Premier Business Women Award 03-21-24

Dear Readers,

On March 20th, at the Heritage Club at Bethpage, we celebrated the Herald’s Fifth Annual 2024 Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards, brought to you by RichnerLIVE. With 350 people in attendance, we honored 48 outstanding women from Long Island for their significant contributions both professionally and within the community.

The event was a great success, recognizing the achievements and positive impact of these women. Their efforts and leadership serve as a reminder that, while there's still progress to be made with respect to gender equity, we are moving in the right direction.

A portion of the event's proceeds was donated to the Girl Scouts of Nassau County and Suffolk County, supporting the next generation of female leaders.

We're grateful for everyone who helped make this event possible, including the honorees, their families, and our sponsors, who share our commitment to inclusion and empowerment. Thank you for your support.

At Herald Community Newspapers, it is our privilege to shine a spotlight on the individuals, organizations, and institutions that collectively contribute to making Long Island the vibrant and thriving community that it is.

Sincerely,

Stuart Richner CEO, Richner Communications Publisher, Long Island Herald

TO OUR EVENT PARTNERS

SILVER SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

ANTOINETTE BIORDI 4x-Emmy Award Winning Anchor & Reporter NEWS 12 LONG ISLAND

Antoinette Biordi is a 4x Emmy Award winning reporter and anchor for News 12 Long Island. She has been a TV Reporter since 1997.

Antoinette began her career as a “one man band reporter” producing, shooting, writing and editing daily stories for News Center 7 in Ithaca, NY. Then in 1998 she moved on to work as reporter/anchor for WETM (NBC) in Elmira, NY. In 1999 Antoinette worked at WNYT (NBC) in Albany, NY, and FOX 23 News in Albany. Her wok combined with her daily stories won her several distinguished awards including Edward R. Murrow Awards, Deadline

Club Awards, New York Press Club, AP awards, AEGIS award, Gold Aurora Awards, New York Festivals, Telly Award and a Videographer Award.

In 2010 Antoinette transitioned to News 12 Long Island where she is now a weekday Reporter and weekend Anchor. Since then Antoinette has reported on everything from court cases, crime, community issues, societal concerns, health and wellness, to heartwarming profile stories about the resiliency and tenacity of Long Islanders. In 2022, Antoinette earned her 4th Emmy in the category of Business and Consumer News for a series called "Road Trip Close to Home" that features fun and entertaining places to go and things to do in the tri-state area.

Antoinette was born in Brooklyn, moved to Corona Queens and then moved to Nassau County, Long Island. She continues to live in Nassau with her husband, son, and her dog Pepper. In her spare time she teaches Spin and Bootcamp classes, is a certified health and wellness coach, loves to read, travel, workout, cook, make her homemade wine, take pictures and play several musical instruments including the accordion.

Cushman & Wakefield congratulates Melissa Naeder

for being recognized as a 2024 Herald Premier Business Woman

Move forward with Mazars

ACCOUNTING

MARY SANTOLI

Director of Small Business Services

PRAGER METIS CPAS

The Premier Business Women of L.I. Awards Gala Proudly Supports the Girl Scouts of Nassau & Suffolk County

“Building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place.”

Mary Santoli is a Director for Small Business Services within the Advisory, and Audit & Accounting Departments of Prager Metis, a member of Prager Metis International Group. Mary works out of the Long Island office and began her career in accounting in 2003.

Mary is very proactive in handling all aspects of her clients’ needs. She is also a Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor, which helps her with training and consulting to clients of the firm. In addition to providing specialized advice with QuickBooks, she also consults with her clients on business management, financial statements as well as their business and personal tax returns. She services various clients in different industries such as hospitality, food and beverage, fashion, medical and construction industries. In 2019, Mary became an enrolled agent (EA), a federally authorized tax practitioner empowered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Mary was honored as one of the 2016 Long Island Business News Millennial Award, 2019 Long Island Business News Business & Finance Award and was named as one of the Premier Business Women of Long Island by RichnerLIVE in 2020.

Mary is also on the Nassau County Chapter Walk Committee for Alzheimer’s Association and is very active in the charity.

ACCOUNTING

WHITE-KING

Tifphani White-King is the National Tax Practice Leader for Mazars in the U.S. She is also a member of the Mazars Global Tax Leadership Team. Her responsibilities in these roles include creating a shared vision, setting strategic direction, and driving marketplace growth for Tax. Prior to assuming these positions, Tifphani was the U.S. International Tax Practice Leader for Mazars in the U.S. She has nearly 20 years of international tax experience, providing operational, strategic, and marketplace direction for emerging, midmarket, and large, multinational companies. Her expertise includes international tax structuring, transaction planning, mergers and acquisitions, tax provision, compliance reporting, and other related services.

Within the firm, Tifphani leads high-performing teams that provide innovative strategic and operational support. She delivers expert services to clients within a multitude of market sectors, including consumer products, financial services, life sciences, real estate, and technology, and within industries such as advertising, aviation, insurance, and manufacturing. Additionally, Tifphani is very passionate about her sponsorship and mentorship roles and responsibilities.

Prior to joining Mazars, Tifphani was a Tax Principal at a Big Four firm, where she oversaw a broad range of inbound and outbound tax issues, including initial overseas investment, financing international operations, cross-border business structuring, tax provision, and compliance reporting. She made history as the firm’s first African-American female Tax partner.

Tifphani is highly sought after as a speaker on various global tax topics both in the US and abroad. She has been quoted in international and domestic news media outlets, authored several articles, taught at the university level, and led many podcasts on a variety of tax-related matters. She is the recipient of numerous professional and industry awards and recognitions. Tifphani graduated from Columbia University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. She received her Juris Doctorate from St. John’s University School of Law, and is currently pursuing her Master of Laws degree at King’s College in London, UK.

TIFPHANI

Principal, US National Tax Practice Leader MAZARS

PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR community

Valley National Bank is proud to support The 5th Annual Premier Herald Business Women of Long Island Awards Gala as they celebrate high-level female business leaders making an impact.

Congratulations to Gloria Webb and Adrienne Greene, two of this year’s honorees!

Gloria Webb VP Business Banking

Women in Business NY State Ambassador

Adrienne Greene VP Market Manager

Women in Business Ambassador

BANKING & FINANCE

ADRIENNE GREENE

Vice President, Market Manager VALLEY BANK

BANKING & FINANCE

PATRICIA KIELAWA

Vice President - Business Relationship Manager HANOVER BANK

Adrienne Greene, MBA, is a financial services professional with over twenty-five years of experience specializing in retail and business banking. She holds a Master’s Degree from Long Island University in Business, is credit certified from Omega and was an Adjunct Professor at Long Island University in Business. Adrienne has a passion for volunteering and has been a Troop Leader for Girl Scouts of Suffolk County for seven years. She was awarded the National Delegate for GSSC in 2023 and earned the Council Award and President’s Circle Award. Adrienne is a Women in Business Ambassador for Valley Bank where she is a Market Manager in Garden City and Rockville Centre.

Adrienne is the prior Vice President of the Franklin Square Chamber of Commerce and is on the Board of the Women’s Committee for the Rockville Centre Chamber. Adrienne has been married to her husband Michael for over twenty years and her greatest achievements are her two beautiful daughters Cassie and Kara. Cassie is the Operations Manager at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services of America responsible for all broker-to-broker referrals and corporate relocations globally. Her youngest Kara is a straight-A student at St. Patrick School and a Girl Scout Bronze Award working on her Silver Award. She resides with her family in St. James.

Patricia A. Kielawa is a distinguished commercial banking executive with a career spanning over 40 years in business development. Renowned for her responsiveness and results-driven approach, she has built a reputation as a trusted advisor with expertise in portfolio management for businesses ranging from $1 million to $50 million in sales size. As the VP of Business Relationship Manager at Hanover Bank, she has been instrumental in driving the bank's mission to provide a customized banking experience to business owners, professional entities, families, and individuals across communities. In addition to Hanover Bank, Patti's extensive career includes roles at institutions such as Capital One, Wells Fargo Bank, Gold Coast Bank, and more, generating new business, coordinating successful events and seminars, and deepening client relations.

Patricia's dedication extends beyond her professional endeavors as she actively participates in various affiliations such as the CIBS, Associate Board Member, HIA-LI, LIA, and La Fuerza CDC – CDFI, where she serves as a Board Member. In her leisure time, her passion is for golf. As Chair of the CIBS W Golf Committee, she hosted the organization's inaugural 9 and Dine Women’s Golf Outing in 2023 to empower women to represent their work and worth on the course. Patti is now also setting out to launch a premiere program that will bring weekly pro-golf lessons and networking opportunities to businesswomen across Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

BANKING & FINANCE

THERESE MORA

Vice President, Branch Banking DIME BANK

Therese Mora is the vice president and branch manager of DIME Community Bank with proven leadership abilities, and is experienced in the area of financial business development and strong customer relationship building. Therese has over 30 years of commercial and residential branch banking experience with a thorough knowledge of a financial center's operations, products, and services. She enhances Dime Community Bank’s visibility in the community by lending time and expertise to community organizations, and is proud to serve as a board member for the Huntington Townwide Fund, the Book Fairies and the Michael Magro Foundation.

Therese's passion to give back has always run throughout her life since she was very young. With great role models, she has always learned to give back some of her time especially when it comes to children, veterans, and the underserved.

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success in 2023?

In 2023 I attended a conference where there was great conversation about creating your brand. There was a lot of conversation about how to take control of your personal as well as your professional success. This conversation really struck me and shifted my mindset. I have become more organized and efficient at work and at home.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

Last year I was a National Delegate for Girl Scouts of Suffolk County at the National Convention in Orlando. I was so honored and humbled to be in a room with so many amazing women from all over the world and see the work that is being done with an organization I have been part of since I was a child.

BANKING & FINANCE

GLORIA WEBB

Vice President, Business Banking VALLEY BANK

COACHING/CONSULTING

LIZ BENTLEY

Founder & President

LIZ BENTLEY ASSOCIATES

With over 25 years of banking experience, Gloria Webb brings a wealth of knowledge to her position as a business banker at Valley Bank. As a banker covering the New York Metro area and Long Island, Gloria works to foster relationships with business owners and believes that understanding business needs and goals gives her the insight to recommend the best Banking solutions.

As a strong advocate for Women, Gloria is a New York State ambassador for Valley's Women in Businessprogram — an essential resource for female entrepreneurs looking to expand their network, connect with to others in or out of their industry, and take advantage of unique program perks.

