Profiles: Local Professionals

14 — VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021

AMY MUNDY

AGE: 45 EDUCATION: Associate Degree - Victoria College; Bachelor of Arts Degree - University of Houston-Victoria CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Executive Director, College Advancement and Victoria College Foundation COMPANY: Victoria College

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I have a passion for people, a thirst for learning, and a drive to have an impact in my community. Being an alumna of Victoria College and knowing that their mission aligns with my passion made it an easy fit for me. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Helping others be successful. In my profession, my team and I have the opportunity every day to assist Victoria College in supporting our students in their educational and career goals. There is no greater drive to succeed than to help others.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THESE

CHALLENGES? Time management has always been a challenge for me. There are so many ways to have an impact and take things to the next level. Building a solid team is key to overcoming that challenge. As one person, you have limited time, but working as a team, so much more can be accomplished.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COMING

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? A mentor of mine (everyone should have mentors) once told me “life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” My advice is to live your life purposefully outside of your comfort zone. If you are asked to take on a new role or project, say yes. What you do not know, you have an opportunity to. It is those “yes” moments that broaden your knowledge, help you grow, and take you to the next level of your potential.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO YOUR

COMMUNITY? I have the unique opportunity to serve our area through my profession. On a daily basis, I am fortunate to see the impact education has on our students, their families, and in our communities. Because this is my lifelong community, I see the opportunities to be involved with local nonprofits. Working with others to help enhance our community through education, economic development, arts and culture continues to be a priority. My family has enjoyed hosting Victoria Generals’ players, Victoria Symphony and medical students in our home. We love meeting new people and introducing them to all Victoria has to offer.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT AND

WHY? Being involved with Habitat for Humanity, I see how helping families in our region with home ownership has a generational impact, not only on the new homeowners, but also in our community. I serve on the Victoria Fine Arts Association board. It is important for our community to have the opportunity to experience all forms of art. Working with board members to brainstorm ideas and promote creativity is so rewarding. I have also served on the boards of Victoria Main Street, Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Museum of the Coastal Bend, Junior League of Victoria, and Friends of Devereux.

B.J. NELSON

AGE: 55 EDUCATION: B.S. in education from Baylor University CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: V.P. sales/marketing, owner COMPANY: White Trash Services

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

Scott, my husband, and I had always wanted to have our own business, and this opportunity presented itself to us. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? There’s not another option. If we are to succeed and support our family and our community, we can’t ever give up. Failure is not an option!

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? There are not enough hours in the day to get it all done. We have been blessed that when I was at my wit’s end, Scott had motivation to push to the next level, and vice versa. We have prayed when times were dicey and sought counsel to provide answers to questions, we didn’t know the answers to.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? STRAP YOURSELF IN AND HANG ON — you never know what each day is going to bring. Praise your team and always expect the best! When you can’t do anymore, do one more thing! Get involved in your community and figure out what makes you different!

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I am active on multiple boards in our community, such as the Victoria Livestock Show Committee, Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Keep Victoria Beautiful, Riverwood Homeowners Association, and active in the Victoria Republican Club. Scott and I support the Sheriff’s Alliance and many volunteer fire departments throughout our seven-county area we serve.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? We feel our youth are our future and therefore support our local high schools, both public and private and many of the organizations within those schools. We want our young people to learn skills as they are growing and maturing that enable them to give back and contribute to the community they chose to live in as an adult. We also support many volunteer fire departments with donations to their fundraiser and helping them raise money. We also are involved in the Republican party of Texas and support them. We also support Hillsdale College and South Texas Children’s home. We attend Sportsman’s Church and support their mission to reach people for Christ.

BROOKE GARCIA

AGE: 46 EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts in English and executive MBA CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Nonprofit; executive director COMPANY: United Way of the Crossroads

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

When I graduated with my bachelor’s, I knew I wanted to give back to the community, so I joined AmeriCorps. That experience and a program at my alma mater designed to get teens interested in nonprofits, led me to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I am motivated to inspire and help others so that they succeed. My legacy will be reflected in the positive impact they will make in the world because I chose to make an impact in their lives.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? Nonprofit leaders face new challenges nearly every day! Whether it be fundraising concerns, new government regulations, staff and volunteer challenges, or even technology concerns, I tend to view each challenge as a learning experience. I know we will find a solution and come out better, much as we have done with the global pandemic. We have capitalized on the use of technology to reach a wider audience and stepped up into places others didn’t know we could.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? Listen to the experiences of others. While no one else has walked the exact path you will take, some have walked a portion. Put those together and learn from their failures and successes.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? Beyond leading the efforts of the United Way of the Crossroads, I am an adjunct instructor with two universities. I am happy that I am in a position where I can share the knowledge I’ve gained from more than 20 years in the sector with our future leaders.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? Through work or personally, I support the United Way. I am also the incoming treasurer for the Victoria Rotary Club.

