Profiles: Young Professionals

BIANCA SMILEY

AGE: 26 EDUCATION: Associate degree of science of dental hygiene, Wharton County Junior College CITY OF RESIDENCE: Inez OCCUPATION/TITLE: Owner COMPANY: HarCo at Home, 505 E. Juan Linn St., Victoria, Texas, 77901

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

After being furloughed during the pandemic, I had to think outside the box for a way to continue to bring in income. The idea to create a work-from-home job led to the creation of HarCo’s online boutique and quickly evolved into our brickand-mortar shop located downtown. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? My children, Harlyn and Colston - the inspiration for HarCo at Home, along with my husband Jake, drive me to succeed. I want my children to be proud of my contribution to this world, know the value of hard work, and the importance of the family.

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

COME THESE CHALLENGES? Starting a new business from the ground up has been the biggest challenge I have faced so far. I am fortunate to have had such an amazing support system, from family, to friends, to other small business owners that have helped me grow from day one. They enable me to turn my most stressful days into successful ones. Waking up each day and knowing that exciting things are happening allows me to face each day head on.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FUTURE

STATE OF YOUR CAREER? It is amazing how quickly HarCo at Home was accepted by our community. As a small business owner, the outpouring of support I have received has made my toughest days productive. “Support Small Businesses”, or “Shop Local” isn’t just a slogan in Victoria, it is a way of keeping Victoria prosperous. HarCo’s current success is because I believe that we provide products and services that our customers are looking for locally. Bringing new and exciting products into our boutique will keep customers returning and help HarCo at Home remain a part of our local business community for years to come.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? One of HarCo’s missions is to help other individuals, brands, or small business owners by providing them a place to offer their product to the community. Being a part of local fundraisers and events that might bring awareness to various causes is important to me as well. It is my hope that HarCo at Home will host and/or participate in various events throughout the year that can really help make a difference in and around our community.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? There are several charity and non-profit organizations in the Victoria area alone that need our support. I am doing my research on which ones best align with my values and HarCo at Home’s vision. My ultimate goal would be to be able to support and work with several local ones that I can be frequently involved with.

BRIAN BILLINGSLEY

AGE: 33 EDUCATION: Abilene Christian University CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Vice president COMPANY: Office Systems

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I starting working a summer internship in college. A friend of mine had told me about the internship, and I applied thinking it would be a good way to make a few bucks for the summer. After two months, I was offered a full-time position at the company. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? At this point in my career, my wife and my two kids are my biggest driving factor. I strive to be able to take care of them and give them everything I can. I’ve been blessed with great opportunities in life and for that I’m very grateful.

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

COME THESE CHALLENGES? Starting out prospecting and cold calling on the streets of San Antonio was definitely a challenge. I worked in an extremely competitive market and had to build a customer base starting from scratch. After many years working in B2B sales, I transitioned into management and found that the only thing harder than acquiring and retaining clients was hiring and cultivating good employees. I found the solution to both of these problems is building vast person and business networks and promoting positive work culture and brand reputation.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FUTURE

STATE OF YOUR CAREER? Right now I’m excited to see the changes that are happening in the greater Victoria business community. There is a noticeable shift in the climate, away from how its always been done and looking toward innovation and collaboration. I’m eager to be a part of the next generation of change leaders in the Crossroads. There are big changes in technology, and I believe Office Systems is poised in a perfect position to help Victoria adapt.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I serve on the commission for the Parks & Recreation department, the Chamber of Commerce, the UHV School of Business Dean’s Board, Victoria Rotary Club, and I helped to found the Victoria Texas Young Professionals. All of these great organizations help to support the growth and development of a better, more-involved community.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? Office Systems gives back 10% of its profits to charities and nonprofits. Some of these include, YMCA, Boys and Girls Club of Victoria and the Vine School. In addition, Office Systems partners with local schools to also adopt over a dozen families each Christmas and provide them with a three-month supply of groceries as well as presents for all the children. VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021 — 5

BRIAN H.

