The WE Summit 07/27/2023

P r e s e n t e d b y :

T H E C R E S C E N T B E A C H C L U B • B A Y V I L L E

A s w e n a v i g a t e a t i m e o f p i v o t a l c h a n g e , t h e H e r a l d ’ s 2 0 2 3

W E S u m m i t p r e s e n t e d b y B a n k o f A m e r i c a b r i n g s t o g e t h e r t h o u g h t l e a d e r s , i n n o v a t o r s a n d b a r r i e r - b r e a k i n g w o m e n f o r c o n v e r s a t i o n s a r o u n d t h i s y e a r ’ s t h e m e : T h e F u t u r e i s N o w .

Supporting Sponsors

Dear Readers

Next week, on August 7th at the Crescent Beach Club, over 275 women will come together for Richner Communications' inaugural 2023 Women's Executive (WE) Summit. We are excited for the amazing lineup of speakers, workshops and more!

For more than 60 years, Richner Communications — publisher of the Long Island Herald — has supported building community and women’s initiatives through reporting and storytelling. And, in keeping with our founders — both my mother and father — our company's current executive team comprises more than 60% women.

The Herald is proud to be a platform where diverse voices are heard and stories told. We are also proud to partner with Bank of America on the 2023 WE Summit, and we thank Bank of America for its dedication to investing in and supporting women and female-led companies.

On the pages of this WE Summit special section you will see an impressive array of women executives, thought leaders, innovators and barrier-breakers that are coming together to chart the future course for women in the workplace.

I look forward to seeing you on August 7th at the Crescent Beach Club for an inspiring day of idea exchange and learning.

Sincerely,

Stuart Richner

CEO, Richner Communications Publisher, Long Island Herald

Dedicated to Helping Others

You dedicate your lives to helping others every day. At USI, we share your passion, and we’ve become a leader by doing just that. For decades USI has provided the insurance and employee benefit solutions and services that companies count on to protect their businesses and employees. We’d like to do the same for you.

USI is proud to sponsor the Herald WE Summit and the Moxxie Mentoring Foundation.

USI Insurance Services | www.usi.com

Jean Marie Noonan | jeanmarie.noonan@usi.com | 631.521.6957

Phyllis Jackson | phyllis.jackson@usi.com | 646.207.6491

Dear Readers

This special section marks the inaugural Women’s Executive (WE) Summit presented by Bank of America and the beginning of what we hope is a movement to “reimagine” the future of women in the workforce. There are more female fortune 500 CEOs than ever before (just over 10%) and two-thirds of women in America today are either the sole breadwinner or co-breadwinners in their families. However, while there has been success over the past few decades for women's advancements in the workplace, women are still dramatically underrepresented in leadership and full equality has yet to be realized.

The goal of WE Summit is to bring top female executives, thought leaders, innovators and barrier-breakers together for conversations around this year’s theme: The Future is Now. Together, we can harness the power of this pivotal moment to shape a new path forward and realize a better future for women in the workplace.

We are proud to partner with Bank of America, a market leader, that is committed to investing in and supporting women. From supporting teammates’ wellbeing and professional growth, Bank of America recognizes women are critical for driving the economy.

Join us for this call to action on August 7th at the Crescent Beach Club to explore, discuss and discover new paths on a variety of topics including workforce and skill development, ageism and cultural barriers, mentorship, mental health and self-care.

Sincerely,

Amy Amato Executive Director, Corporate Relations & Events Long Island Herald + RichnerLIVE

Dear Readers

We are excited to partner with the LI Herald as presenting sponsor of the inaugural Herald Women’s Executive Summit, convening women leaders from across Long Island to foster connections and address the challenges faced by women in the workplace.

At Bank of America, we know that when women thrive, whole families, whole communities and whole economies thrive. That’s why we are committed to investing in women. Our ongoing work to support women includes recruiting and developing strong women talent, making the financial lives of our women clients and customers better, and advancing the economic empowerment of women in communities around the world through access to training, mentorship, capital and philanthropic support.

We’ve made progress and know that collectively we share the responsibility to continue to push forward. The summit will surely be a beacon for tangible action.

Sincerely,

Jaime Stojanowski Preferred Banking Executive, Metro New York & Long Island Bank of America

AGENDA

WE Summit is proud to present a full day of unique and inspiring programming. Browse the agenda for what to expect.

8:30-10:15am Networking by the Beach

Cabana Meet & Greets + Visit Exhibitor Tables

10:15am Welcoming Remarks:

Kristin Thorne - WABC-7

Amy Amato - RichnerLIVE

Stuart Richner - Herald Community Newspapers

Suelem Artzt - Bank of America

10:30-11:05am

Keynote Speakers:

"Excellence vs Complacency" Liz Bentley - Liz Bentley Associates

"More Than a Name" Aimee Kestenberg Elan - The A ordable Luxury Group

11:05am Introduction to Power Brunch Panel Discussion, Moderated by Kristin Thorne - WABC-7

11:10-11:50am Power Panel: The Future is Now

Reena Jana, Google (Technology/Innovation)

Jodi Seitler, Estee Lauder (Thriving not Surviving)

Retha Fernandez, National Grid

11:50-12:00pm Transition/Break

12:00-3:10pm

12:00-1:45pm

WORKSHOPS: Choose 1 of 3 in each time frame

Talisa Flatts, Amazon (HR POV)

Beth Finkel, AARP (Ageism)

A Woman’s Guide to the Three Ps: Planning, Preserving and Protecting Your Assets -

Melissa Negrin-Wiener, Cona Elder Law

Megan C. Ryan, Esq., NuHealth/NUMC

Life On Track Personally And Professionally Featured Speaker: Erin Ley, Onward Productions, Inc.

