2025 New Hampshire 200

Influential

Business Leaders In The Granite State

Honoring Excellence at The Elliot

The Elliot is proud to congratulate Dr. Kevin Desrosiers, Alisha Feightner, and Dr. Carl Fier on their selections for New Hampshire Business Review’s New Hampshire 200 list for 2025.

Dr. Kevin Desrosiers serves as chief physician executive and vice president of medical affairs. Dr. Desrosiers is responsible for overseeing the strategic vision and implementation of clinical operations and providing leadership to the medical staff.

Alisha Feightner serves as vice president of operational excellence for Elliot Health System. Alisha provides a range of support services to help deliver reliable, integrated care.

In addition to being one of NH’s top cardiologists, Dr. Carl Fier is also the Executive Medical Director of Cardiovascular Services at the Elliot Heart and Vascular Center and serves on the Elliot Health System Board of Trustees.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Desrosiers, Alisha, and Dr. Fier on this well-deserved honor and celebrate their achievements in healthcare.

at Southern New Hampshire Health

Southern New Hampshire Health is proud to congratulate Southern New Hampshire Health President and CEO Colin McHugh and Chief Nursing Officer Susan Santana on being named to New Hampshire Business Review’s New Hampshire 200 list for 2025.

Colin McHugh has served as president and CEO of Southern New Hampshire Health since 2022. Colin is dedicated to expanding access to healthcare to all patients and delivering on the mission of Southern New Hampshire Health to provide exceptional care that improves the lives of the communities the health system serves.

Susan Santana has been with Southern New Hampshire Health since 2022 where she serves as senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer. Susan has been dedicated to the practice of nursing and providing exceptional care for more than 30 years.

Please join us in congratulating Colin and Susan on this incredible recognition and for all of their healthcare achievements.

A Member of

The New Hampshire 200 is back before you knew it

The 2025 NH 200 had a fast turnaround. This fourth edition marks the first time we have created this select list in back-to-back years. Like the 2024 edition, the 200 business and nonprofit leaders appearing on these pages are brandnew to the list. The success of that change last year inspired us to make the NH 200 an annual endeavor.

Thus, we are spotlighting 200 different influential people every year, offering a more current snapshot of the people who are making New Hampshire a great state to live and do business. On these pages you’ll find both familiar people (why did it take so long?) and newcomers who have risen through the ranks or have otherwise demonstrated their influence, often underscoring that action, not titles, drives reputation.

Do you know somebody who is making a mark on the Granite State who is missing from the list? We want to hear from you as we gather nominations for 2026. Send your suggestions to mikecote@ yankeepub.com.

Mike Cote Editor

NH Business Review

Ernesto Burden Vice President/Publisher ernestob@yankeepub.com, ext. 5117

Mike Cote Editor mikecote@yankeepub.com, ext. 5141

Amanda Andrews Managing Editor aandrews@nhbr.com, ext. 5158

Trisha Nail Assistant Editor tnail@nhbr.com, ext. 5118

Emily Reily Assistant Editor emilyr@yankeepub.com, ext. 5119

Sarah Pearson Managing Editor, Custom Publications

sarahekp@yankeepub.com, ext. 5128

Jodie Hall Creative Services Director jodieh@yankeepub.com, ext. 5122

Christian Seyster Senior Graphic Designer christians@yankeepub.com, ext. 5116

Nicole Huot Senior Graphic Artist nicoleh@yankeepub.com, ext. 5116

Robin Saling Graphic Artist robins@yankeepub.com, ext. 5124

Karen Bachelder Sales Executive kbachelder@nhbr.com, ext. 5148

Cynthia Stone Sales Executive cstone@nhbr.com, ext. 5146

Ronnie Schlender Special Projects Sales Representative rschlender@nhbr.com, ext. 5150

Ren Chase Operations Director renc@yankeepub.com, ext. 5114

Paul Milone Sales and Events Coordinator paulm@yankeepub.com, ext. 5121

Paula Veale Business and Sales Coordinator paulav@yankeepub.com, ext. 5110

Morgen Connor Digital Operations and Marketing Manager morgenc@yankeepub.com, ext. 5149

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NHBR (USPS 413430) New Hampshire Business Review is published 12 times a year, monthly, with an additional issue in January and June, by Yankee Publishing, 250 Commercial Street, Suite 4014, Manchester, NH 03101. Periodical postage paid at Manchester, NH. Subscription rates: One year, $32, two years, $55, three years, $80. Single copy $1.75. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NHBR, PO Box 37900, Boone, IA 50037-0900. NHBR assumes no responsibility for typographical errors that do not materially affect the value of the advertisement. This publication’s liability for an error shall not exceed the cost of the space occupied by the error. (ISSN: 0164-8152)

At Brady Sullivan Properties, we are proud to celebrate Shane Brady’s exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing New England’s real estate development industry. His vision and commitment have not only shaped Manchester’s urban landscape but have also made a profound impact on the community.

His unwavering support for local children's organizations including the Boys & Girls Club, Easterseals, Webster House, Families in Transition, Make-A-Wish Foundation, YMCA, and Friends of CHaD, reflects his deep dedication to giving back. His generosity and passion for community involvement, from supporting youth athletics to preserving the city’s history, continue to inspire us all.

We look forward to seeing his continued success in the years to come! SCHEDULE A TOUR 2025 New Hampshire 200 Honoree

The New Hampshire 200: How they were selected

For the fourth edition of the New Hampshire 200, we greatly encouraged nominations from alumni, whom we knew would be a great source of intel about business and nonprofit leaders who are having an outsize influence on the state. We also recruited readers of NH Business Review.

Nominations from those sources generated about two-thirds of the people who make up this year’s class. The remaining selections were generated by the editorial staff and publisher of New Hampshire Business Review.

We already have a head start on the NH 200 list for 2026: We asked honorees this year to send us nominations as they completed a biographical questionnaire used to complete the profiles that appear on the following pages.

—MikeCote,Editor

Thank you to these outstanding organizations for sponsoring this year’s New Hampshire 200 reception:

Presented

Sponsors:

ARCHITECTURE,

ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION

& REAL ESTATE ________

Stuart Anderson . . . .

. 10

Tommy Bolduc 10

Shane Brady 10

Steve Halle 10

Erin Lambert 11

Michael McKeown 11

Rob Parsons 11

Jonathan Smith 11

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

_______ SERVICES/RETAIL ______

Mark Aquilino

Brett Beaurivage .

Duane Coute

John Ela

Zeina Eyceoz 14

Lauren Getts 14

Marc Goldberg 14

Elizabeth Gray 15

Amy Greene 15

Brian Groshon 15

Jeff Hiatt 15

Trinnie Houghton 16

Colleen Keating

Dallas Lagerquist

Joe Lahout

Brian Law

Eileen Liponis

Bob Lord

Lionel Loveless

Clay

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Brad Pernaw 54

Staci Pinard 54

Jim Roach

Nik Stanciu

. 16

Jeff McPherson 18

Alison Milioto 18

Donna Morris 18

John Nyhan 19

Helen Principio 19

Julie Schoelzel 19

Mandy Sliver 19

Chris Stinson 20 Steve Turner

Lori Waltz

Cindi Woodbury

EDUCATION

Michael Berry 22

Donald L Birx 22

Nagaraj Bukkapatnam 22

Paula Marie Buley 22

Elizabeth Chilton 23

Steve Ellis 23

Deborah Fournier

Cyndee Gruden

Jenna Matheny

John Roth

Matt Simon

Christiana Thornton

Wilson

55 Erica Cole-Tucker

Hale Cole-Tucker

Vincent Vella

Amy Zanello

56 LAW

Nicole Bluefort 58

Patrick Closson 58

Tracey Goyette Cote 58

Tabitha Croscut 59

Michael Delaney

Todd Hathaway

Kathleen Mahan

Kristin Mendoza

Hilary Holmes Rheaume

Tucker

Ken Viscarello

Mark Wright 62

LIFE SCIENCES/BIOTECH/ ENERGY/TECHNOLOGY

Jay Abendroth 64

Jason Alexander 64

James Andrews 64

Jon Beam

Dan Bergeron

Kat Bourque

Doyle

Architecture, Engineering, Construction & Real Estate

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION & REAL ESTATE

Stuart Anderson Partner

Alba Architects

Education: Robert Gordon University, Scotland (BSc Hons architecture; postgraduate diploma in advanced architectural studies)

Career history: Stuart worked at SEH Architects in London from 1998-2000, and then offered independent architectural services as a consultant until 2005 when he joined CPW Architects in Meredith. He eventually joined Alba Architects in 2011 as a partner based in North Woodstock, NH.

Business lesson: Patience. Understanding that not everyone is coming from the same place, with the same knowledge, so ensuring that the information you are providing is understood.

Biggest challenge: Managing expectations of project costs and schedule within the architectural/engineering/construction industry. Scheduling is further compounded by the ability to engage and retain talented individuals in the North Country.

Fun fact: I was born and raised in the North of Scotland, and as a young adult competed in various Highland Games including the traditional tossing of the caber. Hobbies/passions: Coaching youth sports, soccer, baseball and basketball. Active member of the Lincoln Woodstock Rotary Club and past president. Longtime volunteer, past board member and past president of NHSCOT. Industry advice: For emerging professionals to further develop communication skills that isn’t akin to abbreviated social media norms. Furthermore, to take every opportunity available to gain real-world experience.

Shane Brady President, Owner

Brady Sullivan Properties

Education: Manchester Memorial High School

Career history: Brady Sullivan Properties was founded in 1992 with a vision of revitalizing underutilized buildings across our region. Shane takes great pride in working on historic mill buildings, as it allows the company to honor the city’s rich industrial heritage, while simultaneously providing much-needed housing and commercial opportunities across a diverse portfolio of retail, office, storage and residential properties.

Business lesson: You can’t do it all by yourself. Success is not just about individual effort; it’s about working together and surrounding yourself with a strong, dependable team who shares the same common vision.

Biggest challenge: Navigating the challenge of controlling expenses due to inflation has been difficult. It can complicate our ability to accurately create budgets and forecasts for both current and upcoming developments. Most excited about: Watching my family and the younger employees grow, learn and bring fresh perspective to the company creates new energy and enthusiasm.

Hobbies/passions: I enjoy being outdoors hunting and fishing. These hobbies allow me the opportunity to spend time with my family and friends while creating lasting memories.

Industry advice: Embrace patience and persistence. Markets will fluctuate, and often opportunities arise when you least expect them. Staying engaged and actively seeking out possibilities can lead to rewarding deals.

Tommy R. Bolduc Co-owner Optiline Enterprises

Education: Nashua High School North/ South

Career history: Tommy and his cousin and business partner, Mick Bolduc, combined forces in 2012 to create Optiline, gaining gross sales of $980,000 in their first year in business. Since then, Optiline has grown by 10,000%, becoming one of the fastest-growing companies in New England. Business lesson: Undersell and over deliver! Do a little more than what you said you would do.

Biggest challenge: Finding partners and clients in which we can trust to grow with.

Most excited about: Optiline’s vision of 10X and getting Optiline to a $1 billion company, and employing many more men and women, creating futures and careers to those that want to win with us.

What keeps you up at night? Making sure our future generations have the right tools and education to be successful in the trades.

Favorite story: I like all books and films that relate to the underdog; the ones that no one thought would make it and now wins with the success of his or her team and is strong enough to recognize those around them.

Hobbies/passions: I love racing cars, especially when having my family with me; snowmobiling; family activities and motorsports.

Checked-off bucket list item: Building the most amazing family with a caring wife and wonderful healthy kids! And personally accomplishing my goal of one day being a race car driver.

Steve Halle

Operations Manager

Milan Lumber

Education: Berlin High School

Career history: Steve has been in the wood industry his entire life. He is a third-generation tradesman in sawmills and has worked in dimension mills, pine mills, chip plants and some biomass.

Business lesson: Look at projects, situations or problems from four different ways, and you can usually come up with pretty good solutions.

Biggest challenge: Labor, cost of goods and emerging markets for other uses of wood materials.

Most excited about: Emerging technologies

Checked-off bucket list item: Building a family with my wife, my children and my grandchild

Industry advice: This is a great industry to be in — it is still an industry that you can come up through the ranks and make a great living in.

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION &

Erin Lambert

Senior Vice President Wilcox & Barton Inc.

Education: B.S. civil engineering, Lehigh University

Career history: Upon graduating from college, Erin worked for Peterson Consulting in New York City for three years. In 2000, she moved back to New Hampshire, working at Nobis Engineering. She started as a staff engineer and worked her way up to senior project manager and director of the civil group. In 2018, Erin joined Wilcox & Barton as a vice president and director of civil engineering before stepping into her current role. She also serves on the Capital Region Food Program’s board of trustees.

Business lesson: Collaborative teams and good communication are the foundation for successful projects.

Biggest challenge: Continuing to mentor and train staff, allowing them to take time off for vacations and celebrate milestones with their families. Most excited about: Developing and uplifting the next generation of leaders, encouraging them to find their purpose, passion and voice. Checked-off bucket list item: Attending my friends’ wedding in India. In addition to experiencing the beautiful wedding traditions, I visited the Taj Mahal and watched the sunrise over the foothills of the Himalayas.

Industry advice: munity. Find a company that aligns with your goals and values. Participate actively in developing and/or maintaining a company culture valuing technical excellence and employee wellness. Identify a mentor, and mentor others in your profession.

Rob Parsons President, CEO

Parsons Ventures/Sky Meadow

Education:

University of Massachusetts at Lowell Career history: and operated multiple Popeyes chicken franchise locations and the Primrose School of Chelmsford. Additionally, developed several builds to suit locations such as the Pennichuck Water Works headquarters and the Shaheen Gordon building in Nashua.

Most excited about: in the sport, as people long for outdoor activities while golf has benefited greatly from this awakening. What keeps you up at night? doing business, as pricing for virtually everything has escalated so quickly, and keeping pricing in line is a constant challenge. Favorite story: periodically and gain new insights from each time I read it. Hobbies/passions: currently, but I still enjoy golf and skiing, especially with them. Industry advice: project budgets, as pricing and interest rates can escalate quickly and make a lucrative project very tight before it’s completed.

Michael McKeown Partner

Dennis Mires, The Architects

Education: Bachelor of architecture, Wentworth Institute of Technology; Norwich University, University of Sydney and University of New South Wales in Australia. Career history: Most of Michael’s professional experience has been spent at architectural firms such as BMA Architectural Group, Lavallee Brensinger Architects, Design Partnership of Cambridge (in Charlestown, Mass.) and Mount Vernon Group (Wakefield, Mass.) before joining Dennis Mires, The Architects in 2019. He sits on the NH Board of Architects as the vice chair of Office of Professional Licensure, and is the board director for AIA NH.

Business lesson: Honesty, attentiveness and honorable character are paramount in our design-based business. Our clients become lasting partners as they come to know and trust that we stand by them at every step, through excellent collaborative-minded service.

Checked-off bucket list item: Living, studying and exploring Australia (Sydney Opera House, Gold Coast, Great Barrier Reef). Italy, Sicily and Greece top the list. Immersing our children in many different cultures through travel and skydiving was unforgettable.

We never stop learning, and insight can come from the most unexpected places. Humility and an honest, collaborative mindset allow the opportunity for continued growth and otherwise unrealized strengths through many professional team members coming together for a common goal.

Principal Architect, Co-owner Warrenstreet Architects Inc.

Bachelor of architecture,

Jonathan worked for Lassel Architects, EAF Engineering, Peterson Griffin Architects, Aring Associates and Joy and Hamilton Architects before joining Warrenstreet Architects Inc. in 1998. He gravitates toward more detailed and complicated projects such as a Tri-Gen facility for the Department of Veteran’s Affairs and numerous health care projects over the years. His proudest accomplishment is the design and construction of the Merrimack County Nursing Home in Boscawen, NH.

Nobody is perfect. Take responsibility for your own imperfections and have compassion for other’s imperfections. I find that honest conversation and reasonable expectations from others help broker a path

The science and technology of architecture is changing rapidly. The specter of climate change is pushing industry to improve materials and construction methods, and you can see the change happening “on the drawing board” from project to project. We are always learning.

I am a passionate science fiction reader and enjoy how the genre holds a mirror up to society in a nuanced and creative way. I also enjoy escaping to Disney World with my wife, Lisa, for periodic vacations. Industry advice: College trains us to speak the language of architecture, but the profession is about understanding people’s needs, both physically and emotionally, and providing an environment for that to flourish.

Business & Professional Services & Retail

Mark Aquilino President

Outdoor Pride Landscape and Snow Management

Education: Londonderry High School; associates, Southern New Hampshire University

Business lesson: You can’t rush relationships and experience in life — genuine connections and experiences take time to develop and see through. They cannot be forced or hurried; you need to invest time to get to know someone well and time to fully engage with an experience to truly appreciate and learn from it (see things from start to finish). Having the patience to do both is imperative to a successful business career. Most excited about: Our continued growth fuels exciting opportunities for both our employees and clients. We’re expanding our team, creating leadership roles, and offering greater avenues for professional development. This also allows us to enhance our services, improve client relationships/experiences, and ultimately delivering even greater value.

What keeps you up at night? Living up to the expectation I’ve put on myself being the best husband, father, son, uncle, and friend that I can be to those that I’ve built meaningful relationships with in my life. I don’t ever want to let those down that I’ve invested my time and commitments to — personally and professionally.

Industry advice: Foster genuine connections with your co-workers, your clients and your suppliers. Word-of-mouth referrals and employee loyalty are the bedrock of a thriving business. Be vulnerable, admit/own up to your mistakes, and be the best listener.

Duane Coute General Manager/Executive Manager

Littleton Chevrolet

Education: Bachelor’s in business and marketing, St. Joseph’s College Career history: After graduating in 1991, Duane got a job driving a truck with Maine Delivery Service. After a year, he changed his career path. His parents told him about a good friend, Ronney Lyster, who had just purchased Littleton Chevrolet. He hired Duane on the spot. He sold a vehicle on his first day, which was the beginning of his new career where he put his head down and never looked back. In 2024, he was awarded the Changemaker Business Leader Award by NHBCA for efforts by many in Littleton and the North Country’s stand for Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Civility with our LBGTQ community.

Biggest challenge: Covid within the workplace and lack of computer chips for our new vehicles. Staying profitable, keeping morale high and continually working on workplace culture.

Most excited about: We finally have a full lot of new and used vehicles. More customers are heading to our website and socials. Littleton Chevrolet has experienced and valued employees.

Industry advice: Work, be diligent, study, put in the time and ask a lot of questions. You cannot get into bad habits, and you have to trust your team and co-workers. Figure out who the most successful people are at your work and watch what they do and how they conduct themselves, then work on cutting your own path.

Brett Beaurivage

Founder/Risk Advisor

The Bag Room

Education: B.S. risk management and insurance, University of Connecticut

Career history: Brett pursued a degree in Risk Management & Insurance from the University of Connecticut, and later became a licensed insurance agent through an internship at an agency in Connecticut.

He attained the prestigious designation of Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter.

Business lesson: My first sales appointment was a home built in 1660 in Old Wethersfield, Conn. I was so excited, nervous, clueless, but I look back fondly of that moment and let people introduce themselves from now on.

Biggest challenge: Creating a hybrid business model to bring a true fiduciary standard to the P&C market. We have experienced the worst insurance market in over 40 years and the consumer confidence is at an all-time low with insurance. It is important for the consumer to have a choice in how they purchase their insurance.

Most excited about: The opportunity to build out my vision of a buyers’ insurance agency, where we work on behalf of the policy holders on a fee basis versus being paid commissions for selling insurance products to them from an insurance company. I believe the P&C Industry will see similar growth over the next 5-10 years.

Industry advice: I am optimistic for our industry and think we can navigate this incredibly challenging market through collaborative efforts between carriers and insurance agents. The next generation of leadership in the insurance industry has got to make some critical decisions.

John Ela CEO

Ela Management Group, LLC

Education: B.S. administration and economics, UNH; M.A. economics, UNH Career history: John Ela is a CEO coach, management consultant, and strategic adviser. As an experienced CEO for multiple companies, he brings a deep understanding of the CEO role and its unique challenges.

He understands that CEOs become more effective and relevant through targeted self-development, as they also improve the performance of their people, process, and results. Whether CEO coaching, management consulting, or building and serving on corporate boards, John supports the CEO, leadership team, and the business to achieve their most important goals.

Business lesson: Between serving as a CEO, board director and CEO coach, I have learned that strategic leadership is the key driver of organizational success. Start with clear team goals, build alignment around the goals, and empower your people to execute the plan. Culture must be aligned with strategy, along with a robust process.

Most excited about? CEO coaching combines leadership, strategy development and execution, and cultural change. It is only the coaching at the CEO level that integrates all of these factors into a force for positive change. CEO Coaching is becoming recognized for the value it provides.

Industry advice: Coaches must come to understand it is about the client, the client’s goals, and the client’s time line. Be humble with high integrity.

“Build partnerships and leverage the programs and services provided by NH’s business resource partners, like SBDC, SBA, CWE, SCORE, the RDC’s, BEA, and more.”

— Liz Gray

State Director, NH Small Business Development Center

Zeina Eyceoz Deputy Director

NH Businesses for Social Responsibility

Education: Master’s liberal arts, sustainability and environmental management, Harvard University Extension School; MBA, operations and strategy, North Carolina State University; B.S. chemical engineering, University of Jordan

Career history: At NH Businesses for Social Responsibility, Zeina is a key connector between the member organizations and external stakeholders. Zeina administers the Measure What Matters survey to NH and regional organizations collecting, analyzing and reporting on sustainability data and performance, including environmental, social and governance (ESG) metrics. She established peer groups and led the effort to organize the state’s only annual sustainability conference. She was an adjunct faculty member at SNHU, and taught at Harvard University’s Extension School.

Business lesson: Every business problem is unique and requires a tailored solution. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking there’s a one-size-fits-all answer, but the reality is much more nuanced.

Biggest challenge: Making climate action everyone’s job within an organization lies in effectively communicating the urgency and importance of sustainability without overwhelming or discouraging employees.

Industry advice: Progress requires a collective effort. Foster partnerships with businesses, governments, nonprofits and communities to achieve shared goals. Sustainability is a journey.

Lauren Getts

Vice President of Economic Development and Strategic Communications

Greater

Manchester Chamber

Education: B.A. communications, public relations and journalism, Fairleigh Dickinson University

Career history: Lauren began her journey with the Greater Manchester Chamber (GMC) in 2015. In her role, she has led efforts to connect businesses, spark collaborations and tell the story of Manchester’s vibrant potential. Before joining the GMC, she honed her skills in marketing and communications, crafting strategies and brands that resonated across nonprofit and corporate sectors. Career highlights include the creation of the GMC’s award-winning “ACCESS: Economic Growth Conference” and championing initiatives that enhance the city’s quality of life.

Business lesson: Creating a culture where people feel empowered to share ideas, support one another and take ownership of their work. It’s about fostering connections and trust that lead to collective success. Most excited about: Nationally, chambers are evolving into dynamic hubs for innovation and collaboration. They are reimagining their roles to meet the changing needs of their communities. Embracing this evolution allows us to better serve our members and region – fostering a more vibrant and resilient future. Industry advice: Focus on creating value for your community, stay connected to evolving priorities, and look for ways tell your story and show the impact of your mission through the members and people you serve. Never underestimate the power of authentic relationships.

Marc

Goldberg Principal

Cornerstone Government Affairs

Education: B.A. political science, University of Pennsylvania

Career history: Before helping Cornerstone launch its New Hampshire office, Marc served as chief of staff for U.S. Sen. Maggie Hassan, managing a team of nearly 50 staffers across the senator’s D.C. office, five state offices and subcommittee office. Before that, he served as Sen. Hassan’s campaign manager and her communications director when she was New Hampshire’s governor. He also served as the independent expenditure director for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee during the 2020 cycle, running paid-media efforts across the committee’s targeted states and helping secure a majority in the U.S. Senate. Prior roles include communications positions for candidates and elected officials in Maryland, Florida and Pennsylvania.

Biggest challenge: The shifting media landscape represents a challenge that affects my and all industries. Every year, fewer and fewer are using traditional news and entertainment platforms. Understanding how and where people are getting their information is critical for success for any business Industry advice: Always focus on the audience you are working to reach and try to put yourself in their shoes. It is not just enough to have the right product or policy, you need to make sure you are meeting people where they are and connecting your message with their everyday lives.

Liz Gray State Director

NH Small Business Development Center (NH SBDC)

Education: Master’s public administration and B.S. environmental conservation and international affairs, UNH

Career history: As state director at SBDC, Liz leads a team of 20 dedicated professionals that serves NH’s small businesses. Under Liz’s guidance, SBDC has more than doubled the number of clients served through business advising, from 862 in 2019 to 1,902 in 2024. Liz was previously director of entrepreneurship at the NH Business Finance Authority and was economic development business services manager at the state’s Division of Economic Development. She worked in various capacities in the offices of governors Shaheen, Lynch and Hassan, and as a legislative aide in the N.H. State Senate. Liz was one of the 2024 Outstanding Women in Business by NH Business Review and awarded an AmplifiHer Award from the NH Women’s Foundation in 2021.

Amy Greene Co-owner

Live Free or Die Films

Career history: Amy is a film producer, stunt coordinator and stunt performer, whose recent projects include Academy Award-winning films “The Holderovers” and “Sound of Metal”, along with the Academy Award-nominated film “Knives Out” featuring Daniel Craig. Other films she’s been a part of have won awards at Sundance, Cannes, and The Independent Spirit Awards, including “Leave No Trace,” “Chronic” and “Low Down.”

Business lesson: The power of adaptability. Facing constant change, organizations that can adapt and innovate will thrive. I’m so proud of the SBDC team for how we weathered the challenges of the pandemic together and came out stronger and more resilient!

Biggest challenge: Ensuring the NH SBDC has the resources necessary to meet clients’ evolving needs. Navigating the funding landscape is critical to expanding services and ensuring the long-term sustainability of NH’s SBDC.

Double duty: As a stunt performer, Amy has had the pleasure of doubling Meryl Streep, Laura Linney, Chloe Grace Moretz, Amy Ryan, Julia Stiles, Amy Adams, Taissa Farmiga and more. As a stunt coordinator she collaborates with directors to create believable and authentic action, including working with Academy Award-winning director Alexander Payne. Most recently, she stunt-coordinated the upcoming Netflix thriller “Night Always Comes,” upcoming indie Amy Adams feature “At the Sea,” and A24 film “The Drama” starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson.

Walk of fame: In addition to Amy winning the DGA award alongside Darius Marder for “Sound of Metal,” she was recently honored with a star in Arlington, Texas, on her hometown’s Walk of Fame.

Brian Groshon

Regional Vice President of Operations

Casella Waste Systems

Education: Originally from the Northeast, Brian grew up in Maine and attended college at Norwich University in Vermont.

Career history: Casella is a large regional waste and recycling service provider based in the Northeast. Brian manages the collection and transfer operations in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Brian came to Casella in 2014 through the company’s Operations Manager Trainee Program. At Casella, he’s held various roles, from operations supervisor, to assistant general manager, to market area manager, to his current role.

Tour of duty: Before coming to Casella, Brian was an aviation officer in the U.S. Army. He flew the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior and was a part of two deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Outside of his pilot duties, he held positions that had a heavy emphasis on logistics and operations.

Personal note: Brian spends his free time with his wife and two children exploring all the outdoor adventures the New England area has to offer.

Jeff Hiatt Director MSC

Education: B.A., Indiana University, BA; certificate of leader development, U.S. Army War College

Career history: Since 1999, MSC has provided cost segregation studies for over 25,000 properties. They have helped their clients reduce income taxes over $4.8 billion. Jeff and his team have been helping folks grow their real estate portfolios. The firm enables real estate owners and investors to reduce income taxes and reinvest in growth. They also help clients get into more properties with less personal involvement in daily aspects.

Business lesson: It is best to help people get to their next level goals. When you help others as your primary focus, the good deed is usually repaid. Even if it is not, you helped someone else get farther in their life. That is reward enough. Learning to balance the time between family, work and the time and effort spent on nonprofit work. It is hard to juggle all of these balls and not drop one or two of them. It can be done with focus, attention and purpose. Industry advice: The real estate world is often up and down and never a straight path. Take the twists and turns as learning opportunities and adventures to gain knowledge. You never lose, until you quit. Only you can make that decision. Just don’t quit!

Trinnie Houghton CEO

Ripple Effect Studio

Education: B.A. psychology, Boston University; J.D., Suffolk University Law School

Career history: After many years as a civil litigation attorney with the best of Boston law firms, Trinnie combined analytics and heart into leadership and team coaching practice. For the last 20 years, she has coached global senior-level executives and their teams. In 2023, she opened Ripple Effect Studio in Manchester. She is also currently serving as board chair of the Greater Manchester Chamber, and is a graduate of Leadership New Hampshire 2016, and Leadership Greater Manchester 2015. She has also served as adjunct faculty at SNHU’s Graduate Business School, teaching classes in leadership and human behavior in organizations. Important business lesson: That independence only gets me so far. Asking for help and changing my mindset from “Do it myself” to “Support other people and small businesses” has given me a fantastic team and helped me realize some of my bigger dreams.

Colleen Keating Chief Executive Officer Planet Fitness

Education: Western New England University

Career history: Colleen Keating joined Planet Fitness in 2024 as its chief executive officer. She has more than 30 years of leadership experience across hospitality, real estate, operations and franchise management. Most recently, she served as chief executive officer of FirstKey Homes, where she led the strategic direction of the business, increasing operational efficiency and driving scalable growth. Before FirstKey Homes, she served as chief operating officer of the Americas at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). Previously, she held various positions of increasing responsibility at Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., including senior vice president of franchise operations and compliance, North America, and senior vice president of operations, North Region.