FERGUSON

AGE: 35 EDUCATION: High School CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

President COMPANY: Kimberlite Homes, Platinum Homes, South Texas Rentals, SRU Homestore

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

Started out by buying and selling properties for investments purposes and then over the years expanded into rental properties, home building, and land development. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Family. I love what I do and work every day to make sure my family has everything they need. That doesn’t just mean my family at home, my family at work as well. We have many team member and their families that rely on us to succeed and I never want to let any of them down.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? The biggest two have been learning an industry that I was never trained in and adjusting to the market. This has been a very expensive lesson at times. I’m a believer in mistakes, they happen and they are OK as long as you learn to from them.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND

FUTURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? Growth. When the company grows so does everyone in it. It allows promotions, new positions for new staff and so much more. We strive every day to focus on our goals for that year. By doing that it allows us to track progress and hit those goals which create growth for everyone involved.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK

TO YOUR COMMUNITY? We try to help anywhere we can. Whether it be our annual paint the house where we remodel a home for a veteran or a Christmas shopping spree like we did this past year. I love this town and want to leave it better than we found it.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I serve on the Crossroads Builders Association currently as past president and have served on this board for many years. It is a nonprofit related to our industry and I feel it’s very important for the home building industry. Now that my time there is coming to an end for now I am looking forward to finding new boards and organizations to spend my time on to help in the community.

6 — VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021

CLARENCE A.

SMALLS JR.

AGE: 32 EDUCATION: Victoria College 2009-2011

CITY OF RESIDENCE:

Victoria, Texas OCCUPATION/TITLE: Founder/ President/Owner COMPANY: 1. Men’s 361 Basketball Association. 2. Smalls & Large Services

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

The day I decided to let go and let God use me as a vessel for a bigger purpose than myself. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Knowing my family and other families across the world are depending heavily on me to guide, mentor, teach character development and life skills to evolve our generation now and forever.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? The biggest challenges I had to face was when I went through a divorce, went homeless (sleeping in my car), loss my apartment at the same time while still having to raise and provide for my son Kingston and having to start and run a business. I overcame it all by knowing God had a plan for myself, my family, and world and taking massive action on what the Holy Spirit guided me to do.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND

FUTURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? The impact and influence the M3BA is having on all races and all ages worldwide and for the next generation that haven’t been born yet. IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY? Volunteering coaching at the YMCA (5 years), speaking at church, mentoring our youth and adults on a daily, allowing our youth partners (Z’s Snack Shop) to raise funds at our M3BA events for their New York and Washington field trip coming up soon.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? 1. The Men’s 361 Basketball Association (501 C3 Status) because this organization offers opportunities to everyone from around the world a platform to showcase their abilities in sports and musical talent and possibly receive tuition assistance from the M3BA. 2. St. Joseph High School (Flyer Fund) Every event the M3BA host, contributions are made to the Flyer Fund which pays for student education, camp ministry, extra curricular activities, faculty, and technology.

CRYSTAL LINDSEY, MBA

AGE: 38

EDUCATION: Notre Dame de Namur University, Belmont, CA; Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Sociology, 2005 - summa cum laude; Graduate Certificate in Human Resources, 2006; Masters of Public Administration, 2007; Master of Business Administration, 2011; National Institute of Social Media, Certificate, 2013 CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Digital Marketing Consultant COMPANY: M. Roberts Digital

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

After a decade of working in higher education, I started working as an account executive for a luxury print publication. After getting certified through the National Institute of Social Media, I started my own social media firm for five years. Now, I am proud to grow a dynamic team of marketing professionals. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I am passionate about helping people and businesses. I know what it is like to have everything on your shoulders as a business owner. I am motivated to help local businesses double and triple their revenue by making their life both easier and more effective.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? I faced my biggest struggles as an emancipated foster youth who was first in my family to graduate college. However, following a near death experience as an entrepreneur, I lost 1/3 of my clients. I had to fight for my life (and my business!) like I was training for the Olympics. I found success and happiness each day because I took the time to exercise, meditate, set goals and journal

