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From the EDITOR

There is a quiet weight that comes with designing a life on purpose. The kind of life built not by chance, but by intention. The kind that requires discipline, sacrifice, and the courage to keep showing up, even when no one sees the full picture.

Success, especially for women, is rarely one-dimensional. It is layered. It lives in the early mornings and the late nights. In the balance between motherhood and meetings, community and career, leadership and self-reflection. It asks more of us, not just in what we do, but in who we choose to become along the way.

And yet, the women featured in this issue rise. Not because it is easy, but because it is who they are.

They are exceptional in the truest sense of the word. Women who lead with clarity, who move with intention, and who understand that excellence is not about perfection, but about consistency, integrity, and showing up fully in every role they carry.

They rise as mothers, creating foundations that extend far beyond their homes. They rise as leaders, shaping businesses, teams, and communities. They rise as visionaries, building lives that reflect not only success, but purpose.

What stands out most is not just what they have accomplished, but how they carry it. With grace. With resilience. With a deep understanding that growth often happens in the unseen moments.

This issue is a reflection of that strength. A reminder that success is not about doing it all perfectly, but about rising to the occasion, again and again, with intention and heart. And in that, they are not just building successful lives. They are building something far more meaningful.

MIA M. | Associate Editor

JEN MEADOWS | Editor, WEsocial

Publisher

David Renfro

Editor

Jen Meadows

Associate Editor Mia M. Sales

David

Jen Meadows | 985.687.8980

Photography

Jen Meadows

Sarah Dickerson

Tyler James Studios

Skylar Theriot Photo

Hen House Creative

Josh Williams Photography

Paige Henderson, Bellus Photography

Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography

Graphic Design

Chris Shenk

Social Media

Megan Stearman

THE VIEWS AND COMMENTS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHORS ARE NOT ALWAYS THAT OF OUR EDITORS OR PUBLISHERS. WHILE EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION IN THE PUBLICATION, WE SOCIAL ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS OR RESULTANT CONSEQUENCES, INCLUDING ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM THE RELIANCE ON INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION. ALL IMAGES CONTAINED IN WE SOCIAL MAGAZINE ARE SUBJECT TO THE COPYRIGHT OF WE SOCIAL, BUT NOT LIMITED THERETO. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS MAGAZINE WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED.

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JENNIFER PACIONE SHADING PLACES

Corrinn Fisher

Corrinn Fisher has always had an instinct for design, but what truly sets her apart is the way she understands people. Long before she launched Corrinn Fisher Interiors, she was the one noticing the subtle details others overlooked. The way a room could influence how someone feels. The way thoughtful design could transform a house into a place that feels deeply personal, comfortable, and reflective of the people who live there.

What began with flipping through home catalogs as a young girl eventually evolved into one of the Northshore’s most sought after interior design studios. Corrinn’s path into the industry was not conventional, but every chapter along the way helped shape the designer she is today. Early experiences working in home furnishings gave her a strong foundation in materials, scale, and the importance of quality pieces that last. Later, her time in publishing and media sharpened her eye for storytelling, teaching her how powerful visual presentation can be when every detail is thoughtfully considered.

Her goal is always the same: to create spaces that feel authentic, welcoming, and lasting.

Those experiences ultimately led Corrinn to take a leap of faith and build a brand that reflected her own vision and approach to design. What started as a passion quickly grew into a trusted name across the Northshore and beyond. Clients began to recognize not only her natural eye for interiors, but also the care and thoughtfulness she brings to every project. Repeatedly honored through awards such as Inside Northside, Inside New Orleans, The Edge Readers’ Choice, and Northshore’s Best, Corrinn has earned recognition as an award winning designer for consecutive years.

Today, Corrinn Fisher Interiors has become known for Corrinn’s distinctive signature style and for Corrinn herself, a trusted name for clients across the Northshore. Her work blends layered details, thoughtful materials, and an intuitive understanding of how people truly live in their homes. Corrinn approaches every project with the belief that a home should never feel overly designed or staged. Instead, it should feel collected, warm, and personal.