Biggest challenge: Six months after opening our studio, a flood nearly swept it away. While we were absolutely devastated, we picked ourselves up. We rebuilt. We found deep gratitude for neighbors, family, friends and clients who believed in us and supported our vision.

Most excited about: The movement into something much greater than “a business.” We opened our studio to coach teams and leaders in an inspired, refreshed way. Our studio is evolving to experience community conversations, healt and fun evening events to complement our coaching.

Dallas Lagerquist

Business

Development

CGI Business Solutions

Education: Business and marketing, UNH Manchester

Career history: After 19 years with the credit reporting industry, Dallas joined a startup bank in Manchester and entered the banking industry. Too short of a time with the startup gained me the experience of bank mergers. She joined a second startup and joined an emerging group of NH entrepreneurs/leaders to form Primary Bank. There, Dallas received accolades for her volunteer work with Granite United Way and enjoyed recognition from the Scouting community as Outstanding Woman in Business Leadership award in 2019. After 17 years in banking, she joined the business development team at CGI Business Solutions, leveraging her sale experiences and connecting with the amazing network of professionals. She enjoys helping a locally owned and operated company grow further.

Joseph Lahout, Jr. President

Lahout’s Country Clothing & Ski Shop

Education: B.S. business administration, Bryant University; J.D., New England Law School; master’s of law, Georgetown University Law Center

Career history: Joseph worked in a law firm in Washington, D.C. He is a member of the Virginia, D.C. and NH associations, and also had previous experience working at Lahout’s.

Business lesson: Once you lose a customer, you will never get them back.

Industry advice: Own the building your business is in.

Business lesson: Give back to your community. Be genuine, honest and surround yourself with good people, and don’t be afraid to speak up. No question is a dumb question.

Most excited about: To work alongside the largest independent insurance broker in NH and one of the largest in New England. With so many mergers, CGI is in a unique position to be a “one stop” shop for our clients. Remaining locally owned permits us to truly cater to our clients.

Industry advice: Stay relevant and learn all you can. Love what you do and see how you can help make someone’s day. Volunteer and mentor as often as possible.

Brian Law President and Chairman Law Family Companies Inc.

Education: B.S. transportation and international business, Northeastern University; MBA, Boston University

Career history: Brian held several management positions at Sun Microsystems. Since 1992, he has held various management positions in his family business, the Law Family Companies. He’s chairman of the trucking, warehousing, moving and storage and commercial real estate enterprise. Community involvement includes: Nashua Chamber, treasurer and board chair (Nashua Chamber, Citizen of the Year, 2024); Leadership Greater Nashua inaugural class, 1995; Nashua Rotary, board chair; BIA, director; NH Motor Transport Association, director; Nashua Airport Authority, trustee; Edgewood Cemetery, trustee.

Business lesson: Work is more satisfying when you surround yourself with collaborators, not dictators. Understanding the direction of our key variables, and communicating to business partners the impact on our partnership, has been the biggest challenge during COVID.

Most excited about? With NH’s positive economic outlook, we are well positioned to be a leader in trucking, distribution and real estate support services. Our Family Council’s important work is teaching the sixth generation what it means to be a good owner.

What keeps you up at night? Our businesses are capital intensive — swings in tax policy, HR policy, environmental policy and interest rates can wreak havoc on business plans. I worry our fractured political landscape will play out in unpredictable business policy.

Bob Lord CEO

PARMA Recordings

Career history: Bob Lord is a composer, producer and bassist with more than three decades of experience on stage, in the studio and in the board room. As the CEO of PARMA Recordings, Bob has more than 1,000 production credits on his resume, and his work has garnered two Grammy awards and seven nominations. He was recognized as one of Musical America’s “30 Professionals of the Year” and has collaborated with notable artists such as Pete Townshend of The Who, the London Symphony Orchestra, and New York Times No. 1 bestselling author Dan Brown (“The Da Vinci Code”), among others. His recent solo album, “Playland Arcade,” was hailed by Glide Magazine as “the best kind of sensory overload.”

Business lesson: When you see a line, don’t get in it. There’s always another way through.

Most excited about: There’s no market cap on creativity, and in this maelstrom of culture, technology and the arts, there exists limitless possibility. The best is yet to come.

What keeps you up at night? The fact that there exists limitless possibility!

Industry advice: In the words of AC/DC, it’s a long way to the top if you wanna rock and roll. Passion, patience and persistence are all essential elements of success in the music industry.

Eileen Liponis

Executive Director

NH Businesses for Social Responsibility

Education: B.A., Boston College; MBA, UNH

Career history: Eileen has worked for NH businesses starting in early-stage venture capital on the Seacoast, supporting the growth of NH public charter schools by forming the NH Public Charter School Association, leading the NH Food Bank for almost eight years and most recently taking on the role of executive director for New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility.

Business lesson: I was told early on by an NH angel investor that before a deal negotiation, try to figure out what the concerns are of the person you are trying to convince and address them first. Then, you will be able to go forward and align your goals to avoid conflicts of interest. You build trust by doing the hard work first and it makes moving forward together that much easier.

Biggest challenge: COVID.

Most excited about: The potential impact of the work that is possible by harnessing the hearts and resources of NH companies that care is inspiring. What keeps you up at night? Companies that don’t care.

Industry advice: Reach out and join our community and feel the strength and commitment of like-minded companies looking for ways to contribute to their employees, community and environment.

Lionel Loveless Designer/Owner

Officially Knotted Bowties

Education: AAB, Oklahoma City Community College

Career history: Before moving to NH and becoming Mr. Bowtie Daily, Lionel worked in the medical laboratory field doing medical testing for transplant patients and general hospital testing. When he moved to New Hampshire, he transitioned to be a full-time business owner at The Collectors Eye, Officially Knotted Bowties, and a couple of years later, Route 1 Antiques. He is a recent graduate of Leadership Seacoast, and is a creative morning speaker for the month of June. Current BAPOC vice chair and board member for Community Loan Fund and BLMNH.

Business lesson: Business is business, and passion is passion. If you let business become too stressful, you will lose the passion to create and achieve your desired outcome. I learned not to let the everyday of business kill my passion to create.

Biggest challenge: Figuring out the value of my creativity.

Most excited about: The consciousness and awareness of the sustainable fashion movement. More people are seeing the benefits of sustainable fashion and the impact we are having on society and the environment. What keeps you up at night? The lack of empathy in our society. We unfortunately have ventured off the path of kindness. We as a whole have to find our way back to see the humanity in each and every one of us.

Industry advice: Your time and creativity are valuable. Don’t let opinions devalue your creativity.

“There is no substitute for talking face-to-face and getting to know people.”

—

Helen Principio

Interior Designer, Stibler Associates

Alison Milioto Owner/Consultant

BlueLion LLC

Education: Business administration, master’s business administration, UNH; SHRM-SCP certification

Career history: Alison worked at McDonald’s at an early age and worked up to management. In college, she worked at restaurants as a server and bartender.

After college, she worked for a benefits company, where she worked up to vice president of operations. In 2018, Alison co-founded BlueLion, an outsourced HR company.

Business lesson: Everything changes, and you must be OK with that. Planning is important, but pivoting is vital to success.

Biggest challenge: To have more work-life balance. That is often hard to achieve, but each year it’s a focus.

Most excited about: Growth. I want every business owner to know we exist and that there are options to help them stay in compliance and have a great HR experience.

What keeps you up at night? People. Running a business and having a team who rely on you is a heavy weight. You want to make sure you balance work and a positive work environment, while ensuring enough business is coming in to sustain these employees’ livelihoods. Then, ensuring those people are the right for for my team, my clients and my brand.

Industry advice: We have the ability to have a large impact on the organizations we work with. Make sure you make it a positive impact. Bring your organization’s goals in alignment with the employees’ needs and desires.

Jeff McPherson Chief Digital Officer/Partner SilverTech and Pannos Marketing

Career history: As chief digital officer and partner at SilverTech, Jeff spearheads digital transformation efforts, ensuring marketing and technology services are seamlessly integrated. Jeff is also partner of brand agency, Pannos Marketing. Jeff is a regular speaker and a community advocate, and sits on the American Red Cross of New Hampshire board of directors. He is a Manchester Leadership and New Hampshire Leadership graduate. Business lesson: Fail fast. You will and SHOULD make more mistakes in life. Minor corrections along the way make worlds of difference.

Biggest challenge: We work in a very collaborative environment, and COVID changed business dynamics. How people engage, interact and collaborate has changed and finding a hybrid format that is attractive to all is an ever-evolving challenge.

What keeps you up at night? The quality of life for our crew. Our staff have families or are starting families, and this is the baseline for them to do so. Ensuring that we are doing everything we can to remain healthy as a company, maintain a great work environment and offer opportunities for our staff to grow.

Industry advice: Every day, every customer, every project is unique. Find a good balance of working in the business in the beginning and working on the business as you scale and grow. You owe this to your staff to ensure you are providing opportunity to grow, learn and evolve in their own right.

Donna Morris President Greater Derry Londonderry Chamber

Education: B.S. biochemistry, UNH; U.S. Chamber Institute for Organization Management

Career history: Donna has spent almost 20 years as a nonprofit professional. She was most recently the president of the Greater Salem Chamber of Commerce, and is a former research scientist at Genetics Institute.

Business lesson: I’ve learned to listen actively, solve problems creatively and keep people positive and inspired. But most importantly, a good sense of humor is essential for building trust and overcoming challenges together.

Biggest challenge: The biggest challenge was helping businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic. It required flexibility, quick responses and improved communication to address evolving needs to guide businesses through uncertainty and toward recovery.

Most excited about: The potential growth in the Greater Derry-Londonderry area, especially with the recent I-93 expansion, the future Exit 4A, and the development opportunities near the Boston-Manchester Regional Airport. These advancements will bring incredible opportunities for businesses and the community alike.

Industry advice: Nonprofit professionals must “lead leaders.” Respect the board and align each member’s strengths/skills with purposeful objectives that both empower them and reinforce the organization’s mission.

John Nyhan President Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce

Education: B.S. social work and political science, Ball State University

Career history: John worked in social services and then transitioned into senior HR roles within the high-tech industry. His last corporate role was senior vice president of HR for an international IT firm. From 2017 to 2023, he worked as an HR consultant before taking his job at the chamber. John’s additional work and community service roles includes being a 23-year rotarian; previous chair of the Hampton Beach Area Commission; previous president of Experience Hampton; present chair of the NH Association of Chamber Executives; and a present board member of BIA.

Business lesson: To be successful, you must be collaborative, resourceful, hands-on and use “we” rather than “I.”

Biggest challenge: Priority setting and time-management.

Most excited about: Being part of a team that can actually make positive changes happen through collaboration, advocacy and open communication. To look at things in a positive way rather than negative. My slogan is, “How do we get a ‘yes.’”

Industry advice: In the chamber of commerce world, leaders or want-to-be leaders need to be committed to working with and for their members. Your job should not be looked at as the last job before retirement but rather one that requires high energy, lots of communication, to be willing to speak up on issues that can create positive changes and be a leader of action and not words.

Julie Schoelzel

Director of Regional Marketing

Greater Monadnock Collaborative

Education: B.A., Marymount College

Career history: In 2003, Julie was the only full-time, non-founder employee at a travel startup (TabletHotels.com). She stayed at Tablet for 14 years, establishing multiple departments and growing from a tiny, windowless office for two, to an international company with natural sunlight. Julie took great pride in watching it grow and succeed. Her role at GMC is similar. Her mission was to have a successful launch that would enable it to raise more funding and establish regional marketing as a permanent division of the Collaborative, which it now is.

Business lesson: Work is never only about you. The effort you bring and the culture you create impacts your clients, your colleagues, your vendors, your family and their families, too — one of my father’s teachings that began the moment I started babysitting.

Most excited about: Our work to promote the Monadnock Region and the state is all about restoring balance to our population demographics, which is just so incredibly interesting. I love that it’s a challenge requiring us to problem-solve and promote our assets. NH has incredibly smart people doing great work in this area. It’s very inspiring.

Industry advice: Work with your customer service team and connect with your customers, no matter what level position you hold. Develop deep knowledge about how your customers feel about your product and messaging. Do this consistently and you’re less likely to veer off-track.

Helen Principio Interior Designer Stibler Associates

Education: B.S. computer science, Rochester Institute of Technology; B.A. interior design, New England School of Art and Design at Suffolk University Career history: Helen started her career as a software engineer at Digital Equipment Corp., where she worked her way through software engineering levels and became a project manager. She then worked for several hi-tech startup companies before pursuing an alternate career using her creative side in interior design. Helen has served as board president on the American Society of Interior Designers New England Chapter, and has been a board member for the Nashua YMCA.

Business lesson: A client relationship is as important as the work you perform for them. Nothing beats excellent customer service. Clients want to know you understand their concerns and they are being addressed in a timely manner. Good communication and following up will almost always smooth over any unforeseen glitches.

Biggest challenge: COVID. We work with clients that are challenged with getting people back to the office. And while virtual meetings are a great time-saver, nothing replaces an in-person experience, especially when meeting new clients.

Most excited about: Interior designers have the ability to make a large impact on sustainability and the environment. The design of a space with more re-use, sustainable materials and efficiency can have a large positive environmental impact.

Mandy Silver

Associate Director

Leadership New Hampshire

Education: B.S. accounting, Plymouth State University

Career history: Before her current role as associate director at LNH, Mandy was business owner of NH Scrapbook Cabin, circulation manager at Monadnock Ledger-Transcript, and financial auditor for the state of NH’s LBA Audit Division. She is also the elected town treasurer for Peterborough and serves on several local committees and boards. Recognized by the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce as Woman of the Year in 2020 and by the Keene Sentinel as one of 10 Extraordinary Women of the Monadnock Region in 2022, she combines business development with a passion for service and community.

Business lesson: Don’t be ashamed to admit when you don’t know something.

Biggest challenge: For most of my career, I have been the “young person” at the table, but the recent transition to “seasoned person” seemed to happen faster than I was expecting!

Most excited about: Sharing my knowledge of, and love for, NH with a growing population is exciting. Each year, many amazing people move to NH, and I enjoy introducing them to the unique things that make NH special.

Industry advice: Make time in your schedule for in-person meetings whenever possible, and be a generous listener. By staying present and understanding the stories and perspectives of others, you can unlock valuable insights and opportunities, both personally and professionally.

Chris Stinson Co-owner

Live Free or Die Films

Career history: Chris is a producer and line producer, who has worked on over 40 feature films including “Sound of Metal,” “Knives Out” and Alexander Payne’s “The Holdovers,” which were filmed in Massachusetts. Of those, “Knives Out” was nominated for an Academy Award in 2020, “Sound of Metal” won two Academy Awards in 2021, and “The Holdovers” was nominated for five Academy Awards in 2024, winning one. The last two features Chris worked on should be coming to a theater near you in 2025, including “Night Always Comes,” directed by Benjamin Caron, starring Vanessa Kirby, and “The Drama,” starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson. Chris has worked on many other films — such as “Leave No Trace,” “Low Down,” “Me and You and Everyone We Know” and “Chronic” — some of which have gone on to win awards at film festivals like Sundance and Cannes, and several have been nominated for Best Feature at the Independent Spirit Awards and the Academy Awards.

Steve Turner Executive Director, Founder Bring Back

the Trades

Inc.

Education: Portsmouth High School Career history: Steve began working for an auto and marine upholstery company at 15 years old. After being laid off at 19, he started his own company, Turner’s Upholstery, and has been self-employed ever since. In 2024, he celebrated the 35year anniversary of Turner’s Upholstery. Steve founded Bring Back the Trades Inc. in 2017 to address the skills gap and inspire the next generation to pursue careers in the trades.

Business lesson: Starting a business without a formal business degree or courses is challenging. It’s not enough to know how to do the work; you must also understand how to price and bill for your services effectively to ensure your business thrives.

Biggest challenge: Growing Bring Back the Trades to a level where it has the financial stability to invest in the people who are passionate about our mission and can help drive it forward.

Most excited about: The energy and passion that volunteers and supporters bring to Bring Back the Trades. Seeing people have fun while making a difference and being deeply committed to our mission is incredibly rewarding. What keeps you up at night? The constant drive to get everything done can be overwhelming, but it’s driven by passion and purpose. Juggling priorities, meeting deadlines and ensuring nothing slips through the cracks often keeps my mind racing. While it’s a challenge, it’s also incredibly rewarding.

Lori Waltz Executive Director Leadership Seacoast

Education: B.S. business management, Keene State College

Career history: Lori has over 20 years of experience across the financial, education and nonprofit sectors. She started as a compliance officer, later transitioning to a program manager in education. Since 2018, she’s served as executive director of Leadership Seacoast, where she leads programs that inspire and connect community leaders. A certified community leadership practitioner, Lori is dedicated to fostering human connection and community engagement. She actively contributes to local organizations, including Portsmouth Listens, HAVEN, and city committees in Portsmouth. Business lesson: Building authentic relationships and making genuine human connections foster loyalty, collaboration and open communication, which are critical for long-term success.

Cindi Woodbury Executive Director

Southern NH Chamber of Commerce

Career history: Cindi is currently executive director of the Southern NH Chamber of Commerce, a role she stepped into in August 2023, after serving as the membership and engagement director since November 2020. She worked for Gemline, a promotional products supplier, from February 2000 to May 2020, but lost her job due to the pandemic. At Gemline, she held the position of business systems integration trainer and employee engagement specialist. She worked at Salem Sportswear from August 1991 to 1999, with roles in sales and service. Her first full-time position was at the Arlington Trust Company’s trust department as an operations officer, then systems officer. She was the youngest bank officer in their history.

Most excited about: The growing emphasis on community-driven leadership and social impact. As the nonprofit sector continues to evolve, there’s an increasing focus on empowering individuals to take ownership of positive change in their communities.

Fun fact: As an admirer of singer/songwriter Natalie Merchant, I had the pleasure to join her on stage with other fans at The Music Hall and sing with her! It was an evening I will never forget.

Industry advice: For nonprofit leaders, keep your mission at the center of your decision-making, learn how to tell your story and invest in relationships to foster growth.

Business lesson: To focus on building genuine connections with each person and understanding their passions.

Biggest challenge: Changing careers and finding my niche in a new organization and role.

Most excited about: Helping people understand the benefits of chamber membership and how it can positively impact their business.

What keeps you up at night? Balancing my efforts between the chamber and the surrounding communities. We support more than 500 members and six towns in our service area, which keeps us quite busy.

Education

EDUCATION

Michael Berry Superintendent

Education: CAGS, district leadership, Southern New Hampshire University, administration and supervision, University of West Georgia; B.A., College of St. Joseph Career history: Michael holds himself to high standards and strives to be a leader who empowers students, colleagues, parents and stakeholders. His experiences as a teacher, coach, school leader, systems leader and mentor have equipped him to work effectively with various learners. He has experience in educational and school system leadership. His goal is to unite stakeholders to enhance student outcomes and ensure that educational practices align with community values.

Business lesson: To be known for getting things done calmly and thoughtfully. People trust leaders who make decisions calmly, with logic, compassion and transparency. Trust your team by delegating tasks and empowering them with opportunities to take on responsibility and grow.

Biggest challenge: Navigating the education sector’s significant issues: the teacher shortage, funding challenges, adapting to advancing technology, mental health, disparities in access to quality education and the diminishing expertise in education.

Most excited about: The future of education in the Amherst and Mont Vernon communities.

Industry advice: Stay the course, and remember why we all chose this profession. Education remains the cornerstone of our community and continues to play a critical role in shaping generations.

Nagaraj Bukkapatnam Director

Center for Business Analytics, University of New Hampshire

Education: MBA, Rutgers University; computer applications, CMC Ltd.; bachelor’s engineering, mechanical engineering, Osmania University

Career history:

As director of the Center for Business Analytics at UNH, Nagaraj fosters university-industry partnerships focused on solving business challenges and promoting collaborative learning. He works with clients on developing core competencies and enhancing their value propositions through strategic alliances and thought leadership. He has been an entrepreneur, director of global strategy, marketing engineer, voice architect and systems engineer.

Business lesson: A good leader is a great learner. In addition to books and experiences, I look to sector experts to hone specific skills, applying medleys of knowledge to aid students and guide future generations.

Industry advice: My advice is to be a genuine learner, a deep knowledge seeker, a bold experimenter, and most importantly, an authentic human.

Donald Birx President

Plymouth

State University

Education: B.S. engineering physics, University of California Berkeley; M.S. physics, MBA finance, Miami University; Ph.D. electrical engineering, University of Dayton Career history: Donald held the following roles throughout his career: System Research Laboratories senior scientist, technical program manager, program manager, division leader, vice president for technology and new ventures; Physical Science Laboratory, New Mexico State University, director, interim vice president of research, professor of physics (tenured); University of Houston, vice president, vice chancellor, research professor of electrical engineering (tenured); Behrend College Penn State University, chancellor; Plymouth State University, president, professor of physics.

Business lesson: Gather all the information you can about the business or university, then build a model in your mind to understand it holistically, and strategically develop and implement its vision.

Biggest challenge: Higher education in New England is facing a very challenging phase. Reinvention is difficult, but the challenge is to make the education students receive more relevant and integral to the world they will live in. That is what cluster learning is all about.

Most excited about: To create an education that is increasingly linked with community, business and research partners, is creative, and explores new ways of doing things. To investigate new degree formats.

What keeps you up at night? The university, faculty, staff, students and the future of higher education.

Paula Marie Buley

President Rivier University

Education: M.A. liberal Catholic studies, Georgetown University; Ed.D. higher education, University of Pennsylvania; MBA, Villanova University; B.A. history and economics, Immaculata University

Career history: A member of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Immaculata, PA. Served as executive vice president of administration at Seton Hall University; held senior roles at Anna Maria College, Mount St. Mary University and Immaculata University. Sister Paula’s professional service has included experience in the development and implementation of comprehensive campus master plans and academic programs. Sister Paula has served on boards including: The College of Mount St. Vincent, American University of Madaba, Jordan; Catholic Charities NH, Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, NH Charitable Foundation; NH College and University Council, and the NH Commission of Higher Education.

Business lesson: From the Book of Proverbs 24:3-4: “Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense, and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of the facts.”

Most excited about: Higher education in whatever its form truly supports the American dream. That dream is still alive and is represented in the search for truth and a concern for neighbor.

Industry advice: Focus on the opportunity for colleges and universities to contribute to their community and inspire students to pursue a spirit of lifelong learning.

Elizabeth Chilton President

University of New Hampshire

Education: B.A., University at Albany, State University of New York (SUNY); M.A. and Ph.D., UMass Amherst

Career history: Elizabeth is an anthropologist/archaeologist, faculty member and experienced public higher education leader. After earning her Ph.D., she taught at Harvard and UMass Amherst before transitioning into administration, taking on roles at UMass and later Binghamton University (SUNY). She served as provost (chief academic and research officer) for the six-campus Washington State University System and was later appointed chancellor of the system’s flagship campus in Pullman, Washington. She served in these dual roles for about two and a half years before joining UNH in July 2024, as the University’s 21st president. Business lesson: To stay focused on the diverse constituencies that we serve, whether that be customers, students, community members, etc. In our day-to-day work, we often get caught up in the functions we perform rather than the impact and values we provide.

Most excited about: In higher education, we are preparing our students for their lives as well as their careers. We are educating the individuals who choose to study with us, while also contributing to a skilled, well-informed and engaged citizenry and society for many decades to come.

Industry advice: Match your skills and passions to one of the many needs in higher education today. I have always focused on doing something, rather than wanting to be something. There are many, many ways to have an impact.

Stephen Ellis

Senior Vice President, National Director of Sales (retired)

Hartford Financial Services Group

Education: B.A. biology, St. Anselm College

Career history: Steve spent his entire career (38 years) working for the Hartford Financial Group working in New York City and Hartford. He retired to Pittsburg, NH, and built his lifelong dream log house. He immediately became involved in the community, and was elected a selectman for two terms, and was a boys’ baseball coach. He served on other boards, including St. Anselm College. He also served on the boards of the Community College System of New Hampshire, the Coos Economic Development Corporation, the North Country Community Recreation Center, the Tillotson Center, Indian Stream Health Center and the North Country Chamber of Commerce. He served on the board of the Boy Scouts of America. Business lesson: Relationships in business are very important, and are built on trust and honesty. This allows one to obtain new business and retain existing business. The best salesman is not the best speaker, rather is the best listener. Listen to the clients’ needs and then create a strategy to accomplish their goals.

“In academia, most ideas are shared. There is a true spirit of transparency and open communication. The result: Everyone gets better. The changes we are going through requires that type of collaboration.”

— Donald Birx President, Plymouth State University

Deborah Fournier Director,

Health Law & Policy Institute for Health Policy & Practice, College of Health & Human Services, University of New Hampshire

Education: B.A. history, Whitman College; J.D., Northeastern University School of Law

Career history: Deborah has 20 years of health policy experience, including posts at national organizations such as the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and the National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP). She has also served in two state Medicaid programs, culminating in her serving as NH’s Medicaid director. Deborah’s career has encompassed health policy related to public health crises, health care financing, payment reform, health insurance coverage programs, social drivers of health and innovative Medicaid policies. She is currently focused on health care affordability and emerging pathways for sustainably financing health care services and public health services to address social drivers of health.

Business lesson: Invest in your staff, and they will invest in you.

Most excited about: The ever-increasing recognition of the centrality of the social drivers of health-on-health outcomes.

Industry advice: To be successful, nothing replaces hard work. Know the needs of your client before you speak about your program. Always try to meet the client concern, and if you can’t explain fully, explain why not.

What keeps you up at night? The disparities people experience in the immediate moment due to the centrality of the social drivers of health-onhealth outcomes.

Industry advice: Learn your content thoroughly and then spoon-feed your complex expertise to others.

“It is critically important to build and strengthen relationships with others in the workplace. Success is not individual, but a collective achievement. Your community at work is essential to both your success and your well-being.”

— Cyndee Gruden

Interim

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, University of New Hampshire

Jenna Matheny Director of Technology Transfer

University of New Hampshire

Education: J.D., Tulane University Law School; B.S.brain and cognitive sciences, MIT

Career history: Jenna has 16 years of experience in licensing, intellectual property protection and management, business development, and technology commercialization in multiple sectors. Jenna was adjunct faculty at UNH from 2022-2023 and taught in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences and in UNH Franklin Pierce Law School. Before joining UNH, Jenna worked at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Tulane University and at the New Orleans BioInnovation Center. She is active with AUTM and speaks on intellectual property, contracts and technology commercialization.

Business lesson: I’ve learned the critical importance of building strong relationships. Success is deeply rooted in connections with colleagues, clients and your network. Fostering genuine relationships enhances collaboration, drives innovation and builds trust. When people feel valued and understood, they’re more likely to engage and contribute positively.

Industry advice: Successful technology transfer depends on faculty engagement, so it’s important to devote time to developing those relationships and to collaborate with them on each step of the process. Leverage their expertise when marketing innovations and ask for their input on licensing strategies.

Cyndee Gruden

Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs University of New Hampshire

Education: Ph.D., University of Colorado at Boulder; B.S., M.S., University of New Hampshire

Career history: In 2021, Cyndee became dean of the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences. At UNH, she has led a university-wide strategic planning process, implemented best practices for recruitment and retention, developed programming for early career faculty, and spearheaded a variety of initiatives to improve student success. She was employed at the University of Toledo as associate vice provost for academic administration and faculty affairs and the interim dean of the College of Graduate Studies. She was a faculty member in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering where she was the founding director of the ABETaccredited environmental engineering program.

Biggest challenge: It has been exciting to take on increasing levels of responsibility through leadership roles. It has been challenging but critically important to maintain my well-being, my personal relationships and my higher purpose.

Most excited about: Higher education is an incredibly rewarding field, as we have the opportunity to provide access and opportunity to a wide array of students so that they can recognize and embrace their potential and pursue important career pathways.

John

Roth

Director,

John Olson Advanced Manufacturing Center University of New Hampshire

Education: Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, Michigan Technological University Career history: John is currently the co-principal investigator for roadmapping in-space manufacturing for the U.S. Department of Commerce. He served as assistant director for research partnerships, Department of Commerce NIST Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office (AMNPO); associate director of Research and Technology Transfer and professor of mechanical engineering, Penn State University. He is also the U.S. representative for U.S.-Italy and U.S. Germany in the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Initiative.

Business lesson: The most successful new technology innovations come through companies collaborating on product/process development and launch with their future competitors. In most cases, the collaborative engagement continued well beyond the launch of their initial rival products.

Most excited about: After years of diminishing engagement, all U.S. manufacturing sectors are seeing a revitalization in innovation and investment. With the highest employment and fiscal multipliers of any economic sector (2.9-3.5), this resurgence promises to strengthen the U.S. economy and the State of New Hampshire.

What keeps you up at night? Currently, nearly 40% of the world’s products are fabricated in one country. This is a significant consolidation of economic wealth and influence, as well as a very fragile and vulnerable supply chain model.