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FU-

TURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? COVID-19 has forced people to look for solutions online, so digital marketing is in demand. I am passionate about helping people understand these ever changing marketing options and step into who they are meant to be in business and beyond. As the author of “Grit & Gratitude: The Former Foster Youth’s Playbook for Success,” I love that marketing is a great way to help business owners and marketers understand how small daily actions will allow them to live an incredible life.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK

TO YOUR COMMUNITY? I co-founded the BRIDGE to Brilliance personal growth seminar series with UHV for students and entrepreneurs. I continue to spearhead planning, interviews and on-camera talent. We launched a business mentor program with UHV. Serve on the UHV annual Business Case Study competition. I lead free marketing workshops on the first and third Thursday of every month. I participate in Victoria Main Street’s Artisan Fairs and First Fridays. I am a foster parent and adopting an amazing 17-year old girl named Laura.

DAYLAN GWOSDZ

AGE: 35 EDUCATION: K-8 Nazareth Academy in Victoria; Victoria Memorial High School graduate class of ‘04; Texas A&M University graduate class of ‘08 with a bachelor’s degree in industrial distribution and a minor in business. CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Financial advisor COMPANY: Edward Jones

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I have always wanted to do something where I had the ability to genuinely help people. I was blessed in 2011 when I was recruited by Edward Jones to use my platform to help families with reaching their financial goals. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? My drive comes from seeing my clients reach their financial goals, building relationships in the community, and creating a legacy that my family can be proud of.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? The obvious challenges have been market fluctuations, political divisiveness, the global pandemic, and many other changes in our society as a whole. The biggest challenge I have faced in my career is creating tailored portfolios and financial plans for my clients while managing their emotions as we help them navigate through major life events; i.e. retirement, death of a loved one, health care issues, and many more major financial obstacles.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FU-

TURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? What excites me is that I have reached milestones that many financial advisors seek to reach throughout their whole career while still in my mid-30s. The average age of a financial advisor in the U.S. is approaching retirement age, yet I plan to be in this business for another 30 years. This will allow me to serve my clients, their kids, and their grandkids to reach their financial goals for many years to come.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I serve as a Little League coach to my son’s team. My wife and I do an annual secret Santa to a local family in need. I serve on the Victoria County Texas A&M Club board. We support individually many clients and their kids and grandkids through sponsorships for livestock show and sports teams fundraising throughout the year.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I support many local charities by donating and attending a variety of fundraising events, including CASA, the Vine School, the Boys and Girls Club, the YMCA, and the Texas Zoo. I serve as the president for Victoria County Texas A&M Club, whose sole mission is to provide scholarships for incoming freshman into Texas A&M from Victoria County. Also, Edward Jones is the national sponsor for the Alzheimer’s Association. We hold various events throughout the year to support this great cause.

DR. LESLIE FRELS

AGE: 36 EDUCATION: Cuero High School 2003, University of Texas at Austin BBA in Finance with Honors, pre-dental 2007, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Doctor of Dental Surgery 2011, UTHSC at Houston Orthodontics Residency and Masters of Science in Dentistry 2013 CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Board Certified Orthodontist COMPANY: Frels Orthodontics, PLLC

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

Growing up, I observed my father work on patients in his dental practice and saw the great relationships he formed. The fulfillment this profession provided him lead me to follow in his footsteps. Orthodontics offered many opportunities, challenges and rewards to improve others’ smiles. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Hard work and perseverance keep me driven to succeed. I was taught from a young age that I am capable of achieving whatever I set my mind to if I put in the necessary effort.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? One has to wear many hats to run a small business and be a technical clinician at the same time. I am lucky to have an excellent team to work with every day to help upkeep my practice.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND

FUTURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? Orthodontics is a constantly evolving science, and it is exciting to explore new technologies and techniques. There are endless opportunities to learn and grow as an orthodontist. Being a lifelong learner makes this profession fun and rewarding.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I am currently an active board member of the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Golden Crescent. I participate in various charity events and fundraisers throughout the community. I am supporter of the Victoria Symphony and supporter of the Victoria Livestock Show.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I support the Cuero ISD Education Foundation, the Dewitt Medical Foundation and the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum. Health and education are a big part of my success, and I want to give back to these areas to help the future generation in our community thrive and excel.