12:50-1:35pm

Self-Promote & Negotiate: Getting Paid Your Worth - Mimi Bishop & Jackie Ghedine, MGXW

The 4Ms of Holistic Success - Kenia Nunez-Leon, Hofstra University

The Value of Volunteering & Mentoring Moderated by Christine Buscarino - Dale Carnegie

Rande Bynum, Girl Scouts Nassau

Tammy Severino, Girls Scouts Su olk

Beth Meixner, Moxie Mentoring Foundation

1:40-2:25pm

The Making of Your Personal Brand - Valerie Nifora

Empower Women & Wealth: Building Financial Security - Donna Stefans, Wealth Management Associates

Digital Mediascape: How to Build Revenue - Lisa Mirabile, Vertigo Media Group

2:30-3:10pm

Yasmeen Gumbs, Esq., Morgan & Morgan and Mrs. New York America 2020

Achieve Amazing Results in Life and Business - Paisley Demby

3:15pm Closing Remarks, Cocktails + Networking on the Beach

*Topics and summaries subject to change

POWER BRUNCH PANEL

MODERATOR KRISTIN THORNE

Emmy Award-Winning Investigative Reporter

WABC-7

Kristin Thorne was promoted to the 7 On Your Side Investigates team in January 2022 after serving 10 years as the station's Long Island Correspondent.

She is the creator, writer, and producer of WABC's true crime series "Missing," in which she investigates the disappearances of people from the New York City area. The episodes are available at www.ABC7NY.com/missing.

Before joining the Eyewitness News team in January 2012, Kristin was a reporter at News 12 Westchester. Before that, she worked at WHTM-TV ABC 27 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Kristin graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

LIZ BENTLEY

University in Washington, DC and earned her master's degree in broadcast journalism from the prestigious Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. She is an adjunct professor at Hofstra University teaching journalism in the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. She is the recipient of an Emmy Award and has received numerous Emmy nominations. She has also been honored with two regional Edward R. Murrow Awards and has received several Folio awards, which honor the best of Long Island journalism. She was honored with the "Excellence in Newscasting Award" at the 2021 Long Island International Film Expo.

Media Expert, Motivational Speaker, CEO & Founder LIZ

BENTLEY ASSOCIATES

Liz Bentley runs Liz Bentley Associates, a consulting firm specializing in executive coaching and leadership development programs to top leaders, teams and organizations across a broad range of industries.

Liz is an in-demand motivational speaker and media expert on the topics of leadership, career development, high performance workplaces, the future of work, and intergenerational workplaces. Known as the “Career Doctor,” Liz is a frequent media contributor on TV, books, podcast and in print for outlets including MSNBC, NBC

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

AIMEE KESTENBERG ELAN

Co-Founder & CCO

THE AFFORDABLE LUXURY GROUP

An award-winning designer, mother, wellness-certified expert and philanthropist, Aimee Kestenberg is dedicated to arming women with practical luxury designed to help them conquer their day. An industry leader and disruptor in the world of fashion, Aimee is the creative force behind her namesake brand Aimee Kestenberg, launched in 2013.

The Aimee Kestenberg brand redefines the meaning of ‘a ordable luxury,’ and the collection of casual shapes engineered with practicality in mind immediately caught the eye of leading fashion retailers. Aimee's entrepreneurial spirit developed at an early age.

She went on to become a two-time winner of the Instyle Independent Handbag Designer Awards in 2010 for Swarovski Crystals and in 2012 for Kipling. Most

News, Fast Company, The Washington Post, Korn Ferry. She is also a featured columnist for the MSNBC Know Your Value franchise.

Liz is known for actionable, engaging keynotes for clients including Hearst, Microsoft, IBM, The WICT Network and Sotheby’s International Realty. She has won many awards and recognitions including, most recently, Crain’s NY Business’ Most Notable Women Business Owners and Long Island Business News’ Top 50 Women in Business and has been ranked Top 20 Real Estate coaches for 2021 to name a few.

recently, Aimee was celebrated on Inc’s. 2023 Female Founder 200 List. Over the past three years, Aimee has successfully expanded the brand from bags to include footwear, luggage, jewelry, eyewear, baby bags and infant apparel.Combining mindful design and an ethos of self-empowerment, the Aimee Kestenberg brand values confidence and self expression, and inspires every woman to 'be your own muse.'

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 e orts and collaborations. Aimee lives in New York with her husband Sean, their two sons Max, Zac and daughter Ava-Beth.

“I believe that we need to be our own priority. When we are fulfilled internally, exercise boundaries and surround ourselves with like minds and love, we can do anything, be anything, and achieve anything.”

- Aimee

POWER BRUNCH PANEL

TALISA FLATTS

Human Resources

Business Partner II

AMAZON LOGISTICS

Talisa Flatts is a highly accomplished and dedicated Human Resources

Professional She possesses a strategic mindset, exceptional interpersonal skills, and a deep understanding of HR practices and has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor and partner for organizations, thanks to her extensive knowledge and commitment to her work. Talisa is dedicated to positive change and places a strong emphasis on continuous learning and development, fostering a culture of growth and improvement.