Gloria is a member of the Queens Chamber of Commerce and LIC Partnership. She is on the Queens Chamber Banking and Law Committee, and a board member of Adelphi University Student Affairs Advisory Board.

Gloria loves to make a difference by giving back to the communities she serves. She lives in Queens with her husband, and she enjoys spending time with family and friends. During her free time, you can find her traveling, biking, and hiking. Adrienne is the prior Vice President of the Franklin Square Chamber of Commerce and is on the Board of the Women’s Committee for the Rockville Centre Chamber. Adrienne has been married to her husband Michael for over twenty years and her greatest achievements are her two beautiful daughters Cassie and Kara. Cassie is the Operations Manager at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services of America responsible for all broker-to-broker referrals and corporate relocations globally. Her youngest Kara is a straight-A student at St. Patrick School and a Girl Scout Bronze Award working on her Silver Award. She resides with her family in St. James.

Liz Bentley is the founder and president of Liz Bentley Associates, a nationally recognized consulting firm specializing in executive coaching and leadership development programs to top leaders, teams and organizations.

Her insights into human behavior have made her an invaluable resource for businesses seeking to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Known as an influential thought leader, she is a sought-after coach for industry titans who rely on her valuable insights, innovative strategies, and expert guidance. Her exclusive client list includes prominent leaders and influencers in media, politics, professional sport, finance, law, real estate and technology.

Liz is an in-demand motivational speaker known for actionable and engaging keynotes for clients including Hearst, Microsoft, IBM, SHRM, and Sotheby’s International Realty.

She is a frequent contributor to national media outlets including CBS News, NBC News, Fast Company, The Washington Post, Business News Daily and Korn Ferry. Dubbed the “Career Doctor” by the MSNBC Know Your Value franchise, she frequently showcases her expert advice on their platform.

Her achievements have earned her numerous recognitions including Crain’s NY Most Notable Women Business Owners, Long Island Business News’ Top 50 Women in Business and she is ranked Top 20 US Real Estate coaches to name a few.

ENERGY & UTILITIES

RETHA FERNANDEZ

Strategic Engagement Manager NATIONAL GRID VENTURES

Retha Fernandez joined National Grid Ventures in March 2023 as the strategic engagement manager. In this role, Retha supports the creation of workforce and economic development strategies alongside the strategic engagement team helping ensure the success of all projects, delivering local clean energy for all. On the current project, Community Offshore Wind, Retha has the responsibility of implementing $41 million dollars of workforce development initiatives, with a focus on disadvantaged communities in New York State.

Retha formerly served as the inaugural chief diversity and inclusion officer for Suffolk County government where she led the development and implementation of the county’s diversity and inclusion initiatives, including leading the development of the county’s first strategic plan for talent recruitment. She has over two decades of private sector experience in technology strategy development and relationship management and has served in executive leadership roles at a Fortune 500 company. Retha is also a Chopra Center certified meditation instructor. She is devoted to her personal practice as she believes meditation and generating feelings of love and compassion for ourselves and others are the way to affect social change.

Q&A Q&A Q&A

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

I am proud of the strategic partnerships that have been fostered during 2023 within the Valley’s Women in Business program. It’s a platform that provides a space for women business owners and professionals to connect, focus on professional development and support each other.

Can you discuss a major challenge you've faced in your career and how you overcame it?

Early in my banking career, I worked in the diamond and jewelry industry as a credit analyst, and I faced a challenge where the male business owner did not want to collaborate with me. I understood that this was due to a cultural reason, and I overcame this challenge by providing the name of my male supervisor. With time, the relationship fostered, and my work experience spoke for itself. As women, we face challenges, and this fuels me to be a strong advocate for women. It’s important to develop thick skin, to and to have a voice. Speak up against unfairness, seek mentorship, and surround yourself with those that support you.

Balancing a successful career and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage this balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving for the same?

Creating a coaching business in 2012 was a significant challenge. When I started, no one took me seriously. The industry was unknown and misunderstood, so I not only had to sell myself and my services but also had to sell the concept and the need for someone to hire a coach. Additionally, I had to excel at coaching right from the start with very little practice and experience so that clients would hire me again and spread the word. It was a very challenging time, especially considering the scarcity of good coaches in the market, which added to people not taking the business seriously. The odds were stacked against me, with over 95% of coaching attempts ending in failure.

Moreover, being a woman in this field didn't help. Men didn’t think they needed advice or coaching to begin with, let alone from a woman, how could I possibly understand their business and life as well as they did.

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

I believe in the interdependence of all of us. Our actions are inextricably linked and so for one of us to be well, we all must be well. This philosophy drives my community involvement. My deep commitment to community service, youth development, and advocacy is demonstrated through my full engagement as a member with leadership roles in Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Suffolk County Chapter, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Suffolk County Chapter and the Eastern Shore (NY) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.

ENERGY & UTILITIES

WENDY FRIGERIA

Strategic Communications NATIONAL GRID

ENERGY & UTILITIES

ANGELA HAYES

Director, Customer Experience Group

PARACO GAS

Wendy Frigeria is the Strategic Communications Manager on Long Island at National Grid, responsible for day-to-day and long-term communications strategy. Her primary role is to provide up-to-the-minute information to the media about Long Island's power supply, natural gas infrastructure, energy industry transition, and numerous other energy issues. This includes enhancing and maintaining positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders and influencers.

Her other media responsibilities include presenting the company's long-range plans for serving the energy needs of the Long Island region. Wendy is the prime contact at the company during weather emergencies, power outages, and storm damage. She is National Grid's 'go-to' person for arranging interviews with the media, top executives, and senior leadership.

During Superstorm Sandy, Gov. Andrew Cuomo designated National Grid as the lead company for all external communications regarding the storm. Wendy was immediately appointed to take the lead on media response, overseeing other media department employees, handling media inquiries and scheduling press conferences as needed.

Wendy received the 40 Under 40 Award from Long Island Business News. She also, received the Sapphire Award of Excellence in 2013 from National Grid.

An Associate Professor of Journalism at Farmingdale State College for 15 years, Wendy was instrumental in starting the Journalism program at the four-year college with a curriculum she devised. Before joining National Grid, she worked as a Public Information Officer for the Suffolk County Health Department. She earned her Master of Science Degree from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. She graduated from Hofstra University, double majoring in journalism and history.

Wendy is proud to serve on the Guide Dog Foundation’s American VetDogs Board, which provides service dogs to enhance the independence and mobility of veterans, among her other endeavors. She is a proud mother of twin toddlers and enjoys skiing and surfing.

With over 13 years of dedicated service at Paraco Gas Corporation, based in Rye, Angela has honed expertise in various leadership roles, currently serving as the Director of the Customer Experience Group. Angela specializes in orchestrating seamless customer interactions within the oil and gas industry and oversees the Customer Service, Inside Sales and Service office operations. Her journey began as an Administrative Manager, where she supervised a team, crafted training manuals, and ensured adherence to company protocols. Transitioning to the role of Inside Sales Manager, Angela optimized performance metrics and championed problem-solving initiatives.

As the Director of the Customer Service Center, she spearheads strategies in process improvement to elevate service standards and increase customer satisfaction. Proficient in handling customer escalations and retention, she navigates challenges with finesse, bolstering Paraco's reputation for exceptional customer care. Angela’s tenure underscores a passion for team collaboration, evident in her adeptness at fostering teamwork and nurturing talent and is dedicated to enriching customer experiences and driving organizational success.

ENERGY & UTILITIES

WENDY HOLSBERGER

Managing Director, Long Island & Albany VHB

Wendy Holsberger is the managing director for VHB's Long Island and Albany offices. She is experienced in the management and performance of traffic analysis and engineering services for private and public-sector real estate, transportation, and infrastructure projects, including presentations at agency, municipal, and public meetings. A licensed professional engineer and certified professional traffic operations engineer, Wendy has presented on contemporary transportation issues at numerous industry conferences and events.

Q&A Q&A

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success in 2023?

I honestly don't think there was any one moment. I believe that the success of both myself and my team comes as a result of all the consistent small steps and decisions that are made each day.

Can you discuss a major challenge you've faced in your career and how you overcame it?

One of the biggest challenges I used to face as a younger leader was being afraid of change and fighting against it. Now it is actually the thing that gets you jazzed about what I do. I now focus on creating solutions and I believe it's one of the reasons I have been successful.

I no longer see change as this big scary thing, I welcome the opportunity to grow and do better for our customers and our employees alike.

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

I have a vested interest in STEM-related activities, and I strongly believe in paving the way for future engineers who will drive our world forward. Nurturing their passion and curiosity today will ensure a safer and more innovative future. I dedicate my time to several community initiatives that speak to this passion.

I had the rewarding experience of coordinating efforts to host an intern through Commack High School, providing them with firsthand experience of the AEC industry. I also had the privilege of attending a student session, where I was able to share my journey and answer questions from engineering students during a special interview session.

In addition to this, my work extends to participating in the ACE Mentorship Program, where I assist high school students as they navigate through their engineering design projects. My aim with this involvement is to inspire and prepare these young minds for the transitions they are bound to face in the real world.

Who inspires our clean energy vision? Leaders like Wendy.

Congratulations to Wendy Frigeria, Strategic Communications Manager for National Grid, for your recognition by the Long Island Herald as one of the “Premier Business Women of Long Island.”

Thank you for bringing your energy and commitment to communities across Long Island.

ngrid.com

“Be the woman that fixes another woman’s crown without telling the world it was crooked.”

Congratulations to Retha Fernandez, Strategic Engagement Manager, National Grid Ventures, for your recognition by the Long Island Herald as one of the “Premier Business Women of Long Island.”

We’re building a clean energy future on Long Island where no community member is left behind.

ventures

DR. MARIA P. CONZATTI Chief Administrative Officer NASSAU

COMMUNITY COLLEGE (NCC)

Dr. Maria P. Conzatti, Chief Administrative Officer, Nassau Community College (NCC). She is the first NCC alumna to assume leadership of New York State’s largest single-campus community college. Within the first 100 days of her appointment as interim president, Dr. Conzatti has guided NCC to a position of strength and vitality.

She oversees the launch of technology-rich academic programs in cybersecurity, healthcare data analytics, medical assistant, and

chemical technology, as well as $90 million in construction and renovations, including a state-of-the-art culinary arts facility. To ensure a community college education remains accessible and affordable following the pandemic, NCC’s tuition has been frozen for the third consecutive year, and more than $1.5 million in private and corporate donations are helping provide additional scholarships, food, and metro cards to students.