HUNTER FOLLETT

AGE: 34 EDUCATION: BBA in Finance and Business Honors at The University of Texas at Austin, minor in mathematics CITY OF RESIDENCE: Various- Victoria, Rockport, Dallas OCCUPATION/TITLE: Chief Executive Officer COMPANY: Tejas Production Services

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I am a recovering energy investment banker and serial problem solver. After banking, I owned and operated a variety of energy and nonenergy businesses for about 10 years. Tejas presented an opportunity to bring data-based analysis and innovation to the energy sector. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Achievement without fulfillment is the ultimate failure. Solving interesting problems and growing with a team toward a common vision is highly fulfilling and motivating. When we focus on how to meet market needs, inspire those around you, and allocate finite resources, opportunity has no choice but to present itself.

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

COME THESE CHALLENGES? I once bought an online business partially using my friends and family’s money. Unfortunately, Amazon started competing with us and we ended up in a pretty bad spot. It was the darkest time in my life. When I stopped focusing on the consequences of failure, instead focused on solutions, adding value (and relentless hard work,) we were able to return most of our investors’ money. This lesson in resilience served me well when navigating 2020.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FU-

TURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? The team at Tejas has innovated a piece of equipment that stabilizes oil coming out of the ground, eliminating emissions and increasing the amount of oil sold. We are getting enormous traction from virtually all of the major oil and gas companies and we have a real opportunity to change the industry and the world for the better. We’ve built a special culture, and we are having fun (most of the time.) I love being a part of such an important trend. Going forward I look forward to continuing to try to solve interesting problems.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? Board of the Texas Zoo. UHV Business School Dean’s Advisory Board because I think we can bridge the need for talent with UHV students. Victoria Young Professionals social chair because I want to have rich life experiences with interesting people in the community. Keep Victoria Beautiful, Texas Workforce Commission and Bridge to Brilliance

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I donate to the Against Malaria Foundation because they have proven they can save the life of a child under 5 for $3,461. VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021 — 7

JAKE TRUSS

AGE: 28 EDUCATION: B.S. Biology - UHV CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Realtor/ Real Estate Agent COMPANY: Greg Spears Realty

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I worked for a home builder in high school and started a construction company after Hurricane Harvey to help rebuild Victoria with a local name they could trust. I have always loved everything real estate. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I love being able to help my clients accomplish their goals in real estate. I believe in going the extra mile and exceeding client expectations in pursuit of being at the top of my field.

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

COME THESE CHALLENGES? The initial learning curve to ensure that my business is being conducted at the highest level of quality. My broker, Greg Spears, has been an incredible mentor/boss and is selfless in sharing his 40 years of experience. Life is full of challenges, but with support like Greg, they are merely learning lessons that allow us to improve.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND

FUTURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? The fire and passion that I bring every day because I am doing what I love, and the strong desire to be the best I can. That passion pushes me to work 12-16 hour days when needed, while always bringing an optimistic and motivated outlook to best serve my clients. I also couldn’t be positioned at a better brokerage to improve and grow my business with the continued support and extensive knowledge that Greg readily offers.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I am a member of the Public Library Advisory Board and the Victoria Area Association of Realtors. I have served with Habitat For Humanity, and regularly attend Parkway Church. I play music for local fundraisers and functions. I also love working with the younger generation; I have performed music at The Children’s Discovery Museum and assisted at the Victoria Country Club Junior Golf camps. I am also a new member of the Victoria Young Professionals.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? The Victoria Public Library, The Food Bank of The Golden Crescent, Habitat for Humanity, Christ’s Kitchen, and Parkway Church. I enjoy giving back to the community because I am a firm believer in the pay-it-forward method and as a community, we are all here to help one another for the greater good. I moved to Victoria in 2013 and have been loved and accepted by the community and couldn’t be more thankful; I have a humble feeling of accountability and responsibility to do my part in return. I look forward to serving and becoming more involved in the community as the years go on.