Clients trust her not only for her taste, but for the way she listens. Each project begins with conversation and observation. Corrinn takes time to understand how a family

lives day to day, what moments matter most inside their home, and how the space should function to support their lives. That thoughtful process allows her to create interiors that feel both elevated and deeply livable, spaces that are beautiful without ever feeling forced.

Her retail showroom reflects that same philosophy. Located on the Northshore, the space has become more than a destination for furnishings and decor. It has taken on a life of its own. Clients and visitors often find themselves stopping in simply to walk through, drawn to the way the space makes them feel. There is a sense of ease, warmth, and beauty that offers a quiet reset in the middle of a busy day. Many have shared that it brings a sense of peace or a small lift when they need it most. Carefully styled vignettes throughout the showroom create visual interest while offering inspiration, allowing guests to experience how thoughtful design can truly impact everyday life.

For Corrinn, that impact is not by accident. Rooted in her faith, she sees her work as something greater than design alone. She believes the Lord has guided her path, providing not only the opportunity to build a business, but to create a

space that serves her community in a meaningful way. What has been built through Corrinn Fisher Interiors has become, for many, more than a showroom. It is a place where people feel welcomed, supported, and at ease. A place that brings joy, peace, and a sense of connection.

That same heart extends beyond her work. Over the years, Corrinn has quietly given her time and resources to local charities, churches, and community efforts, supporting organizations and events that make a lasting impact across the Northshore. Whether through design, service, or simply showing up, her commitment to people remains at the center of everything she does.

At home, that foundation is just as important. Alongside her husband, Steve Fisher, and their children, Corrinn has built a life that reflects the same values she brings into her work. Family plays a central role in her story, grounding her and shaping the way she approaches both business and design.

Corrinn often says that a home should reflect the people who live in it. That belief guides every decision she makes throughout the design process. From early concept sketches to the final installation, her goal is always the same: to create spaces that feel authentic, welcoming, and lasting.

Corrinn Fisher Interiors is more than a design studio. It is the result of years of experience, thoughtful growth, and a genuine passion for helping people create homes that truly support the lives unfolding inside them. Through her work, Corrinn continues to shape not only beautiful interiors, but meaningful spaces where life happens every day.

CorrinnFisherInteriors.com (985) 888-1229 70515 LA-21 Suite B Covington, LA

TO 2026’S W OMEN OF E XCELLENCE

EMPOWERED WOMEN, EMPOWER WOMEN.

Cherie & Mila Aduli

Give yourself grace.

On Louisiana’s Northshore, one idea defines the kind of leadership that truly changes lives: strength in grace. It is the ability to move through challenges with resilience, to lead with compassion, and to turn personal experiences into something that serves others. Cherie Kelly Aduli and her daughter Mila Aduli embody this in a way that is both powerful and deeply inspiring.

As Chief Operating Officer of Louisiana Heart and Vascular Institute, Cherie has built an impressive career grounded in meaningful impact. A nationally recognized expert on the Affordable Care Act and an award winning writer in healthcare finance, her work has helped transform hospital systems and private practices alike. Her appointment to the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council further reflects her commitment to advocating for lasting, systemic change.

But when asked what matters most, Cherie’s answer is simple. Her family.

As a mother of children with special needs, she has turned personal challenges into purpose. Through her nonprofit, Mina’s Mission, Cherie is addressing the very gaps her family has experienced, from accessibility barriers to the lack of caregiver support and safety concerns in schools. Her work has created opportunities for connection through inclusive, sensory friendly events that ensure every child and every family feels seen and supported. It is here that strength in grace becomes more than a phrase. It becomes action.

“Give yourself grace,” Cherie says. It is more than advice. It is a way of living, shaped by compassion and inspired by the women who came before her.

That same strength in grace is already taking root in Mila.

A true young changemaker, Mila is proving that age is no barrier to impact. She has helped raise funds for an inclusive playground at Fontainebleau State Park and created the Kindness Corner at We Rock the Spectrum Northshore, offering a safe and welcoming space for teens of all abilities.