AARP NEW YORK

Beth R. Finkel leads the most visible and successful organization in the state advocating for New York’s 50-plus population. Beth conceived of and launched Disrupt Disparities, the first holistic approach to confronting inequities in Health, Economic Security and Livable Communities impacting various 50-plus populations. Now an AARPwide enterprise. She led and developed the statewide Kincare Coalition and New York’s Older Adults Hunger Stakeholders Coalition; convened the first Older Adults Hunger Summit to find solutions to barriers to food insecurity; co-created the NYS Medicare Savings Program Taskforce, a consortium of government, public policymakers and advocates that worked to break down obstacles to enrollment of low-income Medicare beneficiaries to this group of benefits. Beth is on the NYS Secure Choice Board and she serves on The NYS Food Policy Workgroup, The Women and Finance Taskforce, The NYS Rx A ordability Board and the NYC Age Friendly Commission.

Retha Fernandez joined National Grid Ventures and Community O shore Wind in March 2023 as the StrategicEngagement Manager.

In this role Retha supports the strategic engagement team to help ensure the success of all projects, delivering local clean energy for all. Retha Fernandez formerly served as the inaugural Chief Diversity And Inclusion O cer for Su olk County government where she led the development and implementation ofSu olk County’s diversity and inclusion initiatives to support County leadership’s vision for Su olk County to be the employer of choice. Her accomplishments include launching an inaugural county-wide employee feedback survey on diversity, equity, inclusion & belonging, launching the Creating Inclusive Workplaces Leadership Training Series for more than 300 leaders and managers, and the annual county-wide implicit bias training.

Since her teenage years, Retha has had a passion for service and helping others live fuller lives; and has always understood the importance of community and service. She believes in the interdependence of all people and holds equity, compassion, self-care, and duty as her personal values.

She serves on the Girls Inc. of Long Island Advisory Board, NYATEP AdvisoryCommittee, Stony Brook University School of Professional Development’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion AdvisoryBoard, and Discover Long Island’s Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Committee.

BETH FINKEL State Director

RETHA FERNANDEZ Strategic Engagement Manager

Presented

PANELIST PANELIST PANELIST

POWER BRUNCH PANEL PANELIST PANELIST

SEITLER Vice

President

Global Crisis & Issue Management ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES

Jodi Seitler is responsible for leading enterprise-wide execution of issue mitigation strategies, leveraging her deep knowledge of Supply Chain and Value Chain systems and processes. Since joining The Estée Lauder Companies in 2001, Jodi has held various roles within Global Brand Supply Chain and has been a critical leader establishing best in class processes for Brand Operations across the enterprise with strategic focus on service, inventory, portfolio optimization and minimizing excess. As Executive Director, Brand Operations for the Estee Lauder brand, Jodi has managed the largest conversion in ELC history (+2B) for ANR Serum and established long term strategic regionalized growth plans for the brand. In her most recent role as the lead for CSAR Value Chain delivery, Jodi led a Multifunctional Steering team to operationalize functional decision-making processes and provide guidance on potential opportunities for systemic improvement.

JANA Head of Content & Partnership, Responsible Innovation GOOGLE

Reena Jana is a trail-blazing innovator in the tech space. Her team focuses on scaling ethical AI development and human-centered UX for AI. Reena sits on Google’s central AI Principles review body for the responsible development of new AI applications. She’s also the Editor in Chief of Google’s People + AI Research initiative. The former Innovation Editor at Businessweek, Reena has also held marketing and UX positions at IBM’s Design Lab. Before her current role, Reena was Google’s Creative Lead for Business Inclusion, serving on the team that won a 2022 Innovation By Design award from Fast Company for launching Google’s Digital Coaches program. For fun, Reena recently earned her black belt in mixed martial arts, is training for her second marathon, and is the President of the Board of the non-profit Asian American Arts Alliance.

BEACH/DECK ACTIVITIES FEATURING

JESSICA

WOOD

Brand Manager, NY-based International Yoga Instructor & Cannabis Advisor

HEMP HERMANAS LLC

Having initially studied forensic chemistry at Pace University, Jess immediately took an interest in Anatomy. That paired with having been a former athlete, always active and very passionate about fitness she sought after solace in yoga to soothe injuries caused by overexertion. What was supposed to be just a complementary activity accidentally turned into a fullblown love a air with a much deeper connection beneath the surface. Jess has traveled extensively taking and teaching classes and workshops in Costa Rica, Mexico, Canada, UL, France, Brazil, Portugal and Marrakech in various languages and styles. In recent years, she completed another 200 hours of certification in the Katonah Yoga® Material as well became a 200 Hour Yoga Alliance Certified School under the name of POE Academy®. She also has spent much of the pandemic working as a NY Certified Birth & Postpartum Doula via Carriage House Birth® as well as a NY State Cannabis advisor, advocating for plant based health and wellness.

ANNE DE IULIO CASDIA

Lori Anne De Iulio Casdia is a #1 international best-selling author, certified professional transformational success coach and strategist, personal development success coach, international speaker, and radio show host of “Healthy Lifestyle with Lori Anne.” She has shared the keynote stage with celebrity and best-selling authors William Paul Young and Dr. Debi Silber. Featured as one of the "fab 14" in Dr. Silber's book Trust Again. After 35 years in the public and corporate private sectors cultivating her business, marketing, and mentoring tools, Lori Anne decided it was time to go into business for herself to step into her vision and dreams. Her passion is intuitively coaching her clients through their own transformations, and breakthroughs and seeing the possibilities in achieving their vision and dreams. To empower, inspire and educate: Lori Anne accomplishes this through speaking engagements, programs, retreats, her books, 1:1 & group coaching work, and live events.

JODI

REENA

LORI

Success Coach, Author, Speaker & Radio Host LDC STRATEGIES

Out of the "Woods" & Pursuing Your Passions

Jessica Woods was reveling in her corporate job at Ralph Lauren for 16 when she decided to hang up the corporate life at 35 to answer her life’s calls to pursue her passion and grow her businesses.