More than $14 million in grants for pre-college preparation, new laboratories, and other academic initiatives have been awarded during President Conzatti’s nascent tenure. Formerly Vice President of Academic Student Services at NCC, Dr. Conzatti has served as an adjunct professor of business for more than 30 years and has been named one of the Most Powerful Influencers on Long Island. She earned an Associate of Science from Nassau Community College, a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and an MBA from Adelphi University, and an Ed.D. in Instructional Leadership from St. John’s University.

ENTREPRENEUR

MAE CAIME

ENTREPRENEUR

AIMEE KESTENBERG ELAN

Founder & CEO AMAEZING MIDLIFE & BEYOND

Mae Caime is the reigning MS. New York Senior America and founder of Amaezing Midlife Life and Beyond. She is a timeless visionary fueled by an unwavering commitment to empower women to embrace the riches of aging. Her secret sauce recipe creates an awakening to find new passions and purpose that brings zest, sass, and fulfillment. Her current formal titles are registered nurse, certified integrative health coach, treasurer to Blue Star Moms NY6 and owner of VIP Health Connections LLC. Her entrepreneurial spirit, CEO titles and dynamic leadership have served the business community for over 40 years, building multimillion-dollar enterprises.

Mae’s high energy as an event director/ planner, whether it be to fundraise or more recently the inaugural Amaezing Midlife and Beyond Women’s Summit, has audiences engaged and excited to attend the next event. Her spiritual faith and community service is integral to Mae’s identity. She believes her medical mission work to Ethiopia and Zimbabwe is a privilege of serving those in need. “The joy of witnessing healing and hope restored, and the humbling realization that amidst adversity, humans’ capacity for kindness knows no bounds.” Mae loves partaking in local charitable community work, whether it be for shelter services, healthcare services, outreach programs, mentoring, veteran assistance, or any project to help make a positive difference.

Founder & Designer

THE AFFORDABLE LUXURY GROUP

Now 10 years strong, the Aimee Kestenberg brand redefines the meaning of ‘affordable luxury.' Combining mindful design and an ethos of selfempowerment, the Aimee Kestenberg brand values confidence and self-expression, and inspires every woman to 'be your own muse.' As one of the fastest growing private companies in America, the brand has been featured on the prestigious Inc. 5000 List for three consecutive years and is carried by leading fashion retailers including Nordstrom, QVC and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Known for her free-spirited Australian personality, Aimee is one of the youngest household names and experts in TV Retail globally, appealing to a broad range of authenticity-seeking consumers.

Having faced many challenges in her career, she is dedicated to being a pillar of strength and support to her community through mentorship initiatives, philanthropic efforts and collaborations.

As a working mother of three, Aimee lives in New York with her husband Sean, their two sons Max, Zac and daughter Ava-Beth.

ENTREPRENEUR

JESSICA WOOD CEO THE OLIVE TREE PEOPLE

Jess Wood has been in the digital sales space for a little over four years, which enabled her to retire from her career as a Corporate Brand Manager with Ralph Lauren at the ripe age of 35. Currently she is a practicing Birth Doula, Professional Model (True Model Management in New York City), influencer, international yoga instructor who organizes retreats (next up is Italy in May!) Most recently she began working for MissionBe; she teaches neuroscience and mindfulness in schools throughout Long Island. She also launched her meditation podcast “The Meditation Collective.”

Originally from Islip, she now resides in the Long Beach area. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and outdoor adventures.

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success in 2023?

The ability to pause, listen to my heart and pursue what I love. Embracing the ability to pivot in a career or business is akin to unlocking endless possibilities and harnessing the power of adaptability. It's about recognizing opportunities for growth, seizing new challenges, and fearlessly navigating change. With each pivot, we not only expand our skill set but also enrich our journey, discovering hidden talents and unlocking doors to unforeseen horizons. Embrace the journey of pivoting, for it is the path to personal and professional fulfillment.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

My first Women's summit for women 40 and over, Amaezing Midlife and Beyond.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

2023 marked our 10 year brand anniversary, in our business, that is a rarity. Despite the usual hard work and dedication that comes with growing a company, the Accessories industry was hit particularly hard over the last few years...from tariffs and inflation to a global pandemic, we've seen non-stop challenges along the way. I'm proud of how we were able to navigate some of the toughest times in business with grit, smarts and drive to have been able to proudly celebrate our most successful year to date in 2023,

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success?

Stepping down from one company to launch a European brand here in the U.S.

Can you discuss a major challenge you've faced in your career and how you overcame it?

Recently I was physically incapable of performing many of my endeavors. I had to lean further into digital and get creative as I heal.

Balancing a successful career and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage this balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving for the same?

Time block, Don't forget to schedule time for just you to do things that bring you actual joy and do not worry about always being "productive.” If you don't rest, your body will eventually make you.

ENTREPRENUER

VALERIE NIFORA

Author

of

ENTREPRENUER

ELIZABETH POLKE

President

& CEO

UNLEASH THE POWER OF YOU

Valerie Nifora stands as a distinguished author and marketing communications expert with a dynamic career spanning 30 years, prominently within the corporate giants IBM and Accenture. Raised in New York by Greek immigrant parents, she draws inspiration from her rich heritage for her storytelling prowess.

As the best-selling author of several books, Valerie has earned critical acclaim, including the Hawthorne Prize Award (shortlist), Amor Award (finalist), Independent Press Award (distinguished favorite - audiobook), and Author Academy Elite Award (honorary).

Beyond her literary achievements, Valerie is a seasoned global marketing leader, currently steering strategies for ecosystem partners, including Google. With a B.A. in communications from Emerson College and an M.B.A. from Fordham University, she brings a unique blend of creativity and business acumen to her roles, which encompass marketing strategy, strategic partnerships, social media marketing, corporate communications, and branding across diverse industries.

Valerie's dedication extends to her role on the board of directors for the Long Island Authors Group, where she contributes her expertise and passion for literature. A proud wife, mother of two sons, and self-proclaimed tea addict, Valerie's influence reaches beyond her professional realms.

Her prowess in corporate marketing and communications is marked by numerous accolades, including an Eminence and Excellence Award, Event Marketer Businessto-Business Dream Team nomination, and the Growth and Transformation Award. Valerie has been featured as a speaker at IBM Social Business University, sharing insights on the importance of storytelling in marketing.

PRODIGY CONSULTANT GROUP INC. / ALL CHOICE ENERGY LLC

Elizabeth Polke serves as the founder and president, of All Choice Energy LLC., Avere LLC. Polke Properties LLC, Prodigy Consultant Group Inc., Polke Capital Partners LLC., Avere LLC., and Foundation Mami Clemencita. Elizabeth started her career in direct marketing in 1999. She has over 25 years of experience in all aspects of direct marketing and sales in both the residential and business-to-business markets.

In 2009, Elizabeth expanded her growing business operations to capitalize on the expertise her management team had acquired during the previous decade to create not just a direct marketing company but a full-service entity, equipped with a proprietary system to build upon the marketing company’s superior expertise in customer acquisition in part by efficiently and effectively facilitating the training and education of employees and agents to educate and enroll customers successfully. By leveraging such a system, the marketing company has grown from 30 sales agents in one office to over 2,000 sales agents and 120 sales managers operating out of 80 offices throughout the country. In 2013, Prodigy Consultant Group Inc. was created.

In 2017, Elizabeth recognized the need for a woman, minority-owned retail energy provider. With her extensive knowledge developed over the last 10 years in selling Gas and Electricity to customers nationwide, she saw a void in the ability of these companies to service the Latin community. Elizabeth founded All Choice Energy LLC. in 2017 for this purpose — it started servicing customers in May of 2018 and now provides gas and electricity supply services to 500 small/midsize businesses and over 6,000 residential customers in New York alone.

ENTREPRENUER

NATALIE REBUCK, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP Principal Designer RE: DESIGN ARCHITECTS

Re: Design Architects is an award-winning, boutique architecture and interior design firm, offering all services necessary to see projects through from beginning to end. Natalie Rebuck, the firm’s principal designer, has over 17 years of experience managing a wide range of complex commercial and residential projects across the globe. She specializes in creating luxurious and timeless interiors with a focus on highend materials and finishes. Recognizing that no two projects are the same, Natalie strives to create unique designs tailored to client objectives, budgets, and the aesthetic of the space.

Prior to founding Re: Design Architects, Natalie spent eight years working as the project architect for the award-winning firm Kliment Halsband Architects. Notable projects of Natalie’s include the fashion incubator for the Council of Fashion Designers of America, the Old Observatory at Vassar College, the Washington Mews at New York University, Avalon Morningside Park in New York City, as well as other institutional mandates from Yale and Johns Hopkins Universities.

Since forming Re: Design Architects, Natalie has completed projects for distinguished clients such as GFP Real Estate, Newmark, SUNY Optometry, and a world-renowned DJ. Her wide range of experience in historic preservation and adaptive reuse in addition to high-end residential and hospitality projects demonstrates Natalie's versatile expertise.

Natalie’s design style embraces maximalist, modern, and antique elements; all geared to optimizing and showcasing the space in which she is working. To compliment her design choices, Natalie often chooses to decorate spaces with both antique and contemporary pieces, resulting in rooms that feel modern yet timeless.

Q&A Q&A Q&A

Can you discuss a major challenge you've faced in your career and how you overcame it?

I believe the most significant challenge many of us face is the pressure to diminish ourselves. A quote that resonates deeply with me is from Denzel Washington: 'Some people will never like you because your spirit irritates their demons.' Now, I simply shine, confident that those who appreciate my talents and skills will recognize and connect with me.

Balancing a successful career and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage this balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving for the same?

Decide what holds the utmost importance in your life and make choices accordingly. For me, it has always been my sons. They are my greatest priority, accompanying me throughout my entire life along with my husband. I've turned down promotions and opportunities that didn't align with the life I envisioned for us. Always recognize and safeguard what holds the highest significance in your heart, and make decisions with that in mind.

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success in 2023?

In 2023, I realized the difference between being rich and actually building lasting generational wealth. Using my past experiences, I started investing my time and money in ways that not only helped me create generational wealth, but also allowed me to teach others to do the same.

Balancing a successful career and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage this balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving for the same?