8 — VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021

KENNETH

FRENCH JR.

AGE: 35 EDUCATION: Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing and management from Texas Tech University CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Financial advisor COMPANY: Edward Jones

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

In many ways I grew up in this industry. I am a second generation financial advisor. At a young age, my dad would talk to my sisters and I about what he did and the families he was able to help by working at Edward Jones. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Building, nurturing, and developing the relationships that I have in my life are what drive me each and every day, whether that relationship is with my wife, children, friends, family and/ or clients.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? One of the biggest challenges that I have faced in my career was making the decision to move back to Victoria to start my career with Edward Jones. My wife and I had just recently been married, and we took a leap of faith that everything would work out. We prayed and trusted in God that he would provide for us as long as we worked at our craft.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FU-

TURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? What excites me the most about my career today is that I have been in the business long enough to now start to see the plans that my clients and I put together over these last few years start to come to fruition. It is exciting when a client of mine retires and feels confident about where they are financially or is able to pay for their child’s education and know that they will be fine because of all the planning and saving they have done. I cannot wait to help more families in the future live out their dreams of retirement, leave a legacy, or just do whatever they want to do when they want to do it and not have to worry about their investments.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK

TO YOUR COMMUNITY? I’m a member of the Victoria Chamber of Commerce, and have served on the boards for both the Victoria Zoo as well as the Boys and Girls Club of Victoria. Currently I am the president of our Victoria Texas Tech Alumni Association Chapter.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I helped start a scholarship for our Victoria Texas Tech Alumni Association chapter, the Haley Singer Memorial Scholarship, and this is something that I am very passionate about. Haley was a very close family friend of mine and went to school with my sister and I at Texas Tech. She passed away in 2014 here in Victoria. Since then, we’ve put together an annual golf tournament and fundraiser to help support our scholarship in her name.

LASCENA LEE MILNER SIMMONS

AGE: 33 EDUCATION: Graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio with a teaching degree for prekindergarten-sixth grade CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Owner COMPANY: Peaches And Tortilla Mercantile

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

After enduring a miscarriage in 2017, I decided to make my dream of owning a small business a reality. I have high hopes for downtown and wanted to contribute to reviving it. I opened my shop while 28 weeks pregnant with my sweet rainbow baby, Emmy Roan in March 2019. I am a first time mama and business owner. I am learning new things each day, allowing myself grace, and hanging onto this roller coaster ride we call life. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I have always wanted to make my mom proud, succeed in life and impact people in a positive way.

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

CHALLENGES? My biggest challenges I have faced during the first year of my career was the loss of my mother. The pandemic hit as well during my first year open and the same week I lost my mom. I launched a website in hopes that it would help keep my shop in motion, continue to make my mom proud, and give me an outlet for all my energy and we came back stronger than ever before. I am forever grateful for the support I had via porch pick-ups and snail mail through our website.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FUTURE

STATE OF YOUR CAREER? We are relocating into the old Rosebud in downtown. It is a 100+ year old beautiful historic treasure that was originally a locally owned family pharmacy. I can’t wait to make memories in this 5,000 square foot flagship with everyone right in the heart of downtown. What a view to have and the perfect place to toss down a picnic blanket and enjoy a delicious lunch. A boutique cafe @etsucretx will be nestled into P&T for everyone to enjoy. It will offer homemade milkshakes, infused sangria, coffee, and champagne, craft beer, specialty brunch and lunch items, one-of-a-kind pastries, and of course all things peachy. We will also offer rental spaces for other small shops.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I feel I give back to our community by being active on boards like the Main Street board and the Historical Preservation board. I have also been a part of the Junior League Of Victoria. I also work with hurricane relief, the food bank, the Children’s Discovery Museum, ballet board and many other places. We also enjoy supporting Top Chef for the Vine School, polo for the Nave Museum, CASA, Habit For Humanity, local school events, and more.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I am currently focused on Downtown, women, and children charities and nonprofits. It is what I am most passionate about.

MICHAEL PFEIL JR.