Jess is now co-founder of Hemp Hermanas LLC, director and certified cannabis advisor at Green Compass Global hemp wellness and, last but not least, owner of JWood Inc. where she o ers yoga, meditation & birth doula services.

When Jess focused on what truly mattered to her she watched her businesses flourish, along with her heart and soul. “My daily mantra is: ‘the more I give, the more I receive.”

Making the switch is not as easily said as it is done, it can take patience and plenty of trial and error. During a rough moment or a stressful time, Jess remembers to be aware and come back to ‘the now.’

“Practicing our state of awarenessgives us the capacity to zoom out and observe the mind “ a little like looking at the earth from the moon. Awareness a ords us a whole perspective and through this we’re able to gain a whole new understanding,” she said. “By practicing awareness rather than

Q&A with Coach Lori Anne

What are words you live by?

Don’t forget to be as compassionate toward yourself as you would want others to be toward you — or as compassionate as you want to be toward others. You will make mistakes. You will stumble along the way. And you will sometimes find it hard to keep going.

Keep going anyway. You are more than worth it. And so are the people whose lives you’ll touch every time you take another step.

May your magnificence and your passion for growth influence everything you do today.

What key-advice do you have for women?

Surround yourself with raving fans and never allow anyone to stop you from pursuing your dreams!

identifying what we think, feel, believe or what we “know”— we get to create a spaciousness of mind that sets us free from the impact of our thoughts and feelings; it allows us to be more at ease with the moments unfolding in life itself.

(After all, all we have is NOW).”

—Alexa Anderwkavich Follow Jess’ Journey: @hemphermanas @greencompasaglobal

What is your ultimate goal in life or within your work?

My ultimate goal is to teach success principles to over one million humans; help them see their greatness, find the purpose and pursue their gifts.

We’re here for you. Here in your neighborhood.

There’s nothing quite like local. That’s why your local AARP creates experiences with your community in mind. We’re neighbors, connecting you to free events, learning opportunities, and resources right in your backyard. Wherever you live, we’re here to help your money, health, and happiness live as long as you do.

Find us at aarp.org/local

@aarpny @aarpny

I am honored to be a part of the Inaugural WE Summit with such a wonderful group of thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and all-around powerhouses.

We know it has never been an even playing field. I congratulate each and every one of you for your intelligence, resilience, courage and tenacity.

I encourage you to continue to inspire our next generation of leaders and to support each other, but most of all keep being your wonderful, imperfect, abnormal selves.

“IF YOU ARE ALWAYS TRYING TO BE NORMAL, YOU WILL NEVER KNOW HOW AMAZING YOU COULD BE.”

LISA MIRABILE | CEO, OWNER OF VERTIGO MEDIA GROUP

MELISSA NEGRIN - WIENER

CONA ELDER LAW

Melissa Negrin-Wiener is an award-winning lawyer, recognized by Hofstra and Touro Law Schools, Lawline, Long Island Business News, LI Herald, and her peers for her outstanding legal and advocacy work. As Senior Partner at Cona Elder Law, Melissa manages the Government Benefits and Estate Planning Departments, and is a passionate advocate for women in business, older adults and the special needs community.

MEGAN C. RYAN, ESQ. Executive Vice President & Chief Legal O cer NUHEALTH/NUMC

Megan C. Ryan, Esq. oversees all legal, corporate governance, privacy and ethics functions. Meg brings a wealth of experience and impressive achievements, with extensive academic and legal skills that have prepared her well for the challenges and opportunities of this crucial position. She is admitted to the New York State Bar and the United States Supreme Court. She is also a member of the New York State Bar Association’s Public Health and Women’s Bar Committees.

ERIN LEY Award-winning Speaker, Best Selling Author, Growth & Success Coach ONWARD PRODUCTIONS, INC.

Erin Ley is a world-class speaker, #1 bestselling author and empowerment and success coach. She is Host of the streaming “Life On Track” summit and TV show, inspiring viewers worldwide about making the most of life’s opportunities. For decades, audiences and clients across the globe have enjoyed her warmth and wisdom, inspired by her transformational power. She is the creator of the popular “Life On Track” coaching program.

Senior Partner

WORKSHOPS: 12:50-1:35PM

WORKSHOP HOST

WORKSHOP HOST

TOPIC TOPIC

THE 4MS OF HOLISTIC SUCCESS

MIMI BISHOP & JACKIE GHEDINE

MODERN GEN X WOMAN

Jackie Ghedine and Mimi Bishop — certified coaches, podcasters and media experts — are the co-founders of Modern Gen X Woman and MGXW Consulting. Modern Gen X Woman propels the professional success of women, especially those 40+ who are committed to knowing their value and demanding their worth. MGXW Consulting, focuses on cultivating nextlevel leaders and fostering innovation through tailored programs centered around relational, emotional and linguistic intelligence. These power skills are proven, through research, to be the success indicators in a new era of leadership.

Jackie Ghedine and Mimi Bishop host the podcast Modern Gen X Woman and have been featured on Today with Hoda & Jenna, Business Insider, Ted X Speaker, Entrepreneur, Forbes, Wired, Fast Company and are VIP Experts at Fairygodboss

Mimi Bishop is a certified coach and Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner (ELI-MP) who trained at iPEC. Prior to being a coach, Mimi Bishop was Vice President of Marketing Services at a division of News Corporation where she was responsible for messaging strategy, content creation and leading a team.

Jackie Ghedine is a certified coach and trained at the Goal Imagery Institute, specializing in neuroscience and positive psychology. Prior to becoming a coach, Jackie was Associate Publisher at Advertising Age where she was responsible for building new business units, driving revenue and leading a diverse team.