Juggling a career and personal life can be tough for many women. My approach is all about making the most of the time I have allocated to each, being intentional with my time. I make sure every minute I spend with my business, my friends, my family and myself count. With this I find fulfillment in both areas of my life.

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success?

A pivotal decision for me was to take all opportunities that came my way, even if they felt out of reach. That led to our team getting 18 out of 23 bids and growing my firm from 3 people to 11 people in 2023.

Can you discuss a major challenge you've faced in your career and how you overcame it?

Being a woman in a predominantly male profession is difficult. While women make up 50 percent of architecture graduates, we only make up 20% of licensed practitioners. This means I have to prove myself repeatedly, but I don't let that discourage me and keep putting my bid and winning projects with some of the biggest developers in the area.

GOVERNMENT

ANISSA D. MOORE

Deputy County Executive, Health & Human Services NASSAU COUNTY

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

SEEMA BHANSALI, ESQ.

Vice President of Employee Experience and Inclusion HENRY SCHEIN

Anissa D. Moore, a Brooklyn native, holds a Master of Arts degree in Communications/Media Studies from Hunter College, City University of New York. She joined Nassau Community College, SUNY, in 1996, becoming the first African American tenured faculty member in the Communications Department. In 2006, she was elected Chairperson, becoming the first African American woman to hold the position. An advocate for campus harmony, she launched the “Civility Project” in 2009. Appointed Dean of Social & Behavioral Sciences in 2011, she became the first African American woman in this role. Anissa also serves as a Full Professor and was elected as the first African American Academic Senate leader in 2017.

An accomplished playwright, poet, and choral director, Anissa's works include "Sistas on Fire!" and her poetry book, "11226: Just A Girl From Brooklyn." She is dedicated to mentoring and serves on boards including the Economic Opportunity Commission of Nassau County.

Anissa's leadership extended to the Long Beach City Council in 2015, where she focused on community empowerment. She founded the Long Beach Women’s Empowerment Network and the Black and Jewish Alliance. In 2019, she established the North Park Community Development Corporation to empower low-income families. Named Deputy County Executive for Health & Human Services in 2022, she revitalized Women Services and initiated several community centers. Anissa serves as Chair of the Nassau County Land Bank and the Nassau County Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Liaison Officer, embodying Shirley Chisholm's mantra: "I am and always will be a catalyst for change."

Seema Bhansali is the Vice President of Employee Experience and Inclusion in the Office of the Chairman and CEO at Henry Schein, Inc., a Fortune 500 company whose mission it is to provide innovative, integrated healthcare products and services to healthcare practitioners. A proven strategic thinker adept at implementation and cultural change, she joined the Company in 2017 to develop and lead cross-divisional strategies with an emphasis on team culture, engagement strategies, and government relations. Seema is responsible for co-leading Henry Schein’s holistic strategy to promote Diversity and Inclusion and developing the organization’s Employee Value Proposition.

Before joining Henry Schein, Seema spent 14 years working in a number of roles with U.S. Congressman Steve Israel. Through her various positions, she has also developed strategic programs to maximize brand value, foster team development, and advance intergovernmental communications.

Seema has also been a panelist on government, culture, diversity, and leadership. Most notably in 2023, Seema was the moderator on a panel with several federal and state local officials discussing the journey of being an Asian American leader. She was a panelist on Vantage Circles webinar on “Quiet Quitting” with Anxiety at Work podcast hosts and New York Times bestsellers Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton. In 2022 Seema was featured on the “HR Leaders Podcast” where she discussed changing ideas around work culture, and on the podcast “Living Corporate” where she discussed how to keep the momentum for D&I work.

Seema lives on Long Island with her husband and two children. She is on the Board of Trustees for Harbor Country Day School and the Long Island Association. She believes that practicing emotional intelligence and centering around your purpose are the keys to creating long-lasting change.

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

JENNIFER LEVEQUE

Senior Clinical Research Associate, Founder LABCORP DRUG DEVELOPMENT, WHIPPED LASH ®

Jennifer Leveque's distinguished career in clinical research, marked by roles at IQVIA, PRA Health Sciences, and Labcorp Drug Development, set her apart as a deserving candidate for the Premier Business Women Award. Her decade-long experience reflects not only expertise, but also a consistent drive for success in managing clinical studies for renowned companies like Genentech/Roche, Janssen Pharmaceutical Company of Johnson and Johnson, Celgene, and Bristol Myers Squibb.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jennifer's commitment to community development is noteworthy. As the founder of Next Generation Long Island, she actively contributes to shaping future leaders. Jennifer's civic engagement, evident in her role on the Suffolk County Police Reform and Reinvention Task Force, showcases her dedication to positive societal changes. Her participation in Tomorrow's Executives Healthcare Businesswomen's Association and mentorship with the Moxxie Mentoring Foundation further underscores her commitment to community growth and professional development.

In entrepreneurship, Jennifer shines as the Founder of Whipped Lash Magnetic Eyelashes. Her vision and leadership in creating a successful business in the competitive beauty industry, particularly with vegan and cruelty-free magnetic eyelashes, highlights her commitment to innovation and ethical practices. Jennifer's dedication to positive company culture, mentorship, and community involvement make her an exemplary businesswoman.

Q&A Q&A Q&A

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

Last year, my office successfully hosted the MWBE Expo at Nassau Community College to increase awareness and opportunities for local businesses in Nassau County. As a result, the County increased the discretionary spending limit to maximize support for local businesses. Furthermore, my office successfully worked with local community partners, businesses and academic institutions to advance the workforce development initiatives within mental health, social services and community health.

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

The heart of leadership is service. As an educator for over twenty-five years, the government has provided a platform for me to teach and train community groups and nonprofit organizations to write grant proposals, enhance leadership skills and to effectively utilize resources. Furthermore, chairing the Long Beach Women Empowerment Network over the years allows me to connect with my neighbors and local business owners and provide support.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

The launch of the Henry Schein Games — a companywide competition with in-person and virtual elements — helps create connections between our team members and reduce symptoms of burnout. It also helps tie in the history of our organization, as everyone belongs to one of two teams, Henry or Esther, the organization's founders.

Balancing a successful career and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage this balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving for the same?

I didn't always manage this balance well and getting it right is a daily process. But if you focus on building your day with what you value as a guide, you'll find a natural balance. If you look at your daily calendar and don’t see your values reflected on there (and your health and wellbeing should be part of that) then it's time to re-strategize.

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

My commitment to community involvement extends to actively engaging with initiatives focused on addressing the “brain drain” phenomenon and nurturing local talent on Long Island. As the founder of Next Generation Long Island, I am deeply invested in mentoring and empowering young individuals, equipping them with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in our community. By fostering connections and providing guidance, we aim to combat the loss of talent and encourage the next generation to invest in the future of Long Island. I prioritize staying connected with local government to advocate for policies that support economic growth and retention of skilled professionals.

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

EVE LUPENKO, MD, FAAD

Director of Dermatology

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

MARIA ELENA PEÑA, MD, ABOM

Director of Cardiometabolic Disease

GREENBERG COSMETIC SURGERY AND DERMATOLOGY

Dr. Eve Lupenko has over 25 years experience as a board-certified medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatologist for both adults and children. She is Director of Dermatology at Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology in Woodbury and Smithtown, and teaches pediatric dermatology at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital.

In addition to skincare speaking engagements, Eve also provides annual free skin cancer screenings for people who cannot afford health insurance or copays.

Her devotion to the health and well-being of others extends beyond her medical practice. Eve is a former elected official, having served as a Glen Cove City Councilwoman. She is Vice President of the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce, is an active member of the North Shore Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and is the founder of the ‘Do Good to Feel Good’ program. She also currently sits on the Boards of Glen Cove’s Beautification Commission, Arts Council, Community Scholarship Fund, Downtown Sounds, Glen Cove C.A.R.E.S., and the North Shore Historical Museum. In her free time, she enjoys community theater, especially being President of the Slayer Players Theatre Group where she is best known for her recurring role as the Honeymooners’ Alice Kramden in their Classic Live TV series.

SAINT FRANCIS HOSPITAL, CATHOLIC HEALTH

Maria E. Peña, MD, is a board certified physician in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, and Obesity Medicine. Mara attended the highly competitive accelerated seven-year program at the Sophie Davis School of Biomedicine. She finished the last two years of her clinical training at their affiliate school, New York Medical College, where she obtained her medical degree in 2008. Maria completed her residency and fellowship training at Northwell Health North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Hospital.

Maria recently joined Catholic Health as director of cardiometabolic disease where she is spearheading the development of this program. She is a member of numerous medical societies including the American Diabetes Association and the Obesity Medicine Association. She has published in medical journals, including a chapter in Current Diabetes Reviews, and has presented her work at national conferences. More recently, she joined NYC Health Business Leaders currently as co-chair in developing health policies in obesity treatment and prevention.

Maria was previously director of the Center for Weight Management at Syosset Hospital and Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health. She later joined Mount Sinai Hospital, serving as director of endocrine services at their Forest Hills outpatient practice and as the medical director for Mount Sinai Diabetes Alliance Program.

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

Kelly Tallaksen is a board-certified hypnotist under the National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH), an NGH hypnosis instructor, president of the NGH Long Island Chapter, published author, and public speaker on human consciousness and the soul. She is the owner of Hearts in Harmony Hypnosis for over 13 years. She holds a doctorate degree in Metaphysical Hypnosis and is currently obtaining her Ph.D. in Holistic Life Counseling from the University of Sedona. She is certified in Holistic Psychology, HeartMath and Higher Mind Healing. Kelly is the co-producer of the short film, “The Voice of Spirit,” based on her book, “The Voiceless Soul”, to be released summer of 2024. Kelly has published several articles in digital wellness magazines and has shared her expertise on several podcasts, social media forums, and her YouTube channel.

Kelly sees clients in person and on Zoom to help them heal their past so they can live a healthier and happier future. Kelly’s work has been recognized by Who’s Who in America and The International Association of Top Professionals. Kelly is very involved in the spiritual community on Long Island and is a co-creator of the annual celebration of spiritualists, which is currently in its 8th year.

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success?

I healed my physical issues by understanding the mind-body connection which led me to learn the value of hypnosis and spiritual healing. This ultimately led me to help others heal from the subconscious emotional trauma that keeps them trapped in emotional and physical distress.