BRUCE W. ROGERS

AGE: 70 EDUCATION: B.S. in pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Registered pharmacist, owner COMPANY: Rogers Pharmacies and Rogers Home Medical

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

When I entered college, I knew I wanted to go into a science degree program. Pharmacy gave me the opportunity to combine that interest in science with my family background of a service-oriented business. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Providing the best possible experience for my customers. When I opened my first store, my business philosophy was fair prices, friendly service, and a pharmacist you know. Forty-two years later, those three things still drive my business decisions today.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES THAT YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU OVER-

COME THESE CHALLENGES? Since 1979, there has been a dramatic change in the business model for pharmacy. Competition increased through pharmacies in big box stores and mail order prescription services. Technology changed the way prescriptions were filled and tracked. Insurance coverage for prescriptions has changed the payment model from a cash basis to a negotiated reimbursement basis. To overcome these changes, I committed to increasing convenience for my customers. I expanded to five pharmacy locations in Victoria and one in Edna, added drive-through windows where possible and free delivery service. Rogers Home Medical was opened to provide medical equipment and supplies for my customers, keeping the same commitment to excellent service. In 2002, I was a founding member of American Pharmacies, a professional services corporation created to assist independent pharmacies navigate these changing conditions. With 600 members in 27 states, this organization strives to protect and promote the growth of independent pharmacy through advocacy, economics and professional development. I continue to serve as a member of the board of directors.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COMING

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? Find something that you are passionate about and work hard every day to fulfill that passion.

IN WHAT WAY TO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO YOUR

COMMUNITY? Ordained deacon and elder in the Presbyterian Church, coached Little League, worked with VISD School Board members and administration to improve our local education system, mentored middle school students, preceptor for current pharmacy students and former member of Rotary International.

WHAT CHARITIES OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT AND

WHY? VISD Education Foundation, Victoria Symphony, The Vine School, Victoria College, Victoria Bach Festival, Victoria Economic Development Corporation, Victoria Ballet Theatre, Mid Coast Family Services, Coastal Conservation Association and Ducks Unlimited. Just as I do in my own business, I support organizations that help create the best possible experience for the citizens of Victoria.

CHAD AUSTIN HALL

AGE: 46 EDUCATION: MBA in strategic management from University of Houston-Victoria; BME from Morehead State University CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

General manager COMPANY: Regional Steel Products, Inc.

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUS-

TRY? I was hired to be the director of human resource before being promoted to operations manager, assistant general manager, and ultimately general manager of the company. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I want to make the people who believe in me and support me proud. I feel a deep connection and obligation to my teachers all the way from kindergarten through my MBA to live up to the effort they put into making me a successful person. Education transforms lives. I am grateful to my teachers, mentors, friends and community members who have supported and believed in me. I feel the best way to honor them is to become the very best version of myself I can become … every day.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? The biggest challenges are always with change. Motivating and inspiring people to accomplish great things as a team is one of the most difficult yet rewarding things you can do in your career. Getting buy-in by insisting that people are allowed to participate in the decision-making process has been key to our success and the foundation of our team-based culture.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? Ask questions and listen. Listen with purpose. Over-credit people in the good times and don’t lose faith during your hard times.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I serve on the Board of Directors for the Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity. I am also the founding president of the Board of Directors for the Crossroads Community Band. I am an avid IRONMAN triathlete and have used my races to raise over $37,000 in honor of our families and friends who are suffering through cancer and illness. Beneficiaries have included MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, AIM at Melanoma Foundation, the American Heart Association, and many more. VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021 — 15

J. COLBY WINZER

AGE: 41 EDUCATION: B.A. Sam Houston State University, political science; M.A. The University of Mississippi, political science CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: V.P. Real Estate Investment Consultant COMPANY: Wells Fargo Bank N.A. Wealth Management

