Power Women - March 2022

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POWER

WOMEN ORANGE COUNTY’S LEADING WOMEN PROFESSIONALS

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MICHELE HARRINGTON COO

HILA POOLI

CHIEF LEGAL COUNSEL

First Team Real Estate

Since 1976, First Team Real Estate has been trusted to represent over 250,000 home buyers and sellers as the largest privately held familyowned company in Southern California. Among the many other women who are a part of First Team’s leadership, COO Michele Harrington and Chief Legal Counsel Hila Pooli are driven with the knowledge, expertise, and vision to provide value to their agents, their clients, and the communities they serve.

In 2021, under Harrington’s leadership, the company achieved its best year on record, successfully closing 10,218 transactions, and thereby ranking #1 in Southern California for the 20th year in a row.

Harrington serves on the board of directors for the Orange County Association of Realtors® and the California Association of Realtors®. She is also a federal political coordinator for the National Association of Realtors®.

“Because I believe in this industry and because I want to make sure that others can enjoy the financial benefits that I’ve been able to, I give back my time on the various real estate boards in California and nationally — not because I want the recognition. And I believe in its ability to change lives for the better.”

Pooli provides legal advice to the company’s corporate department, high-level management, and approximately 2,200 agents with respect to matters of litigation and risk management. Selected as a 2021 Southern California Super Lawyer, a distinction reserved for only 2.5% of attorneys who exhibit excellence in practice in Southern California, Pooli is the best in the business, with a wealth of knowledge and experience in real estate law.

Michele Harrington & Hila Pooli 108 Pacifica, Suite 300 Irvine, CA 92618 949-988-3000 www.FirstTeam.com

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AJ OLSON WHITFIELD REALTOR

Villa Real Estate Now a leader among coastal Orange County’s luxury residential real estate professionals, Whitfield first developed a passion for real estate at a young age. Born and raised in Newport Beach, her upbringing often revolved around real estate sales and development, providing her with an affinity and instinct for the profession. Since launching her career in 2009, she has earned a reputation for incomparable client service, impressive market knowledge, a best-in-class network, and delivering exceptional results for her clients.

Today, Whitfield resides with her husband and their two daughters in Eastside Costa Mesa.

She and her husband have built several custom homes, giving her a unique knowledge of the ways a home can be transformed, and what must be done to prepare a home for sale. She appreciates that this has given her an even broader perspective on the many possibilities she can present to her buyers and sellers.

With the support of local industry leaders and award-winning marketing at Villa Real Estate, Whitfield continues to shape the gold standard for service and success. Her clients trust and rely on her extensive knowledge of the local market within Newport, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, and Eastside Costa Mesa, where she has completed many successful transactions.

Beyond the breadth and depth of her market intelligence, Whitfield is known for her innovative strategies, astute attention to detail, and competitive drive. Having represented more than $150 million in career sales, she is one of the highest producing agents of her generation in Orange County.

450 Newport Center Drive, Suite 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.433.8989 awhitfield@villarealestate.com ajolsonwhitfi eld.com

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DR. WENDY MARSHALL PRESIDENT/CEO Ocean Institute

Two decades after her first visit to the Dana Point harbor as a teacher on a field trip, Dr. Wendy Marshall returned to join the Ocean Institute team in 2017. Taking on role of President & CEO at the start of the pandemic, Marshall’s early experiences with the power of ocean education shaped her leadership of the organization.

“Ocean Institute’s history of delivering lifechanging learning experiences for the last 45 years has provided a steadfast foundation that enabled us to hold strong through the toughest stretches of the pandemic. My job is to clear the way for the mission and staff to shine,” says Marshall.

With a 2.5 acre of oceanfront campus, 1100 marine animals, a 118-ft wooden tall ship, and a 65-foot research vessel, “clearing the way” means maintaining a complex facility which offers programs to schools and the general public.