Matt Simon

Executive Director, Biotechnology Innovation Center and ReGen

Valley Common Campus, UNH

Education: B.A. administration of justice, University of Pittsburgh; B.S. electrical engineering, MBA, University of New Hampshire; Ed.D., University of Plymouth Career history: As a community outreach worker at The Mayhew Program, Matt supported at-risk youth. At OSRAM, he focused on machine vision systems development and global LEAN manufacturing. He then transitioned into academia, managing licensing and commercialization efforts for UNH’s engineering and physical sciences intellectual asset portfolio, as well as testing services and equipment through the UNH InterOperability Laboratory. Next, he joined FuturePlus Systems to lead global marketing and sales initiatives.

Biggest challenge: Bridging the academic, corporate and entrepreneurial worlds. Leading teams across multiple ecosystems requires balancing competing priorities, managing limited resources and ensuring stakeholders remain engaged, aligned and inspired by shared goals.

Most excited about: UNH’s role in catalyzing New Hampshire’s biofabrication industry.

Industry advice: Focus on collaborative innovation, bridging academic research and initiatives with industry needs. Nurture diverse skill sets within teams and emphasize resilience and adaptability. Seek out strategic partnerships, build robust networks, and prioritize mentorship.

Fiona Wilson Chief Sustainability Officer/ Executive Director UNH/Sustainability Institute

Education: MBA, Simmons College School of Management; DBA, Boston University School of Management

Career history: Fiona was previously executive director of UNH’s Changemaker Collaborative, a member of the faculty at UNH’s business school and at Simmons School of Management. She was VP of marketing for CMGI, and held roles at Ogilvy & Mather Advertising. She is on the board of Revision Energy and The Friends of Casco Bay. Previously, Fiona served as president and a trustee of the Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment, and Meridian Stories.

Christiana Thornton

President and CEO Granite Edvance

Education: B.A. political science, communications, Rollins College

Career history: At Granite Edvance, Christiana has focused on honing the mission of supporting NH students and families in pursuing education and career pathways. She was previously president of the NH Bankers Association, and previously served as vice president of government relations. Her career began as a staff member for former U.S. Sen. John E. Sununu. She has served on numerous nonprofit boards both nationally and in New Hampshire, including the University System of New Hampshire, the BIA, NH Mutual Bancorp, Merrimack County Savings Bank, NH Trust Company and Concord Christian Academy.

Most excited about: UNH’s students! I am lucky enough to work with this generation of college students, young people who are not only extremely aware of the world they are inheriting, but who are also passionate, creative, innovative, focused and dedicated changemakers. I’m also excited by the work of many of NH’s businesses, municipalities and nonprofits.

What keeps you up at night? How we push the boundaries of what’s possible, address opportunities for improvement and be an economic resource. Industry advice: It’s time for leadership to ensure a prosperous economy, resilient infrastructure and a healthy, thriving ecosystem. We need to adopt new mindsets, and collaborate across sectors, industries and areas of expertise to develop innovative sustainability solutions that support people, planet and profits. The companies that will thrive in the future understand that paying attention to climate and other sustainability risk is smart business.

Biggest challenge: When I joined Granite Edvance, the nonprofit consisted of three companies with three boards of directors. To strengthen our focus, we streamlined our corporate structure and operations. This resulted in Edvance’s reorganization, realignment and rebranding.

Most excited about: Each year we’ve enhanced our support of all NH students. Granite Edvance has increased its financial support for scholarships, emergency grants and tools and resources to helping students navigate their future pathways and funding. I’m so thrilled with the progress. What keeps you up at night? The financial needs are so great among students today, with rising costs of tuition and basic needs like food and housing. There are tremendous unmet needs and many students are struggling. These significant barriers lead me to consider what more we can do.

“Progress stems from genuine collaboration grounded in mutual respect. By valuing diverse expertise, encouraging open communication and recognizing each individual’s contributions, teams can create lasting success and innovation.”

— Matt Simon

Executive

Director,

Biotechnology Innovation Center and ReGen Valley Common Campus, University of New Hampshire

Financial Services

Clay Adams President and CEO Mascoma Bank

Education: B.A., Dartmouth College; MBA, Tuck School of Business Administration

Career history: Clay became president and CEO of Mascoma Bank in January 2017. Under his leadership, Mascoma Bank expanded into new markets, experienced significant growth, and became one of the first banks in the United States to become a certified B Corporation. Before joining Mascoma Bank, Clay led Simon Pearce, a family-owned manufacturer and retailer of handcrafted glass and pottery, where he had been CEO. Before that, he was COO and CEO of Resource Systems Group (RSG), a firm specializing in quantitative data modeling.

Business lesson: Nobody has all the answers.

Biggest challenge: It seems like a long time ago now, but the pandemic was a huge challenge at the time. As leaders, we were thrust overnight into an entirely new way of motivating and leading people through uncertainty. A close second challenge would be managing a community bank through an interest rate environment with one of the longest inverted yield curves in history. One could safely attribute this to the pandemic as well.

Hobbies/passions: Being in the outdoors; cycling; hiking

Checked-off bucket list item: Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail Industry advice: Do not underestimate the positive impact you can have on your communities and customers’ lives as a community banker.

Joseph Bator

Regional Vice President

Bank

Education: B.S. finance, Syracuse University; MBA, LeMoyne College

Career history: Joseph held leadership roles with Primary Bank in New Hampshire and Eastern Bank in Boston, winning the U.S. Small Business Administration’s financial services champion award in both states. Under Joseph, both banks were named SBA lenders of the year in their markets multiple times. His teams have originated well over $1 billion in credit to support local businesses. During the pandemic, Joseph approved over 3,000 PPP loans totaling over $200 million in aid. Currently, he is responsible for TD Bank’s commercial activity in their New Hampshire Metro West Division. Business lesson: I often ask my team, “What would you do if you were not afraid to fail?” to encourage them to not be afraid and to move outside their comfort zone.

Most excited about: Playing a small role in that transition of current-generation business owners selling their businesses to the next generation. Fun fact: For my 50th birthday, I ran Millennium Running’s Anytime 5K course 10 times, raising $50,000 for the nonprofit Friends of AINE.

Checked-off bucket list item: I drank wine older than myself among my wine collection of about 600 bottles. I have several bottles of birth year wines for all my kids to open when they are old enough. Industry advice: It may take time, but hard work will always be rewarded. Further, often it is the effort you take that people do not see that is most impactful.

“As a business leader, recognize that your company’s success is a direct result of the people within your organization.”

—Crystal Dionne President & CEO, Primary Bank

Kate Burns Senior Vice President, Market President TD Bank

Career history: Kate is a banking professional with over 28 years of experience. She began her career leading branch teams and progressed to strategic support roles in retail strategy and learning. She has a track record of driving strong colleague engagement to deliver service, performance and operational objectives. Business lesson: Early in my career journey, I was fortunate to have a mentor who helped me understand the difference between being right and winning. This guidance has helped me build connections and drive outcomes through improved collaboration.

Biggest challenge: The most important priority in my role is talent development and engagement. This presents the biggest challenge and most important responsibility: the engagement and retention of talent and the recruitment of high-potential individuals who are committed to delivering for each other and our customers.

Fun fact: Twenty-seven years ago, my amazing husband and I eloped to Las Vegas. And, no, we were not married by an Elvis impersonator.

Checked-off bucket list item: I have visited five European countries. Industry advice: Be passionate about your people and providing a great experience for them. They will deliver for you and be passionate about delivering for your customers and organization.

Peter Carvell

Senior Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer

Savings Bank of Walpole

Education: New England School for Financial Studies; ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking; Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania

Career history: In 1996, Peter became a per diem teller at Vermont National Bank, holding numerous positions there (and Chittenden Bank) for 11 years. In 2008, he transitioned to Brattleboro Savings & Loan as the bank’s senior vice president and senior commercial banking officer leading the commercial division. In April 2024, Peter traveled to New Hampshire to join the Savings Bank of Walpole’s commercial team. He has served on boards for Brattleboro Memorial Hospital (which he also chaired), Keene’s Colonial Performing Arts Center and the Keene Family YMCA finance committee.

Business lesson: Remember your roots, including the people and experiences that have shaped you.

Biggest challenge: At 58, after 16 years at one financial institution, I joined another in a different market. It was challenging and exciting, and the best decision I have made in my career.

Fun fact: Having worked in the restaurant business before banking, I often think about the transferrable skills I gained from waiting tables that have served me in my banking career.

Industry advice: You can’t control what happens to you, but you can control how you respond to it.

PETER CARVELL SVP, Commercial Loan Officer

Timothy F. Dargan

Senior Vice President, Senior Commercial Loan Officer First Seacoast Bank

Education: B.S. finance, Boston College School of Managemen

Career history: Tim started his banking career in Boston in 1984, and has lived and worked in New Hampshire since 1986. He provides his customers with product options including loans, deposits, digital banking, cash management and wealth management services. In the past, he worked for BankEast, First NH, First National Bank of Portsmouth, Bank of NH, TD Bank, Northeast Bank and GE Capital. Tim has worked for First Seacoast Bank for 14 years, leading seven people in the commercial lending department.

Business lesson: Treat your clients like you would want to be treated if you were in their shoes.

Biggest challenge: Building an effective PPP loan program in the middle of a pandemic. Nearly overnight, we were learning, building and implementing a program to help our commercial customers get access (as quickly as possible) to SBA funding which was available on a first-come-first-served basis.

Most excited about: My team! First Seacoast Bank’s commercial lending department has over 100 years of combined experience in lending, portfolio management, underwriting and account support.

Favorite story: The story of “Miracle on Ice,” where the underdog faced and beat their best and most highly rated competitors.

Industry advice: Be ethical in your business dealings, always advocate for the customer and deliver the financial products and services they need. Face challenges as an opportunity to learn and grow, and don’t ever stop learning.

JASON HICKS EVP, Chief Financial and Risk Officer

Leadership that Strengthens Our Communities.

Savings Bank of Walpole is proud to congratulate Peter Carvell and Jason Hicks for being named to NHBR’s New Hampshire 200 List. Their leadership and contributions in banking, local communities, and beyond continue to make a lasting impact!

Congratulations as well to Christiana Thornton—President & CEO of Granite Edvance and Vice Chair of our sister bank Merrimack County Savings Bank’s Board of Directors—on also being named to the New Hampshire 200 List!

Nicole Davis Senior Advisor Veris Wealth Partners

Education: B.A. political science, Stanford University

Career history: Nicole Davis is a partner and senior advisor at Veris Wealth Partners. She specializes in creating highly impactful private investment portfolios, tailored to clients’ thematic interests. She is a member of the Veris Investment Committee and head of the Veris Sustainability Committee. Previously, Nicole was an assistant vice president and portfolio manager at Bank of Hawaii in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Industry advice: Use language that is accessible for your clients. Limit financial jargon, and define any finance-specific terms. Clients are more likely to be successful if they understand their financial plan and their progress toward their goals.

Crystal Dionne President & CEO Primary Bank

Education: B.S. accountancy, Bentley College; MBA, Southern New Hampshire University; CPA license in New Hampshire Career history: Crystal spent the first 20 years of her career in state and local government finance, serving as president of the NH Government Finance Officers Association and New England GFOA before being appointed to the National GFOA Committee on Budget and Fiscal Policy. Crystal joined Primary in 2015 during its formation, serving on the management team in its startup phase. She was CFO before her current appointment as president and CEO. Under Crystal’s direction, Primary has ranked No. 1 in bank health and performance awards in New England and the Northeast. She represents New Hampshire in the American Bankers Association Emerging Leader Council.

Biggest challenge: Joining a small minority of female glass-ceiling breakers — in the banking industry, approximately 95% of CEOs are men.

Most excited about: Sharing how Primary is making a measurable impact on the growth of our small business economy, and we are just getting started!

Hobbies/passions: Ballet. I owned and operated a studio teaching ballet for over 15 years.

Industry advice: Community banking plays a vital role in the growth and success of our local economies. Keep this at the forefront of your decision-making process, and our communities will be better off for it!

At First Seacoast Bank, we believe in the importance of community and helping our local business owners succeed. Tim has been a dedicated part of our team for the past 15 years, bringing 38 years of commercial lending experience to the Seacoast. His deep knowledge of the local business landscape makes him an invaluable resource for our community.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Colleen Farley Managing Principal Robbins Farley LLC

Education: B.A. business, Saint Anselm

College

Career history: Colleen began her career in college, interning at Smith Barney. This is where she met Bob Robbins, who hired her to join his team as a financial advisor associate. Colleen grew to a VP of wealth management and portfolio management director while earning her Certified Portfolio Management designation while at Smith Barney. In 2012, after an acquisition by Morgan Stanley, Bob and Colleen launched their own wealth management firm, as co-owners and founders of Robbins Farley LLC.

Business lesson: Industry is always evolving. Stay current with the time, technology, and even music. You don’t have to like it, but you should try understanding it.

Most excited about: Starting to pass on my experience and education about wealth management and individuals’ emotional relationship to finance/ money as we look to hire the next generation of financial advisors at our firm. What keeps you up at night? Cybersecurity — protecting our firm and our clients from the risks.

Checked-off bucket list item: Traveling to Italy.

Industry advice: Some need assistance more than others in understanding the math and psychology of money. So, for those who are blessed with understanding that, pay it forward. The more you educate your clients, the more they can pass that on to others around them, their children, colleagues, friends, and so on. Make an impact.

Kevin Finke Senior Vice President, Commercial Lender BankProv

Education: B.A. economics, Rutgers University

Career history: Kevin started his banking career right out of college in 1990, working in New York City. He then worked for a few different banks in New Jersey from 1993 to 2007. In 2007, he and his family moved to New Hampshire, where he was fortunate enough to land a position at BankProv in 2020.

Fun fact: I learned to waterski at 49 years old after watching a video on YouTube.

Favorite story: The movie “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

Hobbies/passions: Riding snowmobiles and off-road vehicles; boating; fishing; playing disc golf.

Checked-off bucket list item: Ziplining with my daughter. Industry advice: Don’t be afraid to ask for someone’s business. I’ve had some great luck doing that over the years. The worst thing they can say is “no.”

Jason Hicks

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Risk Officer

NH Mutual Bancorp

Education: B.S., M.S. accounting, University of North Texas

Career history: As a public accountant with a Big Four accounting firm, Jason helped audit a large regional bank. He later worked in First Union Bank’s Corporate Treasury and Investments department and then Bank of America in Charlotte, North Carolina. He supported both banks in their merger and acquisition activities with more than a dozen other banks, mortgage originators, credit card companies and wealth management firms through 2008. Jason moved to New Hampshire in 2009 to work for Meredith Village Savings Bank, now part of New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp. Business lesson: Make time to develop and maintain relationships. Most excited about: Mutual banks’ future as key community members. Please check out Mutuals Matter at mutualbanksmatter.com to learn more. What keeps you up at night? Finding ways to solve the challenges our nation is dealing with, primarily housing, child care and the cost of living.

Fun fact: Jason grew up raising cattle.

“Community banks are an important piece of the ecosystem we all enjoy as part of our hometown. As bankers, we must stay engaged and find ways to partner with customers and our communities to strengthen them.”

— Jason Hicks

Favorite story: Harry Potter books and movies.

Hobbies/passions: Working on/talking about cars, especially with people more skilled than me.

Checked-off bucket list item: Flying in a helicopter.

Brian Hughes President and CEO

Holy Rosary Credit Union

Education: B.S. accounting and finance, M.S. organizational development, Bridgewater State University

Career history: Brian started his banking career in college as a part-time bank teller. After graduating, he was an internal auditor at a local credit union. Brian says he found his calling knowing how credit unions operate as a nonprofit, for the benefit of their members and the local community. He had mentors along the way who he said helped him realize his career goal was to be a credit union CEO. He is in his 34th year as a CEO and 21st year with HRCU.

Business lesson: Work hard and don’t wait for a break to come your way. Do whatever you can to make it happen.

Biggest challenge: Navigating the changing landscape of banking. The digital age has transformed banking, and now, here comes AI.

Most excited about: Seeing HRCU grow and become a great community partner. It started with eight members putting up $50 each in 1962 and now helps thousands of members.

Fun fact: When I interviewed for the CEO role at HRCU, I mentioned running the Boston Marathon. A search committee member was a runner and said after I left, “If he can run the Boston Marathon, he can do anything.”

Industry advice: As nonprofit financial cooperatives, credit unions should always be focused on helping people in our community by offering affordable financial services and giving sound advice while not being profit-motivated.

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Risk Officer, New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp

FINANCIAL SERVICES

David Janelle

Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking M&T Bank

Education: B.S. economics, finance, Bentley University; ABA, Stonier Graduate School of Banking; Wharton Leadership Program, University of Pennsylvania

Career history: David started his commercial banking career straight out of college as a financial analyst for a small community bank. He advanced to more responsibility as a portfolio manager and eventually relationship manager with larger regional banks. David enjoys helping business owners grow, and has developed expertise assisting with mergers and acquisitions and transition of business ownership through ESOPs.

Business lesson: You can’t do it all on your own. Build a team of professionals around you that provide expertise and experience.

Fun fact: I grew up with an entrepreneurial spirit. When I was in high school, I started my first business: an ice cream vending truck.

Hobbies/passions: Hiking, riding motorcycles, golf, travel.

Checked-off bucket list item: I climbed Mount Katahdin, the highest mountain in Maine, and traversed the infamous Knife Edge Trail.

Industry advice: There is always something new to learn. To set yourself apart from others in the industry, find a niche that you are passionate about, study it well and become an expert in the field. Then you can add value to

Justin Jennings

NH Regional President NBT Bank

Education: B.S. business administration, Liberty University

Career history: Justin has spent over 25 years in commercial banking. He joined NBT Bank in 2021 and was appointed to his current role in 2023. Before that, he built his skills in relationship building, portfolio management and credit analysis through various roles with increasing responsibility. Justin says one of the most rewarding parts of his career has been working alongside the businesses and charitable organizations that help communities thrive.

Business lesson: Working hard and leading every interaction with authenticity is the most important component of success, no matter what industry you work in.

Biggest challenge: While the banking industry has experienced a challenging past few years, NBT’s local focus combined with our asset size gives us the leverage to be agile and pivot with changes that enable us to continue to support our customers.

Most excited about: Building relationships, which are at the core of providing a truly customized experience focused on the customer’s success.

Hobbies/passions: Spending time with family, especially outside.

Checked-off bucket list item: Playing golf with my dad at Pebble Beach Golf Links in California.

Show up authentically, embrace change, never stop

Congratulations to Timothy Wade and David Janelle from your friends at M&T.

from 2008-2010, then moved to Citizens Bank. John was a senior vice president and later regional manager in his years there 2010-2023, and received a Citizens Chairman Award for community service, performance and growth. He was a regional 2024 WOW! Award winner, ranked second.

Failures teach resilience, innovation and adaptability, offering insights that success often conceals. They highlight weaknesses, spark creative solutions and foster growth. Embrace setbacks as stepping stones, refining strategies and leadership, ultimately building a stronger foundation

TD Bank’s future, driven by its inclusive culture and deep commitment to community involvement.

Favorite story: “Life is Beautiful,” a foreign film that teaches the importance of having a positive attitude and humor in the darkest times.

Industry advice: Embrace a digital-first approach by prioritizing seamless customer experiences, leveraging AI and data analytics for personalization, and investing in mobile-first solutions. Foster innovation through agile teams, partnerships with fintechs and upskilling employees. Strengthen cybersecurity and trust to ensure long-term customer loyalty and business growth.

success! Spotlight on

Michael O’Reilly President of New England

Justin Jennings New Hampshire Regional President

We applaud the New Hampshire 200 honorees and proudly commend our own Michael O’Reilly and Justin Jennings for being selected as two of the 2025 recipients.

At NBT, we believe our people are our greatest asset. This recognition underscores the expertise and talent that define our business and culture. Congratulations Mike and Justin on this well-deserved achievement!

Camille Madden President HarborOne Mortgage

Education: B.A. economics, Boston College

Career history: Camille began her career in an entry-level position, working her way to underwriting manager at First NH Mortgage. She went on to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage for a dozen years before moving to Merrimack Mortgage in Manchester, acquired by HarborOne in 2015. There, Camille was promoted to VP of underwriting, to SVP of operations, to COO, then president in 2019. That year, she was awarded the Top NH WomenLed Businesses Award. She served at the advisory level for NH Housing Finance Authority and Mortgage Bankers and Brokers Association of NH. Camille is involved with the Downtown Manchester YMCA, and is on the Palace Theatre board of trustees.

Business lesson: Teach your team that it’s OK to make a mistake. Learn from it and don’t repeat it.

Biggest challenge: Managing through reductions in force while keeping the remaining team engaged. The industry has downsized since COVID. Favorite story: How my mom met my dad. She suffers from dementia but can still recall picking him out of a crowd at a friend’s party in the early 1950s, declaring to her gal pals, “See that handsome guy in the corner? I’m going to marry him.”

Industry advice: Take the time to learn your craft, build relationships and listen to those around you. Focus on client retention. Build your database and communicate regularly.

Josephine Moran

President and CEO

Ledyard National Bank

Education: MBA, M.S. finance and financial planning, University of New Haven; B.S. marketing and management, Financial Institute of Technology; Series 7 and 63 licensed

Career history: After a career in the fashion industry, Josephine began her banking career with First Union/Wells Fargo as a financial specialist. She served in several senior leadership roles overseeing the Retail Network in Connecticut and New Jersey, before joining Santander as a regional president, leading Metro New York and Northern New Jersey. Josephine then moved to regional and community banks in executive leadership positions overseeing their retail and investment businesses. She joined Ledyard first as president and CBO, then became president and CEO in May 2023. Josephine founded the UNH Women’s Leadership Council, was selected among Thrive Global’s Top Women in Finance, among Top 10 Women Leaders by Industry Era, and she was recently elected to the Boston Fed’s board of directors.

Most excited about: Our extensive growth over the last two years, having invested a tremendous amount in our team and infrastructure.

Fun fact: I love all rock music, especially ‘70s rock. My all-time favorite band is Van Halen (David Lee Roth era only!).

Checked-off bucket list item: Visiting Paris last June with my daughter. Industry advice: Embrace innovation, prioritize customer relationships and stay adaptable to changes. Leverage technology to enhance efficiency and personalized services, while creating trust through transparency.

NH 200! Congratulations,

Your leadership, innovation and hard work have made a lasting impact on our state’s economy and communities. As one of New Hampshire’s most influential leaders, you’ve built success—and Bank of New Hampshire is here to help you take it even further. Whether you’re expanding, investing or planning for the future, we have the financial solutions to support your business dreams - you can bank on it.

Michael O’Reilly

New England Regional President NBT Bank

Education: B.S. economics, University of Maine; New England School of Banking

Career history: Michael joined NBT Bank in 2023 as president of New England and Maine regional president. Before that, he began at TD Bank in Portland, later expanding into the Southern Maine/ Portsmouth market. Michael moved onto Bangor Savings Bank, specializing in commercial real estate and construction. He became Southern Maine team lead in 2014 and led the bank’s expansion into New Hampshire in 2017 as the director of development. He has been recognized with the Bangor Savings 2021 Culture Award and the Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire’s 2023 Above And Beyond Award.

Business lesson: Garnering trust inside and outside your organization is critical to success. Trust is earned and your reputation is key.

Most excited about: Banking has changed over the last few years with increasing regulation and liquidity pressures. NBT Bank’s size, balance sheet strength and community focus put it in a great position to succeed in this new environment. Fun fact: Early in my career I wanted to be an analyst, managing spreadsheets and numbers. Dealing with the public, engaging in sales and making presentations made me anxious.

Favorite story: The movie “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

Industry advice: Resist the urge to take additional risk to get a loan done. Stick to the fundamentals of banking whenever possible. Most bank balance sheets can handle lower loan growth, but few can handle asset quality issues.

Mark Paluzzi

Director of NH Development, NH Wealth Market Leader Bangor Savings Bank

Education: B.S. business administration, Salem State University; MBA, Bentley University

Career history: Mark began his banking career as a tax accountant at the First National Bank of Boston, later Bank of America, remaining with the bank for 22 years. He served as trust officer, market trust director and finally, regional trust executive. Following that, he worked at Citizens Bank for six years where he held the roles of senior trust officer, trust department manager and last, chief fiduciary officer. Mark has been at Bangor Savings Bank for over four years.

Biggest challenge: Losing my job in mid-February 2020, three weeks before COVID hit. Fortunately, Bangor Savings Bank was looking to fill the role I currently hold.

Most excited about: Opportunities that lie before Bangor Savings Bank in New Hampshire. We are expanding into different markets within the Granite State which inspires me.

Fun fact: I enjoy exotic adventures, and in September 2023, got engaged inside an active volcano in Hawaii.

Hobbies/passions: Cooking; entertaining; crafting in his workshop; photography

Checked-off bucket list item: In February 2024, Mark and his family traveled to Alaska to experience the beginning of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race and the Northern Lights.

Michael Perrella

Senior Commercial Lender Bellwether Community Credit Union

Education: B.A., Dartmouth College; MBA, University of New Hampshire

Business lesson: Be genuine and honest in all you do. Beware of “group think.” What keeps you up at night? For better or worse, AI is going to change the way we all live and work.

Hobbies/passions: Experiencing the beauty of nature — a quiet lake, the ocean, or the mountains.

Industry advice: It is important to understand policy and procedures, but they should never be a substitute for careful listening and thoughtful solutions.

Lori Piper

Senior Vice President, Senior Commercial Loan Officer Enterprise Bank

Education: B.S. business administration, SNHU; New England School of Financial Studies at Babson College

Career history: Lori has been with Enterprise Bank for 10 years, and has worked in the banking industry her entire career, primarily in commercial lending. She enjoys helping businesses and nonprofit organizations with financing and banking needs to support their stability and growth. Lori has served on various nonprofit boards and committees in New Hampshire communities over three decades.

Business lesson: Listen carefully to people and to their business needs, and work to find solutions that will suit their concerns and/or needs. Don’t try to sell them a “service” or “product.”

What keeps you up at night? The polarization in our country and concerns over health care, especially as people age.

Fun fact: I flew on the Concorde in 1988 from NYC to London. What a trip!

Favorite story: Stories by Canadian author Louise Penny. She is a mystery writer, and her books take place in and around Quebec, with a lot of history, architecture and poetry woven throughout. I recommend reading the books in order. While each story is its own, many characters are the same and they develop with each new book.

Industry advice: People come first before AI and computers. Stay visible and engaged in your community. Be kind, honest and live and work with integrity in all that you do.

Steve Saltzman President & CEO

New

Hampshire Community Loan Fund

Education: M.A., University of Virginia; B.A., Duke University

Career history: Steve is an 18-year veteran of the Community Development Financial Institution industry. During his tenure, the New Hampshire Community Loan Fund has experienced the highest impact and strongest financial self-sufficiency in its history. Before that, Steve was CEO of the Climb Fund, a Charleston, South Carolina-based nonprofit CDFI. He also worked at the Self-Help Credit Union for 13 years. He currently serves on two local and three national boards.

Business lesson: Any organization’s people are 10 times more valuable than its balance sheet.

Biggest challenge: Navigating an increasingly challenging and inequitable interest rate environment on behalf of our borrowers.

What keeps you up at night? Out-of-state private equity firms are buying up NH’s manufactured-home parks and making one of the last affordable homeownership opportunities in the state unaffordable.

Fun fact: I climbed all of NH’s 4,000-footers. Pretty good for a guy who moved here without a winter coat!

Favorite story: Ty Gagne’s “Where You’ll Find Me” and “The Last Traverse.” Industry advice: Don’t confuse incomplete with incompetent. Foster networks and organizations of “learn-it-alls,” not “know-it-alls.”

Jeremy Stanizzi Senior Credit Officer

New Hampshire Business Finance Authority

Education: B.A. business administration, MBA, University of New Hampshire Career history: Jeremy began his finance career working as a field service representative on the audit team for GE Capital Commercial Distribution Finance.

After becoming more acquainted with risk management and commercial lending, he joined CIT Bank as an underwriter and learned loan structuring and credit risk analysis. He shifted to an LA-based startup fintech lender, Currency Capital, as a senior credit analyst. A drive to lend within a state led him to the New Hampshire Business Finance Authority.

Business lesson: Never become complacent. Once complacency settles in, growth begins to stall. Always approach every process or business challenge with an open mind. Change is a good thing and sometimes needed. Most excited about: We recently launched the New Hampshire Loan Participation Program, which has immensely impacted the business community.

Fun fact: I have seven brothers and sisters. So, if you see someone who looks like they could be me, but you’re not sure, it might be one of my brothers.

Hobbies/passions: Spending time with family, mountain biking, working out at the gym.

Industry advice: Keep your mind open and explore creative solutions; they are out there. When something falls outside what is considered a standard commercial loan, explore the many resources we have throughout the state.

Tim Wade Regional President, New Hampshire M&T Bank

Education: B.A. managerial economics, Union College; MBA, Union Graduate College Career history: Tim first joined M&T in 1996 after three years with Key Bank and 10 years with Chase Manhattan Bank. For seven years, he diverted, managing health care consulting and title insurance companies before becoming CEO of a six-facility skilled nursing operation. After moving from Upstate New York to Boston in 2017, he now lives and works in Manchester, overseeing M&T’s commercial banking and retail operations for the Granite State. Tim is on the boards of CATCH Neighborhood Housing, Easterseals NH/VT and the American Heart Association of NH — the latter two of which he also serves as a treasurer and chair, respectively. He also chairs the New Hampshire Foundation Giving Committee for this M&T region.

Business lesson: Network, network, network! A strong support system and network of dedicated colleagues and trusted advisors is critical to your success. Most excited about: Serving the needs of our NH communities, from small business lending to affordable housing development.

What keeps you up at night? Seeing the beginning of the impact of the increased cost of living here in the Granite State.