KENIA NUNEZ - LEON Self-Care Strategist, Best Selling Autor & Director of Entrepreneurship HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

Kenia is a social entrepreneur who has created award-winning culturally responsive programs. She has customized training for teens, the special needs community, students in alternative learning centers, immigrants, teachers, and parents. She led training for hospital administrators, government agencies, executives and for employees at Rikers Island. Kenia is a certified yoga teacher and an Amazon best-selling author. Kenia won a Verizon Innovative Leaders Award in 2018 for her self-care program, Savvy Gems. In 2021, she won an Educator award from Nassau County. Kenia is also the Director of the Entrepreneurship Assistance Center at Hofstra University. She is a sought-out speaker for innovation, workforce development, wellness and trauma-informed care. Her greatest passion is helping others find purpose for the di erent seasons of life

Learn Kenia's model of the 4M’s of Holistic Success: Mindset, Mentorship, Motivation and Money. Gain invaluable insight in understanding how your past experiences are directly linked to your current mindset and learn what obstacles may be in the way of optimal success.

Learn how to rewire your brain to take your personal/business life to the next level.

Understand how to Cultivate Community and Collaborate with Competitors.

Access information on how to become M/WBE certified, become a vendor for the DOE, and learn about the billions of dollars available to minority and women owned businesses.

This workshop is not just for entrepreneurs, but for anyone looking to elevate in their current workplace, pivot in their career or re-enter the workforce.

Media Expert, Motivational Speaker, CEO & Founder

VOLUNTEERING

& MENTORSHIP PANEL DISCUSSION: 12:50PM

MODERATOR

CHRISTINE BUSCARINO

Global Chief Operations O cer and Marketing O cer

DALE CARNEGIE AND ASSOCIATES

With over 25 years of experience in business management, marketing, operations, ecommerce, and digital marketing, Christine Buscarino leads the marketing, IT, and customer experience teams in digitally transforming the organization's marketing, product, and experience across all modalities in which the customer engages with Dale Carnegie Training. In addition, Christine oversees operations and development of the strategic planning

PANELIST

RANDE BYNUM

Chief Executive O cer

GIRL SCOUTS OF NASSAU COUNTY

Randell Marie Bynum has been the Chief Executive O cer for the Girl Scouts of Nassau County (GSNC) since 2017. Under Rande’s leadership in 2022, Girl Scouts of Nassau County was one of 29 Girl Scout Councils to receive a large, unrestricted grant from philanthropist Mackenzie Scott allowing GSNC to expand access through diversity and innovation, allowing all girls to participate in the GS experience. Rande was also a content designer and editor with various organizations, media entities, and corporations; the Publishing Director of Family and

PANELIST

BEITH MEIXNER

Founder, CEO & Executive Director

MOXXIE MENTORING FOUNDATION

As an avid networker with a passion for people, Beth's vision was to create a unique women's organization that promotes generations of women in business. In 2008, Beth founded Moxxie Network LLC, a member-based network of senior-level women from the corporate, nonprofit, academic and entrepreneurial fields. In order to expand on the Network, in 2012, Beth established Moxxie Mentoring Foundation Inc, a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation whose mission is to support and foster the career advancement and leadership development of young women. Together these two entities make Moxxie the most comprehensive women’s business community providing support, sponsorship and mentoring for women ages 18-80.

PANELIST

TAMMY SEVERINO President & Chief Executive O cer

GIRL SCOUTS OF SUFFOLK COUNTY

Tammy Severino is a former member of the Council’s Board of Directors, troop leader, and alumna, Tammy understands the vital role of the organization’s girl-serving mission. Her pursuit of creating meaningful opportunities for girls to develop and grow is what Ms. Severino hopes will define her tenure with the Council.

She is also President of RPC Development, a successful boutique consulting fi rm celebrating 13 years in business and specializing in strategy, development, and planning for small to mid-sized organizations and

process and initiative development, ensuring that actions lead to desired results in day to day execution. Christine is an Advisory member for the Moxxie Mentoring Foundation, an organization that provides mentoring and support for women looking to advance their careers and leadership. Christine previously was a board member for the O ce Depot Foundation and has developed several women in business partnerships and community programs.

Community Engagement at Scholastic Inc.; and the Senior Director, Outreach and Partnerships at Sesame Workshop. Additionally, Rande — third-generation Girl Scout — worked at the GS of the USA, where she was responsible for implementing The Dove Self-Esteem Fund corporate partnership and developing the Girl Scout/Dove self-esteem program. She co-authored Dove’s true you! Sometimes I Feel Ugly and Other Truths About Growing Up workbook for mothers and daughters.

To further distinguish Moxxie, in 2018, the nonprofit began honoring men who have advanced the careers of women at their annual fundraiser the MoXY Awards. When Covid-19 appeared in 2020 and displaced so many women from their jobs, Beth created the free online Moving On with Moxxie program that readies women in job transition for re-entry into the workforce.

Prior to Moxxie, Beth was the Director of Sales & Marketing for Target Group Media, one of NY's most creative multimedia graphic design firms. Responsible for spearheading all business development & marketing e orts, Beth was pivotal in developing successful branding strategies and cooperative marketing campaigns for an extensive list of notable clients.

businesses. She regularly speaks at conferences and workshops on philanthropy, strategy, small business, and work/life balance.

Tammy, who is penning her first book, serves on the Boards of Michael Magro Foundation and Silver Hearts Sanctuary, the advisory board of The Morgan Center Preschool for Children with Cancer, and the Girl Scouts of USA Product Steering Committee.