Q&A Q&A Q&A

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

In the past year, I devoted myself again to promoting small local businesses by becoming the first vice president of the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce, a position in which I have served in the past. I’m also active in the North Shore Hispanic Chamber of Commerce since its inception. Even though my business is not in the immediate vicinity of Glen Cove, this is where I hope to always live, and where I hope my children will settle. I want to help our local businesses thrive, and help make this community a place where seniors can afford to live and where our youth will want to come back to after finishing their education. But to accomplish this, we need to make the community successful by increasing the tax base and offering more shops, restaurants and social activities that will attract people to want to live here and be able to afford to live here, as well as encourage more locals to open their dream businesses here.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

I am proud to be one of the first physicians in our area working to create a cardiometabolic disease program, especially since we are still in the early stages of developing clear guidelines to address this critical health issue. Cardiometabolic disease includes diabetes, heart disease, obesity and all the other health issues that are related. The goal is to focus on early detection and intervention in hopes of reducing mortality and improving quality of life.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you’re particularly proud of?

I commenced a short film project based on my book “The Voiceless Soul” set to be released early summer of 2024.

Balancing a successful career and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage this balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving for the same?

Women are capable of doing many things when they are not under stress. It’s important to find time to meditate and let your intuition guide you. Keep a list of priorities for both personal needs and professional endeavors. Always remember that balance comes from a peaceful mind and the ability to realize that not everything is a priority. No matter how much you achieve in a day, it is enough. Release any fears or judgments about not doing enough or being enough. It’s important to balance the mind, body, soul, and spirit when living a full personal and professional life and always find time for self-restoration.

KELLY TALLAKSEN

Doctor of Metaphysical Hypnosis HEARTS IN HARMONY HYPNOSIS

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

TAMEKA WALLACE MBA, MSN-RN, CPAN, CCRN-K

Associate Executive Director, Peri-Operative Services GLEN COVE HOSPITAL

LEGAL

YVONNE R. CORT, ESQ. Partner

CAPELL BARNETT MATALON & SCHOENFELD LLP

Tameka Wallace oversees patient care, strategy, programmatic growth, team member development, and the business needs for Peri-Operative Services, while also carrying out the system, hospital, and nursing services mission, vision, values, and overall strategic plan.

Tameka started her career at NSUH in 2000 as a lobby service assistant. In 2001, Tameka transitioned to a telemetry unit and worked as a Support Care Associate until 2006. In 2006, Tameka graduated from Farmingdale State College and was accepted into Northwell's Critical Care Fellowship Program and began her nursing career in the Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit.

While on this unit, Tameka immersed herself into her nursing craft, and committee memberships.

Tameka was co-chair of the unit’s Collaborative Care Council, Magnet Champion, and was on the CNO Advisory Board. In 2018, she graduated with her Masters in Nursing Leadership from Stony Brook University and started her leadership journey as the evening assistant manager of one of the system's largest recovery rooms. In 2019, Tameka became the manager of the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU).

In 2021, Tameka graduated with her Masters in Business Administration with concentration in Strategic Healthcare Management. Tameka was also given the opportunity to become the Director of Schwartz Ambulatory Surgery Center at NSUH. In September 2022, Tameka became the Senior Director of Peri-Operative Services at Glen Cove. In December 2022, Tameka and her Peri-Operative Leadership team obtained AAC's Silver Beacon Award for their PACU.

Yvonne R. Cort is a partner at Capell Barnett Matalon and Schoenfeld LLP, where she focuses her practice on resolving Federal and New York State tax controversies.

For over 20 years, Yvonne has assisted individuals and businesses with IRS, New York State, and New York City tax matters including audits, appeals, and collection issues.

Yvonne is a member of the Executive Committee of the NYS Bar Association Tax Section. She has served as chair of the IRS Downstate New York Practitioner Liaison Group, and chair of the Business Law, Tax and Accounting Committee of the Nassau County Bar Association.

Yvonne has written numerous articles on tax topics and she is a regular speaker for professional groups. She has been quoted in Bloomberg BNA, Crain’s New York Business, Newsday, Investment News, and other leading publications. Yvonne has also been selected as a New York Metro SuperLawyer, a designation given to only 5% of the lawyers in the state.

Yvonne is a graduate of the University of Rochester, magna cum laude, and the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School. Yvonne is admitted to the Bar in New York and admitted to practice before the United States Tax Court. lives of our clients better.

Q&A Q&A

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success in 2023?

The pivotal moment or decision that had the most significant impact on our success in Peri-Operative services at Glen Cove Hospital in 2023 was the implementation of a comprehensive quality improvement initiative. Recognizing the importance of delivering exceptional patient care and optimizing operational efficiency, we embarked on a thorough assessment of our processes, workflows, and patient outcomes.

This initiative involved collaboration among our clinical staff, administrative team, and key stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and implement evidence-based practices. Through data-driven analysis, we pinpointed opportunities to streamline workflows, enhance communication among team members, and standardize best practices.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you’re particularly proud of?

It’s so rewarding to see how my clients’ lives change for the better as a result of the work I’ve done for them. I often represent taxpayers who run into financial difficulties stemming from cash flow issues, a general business downturn, or a combination of financial and personal hardships such as illness or divorce. This past year, I represented a business that had struggled through tough times and incurred significant tax liabilities, with interest continuing to accrue. While it was still able to operate, the business and the business owner would never be able to repay that crushing debt in full. Negotiating on their behalf, I was able to reach an agreement with the IRS that saved them hundreds of thousands of dollars. As a result, the business can continue to operate and keep dozens of people employed and the business owner can concentrate on today and the future. This was one of several similar cases I handled for my clients in the past year.

LEGAL

Christina Jonathan specializes in tax litigation, trust and estates, and guardianship law. With a focus on tax litigation, she adeptly represents individuals and businesses before the IRS and NYS Dept. of Finance, handling civil and criminal tax proceedings, audits, innocent spouse claims, FBAR violations, and penalty abatements, among other matters. Christina is skilled in negotiating settlements that significantly reduce clients’ tax liabilities and assists with various collection issues, including payment plans and levy reversals.

In her trust and estates practice, Christina assists clients in meeting their estate planning goals by preparing wills, trusts, power of attorney forms, and advance directives. She also guides families through probate and administration proceedings, representing fiduciaries and beneficiaries in contested estate matters such as will/trust contests and breach of fiduciary duty claims.

Additionally, Christina has a strong guardianship practice, representing clients in Article 81 and Article 17/17A proceedings. She also serves as a court-appointed guardian, attorney, and evaluator under Part 36 of the Rules of the Chief Judge.

Previously, Christina managed the tax litigation department at a prestigious Garden City law firm for over seven years before joining Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran, LLP. She is known for her compassionate approach and dedication to achieving favorable outcomes for her clients.

CHRISTINA JONATHAN Partner JASPAN SCHLESINGER NARENDRAN LLP

LEGAL

LEGAL

LAUREN E. MONAGHAN, ESQ. Partner

CERTILMAN BALIN ADLER & HYMAN, LLP

Lauren E. Monaghan is a partner in the banking and commercial lending group at Certilman Balin. She is a member of the firm’s Women’s Initiative Committee, which is dedicated to the growth of the firm’s professionals, through training, networking, and philanthropy. She leads the outreach subcommittee in connecting with various local charities and nonprofit organizations. Through her efforts, the firm launched its first pro-bono initiative.

Lauren’s practice concentrates on the areas of real estate and commercial lending. She represents borrowers and financial institutions, with particular focus on the representation of institutional and private lenders in all aspects of financial transactions. She has extensive experience structuring, documenting and closing various credit facilities on behalf of her clients, including mortgage loans, asset-based financing, construction financing, leasehold financing, interest rate swap transactions and government-guaranteed loans offered through the U.S. Small Business Administration.

VICTORIA SPAGNOLO Associate Attorney

THE NHG LAW GROUP, P.C.

Victoria Spagnolo practices employment litigation matters before state and federal courts, as well as federal and state agencies, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, New York State Division of Human Rights, and the Department of Labor. Victoria also assists with the firm’s personal injury matters.

Victoria has skillfully represented clients across a broad spectrum of employment matters, including wage and hour disputes concerning domestic workers, superintendents, and other employees; as well as employment discrimination and other wrongful termination matters based on alleged violations of the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL), New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL), Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Victoria is admitted to practice law in the states of New York and New Jersey as well as the United States District Court for the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York. She is proficient in Spanish and is an active member of the Long Island Hispanic Bar Association, the Nassau County Bar Association, and the New York State Bar Association.

She received her Juris Doctor from the Northeastern University School of Law (NUSL), and her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Scranton, summa cum laude.

LEGAL

MELISSA NEGRIN WIENER, ESQ. Senior Partner

CONA ELDER LAW PLLC

Melissa Negrin-Wiener is a Senior Partner at Cona Elder Law. Celebrating 20 years with the firm, Melissa manages the Government Benefits and Estate Planning Departments, concentrating her practice in asset protection, Medicaid eligibility planning and applications, estate planning, mediation, guardianships and Veterans benefits. Ms. Negrin-Wiener also directs Cona Elder Law’s Special Needs Practice Group. She serves on the Board of Directors of the ELIJA Foundation, is a Board Member of the Developmental Disabilities Institute, and is co-chair of the Health and Wellness Committee of the Hauppauge Industrial Association of Long Island (HIA-LI), also the Guardianship Committee for AHRC Suffolk and the Melville Chamber of Commerce Women’s Empowerment Network. She is also co-chair of the Ginsburg Suffolk Attorney and Judges Council of Hadassah.

Long dedicated to pro bono work, Melissa received the Outstanding Pro Bono Attorney award from Touro Law School.

Melissa is a State Certified Court Examiner, Court Evaluator and Counsel to Guardian and incapacitated persons and is accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs. She is admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, is an Advanced Elder Law Mediator trained by the New York Peace Institute and serves as a Mediator on the Nassau County Bar Association Alternative Dispute Resolution Panel.

Q&A Q&A Q&A

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you’re particularly proud of?

My work at Certilman Balin has given me the opportunity to develop the firm’s first formally organized pro-bono initiative. Through this effort, our attorneys are able to utilize their time and talents to support worthy causes and organizations and serve our community. This initiative allows me to lead, both internally and externally, network, and overcome challenges for the betterment of those we serve.

Balancing a successful career and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage this balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving for the same?

Each day I am faced with the challenge of balancing my professional and personal lives and I am constantly learning how to best manage the two. As women and given the many expectations society holds for us women, we are oftentimes spread extremely thin. When I get overwhelmed, I try to remember that we are only human and that we can only do our best. Be kind and forgiving to yourself! While we all want to be successful, it’s important to do what you love and spend time with loved ones!