Hobbies/passions: Playing golf and pickleball, watching football, baseball/softball, basketball and tennis.

Industry advice: From colleagues in the workplace to customers in the community, if you serve others before yourself, you’ll succeed in anything you do.

Stephen Witt Senior Vice President and Regional Commercial Real Estate Group Director

Eastern

Bank

Education: B.A. mathematics, University of Vermont

Career history: Steve began his banking career after graduating from college and has spent over 36 years in commercial lending.

He joined Eastern in 2014 through the bank’s acquisition of Centrix Bank. He has been involved in over $1 billion in commercial loans and provided financing for the development, purchase or refinance of hundreds of commercial properties throughout New Hampshire’s Seacoast area. Steve is also an active volunteer in the local community, including serving as New Castle’s town assistant treasurer. He has served on boards for nonprofits like the Cross Roads House, Foundation for Seacoast Health, Prescott Park Arts Festival and Portsmouth Rotary.

Business lesson: Take the time to get to know customers as their trusted advisor, and understand their business and future goals and dreams.

Fun fact: I’m a fan of Hallmark Christmas movies!

Favorite story: “The Boys in the Boat,” a true story and tale of overcoming adversity and being triumphant against all odds, while weaving in some of the history that led to the start of World War II.

Industry advice: Do the little things that deliver an outstanding experience for your customers and colleagues and make you memorable — do what you say you are going to do, be responsive, and remember you may not always know what others are going through so avoid preconceived notions.

Jaime Yates Assistant Vice President, Community Development Service Credit Union

Education: Bachelor’s in marketing, master’s in communications/PR, Southern New Hampshire University

Career history: Jaime started her Service CU career nine years ago in the contact center, climbing up to her current position. In 2024, she was named Large Business Leader of the Year through the Women’s Business League and chosen to represent New Hampshire at the Governmental Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C. Jaime was named one of NH Business Review’s 2024 Outstanding Women in Business recipients. She leads an initiative to provide cancer and heart screenings to first responders. Business lesson: Growth lives on the other side of fear and discomfort. Take chances, and step out of your comfort zone!

Most excited about: How defense credit unions continue to adapt and improve to cater to the changing needs of our military and veteran communities. Additionally, how AI integration and usage changes the industry and how people interact with us.

Fun fact: I tried out for “American Idol” in high school. I didn’t make the cut, but it was a memorable experience I had with my dad.

Hobbies/passions: Traveling, meeting new people, cooking, baking, gardening, thanking veterans.

Checked-off bucket list item: I visited Italy on a whim with a group of strangers. Now I have the travel bug, with a few trips planned for 2025!

Industry advice: Get to know parts of the credit union outside your department to see how much opportunity there is in this industry.

Government

“Find what you’re passionate about and do that. You only get one life, and there’s no sense wasting it on things that don’t fulfill you.”

— Ryan Pope

Senior Director, Multifamily Housing

& Finance, New Hampshire Housing

Theodore “Ted” Kitchens

Former Director of Aviation Manchester-Boston Regional Airport

Education: B.A. sociology, University of Central Florida; M.A. urban and regional planning, University of Florida

Career history: Ted first consulted in developing 20-year airport master plans for airports across the U.S. His airport management career started in 2005, in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport’s planning and development team. There, he was principal planner of the $1 billion Maynard H. Jackson, Jr. International Terminal project. Later, Ted became general manager of Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, navigating it through high-profile events such as Super Bowl 51, the World Series, the Men’s Final Four and challenges posed by Hurricane Harvey. Ted announced that he will resign from his position as MHT’s director of aviation, effective April 4, 2025 to explore other opportunities.

Mari Brunner Senior Planner & Acting Zoning Administrator

Community Development Dept. City of Keene

Education: B.S. chemistry, University of Michigan; M.S. environmental studies, Antioch University New England Career history: Mari has been a professional planner for over 10 years. Before the city of Keene, she worked at the Southwest Region Planning Commission, focusing on improving population health in rural communities by creating safe opportunities for walking and bicycling. Mari now works with citizen boards and the Keene City Council to develop and implement plans and policies to promote community goals. Her recent accomplishments include helping Keene achieve a “Housing Champion” designation, adopting a Cottage Court ordinance, revising the city’s accessory dwelling unit ordinance and developing the city’s Sustainable Energy Plan.

Business lesson: Always keep the bigger picture in mind. Doing so not only helps you innovate and identify win-win solutions, but also helps you avoid unintended consequences.

What keeps you up at night? The breakdown in public trust with government at all levels.

Favorite story: “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” by Betty Smith.

Checked-off bucket list item: I’ve visited all lower 48 states at least once, largely thanks to many long road trips throughout my childhood. Industry advice: Don’t let perfection get in the way of doing good. Sometimes you just have to try something to see if it will work.

Erik Lesniak

Business Liaison

Economic Development Office

City of Manchester

Education: A.S. sports and business management, Holyoke Community College

Career history: After college, Erik was a district manager for Specialty Foods, overseeing territories in New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts. He entered professional sports with the New Haven Ravens, and while there, the team was purchased and relocated to Manchester, becoming the Fisher Cats. Erik was the only employee offered a position to move with the team. From fall 2003 through April 2022, Erik grew with the Fisher Cats, advancing from its group sales director to VP of business development. In April 2022, he transitioned into public service, serving the city of Manchester.

Business lesson: Authenticity is vital. Stay true to yourself, define your success, and don’t forget humor.

Business lesson: Remain firm in your convictions but be flexible in your strategy to adapt to evolving regulations and market opportunities. What keeps you up at night? Whether the community will embrace the airport’s vital role in the regional and state economy. We must shift our perspective from seeing it as merely something we use when convenient, towards viewing it as something important to use every time we fly.

Industry advice: A mentor once told me true leadership isn’t about guiding through calm and sunny skies; it’s about navigating the storm. Leadership is a responsibility, not a reward.

Biggest challenge: Positive professional changes have driven personal growth. Embracing new experiences, challenging my mindset, and letting go of old expectations expanded my world and instilled a fresh sense of purpose. Most excited about: Manchester’s future, which is fueled by dynamic growth, community collaboration and a booming biomanufacturing sector. What keeps you up at night? Balancing the challenges of businesses and manufacturers with a focus on improving quality of life, education and fostering a strong economic future by leveraging success stories to inspire greater opportunities.

Jodie Nazaka

Director of Economic Development

City of Manchester

Education: Certificate in creative placemaking, New England College; B.S. environmental planning, land-use planning and management/development, Plymouth State University; MPA, SNHU

Career history: Jodie’s early career as an environmental planner at Inter-Science Research Associates in New York honed her skills in regulatory reviews, site planning and environmental analysis. Previously, as town planner/GIS coordinator for Milford, NH, she directed land-use permitting, implemented the town’s GIS system and contributed to zoning rewrites and design charrettes. As Manchester’s senior planner, Jodie leads initiatives supporting economic development, livable neighborhoods and quality public facilities, including managing its 10-year master plan update.

Business lesson: Maintaining a work-life balance helps preserve my passion for the job, ensuring I stay motivated, engaged and effective while avoiding burnout and bitterness.

Most excited about: The growth of the city I grew up in and to help make Manchester a top choice for young professionals and families, shaping its story as one of the best mid-sized cities in America.

Hobbies/passions: Traveling to obscure destinations to discover hidden gems and unique experiences

Industry advice: Take risks, be bold and don’t be afraid to try something new. Have fun with your work, trust yourself and take the time to learn and grow.

Ryan Pope Senior Director, Multifamily Housing & Finance

New Hampshire Housing

Career history: Ryan started his career in community banking as a teller, with responsibilities ranging from credit analysis, branch administration, government relations and residential and commercial lending. He also served on the boards of local nonprofit organizations addressing the availability and affordability of housing, including Fair Tide and the Workforce Housing Coalition of the Greater Seacoast. In 2023, Ryan left banking to work with the city of Dover in a grant-funded role as housing navigator, working with residents, staff and elected officials to analyze the city’s housing needs.

Business lesson: The best solutions are always born from collaboration and compromise. Never assume you know the answer. Be open to letting others change your mind.

Most excited about: Seeing the issue of housing advocacy rise to the top of people’s minds. It will take a little effort from everyone to address this problem.

What keeps you up at night? Steep increases in rents and home values are pushing more and more people into housing insecurity and homelessness.

Fun fact: Karaoke is my favorite social activity.

Favorite story: “Life & Fate” by Vasily Grossman.

Checked-off bucket list item: Rafting the Grand Canyon. There was a moment looking up the walls when I realized how insignificant I was.

FLY TO 250+ DESTINATIONS OUT OF MHT.

Health Care

Kathy Bizarro-Thunberg

EVP, Federal Relations

NH Hospital Association

Education: A.S. computer information systems, NH Technical Institute; B.S. health management and policy, MBA, University of New Hampshire

Career history: Kathy joined NHHA in 1985, holding several leadership positions over 40 years. Her responsibilities supporting state and federal advocacy include health policy, privacy and security, public health, health care workforce, behavioral health and hospital emergency preparedness planning. During the pandemic, Kathy supported hospitals with various COVID-related information and advocacy needs spanning vaccines, testing, public health mitigation efforts, crisis standards of care and clinical supports. She oversees internal financial management of NHHA and the Foundation for Healthy Communities, an affiliate of NHHA. Kathy is a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Business lesson: Cultivating relationships with individuals, organizations, agencies and associations makes our work meaningful and successful.

Biggest challenge: Supporting our member hospitals through the pandemic that impacted their patients, staff and operations was challenging because, early on, we didn’t know what to expect or for how long. Communication and information kept everyone together.

Fun fact: Kathy is a Little Free Library steward.

Checked-off bucket list item: Seeing Norway’s fjords.

Industry advice:Get involved with professional and industry associations to support your ongoing education, networking and professional development.

Dr. Kevin Desrosiers

Chief Medical Officer

Elliot Health System

Education: M.D., Dartmouth Medical School; MPH, Dartmouth College

Career history: In 2013, after fully completing his education at Dartmouth (consisting of medical school, his residency and his master’s program), Kevin joined the Elliot Health System as an intensivist. He was the health system’s medical director of continuous improvement and a physician advisor for about five years before becoming chief medical officer in 2018. Kevin was named to the Union Leader’s 40 Under 40 in 2018. Business lesson: Know your business. You can’t improve what you don’t understand.

Biggest challenge: Managing the community through the COVID pandemic and all of its medical and political challenges.

Most excited about: Continuing to serve the mission of The Elliot Health System and offering more to the community every day.

Favorite story: “4,000 Weeks” by Oliver Burkeman.

Industry advice: Despite the challenges that health care faces, make sure to focus on delivering the mission of your organization daily. Focus on improving health in the communities that you serve and create wonderful places for caregivers to provide care.

Jonathan DaSilva Senior Manager, Workforce Initiatives

CVS Health

Education: Middlesex Community College

Career history: Jonathan started at CVS Health 16 years ago as an assistant store manager, seeking every development and leadership training opportunity. Within 18 months, he became a store manager running the company’s Chelmsford, Mass., store. From there, Jonathan segued into human relations, becoming manager of the CVS Boston Regional Learning Center, overseeing internal and external training. He was next promoted to manager of workforce initiatives overseeing New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Recently, Jonathan became senior manager of workforce initiatives, overseeing teams in New England and Philadelphia.

Business lesson: Development, whether personal, professional or skillbased, requires initiative. Do not wait for opportunities to come to you.

Biggest challenge: Adapting to the evolving business landscape during and after the pandemic.

Most excited about: CVS Health’s focus on a bold vision to reimagine health care. I am excited to be part of the 300,000 dedicated and passionate colleagues boldly innovating for the future.

Fun fact: I am a pop culture fanatic! In addition to having an extensive collectibles collection, I attend conventions across New England each year.

Favorite story: The “Back to the Future” film trilogy.

Checked-off bucket list item: Owning my own business.

Industry advice: Doing the right thing is never the wrong thing!

Dr. Sylvio L. Dupuis Consultant, Special Assistant

to the President

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS)

Education: B.S. health sciences, D.O., Illinois College of Optometry; honorary degrees from St. Anselm College, Notre Dame College, New England College of Optometry and MCPHS

Career history: After college, Sylvio worked 15 years in private optometry and co-founded a practice with three local offices. He was Manchester’s mayor from 1971–1975, leaving to become the founding president of Catholic Medical Center. Later, Sylvio was the state commissioner of health and human services and then the state insurance commissioner. Finally, he was McLane Middleton’s executive director. Today, Sylvio holds a government and community relations consulting role for MCPHS’s president. Sylvio volunteers with AARP, Manchester’s Chamber of Commerce, St. Anslem College’s Council on Ethics, and the NH Business Committee on the Arts. For 49 years, he has served on The Palace Theatre’s board of directors.

Business lesson: Leadership requires collaboration and consensus building. Biggest challenge: Staying relevant within my community at 90 years old.

Fun fact: I have been singing since age 10. While at Illinois College of Optometry, I took professional voice lessons and performed a solo recital at the Chicago Public Library before returning to Manchester.

Industry advice: Continue to support and embrace the change in the health industry. Get more involved to manage and drive the change you want.

HEALTH CARE

Alisha Feightner VP of Operational Excellence

Elliot Health System

Education: B.S. health sciences, Linfield University; MPH, Portland State University

Career history: Alisha has held roles in health care research, quality management, value-based care and system transformation for over 15 years. Early on, she contributed to national guideline development for federal agencies. She’s since led initiatives to improve care delivery by embedding lean principles through ISO certification, and designing processes that ensure effective movement of information and action across teams. Business lesson: Barriers and challenges reveal opportunities. Empowering people to become problem-solvers, lead with humility, rethink assumptions and take ownership within a connected, learning-focused system ensures continuous improvement and innovation.

Dr.

Carl Fier

Executive Medical Director, Cardiovascular Services

Elliot Heart and Vascular Center

Education: B.A. English lit, Trinity College; M.D. cardiovascular disease fellowship, Mount Sinai Medical Center; interventional cardiology fellowship, Tufts Medical Center

Career history: Carl came to New Hampshire directly from training, joining New Hampshire Cardiology Consultants. The practice was sold to Elliot Health System around 2010, and Carl took over leadership of the program at that time. He was recently named to his current role for Elliot Health System’s new Heart and Vascular Center, which launched this year.

Biggest challenge: Leading through uncertainty, especially during the pandemic with health care shifts and disruptions. Clarifying “what” and “why” helps people navigate ambiguity, find their own “how,” and stay connected to the mission.

Most excited about: Seeing human-centered design thinking transform health care by fostering personalized, equitable care that puts human connection at the forefront.

Fun fact: I’m an Oregon native, but I’ve built my career and grown my family with two kids here in New Hampshire. Coaching my kids’ soccer team has been a fun leadership classroom, reminding me that wherever you lead, success requires a ‘win or learn’ mindset; there’s no failing.

Matt Foster CEO & Interim President Valley Regional Hospital

Education: M.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; pathology, Vanderbilt University

Career history: With over 25 years of diverse health care experience, Matthew Foster, MD, MMM, is board certified in anatomic and clinical pathology, holds a subspecialty certification in cytopathology and practiced clinically for 20 years. He has held numerous leadership roles, most recently as interim CMO at a federally qualified health center and also as chief physician executive at Centra Health, a four-hospital system based in Central Virginia. In addition, he served on Centra Health’s board of directors and finance committee in addition to other leadership positions at Centra Health. At Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center, he served as the chair of the Cancer Committee, associate medical director, and medical director. In addition, he served on Centra Health’s Cancer Committee and Finance Committee, as well as their board of directors. In December 2024, Dr. Foster was appointed CEO and president of Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center and Valley Regional Hospital. It is the first time Dartmouth Health has named one individual to serve as president and CEO of two member sites. As president and CEO, Dr. Foster upholds a unique role that requires a deep understanding of two unique organizations that serve similar communities.

Biggest challenge: COVID fundamentally changed the ways that we think about health care delivery and patient and provider experience. Some of the lessons were very valuable, and will help us to provide care into the future. Most excited about: Incredible partnership between administrators and clinicians and a willingness to take risks outside of the box through this partnership.

What keeps you up at night? The encroachment of major academic medical centers and for-profit ventures into the Manchester communities. Industry advice: Never forget that the patient is at the center of every aspect of health care and that their experience is the single most important variable in the equation. Their medical issue is intensely personal and not at all routine to them, and this demands humility and compassion with every interaction.

Dr. Stephanie Ihezie

Neurosurgery Medical Resident

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center

Education: B.S. brain and cognitive sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; M.D., University of Texas Health Center

Career history: Born in New York to Nigerian parents in a devout Christian home, Stephanie was raised with a foundational belief that faith and hard work go a long way. While studying at the University of Texas, she volunteered with the American Red Cross to provide medical triage to victims of Hurricane Harvey. She was honored with the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship and partnered with hospital systems, health insurance companies and a local nonprofit to optimize patients’ post-discharge recovery. She was also elected into the Gold Humanism Honor Society. Stephanie is actively involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters to provide youth mentorship as a “Big Sister.” After medical school, Stephanie was selected for a neurosurgery residency at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center — the first-ever Black woman to be matched with the program. Her interests are pain, functional neurosurgery and neuromodulation for spinal cord injuries.

Dr.

Julie Kim

Associate Professor, Geisel School of Medicine

Section Chief, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology

Dartmouth Health

Education: B.A. English, Wesleyan University; MFA, Brown University; M.D., Ph.D., West Virginia University; General Pediatrics Residency and Pediatric Oncology Fellowship, Yale University

Career history: Julie has been a pediatric oncologist at Dartmouth Health for almost 20 years, and is president of the NH chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is also on the boards of Make-A-Wish NH and David’s House. Business lesson: Network, network, network. Once people know each other’s character and capabilities, it is easier to trust a decision that is made, and projects can move forward more quickly.

Most excited about: Seeing my team take the lead and do great things. It is good to encourage others to move up the ranks, as they bring new energy and ideas. This is important as the science of pediatric oncology is always advancing.

What keeps you up at night? Our health care system is on the brink of collapse. Our pocketbooks cannot keep up with the costs of cutting-edge treatments. Universal access to top quality care is not guaranteed.

Hobbies/passions: Hiking, skiing, creative writing and poetry.

Industry advice: Do activities related to and adjacent to your primary work. This can round out your experience, give you a more robust viewpoint, and protect you from burnout.

Making a positive impact in healthcare.

Colin McHugh

President and CEO

Southern New Hampshire Health

Education: MBA, UNH; M.A., University of Connecticut

Career history: Colin is a health care executive with over 30 years of experience. Earlier in his career, he served as senior vice president of network development and contracting at MaineHealth; interim president & CEO of Synernet Inc., a multi-hospital joint venture; and vice president of provider engagement and contracting for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. More recently, Colin was senior vice president and chief value officer for SolutionHealth. While with SolutionHealth, he stepped in as interim president of Southern New Hampshire Health (SNHH) in 2020. Colin joined SNHH as president and chief executive officer in April 2022.

Business lesson: It is all about the team. Your success as a leader depends on the team around you. The top priority is building the right team to carry out the organization’s vision and mission. The journey also matters.

Fun fact: My daughter and I are aspiring chefs and prepare an ethnic meal for our family every Sunday.

Checked-off bucket list item: My son and I spent a week touring London a few years back, including the British Imperial War Museum and Churchill War Rooms.

Industry advice: Our goal is to redefine health care to work better for patients, providers and everyone in between. Embracing change and forging resilience are keys to success.

Congratulations to our leaders who have been named to the New Hampshire 200. We are honored to work by your side.

William C. Torrey, MD Chair, Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth Health and the Geisel School of Medicine

Lauren A. Geddes Wirth, MD CEO and President, New London Hospital

Jocelyn F. Caple, MD CEO and Interim President, Valley Regional Hospital (2020-2024)

Section Chief, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Dartmouth Health Children’s and Associate Professor, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth

Stephanie A. Ihezie, MD Neurosurgery medical resident at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center

Tom Mee CEO

North Country Healthcare

Education: B.S. nursing, Madonna University; MBA, Wayne State University

Career history: Since completing his MBA, Tom has progressed from staff nurse, director of emergency services to chief nursing officer to chief operating officer. NCH is a formal affiliation of the Coos County’s three hospitals, as well as an affiliated Homecare and Hospice entity, with total operating revenue of $300+ million annually and 1,100+ employees. Business lesson: We have two ears and one mouth — we ought to be listening at least twice as much as we are speaking.

Biggest challenge: Adapting to a changed post-pandemic health care industry.

Most excited about: North Country Healthcare is on an ambitious journey to create a highly reliable health care destination in the North Country, one that places the patient at the center of our decision-making and seeks to eliminate patient harm and burden.

What keeps you up at night? Wondering how we convince the next generation(s) of workforce participants to seek careers in health care. Fun fact: In the early 2000s, I spent several years as a professional competition fisherman.

Industry advice: Develop a process to evaluate and adopt emerging technology or ideas. To succeed into the future, we must create and foster a culture of innovation.

Maria Proulx President Anthem Blue

Cross and Blue

Shield

Education: B.A., University of New Hampshire; J.D., Quinnipiac University School of Law

Career history: In her 18 years in health care, Maria has held various leadership positions at Anthem in provider engagement and contracting, compliance and legal. She also served as VP of segment solutions. Before joining Anthem, Proulx practiced law at Orr & Reno PA. Most recently, Proulx served as Anthem’s regional VP of sales, responsible for growth and retention efforts across its large group, small group and individual business lines in New Hampshire.

Business lesson: You are only as good as the talent you hire.

Biggest challenge: Leading and managing an organization through COVID-19 and dealing with internal and external challenges post-pandemic. Most excited about: By leveraging members’ health care data with advances in technology, providers can gain a big-picture view of a patient’s health, helping close care gaps that often contribute to costly chronic conditions.

Fun fact: I am one of 12 children.

Hobbies/passions: Family, running, coaching and playing soccer. Industry advice: Being aware of macroeconomic issues like housing or transportation access, and getting involved in your local community is the key to finding solutions that reimagine the system, redefine health and improve the overall health of our communities.

Margaret Pritchard President & CEO Lakes Region Mental Health Center

Education: B.S., State University of New York; M.S., New England College

Career history: Margaret’s career began amid de-institutionalization in the late 1970s, when she assisted patients moving out of a state institution into communities, reconnecting with their families. In 1982, Margaret started her vocational journey in New Hampshire’s community mental health system. She’s held various positions in five of the state’s 10 centers. Her work has included residential support, crisis bed programs, emergency response, community education, grant writing and operations management.

Business lesson: Relationships are the foundation of moving forward. Biggest challenge: Financial sustainability and workforce shortages plaguing the health care industry.

What keeps you up at night? Demand for services grows in ways challenging the workforce. People need 24-hour care. Few are willing to work the schedules required to make that happen.

Fun fact: Margaret graduated from New Hampshire’s police standards and training council as a part-time police officer in 1996.

Hobbies/passions: Home decorating, spending time with friends and family, sharing meals, playing games.

Industry advice: If you’re lucky enough to do what you love, you must challenge your self-understanding to be sure the love is there.

Susan Santana

Senior Vice President of Patient Care Services, Chief Nursing Officer

Southern New Hampshire Health

Education: M.S. nursing, MBA, DNP, Rivier University; American Nurses Credentialing Center

Career history: Susan joined Southern NH Health in 2022. Dedicated to nursing for more than 30 years, Susan has served in several progressive leadership roles for Lowell General Hospital, most recently as their associate chief nursing officer, with extensive oversight of its nursing practice. Susan is a transformational leader best known for her passion for supporting the work environment for all health care workers and creating a culture of shared decision-making. Business lesson: Building trust and strong working relationships is at the core of all business transactions. People must always come first and recognized, rewarded and valued for their contributions. Once this is achieved, there are no limits on what can be accomplished.

Most excited about: The cultural transformation that has taken place over the past few years. It’s contagious, and our communities can feel it. Staff and patients alike are choosing us as a great place to give and receive care.

Industry advice: First, be patient and steadfast in your approach as change doesn’t happen overnight. Second, take good care of yourself and surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you.

Beth Slepian President & CEO Granite VNA Inc.

Education: B.S. physical therapy, University of Vermont; MBA, nonprofit leadership, New England College

Career history: Beth’s career began at Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital Network working in various settings. She was NH Rehabilitation Hospital’s first director of physical therapy when it opened, later returning to its newly formed Home Care Division. In 2013, Beth joined Concord Regional VNA (CRVNA) as VP of education and clinical compliance and was named president and CEO in December 2015. In April 2021, Granite VNA was formed from the merger of CRVNA and Central NH VNA & Hospice. Beth continues to serve as president/CEO, representing Granite VNA on local, regional and national boards and associations.

Business lesson: Leading with gratitude fosters a positive work culture, enhancing employee engagement, satisfaction and loyalty.

Biggest challenge: The pandemic. We faced uncertainty each time we stepped inside the homes of our communities’ most vulnerable members. What keeps you up at night? Our industry faces declining payments, persistent workforce challenges and an aging population who wants to be cared for at home.

Fun fact: As a mother of two boys and a baseball fan, visiting 31 ballparks across the U.S. was our family adventure.

Industry advice: It is a tremendous honor to be invited into one’s home at a vulnerable time in one’s life. Make a difference and advocate for the critical service we provide to our neighbors, friends and families.

Dr. William C. Torrey

Raymond Sobel Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry

Dartmouth Health and Geisel School of Medicine

Education: B.A. religion, Dartmouth College; M.D., Harvard Medical School; psychiatry residency, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center

Career history: William has devoted his career to improving psychiatric illness care. He served as medical director of the Upper Valley’s community mental health center before overseeing Dartmouth’s psychiatric services. Now as chair, William leads the department’s teaching, research, advocacy and clinical missions. He practices psychiatry, promotes and implements innovative psychiatric services across Dartmouth Health’s service system and the public sector, trains others to provide evidence-supported care, and applies his clinical administrative experience to enhance services research projects.

Business lesson: Leadership at all levels matters.

Most excited about: People from different parts of society are working to address the psychiatric care crisis. What keeps you up at night? It is highly likely that all of us have either lived with a psychiatric illness ourselves or have a loved one who does. It remains difficult to gain timely access to science-supported care.

Fun fact: My great, great, great, great grandfather, Laban Ainsworth, was in Dartmouth’s class of 1778 and settled in Jaffrey as its first minister. My roots go back seven generations in New Hampshire.

Dr. Lauren Geddes Wirth CEO and President

New London Hospital

Education: Dartmouth College; M.D., Brown-Dartmouth Medical Program; residency, Hasbro Children’s Hospital Career history: Upon completing her residency at Rhode Island’s Hasbro Children’s Hospital, Lauren was chosen to serve an additional year as chief resident in pediatrics. She went on to serve leadership positions in Mass General Brigham’s Community Physician Organization, including medical director roles and chair of physical well-being. Lauren owned and practiced as a physician at Mass Brigham affiliate Mill Brook Pediatrics. Lauren joined New London Hospital in September 2023 as chief medical officer. After former NLH president and CEO Tom Manion moved to become chief operating officer at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lauren became the hospital’s interim president in March 2024. She was named permanent CEO and president in October following a national search and recommendation by a search committee. Lauren is a diplomat of the American Board of Pediatrics and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Karen Wood

Vice

President, Physician Practices

Weeks Medical Center – Lancaster

Education: A.S., NH Technical Institute; B.S. health care management, M.S. leadership, Ottawa University Career history: Karen has spent her career in northern New Hampshire, initially a registered radiologic technologist. She entered health care management over 15 years ago, holding various leadership roles in a critical access hospital environment. Karen has applied her leadership skills in hospital outpatient and rural health clinic settings. She serves on the board of the North Country Health Consortium, and is board chair for the Medical Group Management Association’s New Hampshire/Vermont chapter.

Business lesson: Establishing robust internal and external professional relationships cultivates trust and respect and encourages effective business practices through collaboration, partnerships and networking.

Biggest challenge: Creating an environment that attracts talent and enhances retention.

Most excited about: North Country Healthcare, a nonprofit affiliation of medical facilities including Weeks Medical Center, is evolving into an aligned health system, allowing for enhanced care coordination, stability of services and better allocation of resources.

What keeps you up at night? Increasing acuity of illnesses within our service area presents significant challenges to health care delivery, exacerbated by financial constraints, transportation barriers, and limited resources.

Hospitality & Tourism

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM

Lisa Allen Chief Administrative Officer

Great NH Restaurants

Education: B.S. communication, UNH Manchester

Career history: Lisa started as a food server at Bedford T-BONES in May 1995. She worked in the restaurant as a server, bartender and assistant manager for about 12 years. When she was about to graduate college, she sent the CEO a letter explaining all the ways she could contribute to the company in a bigger way. Soon after, she began working in the office two to four hours per week, then full time, then as office manager, and a few years later, she became the company’s first chief administrative officer. Business lesson: For fulfilling success, stay true to your values! This has been easy for me with Great NH Restaurants, with core values like courage, executing greatness, made-from-scratch (like my career here), respect, care and understanding, trust and entrust and teamwork. Most excited about: I am looking forward to continued restoration of normalcy in our industry. COVID, inflation, the labor crisis, etc., have injected a lot of disruption into restaurant operations in recent years. As the industry rebuilds, it’s exciting to see the shift back toward growth through technology, employee development, and culinary and beverage excellence. Industry advice: Our industry is about people, hospitality and joy. The hustle of running a business can be demanding and exhausting. If we stay grounded in the joy of the people we’re serving (employees and guests alike), there is no other industry more rewarding.

Steve Baillargeon Vice President Bear Rock Adventures Inc.

