding her company, JonesDavis worked as an instructional technology facilitator with the Jackson Public Schools.

Jones-Davis was named the 2012 “Technology Consultant of the Year” by Early Years Consultants and “Parent of the Year” at Power APAC in 2009. She earned her Masters of Art in Teaching Business Education from Mississippi College in 2009. She also is a Leadership Jackson graduate.

In her spare time, Jones-Davis enjoys playing tennis.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

Justin C. Martin Community Bank

A

S THE YOUNGEST executive vice president at Community Bank, Justin Martin is aware that in business, one has to take advantage of all opportunities. Martin is keen on relationship building and he prides himself helping large and small businesses fund their dreams to create jobs and fuel the Lee County economy.

A recent graduate of the LSU Graduate School of Banking, Martin earned his Bachelor of Business degree

from Mississippi State University.

Before joining the Community Bank team in 2007, he worked as a bank examiner for the Mississippi Department of Banking and Consumer Finance.

Martin is active in civic affairs, serving on the board of directors with the Tupelo Kiwanis Club and on the advisory council of the Renasant Center for IDEAs. Additionally, he is a member of the Jim Ingram Community Leadership Institute.

In his leisure time, Martin enjoys training and running in marathons.

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 19

20 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Mississippi Business Journal

Jeff Goode and Aven Whittington III of Mangia Bene catered the Top 40 Under 40 luncheon.

The Luncheon The Mississippi Business Journalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Top 40 Under 40 luncheon is one of the highlights of the business community for the state. This year, nearly 500 business people and their familes, friends and co-workers gathered at the Trade Mart in Jackson to celebrate the best and brightest young people and leaders of the state. There was plenty of fun, food, music and celebration for all.

Tiger Rogers performs with Raphael Semmes during the Top 40 Under 40 luncheon.

All luncheon photos by Dery

Mississippi Business Journal

yll Stegall of Stegall Imagery

www.msbusiness.com

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 21

Stephanie Maxwell of WAPT-TV helped announce the honorees.

22 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Mississippi Business Journal

Raphael Semmes performs at the Top 40 Under 40 luncheon.

Color guard from WingďŹ eld High School Junior ROTC. DERYLL STEGALL / for the Mississippi Business Journal

Alan Turner, Mississippi Business Journal publisher, opens the luncheon.

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 23

The Pledge of Allegience

Jeff Goode discusses his luncheon choices.

DERYLL STEGALL / for the Mississippi Business Journal

24 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Mississippi Business Journal

MBJ publisher Alan Turner, left, and Journal Inc publisher Clay Foster.

DERYLL STEGALL / for the Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 25

DERYLL STEGALL / for the Mississippi Business Journal

26 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

DERYLL STEGALL / for the Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

Mississippi Business Journal

The would like to congratulate the 2013 class of

2013 SPONSORS

Shane Aguirre J.R. Armstrong RoSusan D. Bartee Heather Bennett Christina Moranda Berry Roy Blacklidge Rachel Bolanos Jennifer Boydston Arnetrius Branson Adam Breerwood Vaiden Clark Nicholas Coughlin Kyle Curran Scotty Elliott Samuel â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trentâ&#x20AC;? Favre William R. Flatt Christopher Ray Fontan Brandi Granderson Tray Hairston Shawn Hanks Corey Hinshaw Andrea Jones-Davis Justin C. Martin Lindsay Martin-Nez Chance McDavid Charles Ford Moore Jr. Tonya Moore Ira Murray Lee Nations Nikki Nissen Troy Farrell Odom Scott Pedigo Ryan Roper Alton Shaw Jason Siegfried Ken Sones Scott Stinson Michael Todaro Elizabeth Upchurch Pamela Weaver

28 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Lindsay Martin-Nez BadgePass

L

INDSAY MARTIN-NEZ believes if you work for a small business, you must be able to wear a lot of hats. In fact, the native of Buffalo, N.Y., refers to her job title at Ridgeland’s BadgePass as “Director of You Name It.” Her expertise is in solution and system sales in the security and identification industry, educating and working with existing dealer partners and recruiting new dealers for the BadgePass product line.