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

I have always felt strongly about giving back to the community. Community involvement is so important especially when you have a demanding career and a busy home life. It is a way to stay connected to things that you are passionate about while helping others at the same time. Most recently, I have been named Co-Chair for the American Heart Association 2025 Go Red for Women Luncheon and was a Visionary of the Year for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I am also one of the founders of Cona Elder Law Charitable Events, a 501(c) (3), and the Chair of Senior Dreams Come True, a program that grants wishes to low-income seniors across Long Island.

LEISURE & ENTERTAINMENT

JENNIFER MOCK DONOHUE

Senior Vice President

DISNEY ADVERTISING LOCAL

Jennifer Donohue is senior vice president of Disney Advertising Local. Under her leadership, Jennifer is responsible for all revenues across Disney’s expansive Linear and Addressable Ad Sales teams, focusing on multi-media opportunities for marketers. Within the Local portfolio, Jennifer also leads local, regional, political, advertising sales channels nationally for Disney, driving impressive incremental revenue for the ABCowned television stations and Disney streaming business at large, inclusive of Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+.

Prior to Hulu’s integration into Disney, Jennifer served as vice president of local advertising sales at Hulu where she was responsible for managing local, regional and political sales channels for the platform. Jennifer had direct oversight of all sales strategies related to local and regional market demands and led the expansion of Hulu’s creative resource offerings for local and regional buyers and overseeing Hulu Ad Manager, Hulu’s Self-Serve ad platform; ultimately, assisting in maximizing the targeted campaign opportunities in streaming TV.

Before joining Hulu, Jennifer served as the vice president, agency sales for Audacy (formerly Entercom Communications Corp.) Prior to Audacy, Jennifer spent 15 years at CBS Radio Inc. where she was elevated to senior vice president, sales, CBS Radio before the companies merged in 2017. At CBS, Jennifer oversaw all aspects of sales in the New York market, the largest local business and brands for the company, and managed both the Integrated Marketing and Live Events divisions. She was also responsible for the launch of CBS NY Local Digital Media, servicing television and radio clients.

Jennifer enjoys binge-watching her favorite Disney programs and spending time with her husband Christopher, son Aidan and their dog Apple.

LESIURE & ENTERTAINMENT

MORGAN TAYLOR

Vice President, Business Operations BSE GLOBAL (NY LIBERTY & LI NETS)

As Vice President of Growth Properties for the Long Island Nets, Morgan Taylor oversees strategic and operational activities for the NBA G League team of the Brooklyn Nets. In addition to her role with the Long Island Nets, Morgan serves as the vice president of business operations for the New York Liberty where she oversees event operations, merchandise and leads on ticket marketing initiatives. She works closely with the CEO and the full executive team to execute strategic planning, increase fan base and generate sales.

With a passion for the fan experience and revenue generation, Morgan started her career with the MLS in their digital properties department gaining a keen focus on providing digital value to sponsors. From there she spent five seasons with the New York Liberty at Madison Square Garden, where she led the WNBA in top ticket sales revenue for the 2015 and 2016 season and provided top-tier service to all season ticket holders to help maintain and grow the fan base.

Morgan moved on to work with the Washington Football Team as manager of business operations and the Las Vegas Aces; selling over $600k in ticket revenue and managing their season ticket holder base for their inaugural season.

She attended George Washington University, where she served as head equipment manager for the Women’s Basketball team. She graduated in 2012 with a bachelor of Business Administration in Finance. She then completed the Sports Certificate program at New York University in 2013.

A native New Yorker, Morgan resides in Long Island with her son, Devin.

MEDIA

KRISTA BENNETT DEMAIO CEO & Founder LI BEAUTY

SCENE

Krista Bennett DeMaio has over two decades of experience as a magazine editor and writer, working with national publications such as Women’s Health, Oprah, Allure, Parents, Shape, and websites, including HealthCentral.com bhg.com, and prevention.com.

In 2021, Krista launched LI Beauty Scene, a first-ofits-kind platform for beauty enthusiasts and professionals on Long Island. Krista has made it her business to promote, celebrate, and elevate the Long Island beauty industry while giving her followers trusted and well-vetted beauty advice.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you’re particularly proud of?

Having worked as an editor/writer in the beauty industry for 22 years, I have seen firsthand how media hasn’t always been inclusive or had proper representation for all of its readers or followers. I’ve worked on hair stories that never mentioned natural textured hair. When I started LI Beauty Scene, I knew that being inclusive in my coverage and promoting Long Island’s diversity would be part of the brand’s ethos from day one. To that end, I created the “Black-Owned Beauty on Long Island” list on my website, featuring Black-owned Long Island businesses for hair, nail, skin, makeup, etc. This page remains in my top three most-visited pages on the website. It’s a collaborative work in progress that I’m proud to offer my readers as a free resource.

Q&A Q&A

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success?

Seizing the opportunity to grow my career by becoming the vice president of business operations for the Long Island Nets. This move not only allowed me to expand my career, but also to take on new challenges that ultimately propelled my success. Additionally, I am committed to growing the next generation of female leaders in the industry by providing mentorship and opportunities for women to thrive in sports management roles.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you’re particularly proud of?

I’m particularly proud of i our community partnership with Big Brother Big Sisters of Long Island through the Long Island Nets. As an organization, we have become “bigs” to two high school students, offering them a hands-on opportunity to learn about the sports industry. As a former big myself with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Long Island, I take pride in providing such valuable experiences for these individuals and my community.

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

Helping my community goes far beyond referring people to a good hairstylist or makeup artist. I am always seeking ways to help local organizations that align with my values and the causes I feel strongly about, either monetarily or by donating my time and resources. I’m currently an advisory board member for Sereen Hair Foundation, an organization that helps women dealing with medical-based hair loss access high-quality wigs at low or no cost. I have also offered support to Mondays at Racine, an organization that offers free beauty services for cancer patients. I volunteered my time and resources to do interviews on the red carpet at their recent gala and have offered my editorial services as needed at no cost. I recently lost my mother, a former hairdresser, to cancer, and this is one way I can help combine my beauty editorial skills with my desire to support local women and men with cancer.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

LAURA N. HARDING, ESQ.

ERASE RACISM

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

EILEEN MINOGUE

Director BOOK FAIRIES

Laura Harding, Esq., is President of ERASE Racism, the regional civil rights organization based on Long Island that exposes and addresses the devastating impact of historical and ongoing structural racism, particularly in housing and public school education. Laura is an advocate, attorney, and public administrator with extensive experience advancing racial justice, equity, and inclusion in New York and Washington, DC. Laura holds a bachelor’s degree from Adelphi University, a master’s degree from the University of Chicago and a law degree from Howard University.

Eileen Minogue is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in both corporate and nonprofit realms. Armed with expertise in business management, program administration, fund development, and volunteer engagement, Eileen possesses a unique skill set that drives organizational success.

Since assuming the role of executive director at Book Fairies in 2019, Eileen has been instrumental in reshaping the organization and amplifying its influence. Through strategic partnerships, collaborative initiatives, and diversification of funding streams, she has significantly boosted both in-kind and monetary support, witnessing a remarkable asset growth of over 300% from March 2019 to 2022.

Before her tenure at Book Fairies, Eileen co-founded and led Patient Airlift Services, starting it from her basement and expanding its reach to serve individuals nationally. This background highlights her adeptness in nurturing and advancing nonprofit entities from inception.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Eileen is deeply committed to giving back to the community. Over the past twenty years, she has volunteered with various nonprofits, including serving on the board of The Massapequa Community Fund, which has contributed over $2 million in local assistance since 2001.

Eileen’s unwavering dedication to promoting literacy, assisting underserved populations, and fostering equal opportunities underscores her mission-driven approach to effecting positive change.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

EILEEN MCDONALD EGAN

COMMUNITY MAINSTREAMING ASSOCIATES, INC.

Eileen McDonald Egan has served as Executive Director of Community Mainstreaming Associates since 2012. The revenue of the organization and the number of people served have tripled since she began. Her passion for creating family-style homes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities began in the early 1980s after witnessing the horrific conditions people endured living in state institutions and seeing the beautiful alternatives created by pioneering parent advocates and non-profit organizations. Eileen is particularly proud of all of the advances that have occurred in the field throughout her career — a result of people learning to recognize, respect, and capitalize on the talents and rights of every individual. She takes particular pride in the innovative new services that Community Mainstreaming Associates continues to develop, responding to the evolving needs of individuals with disabilities.

Eileen received her B.S. in Special Education from Southern Connecticut State University, her Master of Arts from Stony Brook University, and her Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Yale University.

Eileen has served on a number of provider association boards, including the New York Association for Community and Residential Agencies (now called the New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation), the Alliance of Long Island Agencies, Advanced Care Alliance of New York, the Yale Alumni Non-Profit Alliance, and the Foreseeable Future Foundation, an organization that provides opportunities for blind athletes to train and compete in a variety of sports.

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success?

In 2023, ERASE Racism took an unpopular position regarding housing on Long Island. It allowed ERASE Racism to establish itself as a leader in the housing space.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you’re particularly proud of?

I am extremely proud of the work we did with our Student Taskforce — a group of high school students. They facilitated a workshop on amplifying student voice during an Education conference at Columbia University’s Teacher College and participated in a plenary session with Dr, Bettina Love, a leader in Education Equity.

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

My commitment to community involvement extends beyond my professional role, reflecting values instilled in me from an early age by my mother. Giving back and assisting others have always been integral to my identity. As the president of the Massapequa Community Fund, an allvolunteer organization, I have had the privilege of serving the community where I have resided my entire life. Through our collective efforts, we have raised and distributed over $2 million, making a tangible impact on the lives of individuals and families in need.

Additionally, I have volunteered with organizations such as the Massapequa Kiwanis, Take Me Out to the Ballgame Foundation, and the Chris Carrino Foundation for FSH muscular dystrophy. Each of these experiences has allowed me to contribute to causes close to my heart and to collaborate with like-minded individuals dedicated to making a difference.

President

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

A NANIA FOUNDATION INC.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

SUCI PADRO President

NAHREP - NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HISPANIC REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS®

In 2017, Rosemarie Nania’s eldest brother, Angelo, suddenly collapsed and was rushed to the hospital. During the months that followed, the family learned that he was positive for vascular Elhers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS), a severe and rare genetic condition which breaks down the body’s connective tissue- especially in arteries and organs. Angelo passed away in 2019 at age 49 due to an aortic dissection, leaving Rosemarie and her family heartbroken but determined to find solutions. Since Angelo's passing, the family learned that 4 other family members have vEDS.