Education: Colebrook Academy

Career history: Steve has been in the logging industry for 45 years. He operated a farm-to-table, award-winning restaurant, Margarita Grill, in the Mount Washington Valley, alongside his wife and children for 17 years. In 2013, he started Bear Rock Adventures when Ride The Wilds trail system opened in front of his home in Colebrook. Bear Rock is a premium certified Polaris Outfitter in northern NH, a family-run business that provides premium Polaris ATV and snowmobile rentals, outdoor apparel, and gear and immersive accommodations. Bear Rock has been a leader in the North Country, earning Best Outdoor Recreation from New Hampshire Magazine for 10 consecutive years and NH Business Review’s BOB Awards. As a passion-driven, hardworking visionary, he has developed many residential real estate properties maintain the integrity of the area and enhancing the beauty of the North Country.

Business lesson: Work harder than others, and never stop looking for new opportunities.

Biggest challenge: Adapting to the changing economics in the logging industry and the impact of weather on a business reliant on cold, snowy winters. Industry advice: Develop multiple revenue streams, and keep a pulse on economic trends that will impact travel and spending.

Travis Ashford General Manager

Anheuser-Busch LLC

Education: B.S. industrial engineering, South Carolina State University; MBA, supply chain management, Fitchburg State University

Career history: Travis started in Logistics for Snyder’s-Lance in Charlotte, N.C. His leadership experience during those times prepared him to create a culture of excellence within his current role. He started with Anheuser-Busch in 2016 and worked his way from entry-level management to general manager. He credits the strength of his team to enabling him to learn and be successful.

Business lesson: Humility. To grow and lead, you must be humble and willing to learn. Without humility, we are not able to curtail our egos in a way that allows for collaboration and problem-solving.

Biggest challenge: Navigating a highly dynamic industry. This has required us to learn how to move a large business with speed and agility. Most excited about: In beverages, I’m excited to see how businesses are able to minimize the amount of natural resources used to produce our product as we continue to innovate. Net-zero initiatives are becoming critical to our livelihood, and I love to see the excitement building around those priorities.

Industry advice: No matter the size of your company or employer, to thrive and position your business for success means to be dynamic and agile. Never hesitate, as you can only turn a ship around once it’s moving.

Jarett Berke Owner

Lou’s Restaurant & Bakery

Education: B.S., U.S. Naval Academy; MBA, Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth Career history: Jarett started his career as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Marines. After 11 years and four deployments, he moved to Hanover to use his GI Bill benefits to attend the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. While there, he became enamored with owning his own business and started his search for a retiring owner looking to sell their business. After graduation, Jarett met the owners of Lou’s, and with some help from Ledyard Bank, he was able to buy the business and the building.

Business lesson: It’s all about people. Having the right people in the right places (and removing the wrong people) is what makes businesses thrive and survive long-term.

Biggest challenge: Sometimes it gets lonely at the top! COVID created a lot of challenges and forced us to make big decisions quickly. I often wished I had a peers/friends in the industry that don’t work for me or aren’t my competition to bounce ideas off of.

Industry advice: Many industries are changing, but restaurant customers still want the same thing (and probably will forever). Great food and great service, in a clean restaurant at a price that matches the experience. Don’t overcomplicate it.

Suzanne Bresette Founder Bresette + Company

Education: Boston University

Career history: Suzanne has worked with Fortune 500 companies to develop and implement winning corporate strategies, build coalition to support business growth, and implement and manage change to drive organizational performance. Her most fulfilling and important accomplishments have been achieved through her work in the music industry.

Business lesson: Success is finding the intersection between what you love, what you’re passionate about and what you’re good at. My work has always provided that perfect intersection for me. I am very grateful.

Biggest challenge: Determining how to create a world-class jazz and blues venue in a less than secondary market. With the unwavering support of industry friends and musicians, coupled with a first-class venue and hard work, we launched Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club. In two years, it became one of the top 50 clubs in the world for revenue and tickets sold.

Most excited about: In 2025, Bresette + Company will relaunch a venue that is uniquely built to support and capitalize on the present emerging trends, technologies, and disruptions in the music industry.

What keeps you up at night? Keeping jazz and blues music alive.

Industry advice: In music, artificial intelligence, virtual reality and other technological innovations will play an increasing role. We need to work together to figure out how to incorporate technology in a way that best supports artists and original creativity, in a way that embraces authenticity and collaboration.

Jennifer Desrosiers

Founder

and

CEO

Altitude Companies, LANEY & LU, Ginger Fox Bakery

Education: B.S. architectural engineering; Vermont Technical College Career history: In college, Jennifer was a consultant for a multibillion-dollar global manufacturer of cutting tools. Immersed in a dynamic environment, she gained invaluable exposure to marketing strategy, branding, lean manufacturing techniques, and the intricacies of work cell design and efficiency. Building on this solid foundation, she embarked on a 16-year career in plastic injection molding. She focused on global business development, leading initiatives that resulted in transformative revenue generation and exponential growth. Jennifer believes her impactful leadership and passion for aligning diverse teams with strategic vision has left an enduring impact on the industry.

Business lesson: Clear mission and core values serve as unwavering guideposts. Being firmly rooted in these principles fosters confidence, resilience, alignment, and the ability to navigate complexity while staying true to what’s most important to me and my companies.

Most excited about: I’m excited to continue fostering connections among women in business by hosting coaching programs and dynamic events and experiences focused on wellness, peak performance, community impact, adventure, life integration and leadership — empowering them to thrive in every area of their lives.

Industry advice: Seek support from those who’ve gone before you, but think creatively and tenaciously. Get off the sidelines and take the leap.

Michelle Cruz Director

Division of Travel and Tourism Development, NH Department of Business and Economic Affairs

Education: M. Ed., Lesley University; B.S. communications, media studies, City University of New York – Staten Island Career history: Michelle previously was executive director of the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce and successfully spearheaded initiatives. Michelle played a key role in advancing the chamber’s mission and improving its visibility within the region. Under her guidance, it launched innovative marketing campaigns and events to support small businesses and local entrepreneurs. Her professional experience includes director of education with the Mount Washington Observatory, where she built the distance learning program and was part of the design team for Extreme Mount Washington. As NH director of travel and tourism, she supports the economic growth for New Hampshire. Michelle is a recipient of the Business and Industry Association 2024 Above and Beyond Award.

Business lesson: Listen.

Most excited about: Being part of the team to highlight the dynamic travel and tourism industry New Hampshire has to offer. There is truly something here for everyone! New Hampshire is a state with a strong economy offering opportunities to live, work, play, providing the quality of life. That is why I am excited to work in this industry.

Industry advice: Be proud of the work you do, and take time for yourself, even if it’s to take that 15-minute walk you’ve been talking about.

“Remain humble. When life hands you lemons, make lemonade. Stay positive, adapt and find solutions. Treat everyone with respect, and always be open to learning and growing.”

— Joe Linnehan Chief Operating Officer, Tinios Hospitality Group

Tyler Goodwin CEO

Goodwin Family Management

Education: B.A. history, MBA, University of New Hampshire

Career history: After his undergraduate graduation, Tyler started in the family business in an entry-level sales role. He soon worked his way up to a variety of positions within his family’s companies, culminating in his currently role as founder and CEO of Goodwin Family Management (GFM). GFM serves as a shared HR, finance and accounting support staff for its operating brands, Goodwin Recruiting and The Friendly Toast restaurants. GFM also serves as the family office, where the team deploys capital in other areas like real estate, startups and private equity funds.

Business lesson: I’ve learned to stay patient. The time isn’t always right, and things don’t always happen as quickly as you anticipated. I’ve learned to accept that and try to be more opportunistic instead.

Industry advice: Be a great employer. Hire well, create clear lanes of responsibility/accountability, communicate clearly and get out of the way. All of this creates trust and loyalty.

Brian Ferguson Owner Flag Hill Distillery and Winery

Education: B.S. business management, Penn State University

Career history: Brian began his career as an assistant distiller to Thomas McKenzie, a master distiller. He moved to Grand Cayman to become the head distiller for Cayman Spirits Company. In 2015, he purchased Flag Hill, which has expanded its distillery and winery operation to redefine the wines that can be made in NH with a focus on intensely aromatic white wines. He built River Crest Villas in 2020 and expanded it in 2022. With more than 100 employees, Flag Hill is expecting to complete a distillery and tasting room expansion in 2025.

Biggest challenge: Shifting labor markets and expanded cost of goods sold on manufactured goods. Limited ability to increase prices have led to shrinking margins for small manufactures.

Most excited about: We see the future of New Hampshire wine as being focused on intensely aromatic white wines. Multiple international wine competition awards bear this out. We are excited to continue to push the envelope on what is possible.

What keeps you up at night? The reduction in consumption of alcohol. Yes, alcohol can be a part of a healthy lifestyle. Choose fun!

Industry advice: We all continue to work together to increase the ability to craft unique and exceptional wines and spirits. Our strength is in our shared successes and failures.

Nola Clark Grant Co-owner

Clark’s Trading Post

Education: Plymouth State University

Career history: Nola is the daughter of Clark Trading Post’s original co-owner, W. Murray Clark, who helped run the enterprise with his brother Ed. The Clark family continues the over 90-year legacy of the popular Lincoln theme park destination, which features performing bear acts, train rides, animal presentations, the wild Wolfman, museum exhibits and much more. Nola, along with her siblings and other family members, are all actively involved in the business, continuing to grow the tourist hot spot and attract new visitors year after year.

Steve Janicek

Managing Director

Omni Mount Washington Resort

Career history: Steve brings a wealth of experience to his role as managing director of the Omni Mount Washington Resort. Before joining Omni, he served as general manager of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara, Calif. His extensive career has taken him to some of the most renowned mountain destinations, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Aspen, and Coeur d’Alene, as well as vibrant cities such as Denver, Palm Springs, Phoenix and Laguna Niguel. Steve’s passion for mountain hospitality began in 1980 in Vermont, where he worked at Sugarbush and skied Mad River Glen before returning to Humboldt State University.

Alisa Lawrence Owner, Head of Business Development New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery

Career history: With more than two decades of experience in media and retail management for Fortune 500 companies, Alisa brings a unique perspective on marketing, financial management and business strategy. Her background, combined with hands-on involvement in supporting her husband’s entrepreneurial ventures, has deepened her expertise in business operations, budgeting and strategic growth — key components in the ever-evolving spirits industry. As an integral leader at New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery, Alisa oversees day-to-day operations, ensuring seamless execution across all facets of the business. Her commitment to continuous learning, innovation and brand development makes her a driving force behind the distillery’s success.

Joe Linnehan Chief Operating Officer

Tinios Hospitality Group

Education: associates, culinary arts, Lakes Region Community College; bachelor’s, hospitality, Southern New Hampshire University

Career history: At 14 years old, Joe sold cider doughnuts and scooped ice cream at Applecrest Farms in Hampton Falls.

During high school, he worked as a line cook at Galley Hatch Restaurant and as kitchen manager at Rye Private Surf Club. He later interned with American Cruise Lines as a steward on a Mississippi River paddleboat. At Lakes Region Community College, he worked at Galley Hatch and Gunstock Mountain Resort. After attending Southern NH University, he returned to Tinios Hospitality, starting with HR and marketing, advancing to COO.

Business lesson: Success is about who you work with and team-building. Empowering others, fostering open communication, and valuing each team member’s contributions leads to a supportive and productive work environment.

Biggest challenge: Navigating the workforce landscape post-COVID, and addressing mental health and addiction within the industry.

Most excited about: Our ability to remain steadfast while continuing to grow and adapt to new trends, consumer demands and technological advancements. The potential to leverage technology to streamline processes and meet consumer needs.

What keeps you up at night? Global change and its impact on the industry. I worry about my employees’ well-being. Ensuring guest satisfaction is critical.

Kirsten Neves Owner, Founder Tuckerman Brewing Company

Education: B.A. social science

Career history: After college, Kirsten spent time traveling Europe, picking up odd jobs. In 1998, she decided to establish herself in the White Mountains, where she co-founded Tuckerman Brewing Company.

Business lesson: Take care of your community, because at the end of the day they’ll be the ones taking care of you.

Biggest challenge: COVID was hard, but it ended up helping us in the long run by allowing us to use our outdoor space.

Most excited about: The industry is changing so much; I’m excited to see where we’ll be in five or 10 years.

What keeps you up at night? The consolidation/going out of business of other craft breweries has us worried.

Stephanie O’Quinn

Executive Director, Corporate Partnerships and Ticket Sales

New Hampshire Fisher Cats

Education: M.S. strategic communications, Purdue University; B.A. communications, California State University, Stanislaus Career history: Stephanie fell in love with the world of Minor League Baseball in 2014 during an internship with the Modesto Nuts. In 2015, she became an entry-level sales representative with the Inland Empire 66ers, where she worked her way up from account executive to director of community relations. There, she discovered her passion for service and giving back. In 2023, she joined the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, where she leads a team to share the very impact she fell in love with.

Business lesson: Always act with integrity. There is nothing worth jeopardizing the integrity of your business, and most importantly your personal integrity.

If you feel that you are toeing that line, walk away and you’ll be better for it.

Biggest challenge: Moving across the country from California to NH, sight unseen. Although it’s been my biggest challenge, it’s truly been my biggest blessing. Most excited about: Minor League Baseball is full of infinite opportunity and creativity, and every year I look forward to being able to bring new and exciting ideas to our ballpark that make an impact beyond baseball. In the next couple years, the Fisher Cats are bringing to life some really fun New Hampshireinspired ideas.

Industry advice: Create genuine relationships with those inside and outside of your organization.

Staci Pinard CEO

The

Friendly Toast

Career history: Staci’s first job was as a busser at a little restaurant in New Hampshire. Though she went to college for nutrition, the restaurant world always called to her. She joined the Friendly Toast as general manager when they had two locations: Portsmouth and Cambridge, Mass. They have slowly and steadily been able to grow out its concept to be 15 locations in five states, coming soon.

Biggest challenge: Everything about the restaurant industry can be challenging, but finding the best (and right) talent will always be any leader’s triumph or downfall. I’m so lucky to have a superior mentor in Eric (Goodwin, co-owner of The Friendly Toast) and a team who has been with me for years. With trusted sources, most things can be overcome.

Most excited about: This year, we are very excited for our first Connecticut location! We continue to push the boundaries for being one of the top groups providing a great quality of life for our team, and healthy sustainable restaurant careers. I’m always excited to test the new food our chef team comes up with. We continue to lean into allergy accommodation and more gluten free/vegan options. We will be adding more mocktails to the menu as well. What keeps you up at night? Mostly, the entire state of the world. Industry advice: Lean into what you’re good at, treat your team exceptionally well, and don’t lose the passion to genuinely care for your guests.

Brad Pernaw

Managing Partner

Common Man Roadside

Education: B.S. finance, Northeastern University; MBA, University of New Hampshire

Career history: Brad has successfully led large teams in launching high-profile accounts, including collaborations with the Kansas City Royals, Kansas City Chiefs, Chicago Bears and Live Nation Entertainment. Currently, he serves as the managing partner of Common Man Roadside, a New Hampshire-based chain of convenience stores and eateries that seamlessly blend traditional New England charm with modern efficiency. The Roadside locations are known for their “Real Food, Real Fast” philosophy, emphasizing quality and convenience for travelers and locals.

Biggest challenge: As we expand our business footprint, our greatest challenge lies in consistently delivering exceptional service and memorable experiences to our guests every single day. We firmly believe that our commitment to guest satisfaction and attention to detail sets us apart.

Most excited about: We’re excited for continued growth, as each new location creates more opportunities for our team to grow and thrive. It has been incredibly rewarding to witness our team members advance within the organization. Our growth strategy not only supports the development of our existing team but also allows us to welcome new talent from outside the organization.

Jim Roach President JJR Entertainment

Career history: Jim started by working at a venue in Harvard Square and getting to work with such legends as Wilson Pickett, David Crosby, Buddy Guy, Buddy Rich, Dizzy Gillespie, The Neville Brothers and more. Then, he ran The Muse on Nantucket, the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, The Campus Club in Providence, R.I., and helped start country music festivals at Foxboro Stadium. Jim has been blessed to work with comedians Bob Marley, Jimmy Dunn, Juston McKinney and many more. He is executive director of the Buzz Ball, an annual charity event hosted by Greg and the Morning Buzz to benefit Lend a Helping Can. He also produces concerts and events all over New England.

Business lesson: Building a team of honest, hard-working people will allow you to accomplish so much more

Biggest challenge: Letting go of clients I have worked with for years. Oh, and that pandemic thing. Hard to do shows when you can’t gather.

Most excited about: I am excited to work with younger artists and help them grow toward their potential and to help industry veterans continue to share their art and talents.

What keeps you up at night? Whatever the next project is.

Industry advice: Build strong relationships. Do your best to learn every day. Find ways to work though challenges with as much honesty as possible. Lift others up around you.

Nik Stanciu Founder, Owner Tuckerman Brewing Company

Education: B.A. science and math, physics

Career history: Nik worked at Los Alamos National Laboratory studying theoretical physics. After three years, he moved back to New Hampshire and co-founded Tuckerman Brewing.

Business lesson: You’re only as strong as your employees. Having a big focus on hiring the right people for the right positions will save you a ton of headache down the line.

Biggest challenge: COVID, obviously. Town and state regulation has also been challenging for us, but we’re working well with both of them.

Most excited about: I love seeing how the whole industry can adapt to changing markets. I’m excited to see where the craft beer industry will be in 10 years; I bet it will look much different than today.

What keeps you up at night? Conway has a housing problem that’s only getting worse. I worry this will cause issues with staffing.

Industry advice: Have a vision and stick with it. Following trends will only leave you behind.

Erica Cole-Tucker Co-founder, COO

Tucker’s

Education: B.A. English, psycholo gy, UNH; M. Ed. elementary education, Northeastern University

Career history: Erica was an elementary school teacher for five years, primarily teaching first grade and one year of kindergarten. Her and her husband owned a breakfast and lunch restaurant in Salem, Maddie’s, for seven years. When they sold Maddie’s, Erica was planning on going back to teaching. Then, they opened Tucker’s in Hooksett in 2014, followed by New London (2015), Concord (2016), Dover (2017), Merrimack (2018), Bedford (2012), and they plan to open Newington in 2025.

Business lesson: It is imperative that you have a team that is happy and enjoys their job.

Biggest challenge: The pandemic. Our dining rooms were shut down and we could only offer take out. Thankfully we were already set up for takeout, but never expected it would be our only source of sales. We began selling egg flats to help out local partners and still do today.

Most excited about: I get excited about watching our team members grow. We have an opportunity to shape and develop them over the years. We are unbelievably proud of our team. Nothing makes us happier than celebrating their success.

What keeps you up at night? Absolutely nothing. I sleep like a rock! Industry advice: Focus on creating a positive environment for your team, and everything else will fall into place.

“Surround yourself with talented people and genuinely value their advice and feedback. Creating and implementing a strong business plan is critical; it’s equally important to remain adaptable, using feedback to refine the plan for the best possible outcome.”

— Brad Pernaw Managing Partner, Common Man Roadside

Vincent Vella Chief Executive Officer

Common Man Family in New Hampshire

Education: Business, De La Salle College; Pratt Institute, School of Architecture and Construction Management

Career history: Vincent started in the construction industry with Citibank, then moved to the hospitality sector. He joined the Reese organization in Manhattan, working up to general manager. He moved on to Dave & Buster’s and then went into senior management as VP of operations, then chief operating officer, at Stir Crazy/Flat Top Grille. The organization took the concept from nine to 36 units in 10 years. He worked for a franchise group in Europe and the Middle East, opening franchises for Steak ‘n Shake. Then, Vincent worked for Alex Ray as CEO and now serves as CEO for The Common Man Family in New Hampshire.

Hale Cole-Tucker CEO

Tucker’s

Education: B.S. political science, UNH Career history: Hale was the owner/ operator of Maddies Bagel & Eatery in Salem, NH. He later became the co-founder and CEO of Tucker Restaurant Group LLC in 2014.

Business lesson: Business is a team sport! It does not matter who gets the credit; wins are the best when they are shared by like-minded people.

Biggest challenge: Navigating workforce challenges, acquiring staff. Most excited about: We are so passionate about the move toward local products/farmers. We love being able to showcase all that New Hampshire has to offer, and we are very excited that our customer base seems to embrace our commitment to local farmers.

What keeps you up at night? Staffing challenges. We have great people; we just need more of them.

Favorite story: I really look up to Howard Schultz, the former CEO and founder of Starbucks. I took an incredible amount of inspiration from his passion for hospitality and the human spirit.

Industry advice: Always look to do the right thing. Do it for your customers, your team, your shareholders, your partners, your vendors and your community. I promise you it will be reciprocated!

Business lesson: Always look forward. You can reflect on your past and your accomplishments, but looking forward is more important than looking back. Look to the future and try to anticipate what’s coming down the road. Biggest challenge: Navigating our hospitality family through the COVID pandemic. We shifted our business model almost daily while ensuring we were taking care of our staff, guests and communities. Most excited about: After more than 50 years of serving New Hampshire, our Common Man family is still growing. We’ll be opening the Lincoln Diner in Lincoln in the spring. What will the next 50 years bring?

Industry advice: Learn from your mistakes, but always look for the positive and move forward.

Amy Zanello Owner, CEO Zorvino Vineyards

Education: Bachelor’s, UNH Durham

Career history: Amy left her job in microelectronics to work at Zorvino Vineyards. What began as her father’s retirement project to grow some grapes, make a little wine, and build a barn grew year after year to be so much more. They started making a few wines and hosting small, casual events, wine pairings and themed dinners. Through COVID, the company increased its outdoor patio to create The Bistro. Today, they feature more than 70 wines. The Bistro is open year-round and hosts more than 100 weddings and special events. Amy states she is grateful for the opportunity to be involved since the beginning and be a hands-on participant in the vineyard’s growth.

Business lesson: Surround yourself with a solid group of positive people that vibe together. You will have a team that works hard for each other and holds each other accountable.

Biggest challenge: Staffing. It seems a lot of professionals left hospitality during COVID and did not come back. Finding qualified talent with a strong work ethic has been difficult.

Most excited about: There are so many directions we can go to grow our business and make improvements — all ways to keep Zorvino Vineyards relevant and competitive. Even more exciting is we have the team to make it happen. What keeps you up at night? All of it!

Industry advice: Stay true to your business but be open to change. Change is needed to stay in the game.

Law

LAW

Nicole Bluefort Managing Partner, Owner

Law Offices of Nicole M. Bluefort

Education: J.D. health law, Northeastern University School of Law; master’s public health, Tufts University School of Medicine; B.A. communications, Hispanic studies, Boston College

Career history: Nicole has led a full-service firm since 2011, providing affordable legal services in family law, criminal defense, probate, real estate and litigation. As principal consultant at Nicole Marie Consulting, she empowered women entrepreneurs to achieve business success through strategic planning and workshops. Previously, she served as an adjunct professor at North Shore Community College, teaching paralegal courses, and as a judicial clerk for the Massachusetts Appeals Court, where she researched and drafted opinions on complex civil and criminal appeals.

Business lesson: The value of balancing not only client services but also working on the business. It’s crucial to set aside time for strategic growth and development while managing expenses effectively to ensure long-term success and sustainability.

Most excited about: My company’s expansion into New Hampshire! It’s incredibly exciting to have three fully active locations, marking a major milestone in our growth and reach.

Industry advice: Prioritize balance. This career can be demanding, as you’re addressing complex and heavy challenges on behalf of clients. Make time for your family, focus on your health, and remember you need to be at your best to help others effectively.

Patrick Closson Shareholder

McLane Middleton P.A.

Education: B.A., University of New Hampshire; J.D., Boston College Law School Career history: Patrick’s career has been dedicated to practicing corporate law in New Hampshire with McLane Middleton. He joined the firm straight out of law school, where he learned from talented lawyers and working with a wide array of interesting clients. He served on the boards of several nonprofits, including City Year NH, Leadership Seacoast, the BIA, the UNH Alumni Association and Leadership New Hampshire.

Business lesson: Work hard and be curious. Equally important is maintaining curiosity and asking questions. The ability to expand my understanding of how things work and come together motivates me to continuously improve. Biggest challenge: Navigating the uncertainties brought on by the pandemic. I was serving on our firm’s management committee, and we had no clear sense of how the pandemic would impact our business or our clients’ operations. In response, I worked closely with my colleagues to educate our clients and the community about these evolving changes and to provide the support needed.

Most excited about: The talented group of lawyers rising through the ranks at McLane Middleton. While many organizations face challenges related to demographics and concerns about the “next generation,” I feel optimistic about our firm’s future.

Industry advice: Stay passionate, stay collegial and get involved.

Tracey Goyette Cote Shareholder/Director, Chair of the Family Law Group

Shaheen & Gordon P.A.

Education: B.A., Dartmouth College; J.D., University of Maryland School of Law Career history: Tracey provides creative, tenacious and compassionate representation to clients needing assistance with divorce and family law issues. She has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America since 2019, has been listed as a New England Super Lawyer since 2020, and voted Family Law Attorney of the Year in 2020, 2023 and 2025.

Biggest challenge: Building a family law practice of attorneys, paralegals and staff with a structure geared toward client service, efficiency, productivity and sustainability, especially post-pandemic with how people live and work shifting so much. We’ve implemented new HR practices and new financial practices to stay staffed and profitable while delivering high-quality client service. Most excited about: I’m excited about continuing to implement the changes and policies necessary to support our firm’s growth. I also think there’s more opportunity available for women now than ever before. That has a lot to do with the fact that there are women in leadership positions. The conversation changes when women are in the room. We all bring a different perspective.

Industry advice: Being a lawyer is hard work, and you have to love what you do. Part of your early years as a lawyer is just figuring that out and doing lots of different things to find what brings you professional satisfaction.

Tabitha Croscut Shareholder Devine, Millimet & Branch P.A.

Education: B.A., criminal justice and political science, Elmira College; J.D., Syracuse University College of Law

Career history: Tabith began her legal career with a mid-size firm in Rochester, New York, Boylan, Brown, Code, Vigdor & Wilson, which is where she had the good fortune of stumbling upon the world of employee stock ownership plans (ESOP.) In 2010, she joined a small ESOP boutique firm in Philadelphia. In 2012, she became the managing partner of that firm, which was renamed Steiker, Greenapple & Croscut. Then in early 2017, Tabitha transitioned the ESOP practice to join Devine, Millimet & Branch as a shareholder.

Business lesson: Saying “no” is harder than saying “yes,” but it’s important to say “no” sometimes!

Biggest challenge: The demands of being a lawyer, a wife and a mother. I’m convinced there’s no such thing as work-life balance.

Most excited about: I’m very excited to witness the results and impact of current targeted efforts of a variety of organizations to materially increase the number of ESOP-owned companies across the country.

Industry advice: The legal community is filled with really smart people who spend long hours representing the interests of their clients, but few spend enough time training the younger generations. Just like our clients, we all need to take the time to transition our knowledge and experience to the young lawyers who are interested in learning.

Michael Delaney Director, Chair of Litigation Department

McLane Middleton P.A.

Education: J.D., Georgetown University Law Center; B.A., College of the Holy Cross Career history: Michael is chair of McLane Middleton’s Litigation Department, a past member of the firm’s Management Committee, and he serves as assistant general counsel for the firm. He served as attorney general of New Hampshire from 2009 to 2013. From 2006-2009, Michael served as legal counsel to Gov. John Lynch. From 1999 to 2006, he served at the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office as deputy attorney general for then-Attorney General, now Gov. Kelly Ayotte, as chief of the Homicide Prosecution Unit, and as a trial prosecutor in the Criminal Justice Bureau. He began is private practice with the Manchester law firm of Wiggin & Nourie.

Business lesson: To treat every client’s legal problem as a professional challenge, not a business opportunity.

Most excited about: For over 100 years, McLane Middleton has delivered top-notch client services and has been associated with excellence in the practice of law. I am excited to build upon those traditions and lead our nationally ranked, top-tier litigation practice into the future during transformative times for trial work, litigation and dispute resolution.

What keeps you up at night? Your legal problem.

Industry advice: Stop sending so many emails and go back to picking up the phone. You will advocate for your clients more effectively and professionally, and you are more likely to get their legal problems resolved that way.

Todd Hathaway Managing Partner

Wadleigh, Starr & Peters PLLC

Education: J.D., Dean’s fellow, University of Connecticut School of Law; B.A., College of the Holy Cross

Career history: Todd defends health care providers and others in personal injury litigation. He is the 2023 and 2020 Lawyer of the Year for Best Lawyers – Manchester for medical malpractice defense, and 2023 Lawyer of the Year for Best Lawyers – Manchester for personal injury litigation defense. He is a regular presenter at continuing education programs for attorneys, health care providers and insurance professionals. He has been a contributing editor to the “Tort Law

Reference: A Fifty State Compendium,” since 2008. Todd lives in Epping, where he is a board member of the local community health center, Lamprey Health Care, and member of the Epping Conservation Commission Trails Committee. Other community involvement includes Manchester’s Families in TransitionNew Horizons, Granite United Way and Southeast Land Trust.

Business lesson: Focus on results.

Most excited about: Our dedicated staff and promising young attorneys. What keeps you up at night? Deadlines.

Industry advice: Be responsive. The most successful people in professional services tend to be those that are the most responsive to their clients’ needs.