A graduate of Xavier University in

Cincinnati, Ohjio, Martin-Nez implemented a comprehensive social media marketing strategy for the company in 2012, establishing Facebook, Twitter and You Tube accounts.

Although relocating to Mississippi was a significant change, Martin-Nez admits that it was the best decision she ever made.

When she’s not working, Martin-Nez enjoys playing golf, reading, traveling and going to the movies. In high school, she was captain for the boys’ varsity golf team.

Chance McDavid Mississippi State University Extension Service

C

HANCE McDAVID is a firm believer that the core of anyone’s success can be traced to a supportive and nurturing family.

McDavid is a senior associate and regional broadband coordinator for Mississippi State University’s Extension Service office in Raymond. He provides leadership and coordination to the Extension Broadband Education Initiative in 16 counties in Mississippi.

McDavid considers his selection to the 2013 Class of Leadership Mississippi his greatest professional achievement

after launching the Starkville Young Professionals organization while employed by the Greater Starkville Development Partnership.

McDavid previously worked for the MSU Extension Service in Hattiesburg, Gulfport and Starkville. He is a certified professional community and economic developer and holds a certificate from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute Program.

McDavid grew up in Brookhaven, but he and his wife, Kayla, currently reside in Clinton, and are the parents of two sons, Brayden and Trace. He enjoys fishing and playing golf.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 29

www.msbusiness.com

Charles Ford Moore Jr. Community Bank

C

HARLES FORD MOORE JR. may hold the title of senior vice president at Community Bank, but the Memphis native wears many other banking hats.

Consider that he also is branch manager in Southaven, business development program coordinator for DeSoto County, customer relationship coordinator and bankruptcy officer for DeSoto County and Memphis markets.

After graduating from Delta State University in 1999, Moore completed

banking school programs at LSU and the Barrett School in Memphis.

He was chosen as the Southaven Chamber of Commerceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2005 Man of the Year.

Moore believes a strong leader is one who is able to clearly communicate a vision to others.

He lists his most significant personal accomplishment as serving as a good father and teaching teamwork and leadership skills to young ladies on the softball field. In his leisure time, Moore enjoys cooking and outdoor sports.

The School of Business at Mississippi College Congratulates

SCOTTY ELLIOT

on being chosen as one of Mississippiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

TOP 40 UNDER 40

30 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Tonya Moore University Hospitals-UMMC

A

S THE CHIEF learning officer for University Hospitals, Tonya Moore is responsible for the development and management of UMMC’s non-clinical learning strategies and programs.

But the Chicago native’s contributions extend well beyond Mississippi’s largest healthcare facility.

Moore is actively involved in the community as a volunteer and is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American

Association for Critical Care Nurses, Mississippi Nurses Association and Toastmaster’s International Club.

She was named to the Mississippi Business Journal’s 2012 Healthcare Hero Class and was selected as one of Modern Healthcare’s “Up and Comers” in 2011.

The granddaughter of civil rights pioneer Charles Evers, Moore earned her doctorate from the University of Alabama-Birmingham.

When she’s not working, Moore enjoys salsa dancing.

Ira Murray United Way

T

HROUGHOUT HIS CAREER at United Way of the Capital Area, Ira Murray has helped increase the organization’s profile in the community.

The native of Columbia, S.C., is vice president of community impact and oversees all programs, grants and partnerships with United Way’s 40plus partners.

In 2012, Murray joined the United Way Worldwide leadership team that crafted the network’s first-ever Talent Development Strategy, which is dedicat-

ed to recruiting and retaining leaders for the future.

Murray received his master’s of education in community development from the Peabody College of Vanderbilt University.

He is active in the community as a member of the Young Professionals Alliance of Greater Jackson, Young Leaders in Philanthropy and the Community Foundation of Greater Jackson. He also is a high school basketball referee. His hobbies include reading, traveling and spending time with family.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 31

www.msbusiness.com

Lee Nations Associated General Contractors of Mississippi

F

OR LEE NATIONS, listening is one of the most important aspects of being a leader.