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I have worked in this industry for seven years with Wells Fargo and had my own consulting firm Sam Houston Land Company, working in the OGM and real estate sectors for several years before joining the bank. Since my first professional job at 16 working for the NRCS I have spent my entire professional career working on land issues. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I work for the betterment of my family, my community, guided by my Catholic faith. My goal is to utilize the natural gifts given to me in the time I have on this earth to that end.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU OVER-

COME THESE CHALLENGES? I found myself in Victoria consulting on early Eagle Ford development issues and as that oil field matured my job was taking me to other areas of the country in other shale basins. I met my now wife Clarice Stanford Winzer when I moved to Victoria and wanted to find a job that would allow me to stay closer to home and start our family. Finding a rewarding job that allows me to utilize my skills and provide for our family was the biggest challenge in my professional career. Through a mutual friend my predecessor recommended me for a position in the Trust Department that has grown into the role I have today.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COMING

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? The most important thing you can do to develop professionally is to strengthen your network. A great way to strengthen your network is to find opportunities to volunteer and meet other likeminded professionals.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I am most passionate about education and access to higher education. As a first generation college graduate I have seen what higher education and hard work can do to improve one’s opportunities. I have worked with VBEC as a mentor at West High School, specifically working with their AVID program students. I have worked as a mentor at Cade Middle School teaching financial literacy and I am a member of Knights of Columbus.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I support the Vine School because they are servicing a community need that is not adequately addressed in our public education system and because of the passionate dedicated professionals and parents who make that organization work. I have volunteered and financially supported many civic and Catholic organizations throughout my years here in Victoria and do my best to attend or contribute to the many fundraisers throughout the year.

16 — VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021

DAN WILLIAMSCAPONE

AGE: 53 EDUCATION: B.A. from Grinnell College; M.A., coursework, from Southern Methodist University CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Executive director COMPANY: Meals on Wheels Victoria

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I first became involved in nonprofits volunteering during high school. I got involved in the senior-nutrition space delivering meals as a service project with my kids through St. Francis Episcopal Church when my two sons were gradeschool and junior-high age. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? The chance to make a difference in people’s lives and help people and organizations successfully manage change, innovate and grow.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU OVERCOME

THESE CHALLENGES? The biggest challenges I’ve faced have been jumping back into the job market after 14 years as a stay-at-home parent and dealing with change and the unexpected, such as Hurricane Harvey and the COVID pandemic. An adaptable and flexible design-thinking approach has been key in allowing me to draw on the transferable skills I’ve gathered in the many contexts I’ve worked: museums, libraries, churches, state government, social services and tech.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COMING

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? Don’t believe the path you start out on is the path you have to stay on. Don’t feel locked in by your past choices. Things rarely move in a straight line, and that’s OK. It is all right to move in new directions, to close doors and switch paths as your interests change and grow.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? My wife, Dayna Williams-Capone, director of the Victoria Public Library, and I both have jobs that give us the opportunity to directly serve the local community. I have also been active in the Episcopal community in Victoria, serving as senior warden at St. Francis Episcopal church and as an Education for Ministry mentor. Hurricane Harvey catapulted me into involvement in the statewide Meals on Wheels network, and I have served on the board of Meals on Wheels Texas since 2019 and just been elected to a two-year term as president of Meals on Wheels Texas beginning in June of this year.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? Meals on Wheels — since before I started working here — as I believe it represents a great model for public/private partnership taking care of vulnerable individuals. United Way — as it provides an avenue for area nonprofits to work together outside of our individual silos and get dollars to where they can do the most good. The library — libraries serve the information, educational, and social recreation needs of the whole community, from providing internet access to those that have none to the latest books and other materials.

DIANE KLIEM

AGE: 57 EDUCATION: Stroman High School, graduated cum laude; Victoria College – Associate of Arts; University of Houston Victoria- Bachelor of Science business administration; and South Texas College of Law- Doctor of Jurisprudence CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Attorney, president of Kliem & Associates, vicepresident of Kliem Construction LLC COMPANY: Kliem & Associates, Attorneys at Law

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY? I had a career as a comptroller and human resource manager for 13 years after receiving my degree in accounting. As that company changed, I felt I needed to make a career change. I always felt like I should have been an entrepreneur, and law school seemed like a good fit. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? 1. Someone telling me I can’t do something. 2. Continual evolution of self. 3. Love and support from family and friends.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? Starting law school over the age of 40. My challenge was having peers who were much younger and me having no frame of reference for becoming a lawyer because I was a first-generation college graduate. My ability to network with others and having confidence to ask for resources assisted me greatly. I jumped out with no clients in starting my law firm, so marketing and networking played key roles in that success. Family support assisted in raising enough money to start my firm when no bank would lend to me. Hiring good people also helped.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COMING