Marshall describes the model as an “economic ecosystem”, in which public programs and fundraising subsidize operations and school field trips. “The generosity and commitment to education, children, and the environment of the residents of Orange County is humbling,” says Marshall. Twenty-percent of school visits are fully funded through the Adopt-A-Class program.

“The community has been a phenomenal support system and we are showing our gratitude by offering new ocean experiences for visitors of all ages”, says Wendy. Distinguished speakers, monthly themes, and special events are among the programs the public can expect to enjoy.

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive Dana Point, CA 92629 949.496.2274 wmarshall@oceaninstitute.org oceaninstitute.org 78 Ora nge C o ast • March 2022

Photo Credit: Jared Sislin

“We are setting the conditions for the next 45-years to be the best yet!”

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KATHLEEN MONROE BROKER

Luxury Coastal Realty The real estate market in Orange County is crowded and highly competitive. As a seasoned Realtor, Kathleen Monroe has carved a unique niche for herself that she defines as relational rather than transactional.

“Selling residential real estate is rooted in emotion for sellers and buyers – I never underestimate the emotional connection a seller has to their home and the emotion a buyer feels when finding the home of their dreams.”

Kathleen’s uncompromising work ethic is genetically ingrained, having learned the tenets of honesty and integrity from watching her father excel as a real estate broker. After starting her career 17 years ago she

quickly rose from “rookie of the year” to being recognized as a consistent Top Producer. Known affectionately as “Mama Bear” by her clients, Kathleen can be counted on to always look out for their best interests. “I genuinely care about my clients and treat their money as if it is my own. I find ways to save them money in each and every transaction while selling their home for top dollar.”

A shrewd negotiator with a passion for results, Kathleen continually goes the extra mile, earning consistent 5-star reviews. A savvy marketer, she provides a strategic game plan for each seller, including free staging. “Staging increases the perception of value and

garners a higher price for my sellers.”

Her clients rave about the “Monroe Magic” and that if you “Go with Monroe you will make more Dough!”

For Kathleen, it’s all about the joy that comes from making clients’ dreams come true. “My purpose and passion in life is being a Realtor. Truly making a difference for each client is what I find most fulfilling.

2901 West Coast Highway, Suite 200 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.702.1955 GowithMonroe@gmail.com LuxuryCoastalRealty.com March 2022 • Or a nge Coast 79

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JANE KAKKIS, MD

JULIA KAKKIS ELITE ATHLETE, HONORS STUDENT

Named a “Best Doctor in America” for over a decade, Dr. Jane Kakkis is respected for being on the forefront of innovative breast cancer surgery and treatment. Dr. Kakkis has also pioneered a survivorship program that addresses the physical and emotional changes cancer patients experience in their journey toward recovery. And, while her professional passion is rooted in helping women win their battle against cancer, her personal passion lies in raising her daughter, Julia, currently a sophomore at Mater Dei high school.

An honors student and acclaimed athlete, Julia expertly navigates the inherent pressures in elite-level beach and indoor volleyball.

Her ability to excel in her academic pursuits – despite the long hours and often stressful circumstances she faces as a multi-sport athlete – have shaped her strength of character and laid a solid foundation for her future aspirations. With her mom as both mentor and inspiration, her long-term goals include postgraduate training in medicine and an eventual career path in Orthopedic Surgery.

Dr. Kakkis notes the most important attributes she hopes to instill in her daughter include a strong work ethic, personal and professional integrity, and the mindfulness and generosity of heart that define true success. “This is the essence of raising the next generation of powerful leaders.”

9900 Talbert Avenue, Suite 103B Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714.378.5011 80 Ora nge C o ast • March 2022

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ANDREA PARADA PARTNER

URBANA Mexican Gastronomy + Mixology

A shared love of food and unique buildings led Andrea Parada and her fiancé Javier Cuadra to become first-time restaurateurs in 2014, designing Urbana Mexican Gastronomy and Mixology in the historic Anaheim Packing House building. Passionate foodies who built a space where you feel the Hispanic heritage, Andrea says when Cuadra first took her to travel throughout Mexico to taste and try regional cuisine, she knew there was a void in Orange County’s restaurant market that they could fill.