As the executive director for Association General Contractors of Mississippi, Nations is the voice for one of the largest building trades organizations in the state. His job encompasses member and government relations, marketing and strategic planning, as well as the organization’s self-insured workers compensation program.

Before joining AGC, he served as director of business development for Evan Johnson & Sons Construction and as a vice president for Parkway Properties.

Nations earned his MBA from Millsaps College’s Else School of Management.

He is on the board of directors for the Region 6 Fellowship of Christian Athletes and North Jackson Youth Baseball.

Nations is married to his junior high school sweetheart.

In his leisure time, he enjoys hunting, playing golf and boating.

BRUNINI CONGRATULATES CHRIS FONTAN IN BEING NAMED AS ONE OF MISSISSIPPI BUSINESS JOURNAL’S TOP 40 UNDER 40

M a y & C o mp an y, LLP co n g ra tula te s

JR Armstrong, CPA

CHRIS FONTAN FOCUSES HIS PRACTICE IN LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT LAW INCLUDING VARIOUS STATE AND FEDERAL COMPLIANCE ISSUES AND WORKERS COMPENSATION

Brunini Grantham Grower & Hewes, PLLC 190 East Capitol Street, Jackson, MS 39201 727 Howard Ave., Biloxi, MS 39530 410 Main Street, Columbus, MS 39705-0024 /LVWLQJ RI DUHDV RI SUDFWLFH GRHV QRW LQGLFDWH DQ\ FHUWL¿FDWLRQ RI H[SHUWLVH Free background information available upon request

o n h is r e co g n i t io n of 0 L V V LV V LS S L· V 7 RS 8 QG H U

Vicksburg, MS | www.maycpa.com | 601.636.4762

32 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Nikki Nissen St. Dominic Hospital

I

T TAKES A STRONG leader with a direct style to function in the arena of emergency medicine, and Nikki Nissen shines in that capacity.

Nissen is director of emergency services at St. Dominic Hospital, which manages approximately 49,000 emergency room visits annually. With more than a decade of service, Nissen has served in a variety of roles with St. Dominic, including nursing supervisor, nurse manager and staff nurse.

The Baton Rouge, La., native earned

her master’s in executive nursing from the University of Southern Mississippi.

In 2010, Nissen received the Elizabeth Harkins Award for Excellence in Nursing from USM. Self-described as “passionate,” Nissen considers rearing her two sons as a single mother is her most significant personal accomplishment.

In her spare time, she enjoys serving as a medical staff volunteer for area marathon running events and cooking Italian food.

Troy Farrell Odom Blair & Bondurant

A

CCORDING TO Troy Farrell Odom, it wasn’t until he arrived at the University of Mississippi School of Law that he realized his potential. Odom devoted himself to his studies at Ole Miss and graduated cum laude.

Today, the native of Tacoma, Wash., is enjoying a thriving legal career, handling a full caseload as a partner with Brandon law firm Blair & Bondurant.

Before joining the firm a decade ago,

Odom worked as a case manager for the Adolescent Offender’s Program of Pine Belt Mental Healthcare Resources.

Odom serves as president of the Mississippi Oil & Gas Lawyers Association and as chair of the nominating committee for the Mississippi Bar. He also is certified as a guardian ad litem, which serves as the investigative arm for the chancery court in minor’s matters.

When he’s not in the courtroom, Odom enjoys running, biking and catching fireflys with his children.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 33

www.msbusiness.com

Scott Pedigo Baker Donelson

A

S A SHAREHOLDER in the advocacy department with Jackson law firm Baker Donelson, Scott Pedigo leads the legal representation of corporate clients in litigation and regulatory matters relating to products and employees. His legal practice is focused mainly on addressing employment discrimination, wage and hour, and product safety issues.

The Jackson native is proud to say that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s served the entirety of his profes-

sional career with Baker Donelson, one of the Top 100 firms in the United States.

Pedigo is a member of St. James Episcopal Church and serves on the alumni council at Jackson Academy, where he assists with fundraising activities.