AGE: 39 EDUCATION: Associate’s degree in nursing, Victoria College; Bachelor of Science in nursing, Texas Tech University Health Science Center; Master of Science in nursing, family nurse practitioner, South University CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Family nurse practitioner COMPANY: Memorial Medical Clinic

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED WITH THIS INDUSTRY?

I grew up around the medical field because of my father, and that had a big impact on my interest in health care. I knew I wanted to be involved in a health care role since high school, and my parents encouraged that decision, but my wife has been my biggest supporter of advancing my professional career over the past 20 years. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? I feel that my success as a nurse practitioner can best be judged by my patients’ health and well-being.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? My biggest challenge I face daily is people lacking access to and money for health care services. This has led me to become well versed in affordable treatment options, preventative strategies, and utilizing available community resources. The second biggest obstacle I had to overcome was when I started out in health care. I was in my 20s, and people had a hard time taking instruction on major health issues from someone who was young and seemingly inexperienced. In working for several different Crossroads area medical systems and facilities over the last 15 years, I have honed my skills and institutional knowledge. I feel having my patients, as well as professional colleagues, refer their family and friends to me for their health care needs shows that I have become a proficient medical professional.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND

FUTURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? The most exciting thing about health care is that it is always changing. There are always new research findings, treatment options and health promotion tactics being released.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? During my professional career, my community involvement has been very diverse, from serving as a guest lecturer at Victoria College’s associate degree nursing program, working with various nonprofits, precepting nurse practitioner students for multiple different universities and coaching Little League. I am also the past president and member of the Victoria Area Nurse Practitioners group.

WHAT CHARITY AND NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? As a hobbyist woodworker, I have donated multiple items to various organizations and fundraising events over the years. My family and I have supported the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent, Mid-Coast Family Services, and Christ’s Kitchen.

ROBERT ROYER

AGE: 32 EDUCATION: Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in marketing from University of Houston - Victoria CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Founder/president of Marketing Consulting Agency COMPANY: Building Brands Marketing

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I started my career in local media right out of college and achieved leadership roles focused on selling and fulfilling digital advertising. I transitioned into the advertising agency business in 2017 and launched Building Brands Marketing in 2018. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? My desire to serve and provide for others. I was a young father with kids who depended on me to provide for them. I was a young manager and now business owner with employees who I strive to provide a livelihood for.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? I grew up with a lot of adversity, such as my father passing away when I was 4, and I had kids at a young age, which led me to working full-time while going to school full-time. Professionally, I started my marketing career exclusively selling print advertising in a sales territory where sales were declining, but I managed to increase sales and eventually secured a management position. My determination helped me in getting selected to the NEXGEN program which groom future leaders of the newspaper industry.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FU-

TURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? My favorite part of consulting small businesses in their marketing is I’m making a difference in people’s livelihoods. When I can assist a business to make more money, I have had business owners tell me it is allowing them to provide college tuition for their grandkids, retirement for themselves, or additional benefits to their employees. Looking toward the future, I’m excited to continue to learn the latest trends and patterns every day in digital marketing and bring that knowledge to business owners of the Crossroads.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? serve on the board of directors for the Victoria Rotary Club, the Dean’s Advisory Board for the University of Houston-Victoria School of Business Administration, and chairman for the Small Business Committee with the Victoria Chamber of Commerce.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? My favorite service project I get to work on every year is the Annual Clayshoot fundraiser with the Victoria Rotary Club, which helps provide grants to nonprofits in the area as well as youth scholarships. I also try to support through service or sponsorships other nonprofits, such as the United Way of the Crossroads and the Men’s 361 Basketball Association.