In 2023, Rosemarie founded BELOvEDS, A Nania Foundation Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization committed to raising awareness and funds to develop a viable treatment and cure for vEDS. In just one year, BELOvEDS has hosted major fundraisers and, building on that success, has launched a scholarship fund for college students who are living with vEDS or have a parent or guardian with a confirmed vEDS diagnosis.

Rosemarie currently works in finance at a major media company in New York and is also a master practitioner of Reiki. She serves on the vEDS Steering Committee for The vEDS Movement and devotes as much time as she can to the continued work of BELOvEDS and other patient advocacy initiatives.

Suci Padro is the Branch Manager of the Own It Team at Nationwide Mortgage, where she has garnered a reputation for making her clients feel comfortable and thinking creatively to meet their needs. Her dedication to providing excellent service and support to both her team and clients sets her apart in the industry. Suci understands the significance of homeownership for families and is passionate about helping Hispanic communities achieve this dream. In addition to her role at Nationwide Mortgage, she holds the position of President at NAHREP Long Island, showcasing her commitment to advancing homeownership in the Hispanic community.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

JEWISH COMMUNITY RELATIONS COUNCIL OF LONG ISLAND

Mindy Perlmutter is an influential and accomplished leader of the Long Island nonprofit community with 30 years of experience in human services, philanthropy, education, advocacy, and community relations.

Mindy serves as the executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Long Island (JCRC-LI), where she informs, influences, and mobilizes the Long Island community to take action locally, nationally, and internationally to address community relations issues important to both the Jewish and nonJewish communities. Mindy cultivates positive and meaningful intergroup relationships and maintains an ongoing dialogue with government officials. She also collaborates with leaders of various ethnic, religious, and cultural groups on Long Island to plan programs that foster enduring relationships.

Prior to joining JCRC-LI, Mindy was a development executive at UJA-Federation of NY, where she built and fostered relationships with UJA’s major supporters and maintained and strengthened relationships with government legislators.

Previously, Mindy spent more than 20 years at the Safe Center Long Island, where she held a variety of management, operations, program development, and education roles. She began as an educator, later served as police project coordinator, and then was named director of education.

Mindy also served as an adjunct professor at LIU Post’s School of Social Work for 11 years.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

After a few successful years of fundraising on behalf of vascular Elhers-Danlos Syndrome, I'm so proud to have launched our own foundation in 2023. It's been a lot of work, but it's a labor of love and if you love what you're doing, and the people you're doing it for and with... it makes it all worth it!

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

In the vEDS community there are walks, seminars, online support groups. I like being involved in all aspects of this community. Being involved in the vEDS community is more than trying to raise money. It's about family. If you are part of the vEDS world, you are automatically part of this small, rare family. It's about everyone supporting everyone. Sometimes this world feels bleak and if I can bring a smile or a laugh to one person in this community by just "showing up" so they don't feel like they have to face vEDS alone, then nothing will stop me from showing up.

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success?

This past year, I had a stroke and feel extremely lucky to be healthy and be able to continue my life. This was an important moment in my life because sometimes we take our health for granted and take care of others before we care for ourselves.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you›re particularly proud of?

I am extremely proud of all the awareness our Nahrep chapter has brought to creating generational within the Latino community.

Can you discuss a major challenge you›ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?

This past year was a challenging year due to my health but I’ve been able to keep moving forward and continue to thrive both at Nationwide and also with our Nahrep Chapter.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you’re particularly proud of?

Kosher Taste of Long Island is an event that I created and built with my staff and advisory board in 2017. The event showcases kosher restaurants, markets, bakeries, caterers, and wineries to the Long Island community. The first three years were successful and attendance grew each year. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we were unable to host the event 2020-2022. In fact, I was skeptical if we would be able to host this type of event again considering our new post-pandemic environment. However, this past year, I made the decision to host Kosher Taste of Long Island and it was a big hit. We had 350 attendees and everyone enjoyed an evening of delicious food, sumptuous wines and spirits, fabulous raffle baskets, and lively music. The best part was seeing so many friends and colleagues from diverse backgrounds within the community reconnecting, laughing, and enjoying being together again. The interest in this event represented everything JCRC-LI hoped to accomplish.

ROSEMARIE NANIA President BELOVEDS,

MINDY PERLMUTTER Executive Director

NOT-FOR-PROFT

TINA TOULON

NEW YORK CANCER FOUNDATION

REAL ESTATE

MELISSA NAEDER

CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD

Tina Toulon was born and raised in Connecticut and moved to Long Island in 2017. This big change introduced the opportunity to head in a new direction career-wise. Her background, though based in sales, marketing and media, proved to be just the right foundation for a shift into healthcare.  Starting off as a physician liaison for New York Cancer and Blood Specialists gave her much insight and grew her love of the industry and turned out to be the perfect transition into her current role as executive director of the New York Cancer Foundation.

Tina’s passion for assisting those in need along with her business background are the right ingredients for success for the foundation, lifted by her exemplary team and incredible board members. “Be the Light” has been her mantra and carries through to the message of the Foundation, every dollar helps and the true meaning of life is to help whenever and wherever we can.

Tina resides in Lake Grove with her husband, Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr.

Melissa Naeder joined Cushman & Wakefield as a senior director in the company’s Long Island, New York office. With 18 years of experience and a focus on retail brokerage she has completed over 300 deals. She specializes in both landlord and tenant representation with an expertise in Nassau and Suffolk County.

Her achievements include being honored as a Top 50 Women in Business on Long Island 2023 and receiving the Presidents’ Award – Commercial Industrial Brokers Society (CIBS) 2023.

She received her Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus and a Commercial Real Estate Certification from Cornell University,

REAL ESTATE

DOREEN SPAGNUOLO CEO LONG ISLAND BOARD OF REALTORS

Doreen Spagnuolo, as the Chief Executive Officer of Long Island Board of Realtors (LIBOR), brings a wealth of experience to her leadership role. Having served as LIBOR’s in-house counsel for 15 years prior to assuming the CEO position in September 2023, Doreen possesses a deep understanding of the organization’s intricacies and challenges. Her tenure includes notable roles such as Partner at Feldman, Rudy, Kirby & Farquharson, P.C., where she dedicated nine years to legal practice, and as an Assistant District Attorney at the Queens County District Attorney’s office.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you’re particularly proud of?

One of our most amazing events of last year was our 3rd Annual Raising Hope Gala and it was a success on several levels! We took a big leap of faith and hoped we could fill the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City and we did just that. 475 attendees joined us for a beautiful night that raised just over $1,000,00 for our cancer patients. One of our grant recipients spoke and brought the house down with her words of hope and healing. A group of sponsors, donors and friends all joined together for one night filled with hope and joy and the ability to make a difference.

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

Community is so incredibly important to both my husband, the Suffolk County sheriff, and myself and we often work together, attending events and supporting each other in our community work as it relates to both his office as well as the Foundation! We enjoy our joint effort and look forward to continuing our involvement for the years to come!

Can you discuss a major challenge you've faced in your career and how you overcame it?

The pandemic was an extremely large challenge for my business since my focus is retail brokerage and every deal I was working on died. Additionally, the future of retail brokerage was a major concern. During the pandemic along with all of the health concerns, I tried to learn and absorb as much knowledge as I could to make myself stronger personally and professionally. Thankfully, we are now getting more retail deals done. However, it’s been a very challenging last few years.

In what ways do you contribute to your community or industry beyond your professional role, and why is community involvement important to you?

One of the largest contributions I make to my industry beyond my professional role is by being on the executive board of CIBS (industry trade organization). In addition, I am the founder and chair of the CIBS W (women's) committee which is made up of 16 incredibly, brilliant, professional women in our commercial real estate industry that bring tremendous value to the organization. Working in a predominantly male dominated industry, we strive to provide an empowering platform for women by hosting networking events, educational and coaching seminars, golf lessons along with an annual golf outing where we like to say we are "Breaking Through the "Grass" Ceiling."

Balancing a successful career and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage this balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving for the same?

I can't say I ever achieve a full work life balance. However, the older I get the more I am working to prioritize both my personal and professional life through time management, setting boundaries and trying not to over commit myself. I also enjoy many of the people in my industry and over the years they have become some of my closest friends which helps merge the balance for me. When my son was younger, my work life balance priorities were much different than they are today. As my mom always reminds me, "You can have it all, just not all at the same time."

Doreen’s educational achievements include a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Hofstra University and a Juris Doctor from St. John’s University School of Law. Her commitment to professional excellence is exemplified by her attainment of the esteemed Realtor Association Certified Executive (RCE) designation. This prestigious accolade underscores her dedication, extensive experience, and ambition in association management.

In her capacity as CEO, Doreen Spagnuolo leads one of the largest local Realtor associations in the nation.

Her unwavering commitment is evident in her dedication to providing LIBOR members with essential tools for business growth and in safeguarding the future of real property rights for all stakeholders. Under her guidance, LIBOR continues to thrive as a vital resource and advocate for real estate professionals in the Long Island community and beyond.

TECHNOLOGY

KARA CANNON CEO

ENZO BIOCHEM

TECHNOLOGY

MICHELLE FERNANDEZ

Global Head of Technology Content & Marketing NOKIA

Kara Cannon is the CEO and Board Member of Enzo Biochem (NYSE: ENZ), a publicly traded international life sciences company. She recently moved from the COO role (2022 to 2023). In 2020, she led the operations through the pandemic, delivering desperately needed COVID testing products and services to the market.

After earning a Bachelor’s degree in biology from Franklin and Marshall College, Kara started her career at Dynal Corporation (1990-2000), then moved to New York-based Pall Corporation (20002010), where she led global marketing.

Kara is passionate about fostering talent for the future. She serves on the Board of Directors for New York Bio and Farmingdale State College. She is an advisor to the School of Health Professions at the New York Institute of Technology. Additionally, she is a founding member of a mentoring program for entrepreneurs affiliated with Stonybrook University. Kara is dedicated to using her expertise to build the next generation of leaders.

Kara’s career achievements have been repeatedly recognized. She was three times recognized as one of the Top 50 Long Island Most Influential Business Women (2019, 2021, 2022) and was listed as one of the Top 25 Women Leaders in Biotechnology (2022).