He is active with his sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youth baseball team and helped coach the 2010 team to the USSSA state championship in the Under-11 All-Star division.

In his free time, Pedigo enjoys working out and spending time with his wife Lulu and their two children.

TRUSTMARK SALUTES THE TOP 40 UNDER 40 BUSINESS LEADERS.

WATKINS & EAGER CONGRATULATES

COREY HINSHAW IRU VHOHFWLRQ LQ

0LVVLVVLSSL %XVLQHVV -RXUQDOÂśV

723 81'(5 &RUH\ +LQVKDZ MRLQHG WKH Âż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

W$7.,16 & EAGER Attorneys and Counselors at Law People you trust. Advice that works.

Member FDIC

trustmark.com

:DWNLQV (DJHU 3//& Â&#x2021; 7KH (PSRULXP %XLOGLQJ Â&#x2021; (DVW &DSLWRO 6WUHHW Â&#x2021; -DFNVRQ 06 Â&#x2021; 7HOHSKRQH ÄŞ ÄŤ ÄĽ Â&#x2021; ZZZ ZDWNLQVHDJHU FRP

34 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Ryan Roper BancorpSouth

R

YAN ROPER earned his title of vice president of premier banking at BancorpSouth the old fashioned way — climbing the ladder. The Tupelo native launched his career in the audit department, moved to loan review and was later promoted to loan officer and branch manager.

Roper said he remains grateful that the experience allowed him the opportunity to learn the foundations of the banking industry. A graduate of the

Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University, Roper currently is responsible for the growth and development of a $52-million loan portfolio.

His father taught Roper to always put faith first and to use it as a gauge for treating others in the right way.

He serves as corporate finance chair for the Association of Excellence in Education and donates his time to the Voluntary Income Tax Assistance Program. A family man, Roper enjoys playing golf and fishing in his spare time.

Alton Shaw Mayor of Wesson

T

HERE MAY NOT be enough hours in the day for Alton Shaw. He is mayor of Wesson, executive director and co-founder of Life View Ministries and works 10 nights a month as a registered nurse in the emergency room at Hardy Wilson Hospital.

The Oxford native and a few close friends founded Life View Ministries, a Christian nonprofit dedicated to mentoring fatherless children, with the dis-

tinct goal of helping others.

A former firefighter, Shaw has earned numerous honors over the years, including Paramedic of the Year on two occasions and the 2009 Nurse of the Year award from Hardy Wilson Hospital. For the past year, he has served as executive director for the Mississippi Association of Registered Nurses. He also is a member of the Wesson Lions Club.

A self-professed “adrenaline junkie,” Shaw enjoys participating in extreme sports, including zip-lining and skydiving.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 35

www.msbusiness.com

Jason Siegfried Southern Pine Electric Power Association

H

ELPING PEOPLE SEE the light is Jason Siegfriedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main job.

As assistant general manager for Southern Pine Electric Power Association, Siegfried manages 277 employees scattered over five offices in Taylorsville, Hattiesburg, Newton, New Hebron and Brandon. He is responsible for oversight of all departments, including engineering, communications and human resources.

Siegfried is a graduate of the Else School of Management at Millsaps College, and joined Siegfried joined Southern Pine in 2002 as a district engineer. Previously, the Jackson County native was self-employed as a contractor with his company, Coastal Tower & Communications.

Siegfried enjoys being active in the community, and serves as a volunteer with Relay for Life and the Mississippi Diabetes Foundation. He also coaches youth baseball.

NIKKI NISSEN

Mississippi Business Journalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

36 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Ken Sones Oxbow Ventures

T

HOUGH HE’S HAD career opportunities to go elsewhere, Ken Sones proudly chooses to live and work in his home state.

Sones is a former Mississippi Development Authority project manager and aide to Gov. Haley Barbour, giving him plenty of experience in the economic development world.

Today, Sones is the managing director of Oxbow Ventures, a company dedicated to development projects in the fields of energy, early stage technol-

ogy and real estate.

At MDA, the Jackson native helped manage the recruitment of companies to do business in Mississippi, with his primary areas of concentration being energy, alternative energy, technology and military projects.