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? 1. Always go above and beyond what anyone expects. You will stand out in doing so and be successful. 2. If you want something passionately, you can succeed if you are willing to work hard and understand sacrifice and priority. 3. Read all the leadership books and materials you can. Showing leadership will get you noticed. 4. Be sure you balance your health and your family commitments.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I have belonged or currently belong to several organizations. I offer my time and services to various groups and organizations to speak to educate the interested community on such topics as estate planning, business planning, public speaking and leadership. I attend many community events for networking and fun and usually buy sponsorships, tickets, auction items on a regular basis. I encourage and pay for my employees to join local nonprofit groups.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? UHV — I am an alumnus. Chamber of Commerce — A successful chamber is important to a city’s growth and business environment. Hope Child Advocacy Center — Abuse is the root of many problems. American Business Women’s Association — Through networking, education and national recognition, ABWA assists women in being successful.

ERIN HATLEY

AGE: 41 EDUCATION: B.S. in human development and family sciences from University of Texas at Austin CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Executive director COMPANY: The Vine School

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I found my passion working with children with special needs and their families while attending the University of Texas and working in their Early Childhood Center. After graduating, I continued to work with the special needs population as a teacher in private schools in both Houston and Austin that served students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I am driven to succeed by witnessing the amazing progress that my students and families make on a daily basis. I really enjoy working as a team to meet the academic, social, behavioral and language challenges our students face. It is hard work but meaningful work. Being a part of a student’s ability to reach their greatest potential is truly a blessing.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU OVERCOME

THESE CHALLENGES? I have always felt very confident in the classroom. My background is in education, not business, fundraising or development. I have had to learn the business side of running a nonprofit and a school, and it has not always been easy. With the support of a wonderful board of directors and other professionals in the community, I have grown and continue to improve in this area.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COMING

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? I would encourage young professionals to lean on others for advice and perspective. I have a tendency to get caught in the day to day of operating a school and a nonprofit, that I sometimes lose the connection with other organizations that may be struggling with the same challenges as ours. It is so refreshing and encouraging to learn from others and help others in the process.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? As a part of The Vine School’s mission, I provide a place of support and resources for the special needs community. Even if a student does not attend The Vine School, I still want to be able to work with parents to find resources that will benefit their child and their family. Whether that means helping to advocate for the child or assisting in finding therapeutic resources, we want to help any family we can.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT AND

WHY? Assisting vulnerable children and families is my passion. For that reason, I tend to support nonprofits that focus on children and families in their mission. I believe there are many organizations in our community that are doing great things. I believe the impact and outreach that nonprofits like the Children’s Discovery Museum, Junior League of Victoria and CASA are making in this community are essential to the Golden Crescent area.

18 — VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021

JON LAMSON

AGE: 44 EDUCATION: Med in educational leadership and general education, Sul Ross State University-Alpine; B.A. in Spanish, Texas A&M University-College Station CITY OF RESIDENCE: Hallettsville OCCUPATION/TITLE: Roofing and construction/owner COMPANY: American Shield Roofing and Construction LLC

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I began working in construction at an early age. After an 18-year career in education, I refocused my passion towards roofing and jump-started a new career. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Helping people make their lives better and seeing the excitement on a homeowner’s face when they see the final product of our company’s work are what drives us.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? The biggest challenge that we have had to overcome has been learning how to manage and grow our company throughout the pandemic. Material shortages have caused prices to increase drastically since we started, and we have had to find new ways to work in a highly competitive market.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? Find something that you are passionate about and find a way to become your own boss. There’s a lot of risk involved in working for yourself but the rewards that come when you commit to an idea and put forth true, honest effort are immeasurable. Don’t give up on what makes you happy.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? We pride ourselves in making sure that each customer has an easy, painless experience in their project. We are in the business of helping people increase the value of their home and make their lives better. That’s the backbone of our company, and we instill that in all of our salespeople.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? We support public and private education and other programs involving children by sponsoring awards ceremonies, participating in local fundraisers, supporting local school booster clubs, and sponsoring local Little League teams every year.