“We dreamed of opening a restaurant and at the time there was no modern Mexican cuisine in the area,” we worked with the city of Anaheim to bring this. “One of the things that makes us unique besides our eclectic menu and beverage options is that we use only fresh ingredients daily. Our menu is always changing with a spotlight on the Michoacan region, dubbed the “belly of Mexico.”

Urbana’s success has spawned a second location in Del Mar, CA, and Andrea, who manages all marketing and PR says the whole experience has taught her that she is stronger than she knew. “I feel like I’ve always been more shy, not someone who takes center stage. This experience has helped me break that mold.”

“I really enjoy working next to my fiancé every day,” she continues. “I’m proud of our team and how we have weathered the past few years of the pandemic by sticking together. We showed up every day and proved that nothing is impossible if you work hard and believe in yourself.”

Anaheim Packing District 440 South Anaheim Boulevard Anaheim, CA 92805 714.502.0255 Urbanaanaheim.com March 2022 • Or a nge Coast 81

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MARY VACHON VICE PRESIDENT PRIVATE MORTGAGE BANKER Union Bank

With 30 years of experience in the Real Estate and Banking industry, Mary Vachon has proven to be a self-driven, meticulous, and professional Mortgage Banker. Her successes have brought trust and confidence to all her clients including those who are purchasing the home of their dreams, or investors who want to expand their business investment portfolios. It’s no surprise Mary is the proud recipient of The President’s Club award, 12 years running.

With a passion for providing exceptional personalized service, Mary always takes the time to explain the complexities of the loan process to her clients. “I describe upfront and in detail the entire process the borrower will experience, so they don’t feel the anxiety that comes with financing their home,” she says. “All lenders have differences in the way they operate, so regardless of how many loan experiences a client has had, it is important to educate them on what to expect with Union Bank.”

Recognizing that communication is key, Mary checks in frequently with her clients to answer questions trouble shoot any issues that arise.

Because she cares deeply for her clients, Mary adds that it’s especially rewarding when successful transactions lead to satisfied clients.

“Home buyers typically comment that the new home was made a reality as a result of my helping them achieve the best financing available. The most rewarding part of my job is receiving the thank you call at the end of the transaction from a happy borrower.”

© 2022 MUFG Union Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Union Bank is a registered trademark and brand name of MUFG Union Bank, N.A. unionbank.com

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1666 San Miguel Newport Beach, CA 92660 Cell 949.244.5890 Fax 949.257.4782 unionbank.com/mvachon NMLS#322288

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ELIZABETH NIGRO, CFLS

Certified Family Law Specialist, State Bar of California Elizabeth Nigro understands the wants and needs of clients in divorce and child custody proceedings. Whenever possible, she works to reach mutually agreeable resolutions to challenging disputes over child custody, support and property rights. Her expertise includes complex child custody cases, including domestic violence; international child custody cases; and high asset and income cases, including concealed asset and income issues.

“I care deeply for my clients. I love people. That caring is what motivates me to work as hard as I do.”

Passionate about her clients’ families, her family, and her community, Elizabeth is devoted to her three children and two grandsons and her firm regularly volunteers services for Laura’s House.

“I define success as excellence in my courtroom performance, including preparation for every challenge and giving 100% in the pursuit of justice for my clients.”

4 Venture, Suite 320 Irvine, CA 92618 949-453-0530 | 949-453-0531 (fax) nigrofamilylaw.com

CANDACE HOWE, MD, OB/GYN, FACOG

MARINA MASLOVARIC, MD, OB/GYN, FACOG

Dr. Candace Howe and Dr. Marina Maslovaric oversee a patient-centric women’s health practice that focuses on total wellness. The practice incorporates primary and specialty care to treat pelvic pain, menstrual abnormalities, hormonal disorders, low and high-risk pregnancy management, infertility counseling and holistic care for the whole woman.