As a policy adviser to Barbour, Sones served in the Governor’s Office of Recovery and Renewal, and advised the staff on issues related to the recovery from Hurricane Katrina.

Sones enjoys spending his free time with family.

Scott Stinson Trustmark Bank

S

COTT STINSON likes to say he measures his career success by the success of the more than 3,000 Trustmark Bank associates he’s trained. As vice president and corporate training manager, Stinson is responsible for the creation and administration of all corporate-based training at Trustmark.

He was a theater and communications major at the University of Southern Mississippi, and he compares his current job to performing on the stage.

Before joining the bank, Stinson was a sales training manager for Sprint PCS and Verizon Wireless.

Stinson earned his MBA from Liberty University and is a member of the Sigma Beta Delta Honor Society. He is an active member and large group leader at Pinelake Baptist Church.

Occasionally, he performs as an actor with the Fondren Theatre Workshop.

Stinson likes to read, and challenges himself by setting a goal of reading at least 100 books a year.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40 >> 37

www.msbusiness.com

Michael Todaro University Hospitals — UMMC

M

ICHAEL TODARO has received many accolades as director of pharmacy and clinical support services at University Hospitals, but he’s most proud of one in particular. The Alabama native helped decentralized pharmacists to various patient care areas, and reduced the time the pharmacy receives a prescriber order until the medicine is dispensed from 69 to 36 minutes.

Todaro’s department also has enjoyed

a 92 percent overall nursing satisfaction rate with pharmacy services.

Todaro was formerly the systems director of pharmacy for Cardinal Health. He earned his pharmacy doctorate from the Ole Miss School of Pharmacy in 1999 and was presented the hospital’s 2012 Leadership Excellence Award.

Todaro volunteers his time with several organizations, including the American Heart Association, Mississippi Blood Services and Friends of Children’s Hospital.

GOOD NEWS IS WORTH REPEATING!

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

Ira Murray

Framed Article Articles are reformatted to fit on either one or two pages with “As seen in the Mississippi Business Journal” on the top of the page.

Article size is 8.5” x 11”.

Serving Hinds, Madison and Rankin Counties

Frame size - 14” x 16.5” - $199

Framed articles take approximately one month to complete.

As being chosen as one of Mississippi’s

Top 40 Under 40 2013

Digital Reprint The Mississippi Business Journal will reformat the article or list with “As seen in the Mississippi Business Journal” on the top of the page and send it to you in a PDF format.

R R R R

Plaque - 9”x12” or 8”x10” - $125

Introductory Offer $199 Digital Reprint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $375 Framed Article 14” x 16.5” cherry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $199 Framed Article 23” x 16.5” cherry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$250 Plaque 8” x 10” or 9” x 12” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125

Call: 601-364-1045 Fax or mail to: Mississippi Business Journal Attn: Charina Rhodes )'' Efik_ :fe^i\jj Jk# Jk\ +'' AXZbjfe *0)'( =Xo1 -'( *-+$(''. email: charina.rhodes@msbusiness.com or visit the web to print off form:

http://msbusiness.com/wp-files/forms/mbj_article-request-form-web.pdf

congratulates

Troy Farrell Odom one of

Mississippi Business Journal’s

Top 40 Under 40 2013

38 << 2013 TOP 40 UNDER 40

www.msbusiness.com

Elizabeth Upchurch Fresh Ink

W

HILE A STUDENT at the University of Mississippi, Elizabeth Upchurch worked in an Oxford floral shop and ignited her desire

for retail.

Today, the Memphis, Tenn., native is the owner of Fresh Ink, considered the premier wedding invitation store in the Jackson area. The business has been named to the “Best of Mississippi” list three years in a row and featured in national magazines Southern Living and

InStyle Weddings.

Upchurch credits utilizing social media and other cross-marketing platforms for propelling Fresh Ink to its lofty heights. Before launching Fresh Ink, she worked as national sales manager for the Inviting Company, a wholesale stationary and gift company.