Tammy believes that everything she does roots in the love she gives and gets from her family.

LEARN HOW TO BUILD YOUR PERSONAL BRAND

WORKSHOPS: 1:40-2:45PM

WORKSHOP HOST WORKSHOP HOST

DIGITAL MEDIA: MAKING SENSE AND CENTS

VALERIE NIFORA Global Marketing Leader, Corporate Storyteller, Personal Branding Expert

2X Best-Selling & Award-Winning Author of Unleash the Power of You

A bestselling and award-winning fiction and nonfiction author by night and a Fortune 50 Global Marketing Leader by day, Valerie is a personal branding and marketing expert and her recent book, Unleash the Power of You: A Step-by-Step guide to Creating and Sustaining Your Own Personal Brand debuted as a #1 new release in two categories on Amazon. She is passionate about people taking control of their careers starting with their personal brands. She has also served as a ghostwriter for several executives and executed award-winning campaigns using her special gift as a storyteller to inspire others.

Do you want to take control of your PERSONAL BRAND before someone creates it for YOU!!!?? Then this workshop is for YOU!!!

We’ve all heard the phrase “personal brand” but do you really know what it means? Join this workshop to learn:

What a personal brand is, Why it’s important and How to start crafting your personal brand

We’ll have a quick exercise to help you unlock the unique attributes of your personal brand and get you started on your journey. Learn how to unlock the value of your personal brand. If you’re not crafting your personal brand, someone else is doing it for you.

MIRABILE CEO & Founder VERTIGO MEDIA GROUP

Lisa Mirabile, is a creative marketing executive with a focus in brand advertising and skilled in developing and executing innovative strategies that achieve results. Lisa has established herself as an award-winning brand strategist. Her awardwinning commercials for American Express were shot in Latin America where Lisa spent 4 years living in Brazil. In 1995 Lisa was inducted into the global team for Ogilvy and Mather which led to the global recognition with the tagline; “Come see the softer side of Sears.” In 2004, Lisa, mother of two, created VMG– one of the first woman-owned marketing agencies on Long Island. VMG has evolved into a full-service agency enjoying 20 years of success. Most recently, Lisa revealed her latest creation in the form of internet radio to bring Women owned Businesses into the world of podcasting and instructional talk radio.

DONNA STEFANS ESQ., AIF Entrepreneur, Lead Attorney & Founder, Stefans Law Group

WEALTH MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES

Donna has over 20 years of experience in Elder Law, Estate Planning, Geriatric Care Management, Special Needs Planning, Retirement Income Planning, Medicaid optimization and Income Tax & Asset Management, giving her the ability to create and maintain holistic life-care plans for clients – from birth to legacy.

Donna is the President of Summit Tax Advisors Inc., a full service personal, business, trust accounting, income tax, and consulting practice. She has over 24 years of experience in retirement planning, asset protection planning and wealth management and is currently an Investment Advisor Representative with Cetera Advisor Networks LLC and is an Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®).

Additionally, she spends her free time working with people who have Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and other special needs. She is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the Long Island Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Donna is the Chair of the New York State Bar Association, Elder Law section. She is also a member and active participant of the: National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, National Academy of Special Needs Planners, National Aging in Place Council, Financial Services Institute, Financial Planning Association, and the Nassau and Su olk County Bar Associations.

LISA

WORKSHOPS: 2:30-3:10PM

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ACHIEVE AMAZING RESULTS IN LIFE AND BUSINESS

Yasmeen Gumbs is an Attorney, Pre-Suit Operations Manager for the New York and Washington DC o ces for the largest personal injury law firm, Morgan & Morgan. She is admitted to the New York State Bar, Pennsylvania Bar, United States District Courts for the Southern, Eastern and Western Districts of New York. Yasmeen was crowned Mrs. New York America 2020 and represented the state of New York at Mrs. America in 2021 where she placed top 15 out of 51 contestants. Yasmeen sits on the board of the Salvation Army of Greater New York Harlem Division where she is a strong and e ective contributor and leader. She is also a mentor with the Salvation Army Youth Division and partnered for the "Camp in a Box" and the "Back-To-School Campaign."

PAISLEY DEMBY Speaker, Trainer, Breakthrough Coach

Paisley Demby is an inspirational and motivational trainer with first-hand knowledge of multiple industries and how to realize the full potential of a company. Paisley’s training workshops rejuvenate audiences, giving them a newfound understanding of their latent potential removing barriers that once blocked them from moving forward. is a dynamic executive, marketer, breakthrough coach, business growth expert, public speaker, and relationship builder. Manifestation has been the recent buzz word yet so many are not achieving the desired results. Hear the untold personal story of Paisley and how he overcame extreme adversity to achieve amazing results in his life. Come to his session to identify what may be blocking you and unlock latent potential.

AIR CHARTER SERVICE: Soaring Above Expectations

What began in 1990 in the basement of Chris and Tina Leach's house in Kingston-upon-Thames, UK, with the initial plan to purely pay the bills, soon changed to more ambitious plans. Chris believed there was space in the market for another aircraft charter company, but one that focused solely on exceptional service and building long lasting relationships with its customers. He believed that if you went that extra mile for them then they would always come back and with that blueprint he would build a business, thus Air Charter Service (ACS) was born.

Air Charter Service is now the world’s leading aircraft charter broker – o ering multiple services on a truly global scale. With 600 plus employees across 30 o ces spanning the globe, the company arranges more than 28,000 charter flights every year, with revenues of over a billion dollars.