ROBERT ZBORIL

AGE: 35 EDUCATION: B.S. in biology, Master of Business Administration, Doctorate of Dental Surgery CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Zboril Dental Center COMPANY: Peaches And Tortilla Mercantile

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

Dentistry has been my passion because of its unique challenges and opportunities. It possessed all the attributes I was looking for in a career, using my hands to create, solving problems and developing relationships with those in my community. Dentistry offers the ability to interact with people and elevate their quality of life. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? My family, friends and team inspire me every day. The energy and passion that they live their lives with drives me to make each day a success. And in turn, I want to inspire them to do the same.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? Changing technologies and techniques require constant continuing education. Learning new complex processes and mastering them is a challenge. By keeping myself on a rigorous education pathway I have kept up with the latest techniques for implants, crowns, veneers, Invisalign and many other advanced techniques, using these techniques to keep our appointment times shorter and more comfortable for my patients.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND

FUTURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? Technology is revolutionizing dentistry today and will do so in the future. Because of our technology, we are able to offer a much higher level of care to our patients. We are able to better diagnose with our 3D X-rays, better plan with our i-Tero Oral Scanner, correct facial pain with our T-scan and accelerate healing with our laser.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? We are continuously involved in our community. We are the proud sponsor of several local schools’ sports and cheer teams. We are an avid supporter of FFA. We have sponsored the Varsity Cup every year, as it identifies and acknowledges young leaders in our local schools. VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021 — 9

ROSALIND V.O. PEREZ

AGE: 30 EDUCATION: B.S. Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin; J.D., cum laude, Texas Tech University School of Law CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Attorney COMPANY: MDP Law, soon R. Perez Law

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I knew I wanted to be a lawyer from about 8 years old. Originally, I thought I wanted to be a patent attorney, but happily my husband and I moved to Victoria and I fell in love with the practice of family and child welfare law. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? Providing the best legal advice and support I possibly can, during some of the most difficult situations a person may face during their life.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? I think one of the biggest challenges any professional faces is “earning their stripes” and learning to be confident in your abilities.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FU-

TURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? What excites me the most with the practice of law is that it is always evolving and changing. I look forward to running and owning my own law firm and helping young attorneys get their start in the practice of law.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I have served for the last three years on the board of the Chamber of Commerce and currently serve as treasurer of the board of the Chamber of Commerce. I am also the chairperson of the Victoria County Child Welfare Board, president of the Victoria Young Professionals, and on the Keep Victoria Beautiful board.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? My husband and I support the Victoria Bach Festival because we believe music is an intrinsic part of culture and brain development in young people, I also believe it is essential to provide support to nonprofits and charities that support children in need – such as the Victoria Partnership for Children.

10 — VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday, June 27, 2021

RUSSELL

DEMPSEY

AGE: 39 EDUCATION: Texas A&M University CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria

OCCUPATION/TITLE:

Small Business Owner COMPANY: Express Employment Professionals

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I was looking for a job that would take me away from constant travel. I was offered a sales position and grew within the company. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? My family and our team motivate me to succeed. I am incredibly grateful for all that they do and it motivates me to do my best.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? Managing a 1-year old business through a pandemic was an incredible challenge. We overcame the challenge by becoming as small as possible as a company. Then we focused on helping our clients navigate their challenges. Our team really came together and grew the business through a challenging time. It was an incredible to be a part of it.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FU-

TURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? It is an exciting time to be in Victoria and the Crossroads. The community seems poised to develop coming out of the pandemic. As the region rebounds from a tough year, it should really springboard our industry. To say that we are excited about the end of 2021 and 2022 would be an understatement. We hope to be a great business partner to our clients and develop long term relationships.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? Giving back to our community is a big part of our company culture as well as mine personally. Currently, I have been able to serve on the Victoria Sales Tax Development Board as the vice president. I am also a member of the Victoria Young Professionals. That organization has been a great way to connect with other professionals in town, as well as give back through volunteer efforts.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? My favorite types of charities and nonprofits are those who support local issues. I am newer to the community, so I have not been extremely active yet. In our previous community I supported our regional United Way. I served on the board for several years and chaired the community campaign for three years. Kiwanis is another organization that I have supported through the years. I have been impressed by how giving our community is and look forward to becoming more involved.

SARAH AUSTIN

AGE: 35 EDUCATION: Currently pursuing an MBA in human resource management from University of Houston-Victoria. B.A. in communication studies with minor in human resource management from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: Director of human resources COMPANY: Citizens Medical Center

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I’ve always gravitated toward opportunities that allow me to lead and develop a team. I began my career in retail management, went into emergency management, and now health care, as the director of Human Resources at Citizens Medical Center. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? My drive for success stems from a genuine desire to help others. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is developing others to their full potential.