Both physicians are recognized for their education, expertise, industry awards and accolades, and are passionate about making a difference in their community.

“My job is my calling and my life is dedicated to helping my community. I believe we need our “village” and connectedness to stay emotionally and mentally well,” says Dr. Howe. “Dedicating my life to medicine came naturally. My family has a strong tradition of contributing to society and helping others,” adds Dr. Maslovaric.

500 Superior Avenue, Suite 330 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.642.3780 hmmedicalobgyn.com March 2022 • Or a nge Coast 83

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CANDICE SILVER REALTOR®

Pacific Platinum Properties, Inc. Loyal, determined, strategic and committed. These are words that best describe top real estate professional Candice Silver. With a decade of experience to her credit, Candice says that for her, true success is defined not by financial gain, but by having an engaging and meaningful career that also makes a tremendous difference in her clients’ lives.

Coming from a large family real estate background with deep roots in the industry for over 35 years, real estate is embedded in her bones. What immediately stands out is her distinctive solution driven mindset. That being her ability to pair her concierge-level service and intimate knowledge of neighborhoods with market analytic trends and industry leading technology. Candice began her career working in Financial Strategy, Operational Risk and Compliance for Fortune 500 Companies. She also worked with large Banks specializing in Residential Mortgage to leverage her finance background and passion for real estate.

949.910.2518 candice@silver-realestate.com silver-realestate.com CA DRE #02034243

ANNIE DEL RIO FOUNDER AND CREATOR Yogurt Glamour

Founder and creator of the first yogurt skincare eco brand, Annie Del Rio is committed to environmentally conscious, sustainable skincare. With a BSc in Biology and an MBA, Del Rio was inspired by worldly travels where she observed the locals using organic yogurt to care for and preserve their skin. Soon to be WBENC certified, Yogurt Glamour is a womanowned, family-run business bringing the community simple, handmade quality products.

You can find Del Rio and her family at their brick and mortar shop in La Habra, shop online from 230 countries around the world and at various farmer’s markets across Southern California.

2208 West Whittier Boulevard La Habra, CA 90631 800.399.6740 annie.delrio@yogurtglamour.com yogurtglamour.com 84 Ora nge C o ast • March 2022

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GERALDINE LY ATTORNEY

Law Offices of Geraldine Ly As an established Orange County attorney with nearly three decades of experience, Geraldine Ly specializes in representing people who face tough legal challenges. “My expertise is in workers’ compensation, personal injury, and matters related to civil litigation.”

Geraldine oversees an all-female, boutique practice that offers a hands-on approach to every case. “My philosophy is to treat my staff like family and each client as an extended part of our family. We are proactive and aggressive in moving our clients’ cases towards resolution.”

Respected by clients and peers, Geraldine was selected a Super Lawyer each year from 2016 to the present and named 2020 and 2021 Top 50 Attorneys in Orange County and Top 50 Women Attorneys in Southern California.

“My success is defined by being able to make a positive impact on someone’s life.”

2700 North Main Street, Suite 610 Santa Ana, CA 92705 714.442.9998 geraldinely-law.com

BRONWYN GORMAN

Decorating Den Interiors As a sought-after interior designer, Bronwyn Gorman believes that a home should reflect the people who live there — not the designer.

Bronwyn fully embraces this philosophy with each project she oversees. “My greatest joy comes from helping my clients achieve the home of their dreams that feels like their own personal sanctuary.”

Bronwyn has built her business around providing exceptional customer service, and her passion for making people happy motivates her to understand a client’s style so she can deliver designs that make them proud of their home. “My goal is that the design experience is enjoyable for my clients as we work together to create a home that they love.”

949.755.2032 bronwyngorman@decoratingden.com bronwyngorman.decoratingden.com March 2022 • Or a nge Coast 85