Kathleen Mahan Partner Hinckley Allen

Education: J.D., Suffolk University Law School; B.A., Saint Anselm College Career history: Kathleen has been an active member of the New Hampshire legal community for almost 20 years. In 2024, she was elected president of the New Hampshire Bar Association — the first woman in a decade to serve in this role. She began her career clerking for judges in the state’s Superior and Supreme courts. From there, she joined exceptional law firms, honing her skills in business and intellectual property litigation. Now, as a partner at Hinckley Allen, Kathleen represents clients in complex business matters involving organizational restructuring and corporate governance, non-compete conflicts, contracting, trade secret protections and protracted property disputes.

Business lesson: Our work is grounded in collegiality and mutual respect. Building strong, collaborative relationships with colleagues, peers and professionals is key to achieving positive client outcomes.

Biggest challenge: Since COVID, the way we practice law has shifted from office-based to remote. While this has added remarkable flexibility, it also presents challenges to maintain the culture, mentorship and engagement within the office, community and our clients.

Most excited about: Hinckley Allen has expanded its footprint tremendously over the last year with new offices in Florida and Illinois. Our expansions demonstrate our commitment to strategic growth and delivering outstanding results driven by client service needs and opportunities.

Congratulations to NH Business Review’s New Hampshire

Patrick C. Closson Director Corporate Department

Michael A. Delaney Director & Chair Litigation Department

Mark A. Wright Director & Chair Intellectual Property Group

Kristin Mendoza Principal, Founder Abridge Law PLLC

Education: B.A. psychology, Boston University; J.D., University of San Francisco School of Law

Career history: Kristin’s career began at a large Boston law firm. She has been practicing law in New Hampshire for 15 years. During the Great Recession, she co-wrote a NH Bar Journal article with a colleague about the need for law firms to transition from hourly billing models. In 2020, she launched Abridge Law PLLC, a virtual law practice with a flat fee billing model. They have worked with more than 500 small-business clients in New Hampshire and Massachusetts in less than five years. Kristin received a NH Business Review Business Excellence Award in 2019 and was named on the Best Lawyers in America list for the past four years. She has also served on the boards on nonprofits, including the NH Women’s Bar Association (serving as president from 2008 to 2010), United Way of Greater Nashua, Nashua Bar Association and the Greater Nashua Chamber of Commerce. Business lesson: Being your authentic self is both easy and the best way to build relationships with clients and referral partners.

Biggest challenge: Owning my swagger. As excited as I am about the early success of my new firm, ask me about it and I’ll downplay my accomplishments. I continue to work on owning my own cool.

Industry advice: To be an attorney is to be a lifelong learner. Embrace technology. Embrace new ideas. Embrace collaboration. Stay humble. Stay curious.

Hilary Holmes Rheaume Shareholder Bernstein, Shur, Sawyer & Nelson P.A.

Education: B.A., Ohio Wesleyan University; J.D., UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law

Career history: After college, Hilary served as an educational leadership consultant for a nonprofit, which involved extensive travel around the United States. She subsequently worked in the Development Office at Dartmouth College. Following graduation, she joined Bernstein Shur full time. During her first few years as a lawyer, she had the unique honor of working with her father, Greg Holmes, who represented automotive and equipment dealerships. She learned much from him about the industry, which she intends to carry into the future of her work representing the industry.

Business lesson: Building an efficient team requires mutual respect and a commitment to showing up as your best self. A cohesive, respectful team fosters collaboration, drives success and creates a positive work environment. Biggest challenge: Attempting to balance a successful legal career while raising five children. Juggling professional responsibilities and family life require careful time management, resilience and unwavering dedication to both my career and family. I am fortunate to have a supportive spouse and work at a law firm that fosters work-life balance.

Industry advice: In the legal industry, it is crucial to let go of rigid benchmarks. Focus on personal growth, adaptability and delivering value rather than constantly comparing achievements. Embrace collaboration and continuous learning to foster a fulfilling and successful career.

Hilary Holmes Rheaume

William Tucker Partner

Wadleigh,

Starr, & Peters PLLC

Education: B.A., Yale University; doctor of laws, Harvard Law School; honorary doctor of laws, Saint Anselm College Career history: William started at Wadleigh, Starr, & Peters PLLC as a summer intern, and has been with the firm since 1969. His practice has involved corporate law, commercial lending and real estate development, including the permitting for the Mall of New Hampshire, the Pheasant Lane Mall, the Mall at Rockingham Park and the Fox Run Mall. Recently, the majority of his practice has focused on municipal bond financing. He takes great satisfaction in structuring and closing tax-exempt bond financings for educational and health care facilities.

Business lesson: Be attentive to clients and their needs. Clients appreciate and expect the prompt return of phone calls and emails. My rule is that calls and emails should be returned the same day if possible, but no later than 24 hours. What keeps you up at night? Cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. The threat that these pose to businesses is impossible to comprehend. We continue to add additional security, all of which reduces productivity. There is no telling where all of this will end.

Industry advice: Your employees are your most important asset, so treat them well and with respect. No one can be successful without dedicated, supportive and smiling staff — all of whom are happy to come to work every day. It takes teamwork.

Ken Viscarello Shareholder, Director Sheehan Phinney

Education: A.B., J.D., Boston College

Career history: Ken arrived to Sheehan Phinney as a summer associate in 1985. About 25 years ago, he discovered the world of affordable housing and has been a part of the development of thousands of units of affordable housing throughout New England. He mentions that it’s nice to drive by a development and know you played a part in working families and seniors having a clean, safe and affordable place to call home. Ken works for the best clients, who want to make the world a better place. He also works with a great group of attorneys and paralegals in Sheehan Phinney’s affordable housing group. Ken comments that it’s been great to watch his group grow into the strong, vibrant, mission-driven group they are today.

Business lesson: Treat everyone you work with, from the CEO to the person who answers the phone, with respect and kindness.

Industry advice: With respect to affordable housing, realize that no matter what side of the table you are sitting on (legal, lending, equity, regulatory), at the end of the day we all want the same thing: clean, safe and affordable housing, so do what it takes to make it a reality.

Mark Wright Director, Chair, Intellectual Property Group

McLane Middleton

P.A.

Education: B.S., University of New Hampshire; J.D., Michigan State University College of Law; master of intellectual prop erty, Franklin Pierce Law Center

Career history: Mark has over 30 years of experience counseling clients and assist ing them in protecting their intellectual property rights in the United States and more than 80 foreign countries. Mark’s experience spans a wide range of intellectual property areas, including domestic and international trademarks, development agreements and licensing of software, trade secrets, domain name disputes and other internet-related issues, copyrights, confidentiality agreements and litigation related to intellectual property rights.

Business lesson: I have learned to listen more than speak. I constantly learn from mentors, colleagues, clients, friends, family, anyone who has something to offer. Building and growing McLane’s IP practice with highly specialized professionals takes hard work and you must surround yourself with people who share your vision. Lastly, you need to treat every person on your team or organization how you want to be treated.

Industry advice: Don’t shy away from risk-taking or trying something new. Get out of your comfort zone. Survey what is not being done in your organization that could or should be, then fill that void and set yourself apart from others. Find your passion and pursue it — success will follow if you are doing what you love with people you enjoy being with.

Life Sciences, Biotech, Energy & Technology

“The industry needs to work collaboratively across technology resources to ensure that the markets, public policy and capital investment are aligned to optimize New England’s power grid to provide reliable, affordable and clean energy.”

— James Andrews President and CEO, Granite Shore Power LLC

Jason Alexander Chief Revenue Officer, Co-founder BANKW Staffing LLC

Education: Bachelor’s occupational safety and health, Keene State College Career history: Jason’s career began in sales during the rise of the dot-com boom, later moving into staffing at the time the dot-com collapse caused a major economic downturn. After three years of working for a major international provider, he started the first of his companies along with his business partners.

Business lesson: Always prepare. Whether it is for a big meeting or the next day of activities, always do your homework, plan well and execute.

Most excited about: We are a company that has always reinvested for growth and value. Our future in M&A and organic growth has me incredibly excited, as we are committed to continuing our aggressive growth strategy in the years to come.

What keeps you up at night? Lost opportunity. How can we be more efficient? How can we shorten sales cycles, close deals faster and minimize competitive opportunities? There’s no perfect answer to any of the above, which leaves room for ongoing improvement.

Checked-off bucket list item: I did throw myself out of a plane, and luckily had a master instructor, with a solid parachute, attached to my back. Three miles up, three miles down, and what a story to tell.

Industry advice: Plan effectively and hold yourself accountable. In order to be consistent, your daily operation needs to be repeatable. Plan ahead so you know what tomorrow will entail. Measure your success and repeat those processes that yield the best results.

Jay Abendroth President, Integrated Vision Solutions

L3Harris Technologies

Education: B.S. bioengineering, Syracuse University; M.S. systems engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology; MBA, Syracuse University

Career history: Jay has held roles at Lockheed Martin (2002-2006) as staff engineer, business development manager and program manager; Saab Defense & Security USA (2014-2020) as director of business operations and later as vice president and general manager. At Mercury Systems (2020-2023), he served as vice president of program management and VP/GM of the Mission Business Unit. Business lesson: Time is our most precious commodity, both in business and life. At the close of each quarter or year, it’s not the financial figures that occupy my thoughts; instead, I reflect on how much more I could have accomplished with additional time.

Most excited about: Bringing our tested and superior technology into the “digital” age. Upon assuming my latest role, digital solutions were viewed as competitors likely to render our technology obsolete. Instead, we’ve pivoted to emphasize modularity and upgradability, ensuring our products become part of the emerging digital ecosystem. Now, our teams have a clear path and strategy for our products, where previously there was none.

Industry advice: In defense contracting, challenging the status quo and asking “why” or “why not” is incredibly valuable. Always question the purpose of your actions, and if something doesn’t seem sensible, or you wouldn’t want it on the front page of the newspaper, it’s best to avoid it.

James Andrews

President and CEO

Granite Shore Power LLC

Education: B.S. accountancy, Bentley University

Career history: James has served as president and CEO of Granite Shore Power since 2018, and has more than 25 years of management experience restructuring businesses to optimize cost efficiency. He previously served as CFO for Iconex and also Soundview Paper Holdings during its restructuring, and served as an advisor to Atlas at Veritas Steel.

Biggest challenge: Executing the transformation of Granite Shore Power from a fuel-diverse wholesale power–generating portfolio into one of the region’s leading energy platforms for the transition to the next generation of reliable, cleaner electricity.

Most excited about: The redevelopment of Granite Shore Power’s existing facilities into clean energy parks with projects that will continue to provide critical electric reliability to the families and businesses of New Hampshire day-in and day-out. Our sites will represent the model for our region’s energy future.

What keeps you up at night? I am most concerned with the challenges that still need to be overcome that will make Granite Shore Power’s transformation a reality. It is critical new resources are invested in to secure New England’s energy future.

Checked-off bucket list item: Attending the 2024 Master’s Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club.

Jon Beam CEO, Co-founder Rogue Space Systems

Education: B.S. psychology, University of Mary Washington; master’s cognitive systems, Arizona State University

LIFE SCIENCES, BIOTECH,

Career history: Originally trained as a research scientist in cognitive systems and behavioral neuroscience, Jon spent a quarter of a decade progressing through various IT and business leadership roles in several industries. An expert in driving collaborative innovation, Jon has become a leader in In-Space Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing and as an architect building the circular economy in space.

Dan Bergeron Co-founder SkyTerra Technologies LLC & Skylytics Data

Education: Northeastern University Career history: Dan worked in several small companies until 1995 when he started working at Wellington Management Company, where he spent 17 years working in the Microsoft/eDiscovery space, learning how to manage and deploy solutions. He spent three years at Presidio as a solutions architect, where he reconnected with longtime friend and co-worker Darren Schriever. The two then started SkyTerra, and later in 2020, Dan, along with with Mike Hickey and Mike Ormerod, started a new company called Skylytics focused on clients’ data, internet of things and AI needs.

Business lesson: Making sure that the first 50 people you hire are “A” players and share the same fundamental values that you do. When they don’t, it’s when the most angst occurs in the organization. Also, as you surpass 50, you can’t be there for everyone all the time, and those people need to be able to keep your vision going. Most excited about: 2025 marks SkyTerra’s 10th anniversary, and to date we have grown referrals and reputation as our primary growth vehicles. What keeps you up at night? Being responsible for so many families. In order to secure their futures, I spend my time focusing on strategic planning, scenario planning, stakeholder engagement and the underlying risks each vision has and whether or not they are panning out or need to table.

Industry advice: Don’t listen to those who tell you they have built numerous companies just like yours. It’s like listening to someone who has been divorced numerous times as well. There’s usually more to the story.

Katherine “Kat” Bourque Senior Vice President of External Affairs, Chief Customer Officer Unitil

Education: B.A., St. Anselm College; J.D., Suffolk University Law School

Career history: Kat began her career working on staff at the NH Senate before becoming the director of public policy at the Business and Industry Association, focusing on the energy and environmental sectors. Kat joined Unitil in 2019 as the company’s director of government affairs, and has held various roles in external affairs prior to her current role overseeing all aspects of the customer experience. Kat is an active member of the New Hampshire Bar and a New Hampshire “40 Under 40” honoree. Business lesson: The old cliché is true: Good businesses put the customer first in everything they do. That’s especially true for utilities, as our customers rely on us to power their homes and businesses all day, every day.

Biggest challenge: Energy issues are often tremendously complex. My role at Unitil includes educating the public on the balancing act all utilities must perform to ensure we can successfully navigate any clean energy transition while prioritizing safety, reliability and affordability.

Hobbies/passions: I’m an active volunteer and serve as a mentor at Girls Inc. Manchester. I love the time I get to spend with my mentees during the school year, hearing about their lives and aspirations. They are inspiring!

Industry advice: It’s critical for all in the energy space to stay updated on trends, embrace change, build strong relationships with stakeholders possessing diverse viewpoints, and most importantly, keep an open mind about where we are headed and how we’ll get there.

“Every day counts. Work with a sense of urgency. Patients are waiting for and counting on us.”

— Ned Gordon Chief Operating Officer, BioFabUSA, Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute

William F. Doyle

Executive Chairman

Novocure GmbH

Education: S.B. materials science and engineering, MIT; MBA, Harvard Business School

Career history: Since 2004, Bill has served as the executive chairman of Novocure GmbH (NVCR). Novocure is pioneering Tumor Treating Fields, a new therapeutic modality for solid tumors. Tumor Treating Fields target the electrical properties of cells to selectively kill cancer cells and extend patient survivals. Novocure conducted the only successful phase 3 trial in 23 years treating GBM brain cancer, and has treated over 40,000 GBM patients in the commercial setting so far. Bill serves on the board of directors of Elanco Animal Health Inc., formerly Eli Lilly’s animal health unit and ProKidney, a company developing autologous cell therapies for chronic kidney disease, and private companies Sequel Med Tech and OnconeX. Previously, as an executive of Johnson & Johnson, Bill was a member of J&J’s Consumer Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Group Operating Committee, with responsibility for licensing, acquisitions and strategy. Bill was chairman of J&J’s Medical Devices Research and Development Council, worldwide president of Biosense-Webster, and a member of the internal boards of directors of Cordis Corporation and Johnson & Johnson Development Corporation (J&J’s private equity subsidiary).

Conor Cullinane Co-founder, Chairman, CEO, President Pirouette Pharma Inc.

Education: B.S. aeronautical engineering, biomedical engineering, mathematics, pre-med, Clarkson University; Ph.D., medical engineering, medical physics, bioastronautics, MIT/Harvard Medical School Career history: On Pirouette Pharma’s website, Conor is listed as “engineering ace and health care innovation executive.” His resume includes stints with NASA and Mass General. “Innovations span rockets, spacesuits and prosthetics.”

Personal: Husband. Father. Pilot. Ironman.

Most excited about: Piroutte’s Naloxone HCI Auto-injector was named the NH Tech Alliance’s 2024 Product of the Year. The Portsmouth company’s product is designed to deliver lifesaving injections, such as those for diabetes, obesity, severe allergies, opioid overdoses, fertility and others — all at the push of a button. Compact and easy to use, the autoinjector is “built to eliminate barriers to self-administration, reduce errors, and offer peace of mind,” according to Pirouette’s website. “It is an honor to now build Pirouette (in New Hampshire), developing and manufacturing products that can help save lives throughout the state and across the country. Recognition as the NH Product of the Year is a reflection of the small, but mighty team at Pirouette,” Cullinane said upon receiving the Product of the Year award in December.

Jason Golden CEO Mainstay Technologies

Career history: Jason entered the business and technology world in 1997 after serving in the U.S. Air Force. Over the past 25+ years, including 16 years in executive leadership roles, his career has spanned the financial, nonprofit and technology sectors. Since joining Mainstay in 2017, he has been focused on driving the company’s strategy and vision, championing progressive change, growth and continuous learning to create meaningful, lasting impacts in both business and personal relationships.

Business lesson: Operating in a highly technical industry, I’ve come to realize that the most important lesson isn’t about technology itself — it’s about people. No matter how advanced the tools or systems we use, it’s the relationships we build and the way we work together as a team that truly drive success. Most excited about: Being a technology company that does business differently via the “Mainstay Way,” which is about creating a workplace where every individual is valued, where innovation is encouraged and where growth is a shared journey. Starting our ESOP in 2025 is a natural extension of this culture. What keeps you up at night? Safeguarding our clients from ever-evolving threats and hackers. In today’s digital landscape, protecting their data and systems is a constant challenge, and their trust is a responsibility I take personally.

Industry advice: Master your craft and stay sharp technically, but never lose sight of people. Relationships and collaboration are as critical as technical expertise. True success in our industry comes from excelling at both skills and human connection.

Ned Gordon Chief Operating Officer, BioFabUSA

Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute

Education: B.S. chemical engineering, MIT; master’s chemical engineering, Northwestern University; MBA, JL Kellogg Graduate School of Management

Career history: Ned is a senior business leader with extensive commercial operational experience in the pharmaceutical, medical device and life sciences industries. Ned recently joined ARMI/BioFabUSA, and is coming from Thermo Fisher Scientific’s pharmaceutical services business, where he led the product management function. Prior to joining Thermo Fisher Scientific, Ned held marketing leadership roles in the clinical diagnostic industry for over a decade with Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc. He also has run several life sciences businesses as a general manager for Mettler Toledo Inc.

Business lesson: When I lived and worked in Brazil earlier in my career, I learned the importance of establishing a relationship with someone before jumping into business.

Most excited about: I joined ARMI to put an end to the transplant list by establishing the industry to manufacture replacement tissues and organs. I will have and have had family members on the transplant list. Fun fact: I worked in a German brewery for two summers.

Favorite story: The 2004 Disney movie “Miracle,” which is a film about the 1980 men’s Olympic ice hockey team. They overcame immense challenges to win the gold medal. It’s an incredible lesson on leadership and putting team above self. I also grew up in Minnesota, met Herb Brooks and still play ice hockey.

Avi Halpert Vice President, Government Affairs & Community Relations

United Therapeutics Corporation

Education: B.S. business administration, Boston University

Career history: Prior to his current role, Avi served as vice president of corporate real estate at United Therapeutics for 17 years, where he directed the development of the company’s urban campus and co-headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland, including several LEED Gold-certified projects. He also oversaw the creation of the Unisphere, United Therapeutics’ net-zero energy facilities and installation of solar arrays on many of the company’s properties.

Business lesson: Collaboration and information sharing among colleagues leads to better results, even when time is of the essence.

Biggest challenge: While not the biggest challenge, I’m proud of the annual legislative summit that United Therapeutics hosted in Manchester this past December. It allowed us to bring our internal team and consultants from many states together to collaborate and celebrate the work being done by UT in New Hampshire and other states.

Most excited about: Significant advances in personalized medicine, organ transplantation and AI will contribute to better outcomes for patients.

Hobbies/passions: I enjoy traveling with my wife and children. Industry advice: Listen before you act.

Congratulations Bill Doyle on Being Named One of the 2025 NH200

Congratulations to Bill Doyle, Novocure’s Executive Chairman, and all of this year’s New Hampshire 200 honorees.

Novocure is proud to be part of the innovative New Hampshire community as we pursue our patient-forward mission of extending survival in some of the most aggressive forms of cancer.

William Doyle Executive Chairman

Andrea Hechavarria President and CEO

NH Life

Sciences

Education: B.A. political science, Loyola University Maryland; MBA, Johns Hopkins Carey Business School

Career history: Andrea is a proud New Hampshire native with an extensive career in government, policy and industry. She started working on political campaigns in NH, which led to spending nearly a decade working in the U.S. Senate supporting the policy work for multiple U.S. senators. Since 2017, Andrea has helped represent medical device companies in front of governments across the globe to increase patient access to innovative and life-changing technologies and therapies. In 2023, she co-founded NH Life Sciences, an industry trade association to foster growth and awareness of NH’s diverse life sciences industry. Most excited about: NH’s life sciences industry is incredibly vibrant and diverse. With strategic investment, resources and support, New Hampshire has an opportunity to foster growth across the industry. Our business-friendly environment and proximity to not only Boston’s world-leading life sciences cluster but other Northeast metro areas, make New Hampshire an attractive destination for the global industry.

Industry advice: Come to NH. We’re one of four regions on the rise in the life sciences across the country. We have two R1 universities conducting leading life sciences research, and we offer a collaborative ecosystem with business-friendly policies that give you more money in your pocket to innovate and make a difference.

Jesse McGowan Chief Operating Officer

Mikros Technologies

Education: Mechanical engineering, MBA, University of New Hampshire

Career history: Jesse currently serves as the chief operating officer for Mikros Technologies, recently acquired by global manufacturing company Jabil. Jesse’s career has seen over 21 years of dedicated service to Mikros Technologies, his professional growth paralleling the company’s since his hire in 2003 as a staff R&D engineer. With his advanced understanding of heat transfer and control systems, Jesse has supported customers from around the globe and played a pivotal role in the organization’s success. His leadership at Mikros has helped it grow in scale, while maintaining the technical and organizational integrity that makes the company a great place to work for its 50+ employees. Flexible and diligent, Jesse has leveraged his education and experience, developing a multidisciplinary approach that helps create opportunities for technological advancement, industry growth and workforce development. A lifelong resident of New Hampshire, Jesse’s academic background includes attendance at one of the last one-room schoolhouses in the state, the Newfound Regional School District. He resides in Alexandria, NH, with his wife and two college-aged daughters. Hobbies/passions: Woodworking, outdoor activities and travel.

Jennifer MacDonald Chief Operating Officer Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI)

Education: Family medicine residency, University of California; University of Minnesota

Career history: Jennifer is a physician executive and Army veteran experienced in leading diverse coalitions to achieve strategic impact at scale. Jennifer served at senior levels of the federal government, leading growth and transformation efforts and personally driving the execution of strategic priorities for two Cabinet Secretaries. Her federal service began with 11 years in the Minnesota National Guard, during which she deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and received a Bronze Star for high-profile mission achievement and volunteer humanitarian medical work.

Business lesson: “People first, mission always.” When professional achievement is approached as an escalating contribution to humanity alongside a team, astounding transformation is possible.

Favorite story: When my daughter was very little, she asked to go to an “ice cream store” and get “ice creams for all the people” (of the world). She wanted everyone to share in her joy. That moment reminds me that every one of us, no matter our stage of life, is capable of generosity and inspiration.

Most excited about: The pursuit of benefit to others is a source of joy, creativity and fulfillment for our team at ARMI. In ReGen Valley, we are building the epicenter of a transformational new industry, enabling the production and distribution of novel therapies that will save lives and generate growth and opportunity for generations to come.

Lucas Merrow CEO Mobius Mobility

Education: B.S. electrical engineering, MIT; MBA, Harvard Business School Career history: Lucas is the CEO of Mobius Mobility, the manufacturer of the next generation iBOT Personal Mobility Device. Prior to Mobius, Lucas co-founded and served as the CEO of Eliza Corporation, an early innovator and leader in health engagement management and patient communications (acquired by HMS in 2018). Prior to Eliza, he co-founded and served as the COO of Adheris Health, the leading firm in prescription adherence and patient education programs (acquired by inVentiv Health in 2006). Prior to Adheris, Lucas was a program manager at DEKA R&D, and led the development of the first generation iBOT. He holds over 40 U.S. and international patents. Business lesson: Preparation and perseverance trumps luck and timing. Customers rarely do what you want or expect, so you have to adapt, and quickly. Things always take longer and cost more money than planned (for me, at least).

Most excited about: We have a truly amazing product (the iBOT) that changes the lives of people who use it. I’ve never seen a product make people so happy the moment they start using it. We are not only leading the way in technology and product innovation but in our delivery and service model as well. And we are pushing the medical profession and health insurance industry to change and do a better job with how they treat people with disabilities. Checked-off bucket list item: Fly fishing in Iceland.

Industry advice: Don’t accept the status quo in health care. Keep pushing to make things better.

Syed Rehan Rizvi

Senior Vice President, Global Quality & Regulatory Compliance Foxx Life Sciences

Education: B.S. industrial engineering, NED University of Engineering & Technology; MBA project management, Preston University School of Business and Commerce; M.S. energy systems, Northeastern University; graduate certificate in medical devices regulatory affairs, Northeastern University Career history: Syed has over 30 years of global leadership, quality assurance regulatory remediation and compliance experience in different manufacturing sectors, including operations, quality, environment, health, safety and sustainability experience in Asia and the U.S. He developed an ability to balance Foxx Life Sciences’ (FLS) business needs with EHS requirements, ensuring that safety and sustainability are integrated into the aspect of business decision-making. This sustainable and holistic approach has resulted in enhanced operational efficiency, risks and a healthier environment for FLS employees and communities.

Business lesson: Success doesn’t always follow a linear path. Honesty and integrity are critical characteristics of a good leader who is always open to learning from others and is driven to learn something new every day. Biggest challenge: Lack of standardization and over-customization in the bioprocess single-use products in the industry. Single-use technologies leaders must balance embracing innovation with mitigating the risks of rapid technological change.

Jim Scott

Business Development, DEKA Chief Administrative Officer, ARMI Board Observer, Sequel Med Tech

Education: B.A., Williams College; MBA, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill Career history: Jim has spent the last 20 years in New Hampshire helping to turn Dean Kamen’s dreams into reality. He leads business development efforts at DEKA R&D, the technology skunkworks in Manchester, NH. In 2016, Jim was one of the au thors of the proposal that created the Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI). He spent seven years as that organization’s first chief oper ating officer, establishing New Hampshire as the epicenter of cell, tissue and organ manufacturing. Among the many things planned for 2025, Jim is thrilled to support Sequel’s launch of Twiist, a new diabetes management system. Business lesson: After the fact, innovations are often described as insights, inspirations and eureka moments. When teams are working to invent and innovate, the reality is that every day tests their minds, their mettle and their conviction. I couldn’t have more respect for my colleagues that work so hard to transform lives through technology. Most excited about: I am most excited for the city of Manchester. Manchester has more cutting-edge businesses than ever, and it is amazing to see the city and state continue to build on that momentum.

Favorite story: The works of Graham Greene.

Industry advice: Keep pushing. We’re going to change what’s possible, and we’re going to do it right here in NH, but we’re going to have to push really hard to make it happen.

Darren Schriever Managing Partner SkyTerra Technologies

Education: Plymouth Regional High School

Career history: Darren began his technical career as an office admin who answered phones, filled the soda machine and also worked on computers. Now with more than 25 years of experience, he has worked in the fields of finance, software and education information technology as an engineer, manager and director, for such companies as Blackbaud, NaviSite and Wellington Management LLP before finally founding SkyTerra in early 2015.

Business lesson: Accomplishments are rarely the result of a single person’s efforts, but rather they are achieved through building strong teams. As your business grows, it’s paramount that you surround yourself with like-minded individuals who are willing to work towards a common goal.

Most excited about: My company’s future is unwritten. What started out as a couple of friends working out of our homes has grown into this beautiful company that has taken on a life and personality of its own. I don’t know what the future will bring, but I know we are ready.

Fun fact: For the past 15 years, I have spent much of my free time at Amherst Fire Rescue where I am currently a fire captain and EMT. I hold many specialized technical certifications. One in particular, Swiftwater Rescue Swimmer and Boat Operator have been put to good use, as I have been deployed several times both in NH and beyond to help in times of crisis.

Industry advice: Work hard, treat people right, and if you do those things long enough and consistently, success will follow.

Congratulations, Andrea Hechavarria!

Congratulations to Andrea Hechavarria, CEO and President of NHLS, for being named an NH200 Honoree! This well-earned recognition highlights Andrea’s steadfast dedication, visionary leadership, and transformative impact on the life sciences industry in New Hampshire.

Eric Soederberg CEO

Sunrise Labs Inc.

Education: MSEE, MIT; MBA, MIT Sloan School of Business; BSEE, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Career history: Eric considers himself an engineer from birth and is passionate about solving difficult engineering problems. His career spans over 35 years in product development leadership at Draper Labs, Motorola, DEKA and now Sunrise Labs. In 2008, Eric started transforming Sunrise Labs into a world-class product development services company. With a focus on exceeding client expectations, Eric invested in engineering excellence and built a high-integrity, high-respect culture that has proven to be a strong foundation for growth. Under Eric’s leadership, Sunrise placed first in Business NH Magazine’s “2021 Best Company to Work for in NH” competition, and is now in the Best Company Hall of Fame.

Business lesson: You cannot truly lead if you are afraid to lose your job. Living and operating your business well within your available resources allows you the opportunity to lead boldly.

Biggest challenge: Adjusting to rapid changes in the marketplace, particularly from capital being free to capital being expensive for our clients. Most excited about: As available technologies explode, Sunrise Labs has the right people in the right place to save and improve lives by rapidly applying these technologies to medical devices.