Mila is also a published author. Her book, LuLu’s First Mardi Gras, celebrates inclusion through storytelling while giving

back to support STEM Arts programs for children in her community.

When asked what inspires her most about her mom, Mila does not hesitate. “She never gives up.” It is a lesson she carries with her as she advocates for her brother Ari and others like him, working toward a future where individuals with different abilities are seen, accepted, and respected.

Together, Cherie and Mila remind us that strength in grace is not just an idea. It is a way of showing up, of leading, and of loving a community well. Through service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion, they are building a more inclusive Northshore, one that reflects the very definition of strength in grace.

The Ladies of Mercedes

Leighanne Weeks

COMMUNITY LEADER

For Leighanne Weeks, excellence has never been about applause or perfection. It has always been about impact. As Development Director for Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West, Leighanne has dedicated her career to creating opportunities for families to build stronger futures through safe, table homeownership. Her leadership is rooted in service, compassion, and a deep belief that every person deserves a place to call home.

Being named a Woman of Excellence in this season of life carries special meaning for Leighanne. To her, it is recognition not only for the work she does, but for the purpose behind it. It reflects the importance of showing up for others, leading with intention, and using every opportunity to strengthen the community around her.

She sees excellence not as a title, but as a responsibility to serve well and love people deeply.

At Habitat, Leighanne oversees fundraising, donor relations, volunteer coordination, community engagement, and special events. Yet beyond the logistics and leadership, what fuels her most is the mission itself. She is especially inspired by the children whose lives are impacted through Habitat’s work. As a mother, she understands how life-changing it is for a child to have a safe and secure home where they can do homework at the kitchen table, celebrate birthdays, and simply enjoy being a kid. Helping create that foundation for families gives her work lasting purpose.

Leighanne believes every step of her journey has prepared her for where she is today. Challenges, career experiences, and unexpected seasons have all shaped her into a woman who leads with empathy and strength. One of her greatest personal victories was overcoming a fear of public speaking. Through Leadership St. Tammany, she was pushed outside of her comfort zone and discovered confidence she did not know she possessed. What once felt intimidating became an opportunity for growth.

Like many women, Leighanne balances multiple roles each day. She credits calendars, checklists, and careful planning for helping her manage the demands of work and family life. But beneath the schedules is a woman deeply devoted to the people she loves and the mission she believes in.

She is quick to honor the women who helped shape her path. Her mother remains one of her greatest influences, a steady example of faith, service, and unconditional support. Professionally, longtime mentor Jennifer Messina has guided her growth in leadership, fundraising, and strategy while encouraging her to become the best version of herself.

Leighanne hopes her presence leaves people feeling lighter, seen, and free to be themselves. Her legacy is one of building more than houses. It is about building hope, stability, and a future generations can grow from. A woman of excellence, in her words, is someone who leads by example and uses her gifts to make a meaningful difference.

AUDREY GITZ D e AGANO

St. Tammany Parish is a place where people build more than businesses. They build lives, families, and a sense of continuity that carries forward over time.

Much of the work that protects that continuity happens quietly. On the Northshore, preparing families and businesses for what comes next is often unseen, and its impact is lasting. That work is carried forward by the Estate Planning and Succession Department at Arena Collective lead by attorney, Audrey Gitz DeAgano.

Born and raised in St. Tammany Parish, Audrey approaches her work with a perspective shaped by the community itself. The families and business owners she serves are more than clients. They are part of the same network of schools, churches, neighborhoods, and relationships that define life on the Northshore and Audrey’s upbringing. Now that she and

“Success is found in helping others while maintaining a positive environment at work and at home.”

her husband, Tyler, are raising their two children in St Tammany Parish the community is even more important to her today. That familiarity and connection brings a level of care and understanding that extends beyond her technical work.

Audrey’s path was paved by the closeness of her own family. Raised in an environment where spending time together is a choice rather than an obligation, she has developed a deep appreciation for the bonds that sustain a community. Her parents, Ron and Jennifer Gitz, encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone, teaching her the importance of doing the right thing and that foundation translates into a leadership style defined by integrity and resilience.