Michelle Fernandez is a brand strategist and creative marketer who has spent over 20 years creating iconic marketing campaigns. She partners with key stakeholders and leads strategic discussions to execute results-driven integrated marketing communications plans.

She has held key marketing leadership roles at Canon USA, LG Electronics, Inc. and 1-800-Flowers.com, where she oversaw the development, execution, and measurement of omni-channel campaigns. She also designed new creative and brand strategies to support business growth objectives across a multi-brand portfolio. Her previous leadership experience also includes key brand management leading award-winning, multi-platform marketing campaigns and product marketing roles.

At Nokia, she is the Global Head of Technology Content and Marketing where her focus is driving share of voice and thought leadership for the company’s research, technology vision and strategy.

Michelle has a B.A. in economics from Binghamton University in New York and currently resides in Long Island with her husband, Sean and two children, Jackson and Ella. She takes her passion for marketing into her passion for food. As an avid cook, she loves creating dining experiences and is currently cooking her way through Ina Garten’s 12 cookbooks.

TECHNOLOGY

DR. SUBRINA OLIVER CEO O-HIGH TECHNOLOGIES, LLC

Dr. Subrina D. Oliver is a proud U.S. Navy Construction Battalion (NMCB-21 Seabee) Veteran, honorably discharged, known for her attraction to nontraditional careers and prowess in technology. Her peers hail her as a trailblazer, evident in feats like earning an Automotive Technology Degree in half the time prescribed by Denver Automotive & Diesel College. Notably, she became one of New York State Education Department’s (NYSEd) first female teacher certified to teach Vehicle Maintenance & Repairs and Transportation Systems, returning to her Alma Mater high school for this achievement. Her academic journey includes a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science, Master of Education in Leadership & Administration, and Master of Business Administration in E-Business. With over 21 years in NYSEd, she garnered multiple education licenses and certifications. Subrina served as Long Island’s (LI) first K-12 Director of STEM Education and CTE. Presently, she is CEO of O-High Technologies, LLC and TalentPipeline. Press, and Founder of the O-High Foundation, Inc.

As a self-proclaimed “STEMinist” and 2016 Doctoral graduate, Subrina is committed to providing career-connected STEM-pathways for underserved talents. She spearheads not-for-profit initiatives creating innovative events for future workforce-stakeholders and launched the LI TalentPipeline magazine. Actively involved in various organizations, she has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2023 Empact Inc Change Agent Awardee and the 2022 LISTnet Techonomic Awardee.

Q&A Q&A

Can you discuss a major challenge you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?

I am proud of the fact that I have built a 30+ year successful career while raising a family along the way.  But the road has been bumpy and twisty, and it’s difficult to call out a single challenge as there have been many.  Somehow, each challenge I encountered, whether it was a forced job change, the meetings where I was the only woman in the room, the politics, or the projects thrown my way that felt way over my head, it was a growth opportunity. Perseverance, will and some courage keep me moving forward. Looking for the opportunity in even the most difficult situation can help get you to the other side.

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success in 2023?

In 2023, a pivotal decision that greatly influenced my success was embracing my innate networking abilities and recognizing the potential to cultivate a diverse network ecosystem. Leveraging this network enabled me to expand my business’s visibility and explore opportunities across multiple markets, catalyzing significant growth and impact.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you're particularly proud of?

Last year, I spearheaded the development of a comprehensive suite of talent development assets encompassing multimedia series, workshops, publications, and more. These resources, meticulously crafted, are poised for launch by the third quarter of this year, representing a culmination of strategic vision and dedicated effort.

TRAVEL

MICHELE CHUBALASHVILI CEO VITAS TRAVEL SERVICE

NEXT GENERATION — UNDER 30

ALEXIS EBANKS

2024 Miss Long Island Teen MISS LONG ISLAND PAGEANTS

NEXT GENERATION — UNDER 30

KATHERINE WANG

2024 Miss Long Island MISS LONG ISLAND PAGEANTS

Michele Chubalashvili is the owner of Vitas Travel Service. She has been in business over 30 years and loves every minute of it. Growing up in a household where both of her parents were self-employed entrepreneurs in the communist country of the USSR, Michele has always admired their perseverance. Her parents immigrated when she was a child to Israel and at an early age she got married and came to the U.S.A. While she was working for a travel company for 10 months, she increased the business over 300 percent. She decided to buy the owner out at the young age of 21.

Because her husband at that time was a pilot for a private company, she acquired a lot of corporate and leisure clients through his work. Word-to-mouth recommendations have been the bread and butter of her career as she never advertised and largely depended on my client’s referrals. That is how she understood that she was the brand for her business and decided to grow as a luxury concierge service, serving clients 24/7 and loving it. She was featured in multiple publications for my travel expertise in luxury markets such as Travel Market, American Lifestyle and more.

She loves what she does with passion and always says that she does not have a job but a lifestyle since she gets to travel over 12 times a year around the world so she can share her experiences with her clients.

Alexis Ebanks, crowned Miss Long Island Teen 2024, exemplifies leadership and commitment to her community. She is a junior at Harborfields High School and not only does she excel academically, she also serves as class Vice President and is engaged in various activities. These include Kickline and Marching Band, Chamber Orchestra, Varsity Gymnastics, and multiple honor societies.

Beyond academics and extracurriculars, Alexis is deeply invested in giving back. She has been a Girl Scout for the past 11 years earning both the Bronze and Silver Awards through over 70 hours of community service and aims for the Gold Award. She is on the Centerport Harbor Civic Association where she serves as a Student Ambassador, fostering positive change in her town.

At 17, she is an accomplished dancer and fitness enthusiast and spreads her passion as a certified Zumba instructor and instructor at Forever Fit Gym. She created her platform

“S.T.R.O.N.G” based on her journey battling anxiety and depression. S.T.R.O.N.G stands for strength, teamwork, resilience, optimism, nutrition, and growth. She authored and illustrated her own children’s book “STRONG: Building a Healthy Body and Mind,” aiming to inspire others to prioritize their mental and physical health.

As Miss Long Island Teen, Alexis will be promoting her platform and children’s book across Long Island by creating events centered around a healthy mind and body.

Katherine Wang is the current titleholder of Miss Long Island for 2024. As a Long Island native who grew up in East Setauket, she is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to further serve the community that has given so much to her. She was blessed with the opportunity to attend Harvard College after her graduation from Ward Melville High School in 2016, and after college, she received her master’s degree in Bioethics from Harvard Medical School. She then matriculated to the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, and she is currently in her third year looking to graduate with her MD degree next year.

She hopes to combine her passion for education with her desire to improve the lives of others and increase health literacy across the island. Critical to making decisions is understanding, and as healthcare transparency and awareness have increased following the Covid pandemic, she believes that we have more opportunities to take control of our health. She wants to empower others, especially the younger generations, in improving their health and those of their loved ones. She believes that medicine is a different language, and like any language — the earlier one’s education begins, the better.

Q&A

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success?

What pivotal moment or decision has had the most significant impact on your success in 2023?

After a few tough years, I decided to rebrand my business and concentrate solely on clients who appreciate my passion for customizing their needs in luxury travel.

Can you discuss a major challenge you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?

One major challenge in my career was the time when the USA suffered a terrorist attack on the twin towers. That was the time when air travel was shut down for a period of 2 weeks and took months to recover. It was very challenging to maneuver the clients that were stuck all around the world to get them back to their countries.

Can you share a specific project or initiative from the past year that you’re particularly proud of?

I am most proud of publishing my book “STRONG: Building a Healthy Body and Mind.” This project required countless hours of dedication, from writing and illustrating to the final steps of publishing. Being able to become an author at the age of 17 is a significant accomplishment.

Balancing a successful career and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage this balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving for the same?

As a busy teenager, I find it important to set aside time for myself. This might involve exercising, listening to music, or doing any relaxing activity. My advice to others is to find something enjoyable and incorporate it into your weekly routine.

Deciding to participate in the Miss Long Island Pageant and the Miss USA system has made an incredible significant impact on my life. This title has given me a greater opportunity to support the Long Island community and its local organizations in ways that I had not been able to before, as well as give back to a place that I am honored to call home.

I have participated in events; supporting Best Buddies International, a non-profit dedicated to creating employment, leadership, and inclusive living opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, celebrating Black History Month with Westbury Arts, a non-profit dedicated to hosting art and cultural programs to connect, educate, and inspire our community, and promoting mental health awareness through PS I Love You Day, a nonprofit dedicated to eradicating the stigma around mental health by fostering a supportive environment and building community. Through becoming Miss Long Island, I have been able to meet extraordinary individuals and feel honored to have been a part of such empowering events thus far in my titular year; I cannot wait to see what is to come.

SPECIAL TRIBUTE: IN LOVING MEMORY

KAREN TENENBAUM Founder TENENBAUM

We dedicate this year’s event in loving memory of a remarkable woman whose legacy of passion, dedication, and generosity will forever

LAW, P.C.

resonate. Karen Tenenbaum's journey was one of unwavering determination and endless energy. Her warmth and kindness knew no bounds.

Karen was a graduate of Lawrence High School in 1976 and an attorney and CPA for 40 years thereafter. An entrepreneur at heart, Karen Tenenbaum founded Tenenbaum Law, P.C. in 1996 to help individuals and businesses facing IRS and New York State tax problems. Karen epitomized excellence in her field, specializing in tax controversies with an unmatched commitment to her craft. And her financial interest did not stop there. She co-founded Commerce Plaza a fiscal literacy business center to teach children good financial habits. More than 75,000 Long Island children have completed the program.

Karen was a devoted daughter, wife to Larry, mother to Allison Rosenzweig and Stacie Dubnoff, mother-in-law to Matthew Rosenz-

weig and Jason Dubnoff, and doting grandmother to Asher, Jordan, Remi and Arley; her love for family radiated through every moment shared together, any event she attended, and every door she opened. Karen embraced life's pleasures with enthusiasm and grace always. “Not only was Karen a wonderful mentor, her energy and smile lifted everyone around her,” shares Amy Amato, executive director for corporate relations and events for Richner Communications Inc.

May Karen's legacy continue to shine brightly, a testament to a life beautifully lived and a heart endlessly giving. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered with love and gratitude by those who were fortunate enough to know her.

It is with great pride that Glen

Cove Hospital Celebrates

Associate Executive Director of Perioperative Services, Tameka Wallace, MBA, MSN-RN, CPAN, CCRN-K

as one of the recipients of The Herald Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards Gala