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

COME THESE CHALLENGES? Challenges are to be expected and appreciated for the experience provided. COVID-19 has certainly provided a lifetime of experiences, including ever-changing laws and guidelines requiring careful review and astute business acumen. Overcoming challenges presented by COVID-19 required effective communication, teamwork, and a commitment to the overall goal of providing the best quality service to our patients and employees. The resilience of our employees and this community is awe-inspiring.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FUTURE

STATE OF YOUR CAREER? I am very passionate about developing and retaining our workforce, and advancing into more complex human resource analytics and engagement software in the near future excites me. The technological tools available provide necessary data at our fingertips that can help us make well-informed, big-impact decisions while also positively impacting the employee experience and retention.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? In my previous role as the Healthcare Coalition Preparedness Manager for Southwest Texas Regional Advisory Council, I played a key role in disaster preparedness and response for hospitals, EMS agencies, and nursing homes within Victoria County and surrounding areas. I helped coordinate the evacuation of our health care facilities during Hurricane Harvey and the resource requests in the aftermath. Most recently during the pandemic, I was a vital source of federal and state communication and resource needs – providing much needed PPE to healthcare organizations and up-to-date hospital data to the State of Texas. My proudest moment was coordinating with Victoria Fire Department and other Fire and EMS agencies to provide essential COVID-19 testing to our most vulnerable population – nursing home residents.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT AND

WHY? I am involved in Theatre Victoria and enjoy having an outlet for my love of singing. If you saw “Grease,” “9 to 5,” or “Sister Act,” then you saw me. We are very fortunate to have such a top-notch community theater program that consistently provides quality entertainment and activities for people of all ages.

WAYLAN JUSTIN BRANNAN III

AGE: 32 EDUCATION: Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi – Bachelor of Business Administration; South Texas School of Christian Studies – Biblical Studies CITY OF RESIDENCE: Victoria OCCUPATION/TITLE: CEO – Centerline Technologies; CFO – Brannan Paving

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THIS INDUSTRY?

As a third generation contractor with Brannan Paving, I was exposed to the industry at a very early age. I was exposed to construction while driving job sites with my dad. Being able to listen to the work conversations he had gave me a foundation in this business that I still use today. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO SUCCEED? For me, success is a mixture of individual growth of myself and my team; as well as being able to observe, forecast, plan and deploy on opportunities in our ever changing environment.

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

OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES? Everyday offers a new challenge or learning experience. Learning how to anticipate and detect issues early and developing strategies to manage the issues is one of the hardest challenges I have faced and continue to face. I have been blessed with mentors that have helped guide me in my career as I continue to strive for improvement.

WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE CURRENT AND FU-

TURE STATE OF YOUR CAREER? I have the privilege of working with an amazing team of people each day and I am grateful for all of their hard work. They give me confidence in our ability as a company to overcome obstacles as we encounter them and to continue to develop.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU SERVE AND GIVE BACK TO

YOUR COMMUNITY? I have been blessed to have strong mentors throughout all stages of my life and because of those relationships and experiences, I have recently directed my attention to working with entrepreneurs and young business leaders in the community. Creating connections with people and resources to promote and support entrepreneurship is a priority for me. I serve on the advisory board for the Dean of Business at the University of Houston – Victoria.

WHAT CHARITY OR NONPROFITS DO YOU SUPPORT

AND WHY? I serve on the board of Promised Land Outdoors Ministries. As a Christian and outdoor enthusiast, this ministry brings both of those passions together. Also, the Texas Youth Hunting Program, Ducks Unlimited, Texas Wildlife Association, Coastal Conservation Association, Whitetails Unlimited, and Safari Club International. The Victoria Livestock Show is facilitating a setting for youth to gain knowledge in the areas of agriculture and livestock. The skills they learn from budgeting, to the responsibility of taking care animals, is something they will use throughout life.