KEN COLWELL

AGE: 56 EDUCATION: B.S. in biology, MBA in management, Ph.D. in strategic management and entrepreneurship. CITY OF RESIDENCE: Austin

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Dean of the School of Business Administration COMPANY: University of Houston-Victoria

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

After working in the financial services industry for a decade, I began working on my MBA and realized that I would enjoy the academic life, so I went on to the University of Oregon and got my Ph.D. and became a professor. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I’m inspired by our students, who have to work so hard juggling financial and family obligations in order to get their degrees and realize their dreams. I strongly believe in the mission of UHV to give such students the opportunity to receive a quality education.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? The pandemic was probably the most challenging time for higher education of my generation. In the beginning, we were very much in crisis management mode as new information became available daily. As we moved on, we developed a plan of gradual reopening of the university, first online only, then adding more and more in-person courses as safety permitted. I’m very proud of the fact that we came through what seems to be the worst of it and are moving forward to the fall.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? Find out what your passion is and go for it! Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t succeed at anything you want. Just dream big and work hard.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? As an employee of the State of Texas and the University of Houston System, my job is to see that our students receive a quality education and graduate with the ability to get a good job and be productive, contributing members of society.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I am a big supporter of the United Way of the Crossroads and the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent. I may be biased because both of their directors teach in my program, but I’ve also seen firsthand the direct positive impact they have on our community.

MICHELE ROHDE

AGE: 40 EDUCATION: BBA from UHV, licensed financial advisor, AAMS, insurance agent and transformational coach CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Self-employed financial advisor COMPANY: Rohde Financial Group of Ameriprise Financial LLC

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I’ve always been interested in saving money and entrepreneurship as long as I can remember, so my eyes were always open to industries that would allow for those things to the greatest degree. It started in the Girl Scouts, then working for an insurance office, becoming licensed to sell insurance and then learning about becoming a financial advisor where I could run my own branch. After I served many years there, my husband and I decided we wanted to go into the business together, so we opened the only Ameriprise franchise in Victoria in 2013. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I think it has always boiled down to an inner desire to serve others in a meaningful way. Making my family, myself and God proud is another driver, along with creating a legacy for our daughter’s future.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU OVER-

COME THESE CHALLENGES? I feel every single challenge I’ve faced, from minor to devastating, has been important in shaping me into a better person. I think that is how you overcome challenges — you look for the lesson in them. I had to navigate being a very young female in a middle-aged male dominated financial advisor industry, guide clients through the second worst financial crisis since the Great Depression, overcome negative minded people, endure almost losing our daughter to a grand mal seizure at her 1st birthday, becoming caregivers, and countless other hardships and traumas.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP AND COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? It’s important to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Become brave in the face of your fears by taking daily action toward your goals. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Success is not built alone. Never stop learning, growing and paying it all forward. It all eventually pays dividends.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I enjoy speaking to various groups about goal setting, wellness, investing and other topics. Every year, we support a local nonprofit’s needs from gathering presents for the Devereux Foundation’s children to baby supplies for the Bethlehem Home. We also get involved in the food bank and charity runs.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I serve on the Gabriel Project board; and am a past president, founding member and current member of VPEN, a local chapter of the American Business Women’s Assoc. Our youngest daughter Kelsey, who has many special needs, started at the Vine School last year, so supporting them is especially near to our family’s heart.

20 — VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021

PAUL C. TEINERT

AGE: 61 EDUCATION: Graduated from Victoria High School, attended Victoria College and then graduated from the University of Texas with a BBA in accounting. CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Certified public accountant COMPANY:Paul C. Teinert, C.P.A., P.L.L.C. specializing in tax

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I went to work at Roloff, Hnatek & Co., an accounting firm in Victoria right out of college. I had two great mentors, Roy Henke and John McQuillen, who taught me a great deal. It was very interesting to see financial deals and situations that shaped Victoria’s future. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? My parents were the early drivers of me wanting to succeed. It was then my mentors, and now it’s my clients and great employees. The most important impact is my wife Susan, who helps me constantly, and both of our immediate family.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? One of the greatest challenges I had to overcome was to pay my way through college. That was not fun, but I had a good job, with a great boss working in construction here in Victoria. He allowed me to work whenever I came back to town, which was a lifesaver.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FU-

TURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? The greatest advice I can give to any young person is as long as you use common sense, utilize a great work ethic, be able to interact with people and be smart enough to know that you don’t know something, you will do great.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I like to think that I support the community by giving all of my clients great service and advice, which allows them to be a benefit to the community. Most importantly, I am active in my church, which provides a great nucleus for our community. We are currently working on starting an early childhood development center for preschool children, which will impact the children and their parents, and thus the community.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? The charity I care about the most is my church — Grace Lutheran Church. When I was right out of college, my dad was severely burned in an accident at Alcoa and was air-lifted to the Galveston burn unit. My mom had to leave her job to stay with my dad for over two months in the hospital. Every Sunday, somebody from Grace Lutheran Church would drive to Galveston and give my mom enough money to eat and stay in a hotel for the next week. They took up a collection every week. It was an awesome blessing. I have never forgotten our members’ generosity. When I assist my church, I know exactly what I am supporting and what it is used for.

SANDRA TAGUE OSMAN

AGE: Over 40 EDUCATION: Some college CITY OF RESIDENCE: Cuero

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Executive director for Cuero Main Street COMPANY: Cuero

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I moved to Cuero from Austin in 2013 to take a job as administrative coordinator in the city’s planning department. I was Cuero Main Street Advisory Board member and provided assistance to the program, when the director position became available in 2017. I applied independently and was accepted. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I have always been goal oriented and believe failure is not an option. As a twin, what I did not receive in the form of athletic competition and ability, I received in abundance when it comes to succeeding in business projects. I believe strongly in team effort and overall success to benefit the needs of the many.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? The biggest challenge for me was coming to live in a small town with no personal history to offer. In order to overcome, I remained consistent in being open to new ideas and conversation and firm in funneling that information in a direction meant to create success for the goals of the Main Street Program.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? My advice is to listen more than talk, never be afraid to offer an idea that you can back up with innovation and effort, and be respectful of the experience of those that come before you. Always be thoughtful of the larger picture in whatever job is tasked to you. Work well with others and learn the exercise of “bottom of the funnel thinking.” Loosely put, picture the large mouth of a funnel where liquid swirls uncontrolled and how focused the stream is when it makes its way to the narrow exit, or end result.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? My position as the Cuero Main Street manager provides me great opportunity to collaborate with the directors of our chamber of commerce, the Cuero Development Corporation, Keep Cuero Beautiful and the city of Cuero. We strategize on business growth through preservation of our historic buildings, tourism promotion through many annual and often newly created events, discussions on bringing in new businesses through marketing and supporting community needs with broadband outreach. At all downtown Main Street events, we encourage community organizations to participate and are happy to promote their goals as a team, #CueroStrong.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? 1) St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital 2) Pet Adoptions of Cuero 3) The Rotary Club of Cuero

SUSAN FOSTER-TEINERT

AGE: 53 EDUCATION: Graduated from Stroman High School; attended Victoria College for business CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Co-Owner COMPANY: Crossroads Movers and Foster Creek Station

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

In 1994 my dad passed away. I was 27 years old, and working for a convenience store chain in their corporate office at the time. Crossroads Movers came up for sale, and my mother and I decided to buy the company. Then in 1999, we decided to do something fun and opened a ladies boutique and named it Foster Creek Station. I always loved clothes and jewelry so this was right up my alley. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Owning two businesses and being a woman makes me try very hard to succeed. Usually a moving company is owned by men, but women own Crossroads Movers. Owning a boutique I thought would be easy but you have to please a lot of people. I give it 100% everyday.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? AND HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? The moving company would be my biggest challenge. I depend on my men to do the heavy lifting and to please the customer. Moving to a new home or retirement center is hard on all family members. When we first purchased the moving company I had to go to every house to give the customer an estimation on the cost of moving. The first three months were really hard. Some of my customers had recently lost their baby to SIDS and I didn’t know what to say to them. Then my dad‘s passing came to mind. I shared how my Dad had seen children playing in his dreams the night he passed and my mother just thought he was dreaming of his granddaughter Shelby. A month after his passing my mother and I were at the cemetery and we both stopped and looked at each other in complete shock. My dad‘s grave was one row from the children’s cemetery. That’s why he kept seeing children playing in his dreams. So as I told this story, my customers decided not to move because my daddy was looking after their babies. At this point, I knew this was the business I was supposed to be in.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? As our world is changing, chose a profession that can lead you into different directions. You always need a second choice. Learn everything possible, don’t be embarrassed to ask questions.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? My charity work is through my church. I help with fundraisers and giving to the youth group. I love to see the children’s eyes light up when they learn about God. When I got married in 2007, I had our guests bring toys instead of wedding gifts. We donated to Toys for Tots, which is a very special organization to me.