In her current season of life, Audrey navigates the demands of a rising professional career and the rewarding challenges of

motherhood. Her perspective has developed into the philosophy that success is found in helping others while maintaining a positive environment at work and at home. She views her work through a lens of service, helping families bring structure to difficult decisions through wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and succession.

Through estate planning, she helps families and business owners bring structure to important decisions before they are needed, guiding them in creating plans that include essential documents such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. The process is not simply about drafting documents, but about creating clarity. She believe that a well-prepared plan ensures that wishes are carried out, responsibilities are defined, and transitions happen with as little disruption as possible.

Over time, this type of planning has become more common across the Northshore. It is no longer viewed as something reserved for later stages of life, and as a practical step taken by those who understand that preparation is part of responsible leadership.

Her work is part of the broader efforts at Arena Collective, where business planning, real estate services, and estate planning are approached as necessary pieces of long-term stability. Within that structure, Audrey’s role remains focused and personal, helping families and business owners preserve a legacy for generations.

The Women of

CELEBRATING OVER 60 YEARS OF COMMUNITY BANKING

For over six decades, American Bank has proudly served Louisiana with a steadfast commitment to community banking. With offices in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Jefferson, and Red River parishes, we’ve helped local businesses—both large and small—grow and thrive alongside us. We’re especially proud to be recognized as a preferred SBA lender in Louisiana, a testament to our expertise in the process and dedication to supporting our neighbors’ success.

At American Bank, we greet you with a smile and treat you like a friend. This is community banking the way you remember it.

HARRIS

KIMBERLY SHIRLEY

LESLIE WHITE

KIMBERLY VUTERA

VICKY TALLEY LORIE CONNERS

DEEDEE HUMPHRIES

LIZETTE ALVARADO

Lizette Alvarado is the founder behind both Syn Skin Aesthetics and Venus Luxury Concierge Home Care, two businesses built from a shared foundation of care, connection, and intention. As a provider and entrepreneur, she has created spaces where clients feel supported in every sense, whether they are investing in their confidence or navigating recovery with personalized, high level care.

Syn Skin Aesthetics is a results driven skincare and aesthetics practice focused on helping clients feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. With an approach rooted in both science and connection, Lizette has built a trusted space where beauty and wellness go far beyond the surface. That same philosophy led to the creation of Venus Luxury Concierge Home Care, a high touch, in home service that provides post procedure support, recovery care, and elevated assistance for clients who value comfort, privacy, and personalized attention.

Her proudest accomplishment remains centered on people. Creating experiences where women feel empowered, cared for, and truly valued. For Lizette, this work is deeply personal. It is not just about the services she offers, but about how people feel when they are in her care.

Throughout her journey, she has learned that growth does not require perfection. It requires presence, consistency, and the willingness to keep moving forward with purpose. That mindset continues to shape how she leads both businesses today.

Her connection to the community is a defining part of who she is. Whether through mentorship, collaboration, or simply showing up, Lizette leads with heart in every space she enters.

What she is building is more than two successful businesses. It is a legacy rooted in compassion, trust, and impact. Syn Skin Aesthetics and Venus Luxury Concierge Home Care are true extensions of her calling to serve with grace and intention.

The long game belongs to women who stayed committed long after the excitement faded. They kept building when results were slow, when progress felt invisible, and when quitting would have been easier.

Some success stories happen overnight. Most don’t.

These women understand that meaningful growth doesn’t rush. It compounds. Every small decision, every relationship built with integrity, every season of learning adds up. The long game requires patience, resilience, and a deep belief in what you’re creating even when no one is watching.

The Long Game

Choosing the long game often means saying no to shortcuts. It means resisting comparison and trusting that timing matters. These women aren’t chasing trends. They’re building foundations.

What sets them apart isn’t speed. It’s stamina. They adapt without abandoning their values. They evolve without losing sight of their purpose. And when success comes, it feels earned because it is.

The long game isn’t glamorous in the beginning. But it creates something lasting. Something sustainable. Something rooted in experience rather than hype.