“We still hold Chris Leach’s initial approach dear [to us],” Rachel Thayer, Marketing Specialist at ACS

Americas said. “And see ourselves as one big family, whilst making sure that we go the extra mile for our customers, delivering service beyond expectations”

While ACS does not own any of the planes they utilize, they have access to all types of aircraft and private terminals. Last year two of their New York o ces – one in Uniondale and one in Manhattan –arranged 1,750 passenger charter flights between them; and ACS has hopes of flying even higher with both national and global expansion in the coming future.

“We are looking to continue our expansion plans, both in the US and across the world – we have opened two new o ces in the past two months, with more already planned,” She said. “Aircraft charters across all our divisions are at record levels at the moment and we feel that demand will only grow, with charter numbers naturally growing as we expand.”

ACS is not only growing as a

company on the outside, but also within, and that includes breaking the bounds women in the workforce experience. “We feel that there needs to be equal growth in the workforce, empowering more women, and we’re ahead of the curve with females in leadership roles, as our co-founder is Tina Leach.”

The company is constantly driving change, actively employing females in typically male-dominated positions – including some of ACS’ senior directors in the US and across the world are female.

“In their Americas o ces, the head of their Chicago o ce; the head of Brazil o ce; as well as our US HR Director, Executive Vice President of Accounts, and Legal Director are all women. We have a Diversity Committee to ensure all equal opportunity is applied across the entire company. ”

ACS’ primary services are private jet charters, group charter and cargo aircraft charter. They also o er a full travel & concierge service and time

critical services, including on board couriers and trucking.

Alongside their Diversity Committee, there is also a CESR and a Charity committee, which arrange countless fundraising events around the globe, including wing-walking, skydiving, obstacle courses, beach cleans and tree planting.

For more information about Air Charter Service visit aircharterserviceusa.com.

Dale Carnegie’s L.I. Office names Herb Escher as President & CEO

Herb Escher, who has been part of Dale Carnegie for more than two decades, now assumes the role of President/CEO of Dale Carnegie’s Long Island o ce. Throughout his tenure, he has held various positions and responsibilities within the company. Currently, he is responsible for supervising the regions of Long Island, Greater Boston, and Western NY regions. Herb is deeply devoted to assisting organizations in the Long Island area, fostering exceptional leadership, and cultivating highly engaged employees. Additionally, he is happily engaged to a wonderful woman and takes pride in being an uncle and a son.

Taking on his new role, Herb’s primary objective will be to foster the growth of the Dale Carnegie brand and reputation. He aims to do so by living our purpose and providing transformational experiences so individuals can achieve their vision. It is worth noting that Dale Carnegie himself

resided in this very place for an extensive period.

“Working with us is an incredible experience as we are dedicated to transforming how individuals perceive themselves, enabling them to envision the world from a fresh perspective and make a meaningful impact,” Herb said. “Our team thrives in a dynamic setting, embracing principles of active listening and constantly pushing our limits to achieve growth.”

With that, the company also prides itself on giving everyone the opportunity to be their best selves, which is why among their courses they have the Dale Carnegie Course for women. It's designed to inspire and empower women to take on leadership roles with confidence in their work, at home, within their communities and life as a whole.

Dale Carnegie has helped people find success within themselves through various books

and training with over 8 million copies sold. All of which can be condensed into Dale Carnegie’s Golden Book. According to Herb, the fundamental takeaway from this little book is trust. Trust serves as the foundation for our relationships and our own self-belief.

This belief is what Dale Carnegie, former resident of Long Island, built his business based upon. For Herb and the Dale Carnegie employees, L.I. will continue to grow and stay “golden.”

“We are filled with overwhelming enthusiasm as we become part of the vibrant Long Island community, a place that Dale Carnegie himself once called home. We wholeheartedly share the passion and eagerly anticipate establishing ourselves as integral members of this community for many years to come.”

For more information visit dalecarnegie.com

— Alexa Anderwkavich

Always and Forever Roses: Preserving flowers, memories and smiles

When Jennifer Paretta, owner of Always and Forever Rose Floral Arrangements, first saw a preserved rose, she instantly fell in love, thinking it could be an extraordinary gift: simple, yet meaningful. However when she recommended her son buy one for his girlfriend, Jennifer was shocked at the price and felt a desire to make this simple treasure a ordable for more people to enjoy.

From that a business emerged. Jennifer knew it would be challenging, but she was more than ready to run with her idea and make it a success.

“Doing everything on my own and bringing my business to where it is today within only a year has been hard,” the mother of two said. “I did the marketing, bookkeeping, product creation, order placement — you name it! But there’s nothing I can’t do.”

Her style is in the simple, organic realm: customers can choose between two collections: “Farmhouse” and “Designer” but

she also takes custom requests for bridal showers, weddings, gift boxes, arrangements and preservations. Bespoken arrangements are also one of her unique services, which allows you to preserve treasured heirlooms or important events.

Handmade with care, using the finest and freshest florals — she lets her creative mind and busy hands do the talking.

“Keeping going is the most important thing to me,” she said, explaining how she manages her multiple sclerosis (MS) while growing her business. “Working out, keeping busy. You will try and fail a number of times, but the key is to keep going — in every aspect of the word.”

Busy as a bee! Not only is Jennifer the owner of her thriving forever rose company, she is also a scientist who additionally refinished doors and tutors organic chemistry on the side. You don’t have to settle on one hobby, putting yourself in a box, you

can evolve and master a number of skills.

“Anyone can do anything if you put your mind to it and keep getting better with time and the learning process,” Jennifer said. “And if you’re looking for a reason to start your own business — here it is! — JUST DO IT! If you don’t try, you will fail.”