Industry advice: Be bold and invest. Saving and improving lives is not going out of vogue anytime soon.

Jonathan Strimling CEO CleanFiber

Education: B.S. mechanical engineering, Northeastern University; M.S. mechanical engineering, MIT; M.S. management, MIT Sloan School of Management

Career history: Jonathan has launched and/or turned around three high-growth firms. He launched WoodPellets.com in 2006 in Bedford, and it rapidly grew to the leading online retailer of renewable heating fuels. Afterwards,he turned around SMTP/SharpSpring, originally valued at $15 million, taking it to the NASDAQ, where it ultimately sold to Constant Contact for $240 million. Most recently, Jonathan launched CleanFiber, raising over $100 million to launch a breakthrough technology for manufacturing building insulation from recycled corrugated cardboard.

Business lesson: Always have a Plan B. So many unexpected things happen in the business world, that you have to have a team and a board prepared to “pivot or die.”

Biggest challenge: Securing capital to launch a first-of-breed manufacturing plant in the midst of a global pandemic.

Most excited about: Buildings hold the potential to be one of the world’s largest carbon sinks, if we craft appropriate strategies for carbon-storing building materials.

Favorite story: “The Wright Brothers” by David McCullough, a story of perseverance and ingenuity.

Industry advice: Be prepared for a challenge displacing incumbents in the building products industry, and pay attention to the installers’ needs.

Kenneth Solinsky Owner, Founder

Envision Technology, OnPoint Systems, Rochester Precision Optics (RPO) & Londonderry Holdings

Education: B.S. mechanical engineering, Clarkson University; Product Production Engineering Certificate, U.S. Army Material Command; M.S. industrial engineering, Texas A&M University; M.S. management, Stanford University Career history: Ken worked as a U.S. Army civilian engineer, progressing to product manager night vision devices, GS-15, responsible for the production end fielding of all Army and other services Image Intensifier Night Vision Systems from 1971 to 1986. He later continued his career as program manager, thermal systems, at Kollsman Instruments until 1988. Ken founded Insight Technology with his wife, Grace, and grew it into the nation’s largest producer of night vision and electro-optical devices for individual warfighters. Business lesson: Understand your objective/overall goal. Stay focused and dedicated to its achievement. Thoroughly know your business down to the minute details. Fully understand your customers and competitors. Maintain the respect of all you deal with.

Most excited about: The customer respect and appreciation all three operating companies are receiving is very gratifying, as is the knowledge that they are doing work of significant national interest. In addition, building The Village on Technology Hill (Londonderry) with over 350,000 square feet of industrial buildings, 439 apartments, a child care center, and a village store is very satisfying.

Jeffery Stutzman Founder, CEO Trusted Internet

Education: B.S., Excelsior College; MBA, Worcester Polytechnic Institute; Senior Executive Fellow, Harvard Kennedy School; Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP 2002, #25926)

Career history: Jeffery is a cybersecurity expert with over 30 years of experience, overseeing information security operations and virtual chief information security officers protecting several high-net-worth families and small and medium-sized companies. He personally serves as the virtual chief information security officer for a Manhattan-based private equity firm, a $3.5 billion oil and gas company, and for the U.S. and LATAM risk operations for a 600,000-employee diversified services company. He’s held intelligence roles at institutions such as the DoD Cyber Crime Center, Northrop Grumman Electronics Sector, Cisco Systems Americas, the U.S. Navy, among others. During his career, Jeffery has “boots on the ground” risk management, cyber investigations and M&A experience in multiple high-risk cyber threat regions including China, Brazil, the Middle East and South America.

Manufacturing

MANUFACTURING

Cam Brensinger Founder & CEO

NEMO Equipment

Education: B.A. creative writing, Middlebury College; BFA industrial design, Rhode Island School of Design

Career history: Cam started NEMO in 2002 as his senior project in the industrial design program at the Rhode Island School of Design. Prior to NEMO, while a student at RISD, he worked at MIT, funded by the NASA Institute of Advanced Concepts, to help develop the next generation of space suits.

Business lesson: Being out front all the time, looking fearless, and having all the answers isn’t the best way to build a high-performing, collaborative organization. I try to make sure the right things get said.

Biggest challenge: Accomplishing our last round of growth equity investment in 2012 and 2013. We ran into hurdles that delayed the deal closing for months while we were unable to fund production. In the end we pulled it off and have been not only profitable, but steadily buying back the shares of our company since.

What keeps you up at night? The future of AI, particularly what its effects will be on our relationships with each other, with creativity, and with the outdoors.

Hobbies/passions: Outdoor adventure, including mountain biking, motorcycle adventures, backcountry hunting and fishing, skiing, backpacking; milling wood at his family’s off-grid camp in Maine.

Industry advice: Even as the world changes rapidly around us and we scramble to evolve with it, let’s remember our core values and prioritize innovation, community and sustainability.

Suzanne Foley Founder, CEO

Port City Pretzels

Education: B.S. management, Franklin Pierce College

Career history: Suzanne’s first job was selling live eels as fish bait to local fishermen at her family’s marina. After college, she focused on operational management and financial reporting and analysis. In the years after, Suzanne worked in the pharmaceutical industry, higher education, the trade show industry and health care. In 2015, she launched Port City Pretzels, her greatest achievement. She has been named SBA Small Business Woman of the Year, and she has been recognized by the state for her diverse and inclusive hiring practices and workforce.

Business lesson: To be adaptable, learn from my mistakes and surround myself with good people. I pivot daily, I make mistakes, I pick myself up and push on.

Biggest challenge: Learning to trust my ability to grow, learning to let go, taking risks. I need to take more chances and let my company grow to its potential. Most excited about: My product competes for shelf space at major retailers. We have been fortunate with organic growth. More importantly, increasing our hiring practices for disadvantaged and disabled individuals. What keeps you up at night? Cash flow and having funds to grow.

Industry advice: Being a small business owner; an entrepreneur requires taking risks driven by ideas or passion. It requires confidence in yourself. Recognize that mistakes and failures are part of the journey. Just make sure you love what you do.

Kristina Drociak Director of Public Relations and Digital Strategy Stonyfield Farm

Education: B.A. communications, University of New Hampshire Career history: With over 15 years of experience in mission-driven organizations, Kristina has received numerous industry accolades, including recognition from the Sabre Awards, Stevie Awards, and PR Daily. As director of public relations and consumer engagement at Lactalis U.S. Yogurt, she oversees communications strategy for brands like Stonyfield Organic and Siggi’s. She manages a team of 10 and works directly with executive leadership on brand visibility and consumer engagement. At Lactalis, Kristina has pioneered the viral “Chief Simplicity Offi-skyr” and Digital Detox campaigns for Siggi’s, and the “Date with a Cow” initiative for Stonyfield. Her award-winning “StonyFIELDs” campaign exemplified Stonyfield’s sustainability mission, helping the brand secure partnerships with major national retailers. She has earned honorable mentions alongside leaders from Southwest Airlines and Chipotle Mexican Grill for PR Week’s “Most Purposeful In-House Communicator” recognition. Kristina is a graduate of the Greater Manchester Chamber’s class of 2024 and was one of NH Business Review’s 2024 Outstanding Women in Business.

Fun fact: I have summited all of New Hampshire’s 48 4,000-foot mountains, and I actively work with Manchester’s Urban Pond Restoration Program.

Hobbies/passions: Hiking, volunteering at animal shelters, international travel, currently spanning more than 14 nations.

Lawson Glidden President Minus33

Education: B.S. management engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute; business analysis certificate, George Washington University

Career history: Lawson has held various roles during his career including business analyst, consultant, actuarial database developer, FinTech trading software specialist, and senior technical consultant at a regulatory software company. He says all of these roles have prepared him well for the challenges running a US based wool clothing company.

Business lesson: People respond to incentives. If you want to incentivize your team to increase profits, then the best incentive is company-wide profit sharing.

Biggest challenge: Wool has a legacy of being hot and itchy, but Merino Wool is thermoregulating and incredibly comfortable. Effectively educating potential customers of this has been an uphill battle.

Most excited about: Our 100+ year legacy of textile engineering has allowed me to make the best socks available for purchase right here in the same mill that my great grandfather’s uncle founded in 1916 in Ashland, NH. What keeps you up at night? Other companies in our space do not meet the same quality standards that we have at Minus33. I worry that many potential customers will use an inferior product and give up on wool entirely. Industry advice: Make a high-quality product and stand behind it.

Rudolph “Rudy” Glocker Founder

Burgeon Outdoor

Education: B.A. political science, M.A. political science, Pennsylvania State Universit; MBA, Harvard Business School

Career history: Early in his career, Rudy worked at Credit Suisse and at Byelocorp International, a Minsk, Belarus, sporting goods distributor in the former Soviet Union. After that, he was a VP in Goldman Sachs’ securities division, supporting U.S.-based clients in corporate strategy across various financial products. Rudy followed Goldman Sachs to become a managing partner of Pediped footwear, a children’s footwear company. He led sales and distribution, overseeing Pediped’s retail rollout in China. Finally, before founding Burgeon, he was president of Iliac Golf. During his tenure, Rudy initiated Iliac’s transition from a wholesale to direct-to-consumer focus.

Business lesson: Hire the right people and trust them to do the right thing. When they succeed, give them more responsibility. When they fail, coach and encourage them.

Fun fact: Rudy enjoys classical music and opera. His greatest highlight was seeing Lang Lang perform Greig’s Piano Concerto in A Minor in his Carnegie Hall premiere with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

Favorite story: “A Prayer for Owen Meany” by John Irving.

Checked-off bucket list item: Climbing the Matterhorn. It felt like I was standing on top of the world. Next up: skiing the Haute Route.

Industry advice: All business is tough, and the outdoor industry is no exception. There is, however, a strong wind at our back. That wind is a growing recognition that mother nature is good for the soul.

Adam Hamilton Chief Operating Officer

Shire’s Naturals

Education: BFA, University of Rhode Island

Career history: Before co-founding his business Clean Simple Foods Inc. in 2019, Adam was vice president of People’s United Bank, leading a team, growing assets in the area it served and strengthening its community presence. At Shire’s Naturals, he drives strategy, team development, and operational growth, raising capital and securing retail partnerships with Market Basket, GIANT and Whole Foods. He has served on boards for the Hannah Grimes Center, NH Charitable Foundation and Peterborough Economic Development Authority and was honored as a Leadership NH Class of 2020 alum.

Biggest challenge: Navigating the shift from banker to entrepreneur required becoming a student of fundraising, supply chain logistics and retail partnerships. What keeps you up at night? Balancing rapid growth with operational efficiency. Ensuring supply chain stability, meeting retailer demand, and maintaining a mission-driven culture as we scale requires constant vigilance, thoughtful planning and adaptability in a fast-changing industry.

Fun fact: I am an amateur poet. Thankfully, my business emails don’t rhyme. Favorite story: “Braveheart.” Nothing like a guy in a kilt shouting “Freedom!” to get you fired up.

Hobbies/passions: Community service, mentoring entrepreneurs, supporting local economic development, hiking, collecting vintage typewriters.

Checked-off bucket list item: Exploring Greece. Immersing myself in its rich history, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture was transformative.

“Relationships and authentic connections with investors, retailers and employees drive growth.”

— Adam Hamilton Chief Operating Officer, Shire’s Naturals

Tom Hassell President Life Is Good

Education: B.A. English, University of Virginia

Career history: Throughout his career, Tom has led teams in merchandising, planning, sales, design, marketing, retail stores, outlet stores, IT and e-commerce. These roles were in companies including Lord & Taylor, Perry Ellis, Ann Taylor and Eastern Mountain Sports. Before becoming Life Is Good’s president in 2021, Tom was its vice president of e-commerce. As VP, the company’s e-commerce business more than tripled from $30 million in annual revenue in 2017 to $100 million in 2021. As president, he has led the company in expanding its capabilities with a 500,000-square-foot production and fulfillment facility in Hudson.

Business lesson: Adaptation and speed are essential for success in the ever-changing world of retail.

Biggest challenge: Pivoting from overseas production to in-house manufacturing here in New Hampshire.

Most excited about: Our Hudson facility affords us the room to grow for decades to come. We continue to invest in additional means of production that will, we expect, create new jobs and opportunities for the residents of this great state.

What keeps you up at night? Black swan events. Planning for the future and executing against that plan is critical. When an event like COVID comes along, we must throw our playbook out the window and adapt to the new reality.

Eric Hui Founder & CEO Terracea

Education: B.A. psychology, Pepperdine University; MBA business, supply chain management, Northeastern University

Career history: Before starting Terracea in 2017, Eric worked in finance, leasing, property management and project management. Project management and sticking to timelines and budgets has given Eric a strong foundation in cashflow management and expenses. Project management offered clarity on how smaller tasks matter in large projects.

Business lesson: The past is in the past. In business (and life) the only way forward is to unpack learnings and move forward.

Biggest challenge: Scaling the ability to purchase inventory to match the demands of a multi-year life cycle. In apparel manufacturing, having the capital to fund more than one year of inventory is key, and requires budgeting for a 3+ years to start.

Most excited about: Addressing the main problem that all people living in New Hampshire (and New England) face: weather, and how to choose the right clothing given changes in climate and extremes in seasonal and elemental conditions. What keeps you up at night? How a small brand like Terracea gets adapted to the mass market. Scaling from a single product in outdoor apparel is not enough; sustaining the momentum in the publicity we’ve gotten so far.

Industry advice: Do a ton of research before launching your first product, and test for product-market fit with a long runway with enough data to validate your brand existence and product. Find a good mentor.

Chris Mosby President Kalwall

Education: B.S. industrial and systems engineering, Virginia Tech; MBA, Berry College

Career history: Chris managed and turned around four manufacturing plants with Ingersoll-Rand in Georgia, Connecticut, Illinois and Ohio. He served as vice president of operations for Watts Water Technologies, A.W. Chesterton and Assa Abloy. Chris joined Kalwall in 2022 and became its president in 2023. He has served in leadership roles voluntarily for churches in the communities where he has lived. Chris was elected to Virginia Tech’s industrial and systems engineering distinguished alumni in 2023.

Peter Lehnen President Lehnen Industrial Services Inc.

Career history: Peter’s first business was started in 1975, right after he graduated high school in Melbourne, Florida. He created a product for machine tools, which morphed into designing and building custom control systems for industrial equipment. Peter closed that business when moving to New Hampshire for a better quality of life. He started his current business in 2001.

Business lesson: Be open and honest with everyone. Biggest challenge: Uncertainty in decision-making on the part of customers.

Most excited about: We are in the life sciences sector, which has unlimited growth potential.

What keeps you up at night? Making decisions that could affect others adversely.

Fun fact: I’m a pilot who is afraid of heights.

Favorite story: “American Symphony,” a documentary about Jon Batiste. Hobbies/passions: Attending live theater and music performances, learning to play piano.

Checked-off bucket list item: Visiting the Galapagos Islands. Industry advice: In the life sciences industry, you must be a true partner with your customers, and relationships take a long time to cultivate. Performance and patience are mandatory.

Melaney Shepard Winemaker

LaBelle Winery

Education: winemaking certificate, University of California Davis

Career history: Melaney started working at the Biltmore Estate Winery in Asheville, North Carolina, at age 23.

She was initially an entry-level cellar hand, working her way up to an enologist position. She holds experience in all aspects of traditional winemaking, from receiving and processing grapes to lab analysis and bottling finished wines. Biggest challenge: The transition to making wine in NH. The style and types of wine made in New Hampshire vs. North Carolina are very different. Making fruit wine, particularly cranberry, has been an interesting puzzle to solve.

Business lesson: Growth and continuous improvement are essential to survival.

Biggest challenge: Keeping people safe in a manufacturing operation while serving customers throughout the COVID pandemic. Most excited about: Our product solutions for more sustainable buildings. Specifically providing the healthy benefits of natural light.

Fun fact: I grew up in South Boston, a small rural town in southern Virginia.

Hobbies/passions: Golfing, skiing, building and maintaining a hot rod from a 1931 Ford Model A truck.

Checked-off bucket list item: I drove both my car and a race car on a racetrack at high speed.

Industry advice: Effective leadership and influencing requires building strong working relationships. These require an investment of time and comes from learning to love and appreciate others.

Most excited about: In the summer of 2024, LaBelle Winery released our first traditional method sparkling wine. The wine has been in the making for the last two years, and we’re so pleased with the results.

What keeps you up at night? Changing trends in the alcohol beverage industry. LaBelle is making great wine; now, we must be creative to attract the next generations of wine drinkers.

Fun fact: When I was 21, I hiked the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Vermont, walking across New Hampshire before knowing the state would play an important role in my future.

Industry advice: Every producer wants to create that new alcoholic beverage appealing to younger people. It will take thoughtful, creative producers to thrive in this industry.

Media & Marketing

“Trust your instincts, always bring value to the table and don’t forget to get outside.”

— Tyler Ray Principal, Backyard Concept, LLC

Mackenzie Fraser Senior Vice President

EVR Advertising

Education: B.S. business administration, kinesiology, UNH

Career history: After UNH, Mackenzie began her career in sports marketing, developing communications, customer service and relationship-building skills. Love of a fast-paced environment led her to the agency world, where she found the perfect fit for her love of business and creativity. As SVP at EVR Advertising, Mackenzie leads a dynamic team, focused on developing solutions, client relationships and ensuring success. She seeks to empower EVR’s teams to achieve exceptional results and ultimately driving growth

Geoff Cunningham Partner & Chief Creative Officer

Tiny Bully Branding Agency

Education: B.A. English, political science, Brandeis University

Career history: Geoff began his career in journalism, spending 10 years as an awardwinning writer and photographer. He says he wanted to tell unusual stories hidden in plain sight. He turned to branding to mix his passions for visual design and creating captivating stories. Geoff began as a content writer and worked to become a creative lead and partner. He now works with a team creating branding campaigns for fledging startups to Fortune 500 companies.

Business lesson: Own your difference as a business or brand. Don’t overcomplicate it, and don’t water it down in an effort to be all things to all possible consumers. Most excited about: Evolution allowing brands to be speaking with and not just at consumers. Today’s brands have the platforms and cultural permission (if they do it right) to be in their buyer’s daily conversation.

What keeps you up at night? New ideas and my 10-year-old son with lots of ideas.

Hobbies/passions: Making intricate three-dimensional paintings/collages out of thousands of pieces of paper built onto balsa wood pillars. Paper is sourced from science textbooks from the ‘60s, vintage movie posters or my kid’s drawings/homework.

Industry advice: Avoid the shortsighted transactional mindset. Invest in your partners like you own their business. Understand what keeps them up at night. Overdeliver to achieve real results. Don’t be another vendor; be seen as part of their team.

Melanie Hitchcock Editor-in-Chief Union Leader Corporation

Education: A.S. business administration, B.S. communications, UNH Manchester

Business lesson: As leaders, our role is to create more leaders. Transformational leadership drives growth at every level — personally and within the company.

Most excited about: Taking EVR to the next level, working with my business partner, Pete Ricci, to expand our client base and services.

Biggest challenge: Accepting that work-life balance can be a reality but is not a given. As a business owner, wife and mother sacrifice is inevitable. Success means being present, intentional and diligent with my time, ensuring I can fully invest in both my business and family without compromise. Fun fact: Mackenzie grew up in a family business, learning to count change at age 5 and run a meat slicer at age 12. By age 14, she handled wholesale orders, payroll and scheduling.

Industry advice: Embrace the chase, change and challenge. Stay curious, agile and ready to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the industry.

Career history: Melanie’s career in journalism initially spanned from 19992008 when she served in reporter, page designer and editor roles across Bedford’s Neighborhood News, the Derry News, the Eagle-Tribune of Andover, Massachusetts, and the Nashua Telegraph. From 2008-2020, she was editor of ParentingNH magazine, winning more than 70 national awards. She joined the New Hampshire Union Leader first as night editor in 2021, served as managing editor in 2023 and became editor-in-chief on Sept. 1, 2024.

Biggest challenge: Going through a pandemic, job loss, her mother’s death and a move — all in a nine-month period — then having to start over.

Most excited about: The Union Leader has two new minority investors who genuinely care about local journalism and the company. Their investment and a recent BFA loan will allow us to continue our mission into the future. What keeps you up at night? The high level of mistrust that Americans have for the media.

Fun fact: Melanie is a fan of Canadian rock trio Rush, so much so that she created a fan page on Instagram, garnering more than 18,000 followers.

Industry advice: Don’t listen to the haters and keep your head held high. The future of our democracy depends on the Fourth Estate holding those in power accountable.

Melanie Plenda

Executive Director Granite State News Collaborative

Education: B.A. English, Michigan State University

Career history: Melanie started her career as a freelance arts writer at Michigan publication Lansing City Limits before moving to a reporting job at the Northville Record as an education reporter. She freelanced with the Detroit News, then moved to Alaska to become a crime writer at the Juneau Empire. She later moved back northeast to report for New York outlet The Journal News, then The Keene Sentinel in New Hampshire. For 10 years, she was a freelance reporter for outlets like The Associated Press, The Atlantic, Slate, The New Republic and The Daily Beast. She became director of the Granite State News Collaborative in 2018.

Tyler Ray Principal Backyard

Concept LLC

Education: B.A., Hobart College; J.D., Roger Williams School of Law; MBA, Bryant University

Career history: Tyler is a leading advocate for outdoor recreation as an economic driver for New Hampshire. He founded BYC, a strategy firm for outdoor businesses; created SKI KIND, a national stewardship code; and GRANITELAND, a network of 17 backcountry ski glades. Through Backyard Concept and Frontyard Law, his leadership balances structure and creativity.

Business lesson: Trust your instincts and always deliver value, whether through thoughtful advice or insight.

Business lesson: If the people around you don’t trust you or each other, you’ve got nothing. If the trust is there you can move mountains together. Most excited about: Local news and community partners. They are full of new and brave ideas and are ready and willing to roll up their sleeves, to trust and to try.

What keeps you up at night? Funding. We know that we need to broaden our base of support and understanding that local news is a critical part of our civic infrastructure.

Fun fact: Melanie, her brother and her mother starred in dozens of commercials during her childhood.

Checked-off bucket list item: Polar plunge in a glacial bay in Juneau, Alaska

Shaunte Whitted Lead Strategist & CEO

SDW Communications LLC

Education: B.S. human services, Springfield College

Career history: Shaunte’s career began in insurance before she moved into public service with the New Hampshire state government. She’s dedicated 25 years to public relations, holding roles like casting director, TV host and producer, branding consultant and event coordinator. She’s passionate about social issues, notably those of affecting women and children of African descent. She is on the board of directors for Spark the Dream, an African immigrant-led nonprofit serving families.

Business lesson: Trusting my intuition. I’ve discovered taking calculated risks drives growth.

Most excited about: SDW Communications’ potential to make a global impact in public relations. Our strength lies in offering authentic, ethical and community-driven solutions that transcend borders.

Fun fact: I cherish my time spent in solitude. Having time in clarity is essential to guiding my personal journey and, ultimately, my ability to make effective business decisions.

Hobbies/passions: Walking and hiking in nature, reading, taking educational classes.

Industry advice: To those entering public relations, remember that authenticity is essential for building and maintaining meaningful client relationships.

Biggest challenge: Embracing leadership, strategic decision-making, and the bigger picture to drive growth and long-term success.

Most excited about: Pioneering to elevate the value of the outdoors in ways that sync with community and business.

What keeps you up at night? Outdoor night explorations, good beer, and the drive to get ahead of tomorrow.

Fun fact: I once sang and played guitar in front of 500+ people in high school. It was my first and last performance until my wedding, with a more forgiving audience and my wife’s support convincing me to revisit the instrument.

Favorite stories: Underdog stories, whether it’s the small-town glory of “Hoosiers,” “Happy Gilmore” or the ragtag “Dodgeball” crew.

Hobbies/passions: Trail building, maple sugaring, yard sale treasure hunter, unwinding in the sauna, a tribute to my 50% Finnish roots.

Nonprofits

Elena Alois

Assistant Vice President, People & Talent Management Granite Edvance Corporation

Education: B.S. business administration, M.S. organizational leadership, SNHU

Career history: During graduate school, Elena supported the university’s training and development function. She then joined a nonprofit acute-care hospital, managing leaves of absence, workers’ compensation and related compliance, and supported employee benefits. Later joining a nonprofit health insurance provider, Elena coordinated staffing, onboarding, and training, and managed safety, wellness, and workers’ compensation programs. At Granite Edvance, Elena helps manage talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, compensation, benefits and training programs. Elena is a SHRM senior certified professional, predictive index behavioral assessment practitioner and a Myers-Briggs type indicator certified trainer. Recognized as a 40 Under 40 recipient and one of NH Business Review’s 2024 Outstanding Women in Business.

Business lesson: Growth happens in moments of resiliency when you adapt your approach and perspective to remain open to new ideas, methods and outcomes.

Biggest challenge: Staying positive and grateful during professional and personal challenges.

Hobbies/passions: Exploring new foods and curating cheese boards. Checked-off bucket list item: Seeing the Northern Lights while staying in an Icelandic bubble hotel. It was an unforgettable experience.

Corinne Benfield

Executive Director

Stay Work Play NH

Education: BFA painting, Savannah College of Art and Design; M.S. arts management, Boston University Career history: Corinne calls herself a proud New Hampshire “boomerang,” returning after college to build a career rooted in serving the Granite State. Her journey began at the Currier Museum of Art, finding her passion in community building and creative placemaking there. She joined the Greater Manchester Chamber, advancing to Director of Programs and Strategic Initiatives. As Stay Work Play NH’s third executive director, Corinne aims to galvanize the unique energy and momentum of the Granite State’s vibrant young people to create a brighter future.

Business lesson: Be authentic in all that you do. It’s not just freeing, it’s essential.

Most excited about: The next five years at Stay Work Play will be pivotal — marked by bold actions and innovative partnerships that will shape the future of New Hampshire as a place where young people can truly flourish. What keeps you up at night? I’m passionate about shaping a future where the Granite State is a beacon of opportunity for young talent. But when I let my mind drift to a worst-case scenario, it’s not exactly pretty.

Industry advice: Collaboration is the key to meaningful progress. New Hampshire is fortunate to have a diverse community of passionate nonprofits and agencies dedicated to positive missions.

Jane Bard President, CEO Children’s Museum of NH

Education: B.A. communications, English/journalism, M.Ed., UNH

Career history: Jane has 32 years of professional educational experience. Before her 12-year tenure leading CMNH, she was its director of education for 18 years.

Before that, she was an elementary school teacher for two years. Jane is responsible for executing the Museum’s strategic initiatives, including expanding the museum’s role as a statewide resource for play-based learning, expanding partnerships and access and inclusion programs, leading multiple facility expansions and tech upgrades. Jane is a member appointed by the governor of the NH Council for Thriving Children and has presented at several regional and national museum conferences.

Business lesson: Empower your team to share their great ideas and support them in taking risks to implement them.

Biggest challenge: As a nonprofit that relies on in-person visitors for 60% of its budget, COVID forced us to examine every aspect of our operations, rebuilding in a sustainable and forward-thinking way.

Most excited about: Our strides bringing quality play-based learning materials and resources to childcare providers throughout NH.

Hobbies/passions: I love traveling, but I probably spend more hours planning than going on the trip.

Industry advice: The most valuable tool for guiding your organization is a well-crafted strategic plan created with your board, staff, community stakeholders, and audience. If other opportunities arise, consider them!

Marcie Bergan CEO, Executive

Director Southeast New Hampshire Habitat for Humanity

Education: Women in Leadership certificate, Albany Business College; Cornell University

Career history: Before moving to New Hampshire, Marcie worked in both the nonprofit and corporate worlds. In New York, she was director of operations for the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District and volunteered with Girl Scouts and Habitat for Humanity. Arriving at Habitat New Hampshire, she was accepted to Leadership Seacoast ‘13, which she says gave her much insight and introduced her to people she later collaborated with.

Business lesson: Listen to the people who will be impacted by the decisions you are making.

Biggest challenge: Staffing challenges continue to be on everyone’s list. But for us here at Habitat, acquiring land to build our homes on remains at the top of our list and is vital to our continued success.

Most excited about: Affordable housing is more important than ever here and across the U.S. Having the housing crisis a top priority for states and government is bringing more attention to the need. There is much more awareness and that is moving the conversations forward. We are making a difference.

Checked-off bucket list item: My goddaughter and I took a trip to Corolla, North Carolina, last spring to see wild mustangs, and it was more than I hoped for!

Industry advice: Don’t ever stop trying. Someone said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take!”

NONPROFITS

Bryan Bouchard Professor, Accountancy and Taxation

Southern New Hampshire University

Education: B.S. economics and finance, MBA, M.S. finance, SNHU

Career history: Bryan has taught accounting classes at Southern New Hampshire University as a full-time faculty member in the Accountancy and Taxation Department for 23 years. He started investing in real estate over 17 years ago and has a large property portfolio across New Hampshire. Bryan has served on the board of Easterseals NH & VT for nearly a decade. He was treasurer from 2019-2023 and, in 2024, became chair.

Business lesson: Do not let emotions dictate your actions. Remain patient and assured that things will fall into place. Take time to contemplate and respond thoughtfully.

Biggest challenge: Attracting more students to the accounting field. Through my involvement on the board of the NH Institute of Management Accountants and the Financial Careers Committee of the NH Society of CPAs, I have actively sought avenues to expose more students at high school and college levels to the accounting profession.

Industry advice: Supporting newcomers is crucial. Mentoring plays a vital role in professional growth. Remembering to assist others is key. I make it a priority to guide and support individuals entering the field. Whether it is students or those looking to get involved on a board, mentoring plays a big role.