She is a member of the Junior League of Jackson and has served as editor of the Junior League newsletter. She has also been a teaching grant evaluator.

She also volunteers with the Mississippi Children’s Services Home.

Pamela Weaver Mississippi Secretary of State’s Office

P

AMELA WEAVER strongly believes in the old adage, “never ask anyone to do a job you would not do yourself.”

The communications director for the Mississippi Secretary of State’s Office, Weaver has many jobs on her plate as the official spokesperson, public relations specialist, social media director and legislative liaison for the state agency.

She serves as the contact for all media inquiries and develops key communication strategies for constituent groups.

The Tucson, Ariz., native formerly served as a television anchor and reporter for Hattiesburg’s WDAM-TV. The University of Southern Mississippi graduate earned her Master’s in political science. Weaver has been recognized in the “Keep an Eye On” feature in the Mississippi Business Journal.

She is a board member of the Frances Karnes Center for Gifted Studies and a member of the Rankin County Republican Women’s group.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading and dining out.

Mississippi Business Journal

Tell Us Who

2014

STANDS OUT

Outstanding Mississippi Business Leaders Under 40

I Nominate: Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;`>Ă&#x152;i\Ă&#x160; ­ Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;LiĂ&#x160;>vĂ&#x152;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160; iViÂ&#x201C;LiĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;ÂŁ]Ă&#x160;ÂŁÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x17D;ÂŽ Company: Position: Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160; ``Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x192;\Ă&#x160; City:

State:

Phone:

Twentieth Annual

Zip:

Fax:

Nominees Must Be: UĂ&#x160; Â&#x201C;ÂŤÂ?Â&#x153;Ă&#x17E;i`Ă&#x160;>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;Â&#x2026;>Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x160;Â?Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;i`Ă&#x160;>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;Ă&#x153;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x17D;i`Ă&#x160;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160; Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;ÂŤÂŤÂ&#x2C6;Ă&#x160; for at least two years.

UĂ&#x160; 1Â&#x2DC;`iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;{äĂ&#x160;Ă&#x17E;i>Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160;Â&#x153;vĂ&#x160;>}iĂ&#x160;>Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160;Â&#x153;vĂ&#x160; iViÂ&#x201C;LiĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;ÂŁ]Ă&#x160;Ă&#x201C;ä£Ă&#x17D;° UĂ&#x160; Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x153;Â?Ă&#x203A;i`Ă&#x160;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160;Â&#x201C;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x160;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160;LĂ&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160;>VĂ&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;iĂ&#x192;° Civic Involvement will be strongly considered. Nominees who hold political office will not be considered solely on the basis of political achievements. Nominees do not necessarily have to be business owners. Professionals in the non-profit business sector are eligible. Individuals are also encouraged to nominate themselves.

Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2C6;Â?\Ă&#x160;

In Business and the Community Nominated by: Company: ``Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x192;\Ă&#x160; City:

State:

Phone:

Zip:

Fax:

Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2C6;Â?\Ă&#x160; Your relationship to nominee:

We accept Top {ä 1nder {ä Nominations throughout the year. The deadline for nominations is iViÂ&#x201C;LiĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x17D;ÂŁ]Ă&#x160;Ă&#x201C;ä£Ă&#x17D;°

You will receive...the entry requirements as soon as your nomination is entered. Final and complete entry ÂŤ>VÂ&#x17D;>}iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160; must be received by no later than >Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x2022;>Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;ÂŁĂ&#x2021;]Ă&#x160;Ă&#x201C;ä£{.

Please return to:

Fax: Ă&#x2C6;ä£Â&#x2021;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2C6;{Â&#x2021;£ääĂ&#x2021; UĂ&#x160;Online: www.msbusiness.com Mail: Top {ä] ] Ă&#x201C;ää N. Congress -Ă&#x152;°] Suite {ää] >VÂ&#x17D;Ă&#x192;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;] - Ă&#x17D;Â&#x2122;Ă&#x201C;ä£ More info: Ă&#x2C6;ä£Â&#x2021;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2C6;{Â&#x2021;£äääĂ&#x160;or events@msbusiness.com