Taking risks may seem frightening, but that’s only because you may not know the outcome. You might end up changing not only your life, but the lives of others. Jennifer said that she wasn’t always aware how her creations could have an impact on someone.

Despite her own initial enthusiastic reaction to seeing a forever rose, which made her gleam with awe, after a while it’s possible to lose sight of why you started your business in the first place when in the throes of the day-to-day tasks. “I was out to dinner one night and someone said that they received one of my gifts and it makes her smile every day,” she said. “I was

reminded of why I am doing this. I try to make someone smile at least once daily. I think that’s something everyone should try to do.”

Discover Jennifer Paretta and her handcrafted Always and Forever Rose Arrangement creations at Foreverrosefloral.com

– By Alexa Anderwkavich

Jennifer Paretta, Owner of Always and Forever Rose Floral Arrangements

FORMER WORLD NUMBER 1 TENNIS PLAYER

5 TIME MAJOR CHAMPION TRAILBLAZING ENTREPRENEUR AND RECENTLY BECAME A MOM

Q&A with Aimee Kestenberg Elan

How did you start your company?

The company started with a product. A great backpack named the Tamitha that I designed while at Parsons The New School for Design out of a need to find a backpack that was functional, fashionable and a ordable. It was the first bag sold and loved by all, it quickly became a favorite on the New York fashion scene. From there, I built the first Aimee Kestenberg Collection that was presented at market and picked up immediately by buyers across the country. As the brand grew, my partner and I realized that we had a bigger vision and decided to focus on building a larger company that nurtured creative talent and harnessed expertise in building authentic accessory brands in areas that filled white space in the market. Today, our portfolio includes Aimee Kestenberg, American Leather Co. and House of Want. www.a ordableluxurygroup.com

What is your daily mantra?

It’s easy to get caught up in a busy start to the day…the second we open our eyes, we so often either pick up our phones or jump right into the many demands of the day. As a busy working mother of three, it’s for this reason that I like to take 9 minutes everyday before I do anything else to breathe, meditate and manifest how I want my day to go. I divide that 9 minutes into three stages, 3 minutes of meditative breathing work (Pranayama), this stabilizes my nervous system… I then move on to 3 minutes of meditation… I practice gratefulness (reminding myself how grateful I am yo wake up, all the simple blessings in my life like health and family and food, key disciplines I’d like to uphold such as operating with compassion and lastly I do a 3 minute morning stretch, mild vinyasa to wake up my body and get blood flowing before I start the day. 9 minutes may not seem like much, but this simple step first thing in the morning will change your life.

What has been your greatest accomplishment or most memorable moment since starting your business?

I’d have to say the inner-confidence that came with overcoming significant hurdles or challenges along the way. My greatest accomplishment was finding strength to keep going in some of the darkest times.

The most memorable moment to date was being presented the 2019 NPD Growth Driver Award by the esteemed Accessories Council at the Design Excellence Awards, held at the world famous Plaza Hotel in New York City, a landmark I’ve loved since I was a young girl.

What has been your hardest obstacle and how did you overcome it?

I’d have to say learning how to balance life between three young children and a fast growing company all while trying to take care of myself. The demands of it all can be intense. Learning how to exercise healthy boundaries in all areas of my life required a lot of growth work and discipline. It’s a journey not a destination.

What advice do you have for women or young girls in general or about starting their own company?

It starts with you. Learning to love yourself and prioritize yourself unapologetically will give you the foundation you need to succeed. I always encourage people to start o on someone else’s dime, get a job in the areas in which you want to learn before starting your own business. Absorb every little bit of information and immerse yourself in as many experiences that you can. When I started my company, I had a basic foundation of how to do it because I had learnt so much by watching how things were done at the companies I worked for, also observing how they could have been done better, how I wanted to be treated di erently… All of these experiences made me a stronger businesswoman and better manager. I’m always happy to answer questions @aimeekestenberg across all social media outlets.

We proudly invest in women

We proudly invest in women

Women make up 50% of our workforce at Bank of America. We proudly continue to recruit and invest in helping women succeed within our organization. Outside, we support the economic empowerment of women in our communities and all around the world.

Women make up 50% of our workforce at Bank of America. We proudly continue to recruit and invest in helping women succeed within our organization. Outside, we support the economic empowerment of women in our communities and all around the world.

We believe that achieving strong operating results — the right way — starts with our teammates, and we know we must reflect the diversity of the clients and communities we serve. We offer a range of development programs for female leaders who show potential as future business and C-level executives, including our Women’s Executive Development Program, to engage, develop, retain and support the career advancement of high potential talent.

We believe that achieving strong operating results — the right way — starts with our teammates, and we know we must reflect the diversity of the clients and communities we serve. We offer a range of development programs for female leaders who show potential as future business and C-level executives, including our Women’s Executive Development Program, to engage, develop, retain and support the career advancement of high potential talent.

Our ongoing work to invest in women means supporting women business owners and putting into action the belief that female entrepreneurs are fundamental to driving strong, healthy economies.

Our ongoing work to invest in women means supporting women business owners and putting into action the belief that female entrepreneurs are fundamental to driving strong, healthy economies.

Through our partnerships with Vital Voices, the Tory Burch Foundation, the Cherie Blair Foundation, Cornell University and Kiva, we’ve helped 75,000 women from more than 85 countries grow their businesses.

To learn more, visit our Empowering Women page at bankofamerica.com/women.

Through our partnerships with Vital Voices, the Tory Burch Foundation, the Cherie Blair Foundation, Cornell University and Kiva, we’ve helped 75,000 women from more than 85 countries grow their businesses.

To learn more, visit our Empowering Women page at bankofamerica.com/women