Jennifer Cordaro

Executive Director

LifeConnections Specialized Support Services

Education: B.A. psychology, UNH; M.Ed. rehabilitation counseling, UMass Boston Career history: Jen has spent 25 years working in nonprofits, leading organizations serving people with behavioral health care needs and intellectual and developmental disabilities. In 2018, she joined Becket Family of Services, where she developed LifeConnections to focus on serving individuals with specialized support needs. Today, LifeConnections works in six states and is headquartered in New Hampshire. Recently, Jen partnered with Medicaid Managed Care Organizations to develop a home-based service initiative. It provides comprehensive, strength-based interventions for New Hampshire youth to avert emergency department visits and inpatient hospital stays.

Business lesson: When leaders demonstrate that they are human through open communication, showing vulnerability and acknowledging failures, employees feel safe expressing their opinions and are inspired to do their best. Biggest challenge: Labor workforce constraints, which challenge us to think creatively and find new ways to attract and retain skilled workers. Most excited about: New Hampshire’s investment in community-based behavioral health services, which will create opportunities to develop specialized treatment programs for individuals with unmet needs. Industry advice: Cultivate a growth mindset and embrace change. This fosters resilience and often leads to innovation and new opportunities.

Joe Clifford Executive Director

Lebanon

Opera House

Education: B.A. communication, Seton Hall University

Career history: For 17 years, Joe rose through the ranks at Dartmouth College’s Hopkins Center for the Arts, joining Lebanon Opera House as executive director in 2017. He graduated from Vital Communities’ Leadership Upper Valley program in 2018 and is a founding member of the Upper Valley Arts Alliance. Joe was a member of the 2019 NH Listens anti-racism cohort at UNH and was appointed to the city of Lebanon’s Arts & Culture Commission that same year. He was named the Upper Valley Business Alliance “Innovator of the Year” in 2023.

Business lesson: Listen, be responsive and build rapport with patrons, donors, artists, volunteers and community leaders. Trust sparks connections between artists and audiences.

Biggest challenge: Operating a nonprofit theater during the pandemic. Most excited about: Celebrating LOH’s centennial, we have a newly revitalized theater, lobby and support spaces. We’re riding a wave of excitement about this and are attracting new patrons through diverse programming. What keeps you up at night? Delivering exceptional experiences for an ever-diversifying community, requiring LOH to remain an attractive employer, especially among young professionals.

Industry advice: Keep doing the work. Now, more than ever, it’s important to remember your role in building stronger and more resilient communities.

Robert Dapice

Director & CEO

New Hampshire Housing

Education: B.A., Dartmouth College; MBA, University of New Hampshire Career history: Rob joined New Hampshire Housing in 2014, serving in various roles in the multifamily housing division until 2021. Before that, he was a project manager for North Branch Construction. He was also a captain in the U.S. Army and served in Iraq. Rob is on various boards, including the Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire, Waypoint, and his town’s planning board. He graduated from Leadership New Hampshire in 2017.

Business lesson: “Always have a plan to build the job.” It means: No matter what happens, solve problems and make a plan to get the job done.

Biggest challenge: Historic increases in housing costs have caused serious hardship for our most vulnerable neighbors, including families and seniors. Our team has done exceptional work to respond, but it’s been hard to keep up. Most excited about: People recognizing the importance of good housing policy. What keeps you up at night? Too many oppose new housing in their communities because of stigma and misperceptions about people who need housing.

Fun fact: At 21 in college, I won the Mt. Washington Bicycle Hillclimb. Favorite story: The book “Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell” by Susanna Clarke. Hobbies/passions: Cycling, Nordic skiing, uphill skiing, reading, local theater. Industry advice: Listen to understand the problems we’re trying to solve, learn how you can contribute to the solution, and understand concerns of those who don’t support your solutions.

Antonio Feliciano Director of Operations

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Manchester

Education: Associates human services, Hesser College; bachelor’s business accounting, SNHU

Career history: Antonio began working at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Manchester as a high school student in 1995, later becoming the Latino outreach director in 2000 before attaining the role of site director of St. Jeans Boys & Girls Club on the west side of Manchester in 2003. St. Jeans closed in 2004, and so Antonio became the interim unit director of the Union Street Clubhouse. From 2004-2022, he was the unit director of the Union Street clubhouse before stepping into his current position.

Business lesson: As someone who leads by example, I want to make sure that my team knows I’m right there with them. We all bring our unique and creative thoughts to the table, and if you don’t appreciate and acknowledge your team’s efforts, then their voices might never be heard, which may affect the organization from moving forward and becoming better, bigger and bolder.

Favorite story: When club alumni come back and thank our staff for helping them through their journey. No one becomes successful in life on their own; we all have a mentor we look up to that guided us on the path we are on. I’m very thankful for my mentor, Ken Neil; I would not be where I am today without him.

Industry advice: Build a strong professional network and embrace the collaborative partnership you can build together. There are going to be challenging times, but don’t look at challenges as negative; instead, look at them as opportunities to grow, learn and change to guide your career development.

Shana Hawrylchak Executive Director

SEE Science Center

Education: B.A. anthropology, Hobart & William Smith Colleges (Geneva, N.Y.); master’s museum studies, Harvard Extension School; Late Classic Mayan site of Chawak But’o’ob, Rio Bravo Archaeological Project, Belize Archaeological Field School, Montclair State University

Career history: Shana took her first job in the museum field in middle school as an archival research assistant in 1995. Over the course of 25 years in the industry, she has worked in many museums including the Geneva Historical Society, the Museum of Science – Boston, the Mercer Museum, the EcoTarium and now at the SEE Science Center.

Business lesson: It is all about the people. A successful business is about passion for what you do. You can’t succeed unless your team is just as passionate as you are. Treat your people well, invest in them, and your business will thrive. Most excited about: The amazing strides the city of Manchester has taken and what this means for our community. The sense of optimism, pride and willingness to chip in is unlike anything I have experienced in other places I have worked.

What keeps you up at night? Those with limited means continue to struggle to make ends meet while working in nonprofits. Being able to provide livable wages for our workers while reducing barriers to our services is a major concern across the nonprofit sector.

Industry advice: If you love what you do and want to keep doing it, make sure to take care of yourself, so that you can be there for those you serve.

Tim Horgan Executive Director World Affairs Council of New Hampshire

Education: Bachelor’s Latin American studies, political science, University of Connecticut

Career history: Tim began his career through AmeriCorps at the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire, where he has helped foster its growth over 15 years. Recognized nationally as the top international exchange programmer in 2013 by Global Ties U.S., Tim also received the WACNH President’s Award in 2016 and was named to the Union Leader’s “40 Under 40” in 2022. Tim has leveraged technology to connect New Hampshire to the world, expanding global conversations and achieving over 25,000 engagements across 120 countries this year. He is proud of building a diverse, engaged audience and making a lasting impact on the global community.

Biggest challenge: Adapting to the pandemic, moving all programs to a virtual space with no background in virtual programming and then adapting to hybrid programming. While working through these challenges, it has provided a strong opportunity to expand the impact of the organization, reaching new and diverse audiences.

Most excited about: I am most excited to continue the growth and expansion of high school diplomacy simulations. These experiential learning opportunities have already inspired so many students to become globally minded citizens and remain highly engaged in the classroom setting. Seeing the excitement of students as they take the lead in negotiating resolutions to international conflicts gives me hope for the future.

Jessica Martin Executive Director

Intown Concord

Education: B.S. business, Southern New Hampshire University

Career history: Jessica’s career in real estate began right out of college, where she worked for a title company, a commercial real estate firm, and later at the Greater Manchester/Nashua Board of Realtors. It was there that she discovered her true passion: event planning. It took some time to find a role that combined her love for event planning with community engagement.

Aimee Kereage

Executive Director

Manchester Proud

Education: B.A., master of social work, University of New Hampshire Career history: In 2014, Aimee pivoted from a career in hospitality to pursue a master in social work. During an internship at Amoskeag Health’s pediatric division, she developed a passion for working with Manchester youth. This passion led her to a role with the Manchester Community Schools Project, focusing on providing better support for students and families. From 2018 to 2021, Aimee served as the director of community impact at Granite United Way, overseeing youth-focused initiatives in southern New Hampshire. In 2021, she was hired as the first employee of Manchester Proud, an organization dedicated to supporting Manchester’s youth and schools.

Business lesson: The importance of building trust, nurturing relationships and being positive. Regardless of your business, these are all foundations for success. Most excited about: I see incredible potential for our community to come together to support our youth. I often talk about creating “magic,” and for me, that magic happens when we unite our efforts — every time we collaborate, we spark something greater and can make a larger impact.

What keeps you up at night? The realization that there is so much I want to accomplish. I have a strong desire to do it all, but I recognize that it’s not always feasible, but I will try!

Industry advice: Stay focused on impact and leave a lasting, positive footprint. Embrace change as an opportunity to grow and explore. The work you are doing has the power to change lives — keep pushing forward.

Jeanie McIntyre President Upper Valley Land Trust

Education: B.A., Davidson College

Business lesson: I’ve learned that sometimes the best response is no response at all. It’s so easy to fire off an email or text in the heat of the moment, but taking a few days — or even weeks —to sit with something can often lead to it resolving on its own.

Biggest challenge: Balancing motherhood with a career I deeply care about. The lack of parental leave in this country is truly appalling — you don’t fully realize it until you’re the one forced to leave your baby with a stranger after just eight weeks.

Most excited about: The growth happening in downtown Concord! While challenges like housing and staffing remain, I’m incredibly encouraged by the strength and vibrancy of our downtown community.

Industry advice: Don’t let the state of the world diminish your passion for your nonprofit’s mission. Our work is more important now than ever. Checked-off bucket list item: Swimming with dolphins, and it was truly unforgettable.

Career history: Jeanie worked in accounting for 10 years before joining the Upper Valley Land Trust (UVLT), a regional land conservancy serving 45 towns in the Connecticut River Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire, in 1987. Since 1995, she has led the organization. UVLT now manages over 550 conservation easements, 50 public trails, nine campsites used by Connecticut River paddlers and 42 conservation areas for educational and recreational use. She is a recipient of New Hampshire’s Andrew L. Felker award for bringing farmers and conservationists together, Society for the Protection of NH Forest’s Sara Thorne award and Audubon Society of NH’s Tudor Richards award for love and knowledge of the outdoors.

Business lesson: Act with integrity and be honorable. Doing the right thing always costs less in the long run.

Most excited about: The next generation! The diversity of ideas and energy, the compassion and advocacy of young people.

What keeps you up at night? The simultaneous loss of ecological health and human well-being. Trying to find ways to position land conservation and stewardship to improve both.

Favorite story: “Ox-Cart Man” by Donald Hall, NH resident and nation’s 2006-2007 poet laureate. Also, his memoir “String Too Short to be Saved.” Industry advice: Imagine big, but be willing to take (lots of) small steps to get there. If you can’t do all you want, do what you can. Start and keep going.

Randall Nielsen Executive Director

Queerlective

Education: B.S. mechanical engineering, Boston University

Career history: Randall is an artist, engineer and founder of Queerlective, an initiative that empowers marginalized communities through art, education and collaboration. Believing in art as a critical tool for building community and encouraging change, Randall creates multimedia sculptures using novel materials and leads community-focused art projects through Queerlective. Recognized for their leadership, Randall has also received honors such as the Leaders of Color Fellowship and the Celebration of Leadership award from the New England Foundation for the Arts.

Business lesson: Involving the community in decision-making is incredibly rewarding. However, it requires thoughtful planning and strategy to ensure the community feels truly empowered to participate and have their voices heard.

Biggest challenge: Balancing progressive, equity-focused business practices with learning about current standard business practices. Being new to this work, navigating both sides effectively while staying true to my values has been a continuous challenge.

What keeps you up at night? Exciting ideas and potential art projects; brainstorming new or improved ways to bring the community together.

Hobbies/passions: Art! It’s a constant source of inspiration and joy for me. Industry advice: Don’t be afraid to fail. Failing at something is the first step at being good at something.

Zachery Palmer

Equitable Recovery Program

Manager

Strafford Economic Development Corporation

Education: B.S. business administration, Southern New Hampshire University

Career history: Zachery’s career includes roles as teller and commercial loan administrative assistant at People’s United Bank; Resident Owned Community Program and community business lender at NH Community Loan Fund; and business banking specialist at Cambridge Trust Company. He was also a “40 Under 40” recipient in 2021. Business lesson: Keep your head down and do what you do. Not getting distracted with all of the attention that others are receiving and trusting that we’re making the same impact as others who claim to be.

Biggest challenge: Working in a multigenerational workforce. As often the youngest in the workplace, sometimes our voices are ignored or overshadowed by the older generations. Sometimes older generations’ voices are outdated to the solutions that are needed today.

What keeps you up at night? The widening wealth gap and continual erosion of the middle class. Homeownership of traditional, stick-built housing is unattainable for people with what was thought of as a good job like nurses, teachers, etc. Not sure what the solution is.

Most excited about: The generational shift in the financial services industry. A lot of people are aging out, banks are merging, and there are more ways for people to store and make money. There’s a need for all traditional lenders to adapt and respond.

“Take chances, try new things, and don’t be worried if it is not perfect. By being bold and learning as you go, you will open up many new opportunities that you may never have thought possible.”

— Tim Horgan

Executive Director, World Affairs Council of New Hampshire

Anthony Poore President & CEO NH Center

for Justice & Equity

Education: B.A. social work, Wright State University (Fairborn, Ohio); M.S. community economic development, SNHU; MBA, SNHU Manchester

Career history: Anthony has worked in support of transformative systems change and equitable and sustainable communities for more than 30 years. Prior to the launch of the NH Center for Justice & Equity in 2022, he managed AP Consulting Group; served as the executive director of NH Humanities; worked with the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston in a variety of leadership roles; and served as the assistant dean for SNHU’s School of Economic Development. He currently serves on the board of directors for the NH Housing Finance Authority and Walden Mutual Bank.

Business lesson: Be able to adapt to changing environments (political, social, financial, etc.), making sure to focus on and nourishing positive relationships along the way.

What keeps you up at night? The deepening divide between communities and our inability to collaborate across difference.

Fun fact: I’m a proud cancer survivor who adores having fresh flowers in the office and at home (at all times).

Industry advice: Never give up, remembering if we are to effect change so that everyone feels as if they belong and that their contributions matter, it requires perseverance, persistence and patience above all else.

Salvatore Prizio Executive Director

Capitol Center for the Arts

Education: B.S. music industry, Northeastern University

Career history: Sal began his career in New York City working at Atlantic Records and performing in a touring band. After about a decade, he changed paths to work in the live side of the industry, where he ran a 400-seat space at the College of Saint Rose for seven years. Based on his work ethic, he was recruited to become the programming manager at Proctors Theatre, programming over 500 performances a year, before joining the team at the Capitol Center for the Arts as their newest executive director.

Business lesson: Do what you love. Your profession takes up a considerable portion of your time, so it’s best to do something you enjoy. If you do something you love, you’ll put everything you have of yourself into it to ensure it thrives. Most excited about: I love the reinvention of what a performing arts center can be to a community. Once you realize you have infrastructure to offer community groups, advocates and those most in need, the possibilities become limitless.

Hobbies/passions: I still enjoy playing music with friends and family, but I also love biking, hiking and building projects.

Checked-off bucket list item: My wife and I had the opportunity this past summer to take our boys to the Olympics in France.

Industry advice: This industry is very tightknit, so be professional and be kind. This business is constantly evolving, so always keep learning and to try something new.

Michael Redmond Executive Director

Upper Valley Haven

Education: B.A., Boston College; master’s regional planning, Dept. of City & Regional Planning, University of North Carolina; MBA, Columbia University School of Business; Villanova University

Career history: Michael became Upper Valley Haven’s executive director in 2018.

Prior to that, he held multiple roles at Crotched Mountain Foundation, including senior advisor, chief of strategy for hospital and clinical services, specialty hospital director/COO, CFO, among others. He was also a senior consultant at The Whelan Group and was assistant executive director for Grand Street Settlement in New York City.

Business lesson: From a lifetime of rooting for the New York Mets, I’ve learned that things don’t always work out, but that’s no reason to not believe they can. Biggest challenge: Leading the organization during COVID, keeping everyone healthy and focused on mission and execution, learning what to leave behind and what you adapted to bring forward.

Hobbies/passions: Singing and acting in community theater, opera and choruses. Dancing with my best partner.

Industry advice: The next four years are going to be extremely challenging. It’s important for leaders in the nonprofit social services industry to remember you have friends facing similar challenges who would welcome your call, a morning coffee or after-work drink to talk things over, laugh at the absurdity of it all, and be reminded you’re not alone and a lot of people are rooting for you to do your best and succeed.

Jeff Rapsis

Executive Director Aviation Museum of NH

Education: B.A., Fordham University; MBA, Whittemore School of Business, UNH Career history: Jeff held reporting, editing and management jobs at New Hampshire newspapers for 35 years, highlighted by co-founding the Hippo Press weekly newspaper in Manchester, NH. Other experience includes teaching middle school language arts and website/corporate communications work for Connection Inc. He also taught as an adjunct professor at UNH Manchester prior to moving into nonprofit management. Business lesson: Do something you enjoy, and you’ll never work a day in your life. But also, do something you value, believe in and helps others, and you’ll always be motivated.

Most excited about: Cultivating the next generation of skilled professionals in the aerospace field through our youth aviation education programs. Fun fact: I moonlight as one of the nation’s leading film accompanists, creating live musical scores for screenings of silent films in venues around New England and across the nation. it’s a great creative outlet that also helps in business management and administration.

Checked-off bucket list item: I succeeded in reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point on the African continent, on Jan. 10, 2015. Industry advice: In the nonprofit world, always be mindful of your organization’s core mission, and communicate it to all stakeholders: co-workers, volunteers, donors and the public. It’s what drives success.

Jack

Savage President Society for the Protection of NH Forests

Education: B.A. communications; Wake Forest University

Career history: Jack was appointed as the Forest Society’s fifth president in September 2019. Previously the vice president of communications/outreach at the Forest Society for 14 years, he has been a key contributor to many of the Forest Society’s successes over the last decade. A certified tree farmer, Jack is active in his community, serving for the last 20 years as town moderator and formerly as selectman, chair of the Planning Board, and chair of the ZBA. As a volunteer and member of the regional conservation group Moose Mountains Regional Greenways, he helped facilitate the Forest Society’s conservation of more than 2,000 acres in the Moose Mountains range.

Business lesson: Listen actively with genuine curiosity and interest. You will learn what you need to know.

What keeps you up at night? That too much of our economy is not environmentally sustainable over time.

Fun fact: I’ve authored three books about Chris-Craft Boats. Hobbies/passions: Ocean sailing, maple sugar-making, woodworking, golf, motorcycling.

Industry advice: It’s critically important we in the nonprofit sector get outside our bubble of known friends and supporters. We need to interact with everyone — in particular those who may not appreciate or agree with what we do — in order to understand how our work is perceived.

Ali Sekou Manager, Community Engagement & Inclusion

New Hampshire Housing

Education: Associates, NHTI; bachelor’s, Plymouth State University; master’s, UNH Career history: Before Ali immigrated to the U.S. more than a decade ago, he worked as a manager for a tourist site and later hired by the U.S. Embassy in Niger in West Africa to work in its security office. Upon arriving in the U.S, he held many leadership positions in retail and hospitality. Ali was elected as mayor pro tem to the Concord City Council in November 2023 as the youngest member and the first Muslim and Black member. He serves on various community boards, including the Islamic Society of Greater Concord, Organization for Refugees and Immigrants Success (ORIS), along with NHTI’s Advisory Board, NH Community Loan Fund, The Public Library Foundation, and Rain for the Sahel and Sahara. Most excited about: The partnership and collaboration across industries and sectors to solve the housing problem by being intentional, strategic and creative. This will make our economy and communities strive. What keeps you up at night? How to make our communities a better place for all, a welcoming and inclusive environment for all, especially as a father of two beautiful Black children. No doubt, we have great communities, but like any other community we have our challenges.

Industry advice: To know that housing issues should be everyone’s, and that it doesn’t affect only the underserved and underrepresented communities. It affects our economy, businesses and industries, the culture and well-being for all. It is a health determinant.

Jeff Symes Co-founder U+I Arts

Career history: Jeff has worked in developmental services for more than 15 years, the past seven of those as a service coordinator with Gateways Community Services in Nashua. Jeff was a latecomer to the nonprofit world, spending most of his professional career as a writer and editor with a byline back when “copy,” “cut” and “paste” were literal terms. He still dabbles in the occasional freelance project but uses a laptop now.

Business lesson: Listen more than I talk, and when I talk, ask questions. Be curious, explore, learn. It’s more than likely my ideas and my thinking aren’t new or unique.

Biggest challenge: Keeping the mission in focus and not getting pulled into the weeds. Finding regular reminders to put tasks in the larger context of who we are and what we do and not allow “process” to take over the “doing” of the organization or a project.

Most excited about: Working with organizations like the NH Center for Justice and Equity, we can help develop the disability community’s largely untapped pool of talent. U+I Arts is working to create both a resource and an opportunity; a win for people with disabilities and a win for the community that can recognize and welcome their talents and abilities.

Industry advice: In the world of disability supports, success means working yourself out of a job. Look to create opportunities everywhere – including your own tasks – to recruit and support both the person with a disability and the person providing the opportunity.

ALI SEKOU Manager, Community Engagement & Inclusion

ROB DAPICE Executive Director/CEO

Michele Talwani Chief Communications and Marketing Officer

Easterseals NH

& VT

Education: B.S. business management and MBA, Plymouth State University

Career history: Michele’s career has spanned all types of communications and marketing roles for small and large nonprofits in New Hampshire, including roles with NH Electric Cooperative’s Energy Services Department, Plymouth State College, NH Community Development Finance Authority, Families in Transition, OutFITters Thrift Stores, NH Community Loan Fund and now at Easterseals NH & VT. Most excited about: With a recent aspiring and visionary strategic plan, Easterseals NH & VT is at an exciting and pivotal point in its nearly 90-year existence. With the desire to be the provider and employer of first choice, the role of marketing and communications has been elevated to help showcase and highlight the impactful work the organization does with children, families, adults, seniors and veterans.

Hobbies/passions: Spending time and making memories with family and friends; raising my daughter, Hope; hiking with my dogs, Bentley and Hazel, and partner in life, Travis.

Industry advice: Secure a seat at the executive table. Strategic MarCom leaders are essential in shaping how an organization communicates with internal and external audiences. By leading efforts that will align the organization’s messaging and brand image, they will help ensure consistent communications across all channels, protect and promote the organization’s reputation, and drive business growth by effectively connecting with key audiences.

Cynthia “Cyndy” Milliken Taylor President

Housing Initiatives of New England Corporation

Education: BFA, graduate degree in architecture, Rhode Island School of Design

Career history: Cyndy initially worked in Rhode Island in architecture and urban planning, later moving to Maine to work for a couple of architectural firms tasked with gentrifying the historic “Old Port.” As part of her assignments, she had the opportunity to work on several senior housing historic renovations projects, which led to her next career working for Maine Housing in the Development Division reviewing plans and approving housing sites throughout the state. In 1990, she established the Housing Initiatives of New England Corporation to develop and serve seniors in need of housing.

Biggest challenge: Finding a labor pool to build the housing, to find the quality products needed due to the lack of supply chain, and staying on the required schedules and budgets to deliver affordable housing. What keeps you up at night? I worry about our health care and how hard it is for seniors to get adequate health services. Too frequently, I see residents discharged from hospitals without adequate care plans and real care solutions.

Checked-off bucket list item: I travelled to Tangier, Moracco, to build a campus for the University of New England at the top of Africa, as the vice chair of the board of trustees and chair of the Facilities Committee. When you help in an educational setting, your efforts are magnified, because each student you have influenced will go on to influence many more people.

Celebrating Leadership and Impact

We are excited to announce that Easterseals NH’s own Board Chair and Associate Professor at SNHU Bryan Bouchard; Chief Communications & Marketing Officer Michele Talwani; and Board Treasurer and NH Regional President of M&T Bank Tim Wade have all been named 2025 honorees of New Hampshire Business Review’s New Hampshire 200!

It is a true testament to our leadership team and board’s tireless work of elevating people of all abilities and making meaningful differences in the lives of those we serve.

Congratulations to Bryan, Michele, Tim, and all other recipients of this great honor!

BRYAN BOUCHARD MICHELE TALWANI TIM WADE

Tiffany Tononi McNamara

Executive Director

Plan NH

Education: B.A. political science, Kalamazoo College; master’s community development, University of Detroit Mercy

Career history: Tiffany began her career in the nonprofit sector working for a neighborhood-based community development organization in 2010. Since then, she has worked for a variety of nonprofit, municipal and philanthropic organizations, always with a strong focus on bringing people together, increasing engagement and participation, and supporting community vibrancy. She has been the executive director at Plan NH since 2021.

Business lesson: It is important to allot time at work beyond one’s primary responsibilities. I often find it is those unexpected moments when important connections are made that lay the foundation for exciting new projects or collaborations.

Favorite story: “The Prophet” by Kahlil Gibran.

Hobbies/passions: Spending time with friends and family, traveling and exploring local communities, and the occasional jigsaw puzzle.

Checked-off bucket list item: Living in the Middle East.

Industry advice: In community development, it is easy to want to accomplish things quickly and move on to the next project. However, maximizing community participation in the planning and implementation process is key to our greater success. Communities depend on high levels of trust and a positive sense of belonging in order to be the strong, vibrant places we all want.

Nick Toumpas Former Deputy Commissioner Department of Health & Human Services

Education: B.S. and MBA, University of New Hampshire

Career history: During a 20-year career in the information technology industry, Nick held executive and leadership positions focused on systems integration. He joined the NH Department of Health and Human Services in 2002, becoming commissioner in late 2007 and retired from state service in 2016. He and his team confronted many challenges and successfully transformed the Medicaid program to Managed Care and then implemented the Medicaid Expansion. After DHHS, Nick was the regional lead for a demonstration program to better integrate how primary care, behavioral health and social supports services benefited clients. Nick currently sits on several boards and commissions including CCSNH, Granite United Way and the State Commission on Aging.

Business lesson: Build a team willing to ask tough questions in times of accelerated change, build strong relationships and maintain a high level of integrity and transparency in crafting solutions. Above all, listen to and trust your gut.

Favorite story: Enjoy reading biographies of U.S. presidents and other world leaders, how the times shaped their leadership and understanding of history. Puts into perspective the increasingly complex challenges of today.

Industry advice: The industries focused on improving health and independence of the population are challenged by workforce shortages and the increasingly complex needs of those served. Does this not offer opportunities to explore and innovate through new relationships, processes and technologies?

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Jay Abendroth

Clay Adams

Jason Alexander

Lisa Allen 50

Elena Alois 79

Stuart Anderson 10

James Andrews 64

Mark Aquilino 13

Travis Ashford 50

________________ B _______________

Steve Baillargeon

Jane Bard

Joseph Bator

Jon Beam

Brett Beaurivage

Corinne Benfield 79

Marcie Bergan 79

Dan Bergeron 65

Jarett Berke 50

Michael Berry 22

Donald Birx 22

Kathy Bizarro-Thunberg 43

Nicole Bluefort 58

Tommy Bolduc

Bryan Bouchard

Kat Bourque

Shane Brady

Cam Brensinger

Suzanne Bressette

Mari Brunner 40

Nagaraj Bukkapatnam 22

Paula Marie Buley 22

Kate Burns 27

Peter Carvell

Elizabeth Chilton

Joe Clifford

Patrick Closson

Jennifer Cordaro

Tracey Goyette Cote

Duane Coute 13

Tabitha Croscut 59

Michelle Cruz 51

Conor Cullinane 66

Geoff Cunningham 76

Colleen Farley

Rob Dapice

Tim Dargan

Jonathan DaSilva

Nicole Davis

Michael Delaney

Kevin Desrosiers 43

Jennifer Desrosiers 51

Crystal Dionne 29

Bill Doyle 66

Kristina Drociak 72

Sylvio Dupuis 43

Erin Lambert

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Brian Law 17

Alisa Lawrence 53

Peter Lehnen 74

Eric Lesniak 40

Joe Linnehan 53

Eileen Liponis 17

Bob Lord 17

John Louiselle 32

Lionel Loveless

Jennifer Macdonald

Camile Madden 34

Kathleen Mahan 60

Jessica Martin 82

Jenna Matheny 24

Jesse McGowan 68

Colin McHugh 45

Jeanie McIntyre 82

Michael McKeown 11

Tiffany Tononi McNamara

Jeff McPherson

Tom Mee

Kristin Mendoza

Lucas Merrow

Alison Milioto

Josephine Moran . . . . . .

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Donna Morris 18

Chris Mosby 74

N, O

Jodie Nazaka 41

Kirsten Neves 53

Randall Nielsen

John Nyhan

Stephanie O’Quinn

Michael O’Reilly

Zachery Palmer 83

Mark Paluzzi 35

Rob Parsons 11

Brad Pernaw 54

Michael Perrella 36

Staci Pinard 54

Lori Piper

Melanie Plenda

Anthony Poore

Ryan Pope

Helen Principio

Proulx 46

Celebrating hard work and dedication in New Hampshire

At Anthem, we are deeply committed to improving the health of humanity through simpliﬁed, personalized member experiences. Congratulations to Maria Proulx and all 2025 NH 200 honorees for the positive impacts they are making across our Granite State communities.