These are the women who remind us that consistency is a form of courage and that showing up year after year is its own kind of achievement.

MO MEN TUM

BUILD SPEED WITH EVERY BOLD, INTENTIONAL STEP FORWARD .

“Success is simple. It is peace, alignment, and the ability to build a life that reflects both.”

Alison Burns

Alison Burns’ story is one of strength, independence, and an unwavering belief that anything can be figured out. From a young age, she was taught that success comes from drive and discipline. At just sixteen, she was already working to support herself, setting a tone that would define her life. That same determination carried her into entrepreneurship, where she founded Precision Payment Systems over a decade ago. Building a business from the ground up came with challenges that tested her in every way, but through both the highs and the setbacks, she developed a mindset rooted in resilience and clarity.

Today, Alison is in a season that looks different from the one she once knew. While her work ethic remains strong, her focus has shifted toward balance, partnership, and family. Alongside growing Precision Payment Systems and expanding into a second business,

she has embraced a life that feels more grounded and connected. With her partner and their family, she is building something rooted in love, stability, and shared purpose.

Her definition of excellence has evolved along the way. It is no longer about perfection, but about showing up fully, with honesty and self-awareness. That perspective has been shaped not only by business challenges, but by personal battles she has overcome with quiet strength.

Faith sits at the center of it all. It guides her decisions, steadies her in pressure, and reminds her she is not carrying everything alone. For Alison, success is simple. It is peace, alignment, and the ability to build a life that reflects both.

Photos by Cindy McCrory of Blue Room Photography

Beyond the Title

A title may open the door, but it rarely tells the full story.

Behind every role is a woman with layered experiences, quiet victories, and moments of doubt that shaped who she is today. Beyond the title lives the part of her that isn’t on a résumé. The parts that influence how she leads, creates, and connects.

These women are more than what they do. They are shaped by family, faith, failure, ambition, and resilience. The lessons learned outside the workplace often matter just as much as the ones learned within it.

When we take the time to understand the woman behind the role, we gain a deeper appreciation for her work.

Looking beyond the title reveals motivations that don’t always make headlines. Why she chose this path. What she sacrificed. What she protects fiercely. What success actually means to her now.

When we take the time to understand the woman behind the role, we gain a deeper appreciation for her work. We see the humanity that drives it. And we recognize that leadership isn’t one dimensional.

Beyond the title is where authenticity lives. It’s where purpose becomes personal. And it’s where stories resonate long after the job description fades.

When a woman becomes fully aligned with who she was created to be, she does not just change her own life, she changes every room, every woman, and every generation connected to her. Desiree Allums is building exactly that kind of legacy.

As the founder of EmpowerHER Life and The Female Foundry, Desiree is creating spaces where women are not only welcomed, but challenged to grow, lead, and rise into the fullness of who they were created to be.

Rooted deeply in faith, Desiree believes every closed door, delay, and redirection carried purpose. That perspective shaped a woman who no longer measures worth by outside validation, but by alignment with who God called her to be. Personally and professionally, she is in a season of clarity, ownership, and intentional leadership.

To Desiree, excellence is not perfection. It is ownership. It is showing up committed to the assignment on your life and executing with integrity regardless of the outcome. That mindset has allowed her to move through pressure, criticism, and disappointment without losing focus.

Her mission is clear. Through EmpowerHER Life, she is cultivating a culture where women learn to lead themselves well, think differently, and build relationships rooted in growth. Through The Female Foundry, she is bringing that vision into physical form through a professional clubhouse, coworking environment, and business institute designed to help women execute, earn, and expand.

What sets Desiree apart is her understanding that women often do not lack capability, they lack access to the right rooms. She is determined to change that by building environments where confidence strengthens, standards rise, and lives transform.

For Desiree, success is peace, purpose, and meaningful impact. Her legacy is one of opportunity, leadership, and empowering women to become everything they were created to be.

QUIET POWER

Not every woman leads from the front of the room. Some lead through consistency, discernment, and an unwavering sense of self. Quiet power doesn’t announce itself. It shows up early, listens closely, and moves with intention.