22 — VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021

THOMAS EDWARD RENDON AKA “TOMAS”

AGE: 53 EDUCATION: University of Houston Victoria - but no actual degree CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Chief operations officer, managing partner COMPANY: Sweetwater Energy Services

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

My brother Richard Laughhunn approached me when he initially was starting the solar energy business in Sugar Land in 2014. I wasn’t familiar with it, so I didn’t even consider it. As time progressed, I could hear God speaking to me about making this move, and I originally disregarded His voice, but that didn’t last very long. In the end, God moved on my heart and mind, and I had to follow His guidance. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I’ve always been very competitive, and I’ve always done quite well in every field I’ve worked in. Self-motivated, self-disciplined, and ambition are driving factors, and I always strive to do my very best at taking care of people and helping them to succeed at whatever they’re trying to get accomplished. If you help enough people get what they want, you will always have what you need.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU OVER-

COME THESE CHALLENGES? In the solar industry, the biggest challenge has been educating the public of the benefits of solar power for a business owner or homeowner. I intentionally use the term investment because that is genuinely what solar is. This is the one thing that you can buy that offers guaranteed returns and guaranteed results.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? Along my journey, I’ve found that the 3-P’s are critical to my success: 1. Prayer - Daily and routine prayer will help avail much of your day-to-day obstacles and challenges. 2. People - You need to find “your people” and surround yourself with them. 3. Purpose - Once you’ve identified what your purpose is, then you have something to focus and fixate on so that you are driven to succeed.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? Cigars for Warriors, Veterans Cigar Night, and Red, White, and Bulls with several people. We share similar passions for taking care of our veterans. My heart and passion is for the veterans because I am one. I’ve also sponsored and supported a monthly event at numerous locations all over town that honors and supports the local veteran community including a weekly cigar fellowship.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? Restoration House Ministries, House of Palms, Men United, and Jeans for Teens, all are faithbased charities that support our local community. They focus on men and women who struggle with a variety of issues and offer them help on the physical, emotional and spiritual level.

WENDY MCHANEY

AGE: 52 EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts and Sciences from Baylor University, Juris Doctor from Baylor University School of Law CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Owner, Director of Operations COMPANY: Senior Helpers

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

Having experienced the struggles of caring for aging parents who are not nearby, I was drawn to the concept of this industry and how it can benefit the elderly in our community and their families. Also, I know how important it is for many senior citizens to be able to age in place successfully and happily in their own homes, and I wanted to provide a reliable and quality service to do just that. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Wanting to be the best at what I set out to do, whether it’s as a board of director for a nonprofit or in my role as the owner and operator of a business. Feeling confident that my company can provide the highest quality in home care in our community.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED DURING YOUR CAREER? HOW DID YOU

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? Navigating COVID-19 pandemic was probably my biggest challenge in my 12-year, home-care career. We kept an open line of communication between our staff, clients and caregivers to make sure everyone knew the protocols. We provided and required mask wearing and temperature taking before it became the norm, and I feel this greatly reduced the spread of COVID-19 for our clients and employees. We also partnered with the fire department to administer vaccines to our clients in their homes.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO UP-AND-COM-

ING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? Make sure you always take time for yourself and your family every single day. God, family, yourself, your business, in that order.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I have served on and been president of the Cultural Council of Victoria, the Victoria Ballet Theatre, and Trinity Episcopal School. I’ve been the president of the Victoria County Bar Association and a board member for the South Texas Youth Home, the Children’s Discovery Museum, and Methodist Day School. I was an active member of the Junior League of Victoria and am now a sustaining member.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? For five years our company hosted the Purple Out the Park fundraiser with the Victoria Generals to raise money for the local Walk to End Alzheimer’s. This charity is very important to me personally and professionally since my father-in-law, after being ill for several years, passed away from the disease.. We also care for many clients with the disease. Senior Helpers also gives a scholarship each year to a St. Joseph High School graduate whose life has been affected by Alzheimer’s.

BEST WISHES

TO ALL OF OUR FEATURED LOCAL PROFESSIONALS

FROM THE