Women who embody quiet power often go unnoticed at first. They are steady when things feel uncertain and grounded when others rush. Their influence isn’t measured by volume or visibility but by trust. People lean in because they feel safe, understood, and respected.

This kind of leadership is built over time. It comes from learning when to speak and when to step back, when to push forward and when to protect energy. Quiet power values discernment over reaction and impact over attention.

In a culture that often rewards noise, these women remind us that strength can be subtle. Their work speaks for itself. Their presence changes

rooms without demanding recognition. And when decisions need to be made, they are often the ones others look to for clarity.

Quiet power isn’t about shrinking. It’s about knowing who you are so fully that you don’t need validation to lead. It’s confidence without performance. Influence without ego. And leadership rooted in self trust rather than approval.

Their work speaks for itself. Their presence changes rooms without demanding recognition.

Brandi McAndrew’s path into aesthetics was never just about building a career. It was a calling. What began as a moment of clarity has grown into a space where women feel cared for, understood, and confident in their own skin.

Her journey has been shaped by both growth and challenge. Stepping into business ownership, navigating industry demands, and balancing life beyond work have required resilience. There were seasons that asked more than expected, but she moved forward with determination and a clear sense of purpose.

Outside of work, life has expanded in meaningful ways. As a mother of two, Brandi carries a deeper sense of responsibility in what she builds. Growing her family has grounded her perspective and clarified what matters most. Her work is not only about results, but also about the example she sets, showing her daughters how to lead and stay true to who they are.

That perspective shapes her approach today. Her focus continues to evolve toward regenerative treatments that support the body’s natural processes, with an emphasis on safety & education. Each recommendation is intentional and built on trust.

Through every chapter, Brandi has remained committed to doing things the right way. With honesty, with heart, and with a quiet strength that continues to shape not only her business, but the lives of those she serves.

Jennifer Cortes-Johnson

“In my early years, I was focused on proving myself. Now, it is about choosing where I can make the greatest impact.”

There is a quiet strength about Jennifer Cortes-Johnson, one that does not demand attention but naturally commands respect. As an attorney with The Truitt Law Firm in Covington, she has built a career grounded in discipline, intention, and authenticity. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jennifer represents something even more compelling: a modern woman defining success on her own terms.

Raised in Miami Beach, Florida, Jennifer credits her parents with instilling the values that continue to shape her life today: discipline, awareness, and a deep sense of empathy for others. Those early lessons became the foundation for a life marked not just by achievement, but by purpose.

Her academic journey took her to the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts, followed by a Juris Doctor from Tulane University School of Law. She began her career in insurance defense and personal injury law, working for law firms and as house counsel for Travelers and Nationwide. Today, she is admitted to practice in all state and federal courts in Louisiana and remains actively engaged in leading professional organizations and her firm.

Jennifer’s story is not just about career milestones. It is about evolution.

“In my early years, I was focused on proving myself,” she reflects. “Now, it is about choosing where I can make the greatest impact.”

That shift in perspective mirrors the realities many women face as they move through different seasons of life. As a mother of young adult daughters, Jennifer is deeply intentional about the legacy she is creating, raising confident, independent women who feel empowered to define their own futures.

At home, she and her husband, Marc, model entrepreneurship and resilience. Together, they own multiple businesses, including a logistics company with fleets of trucks operating exclusive partnerships with national merchants, as well as multistate master franchises for a growing restaurant concept, Barrio Burrito Bar, which is opening its Louisiana flagship store this summer on Perkins Rowe in Baton Rouge. It is a partnership rooted not just in business, but in a shared vision, one their daughters witness firsthand.

For Jennifer, excellence is not about perfection or performance. It is about consistency and integrity. It is showing up with purpose, even when no one is watching. It is maintaining focus in high pressure environments while tuning out the noise that does not serve growth.

Perhaps most importantly, it is about redefining what success looks like.

Looking ahead, Jennifer is embracing a new kind of freedom, the freedom to be intentional. Whether aligning her work with deeper purpose or creating space to explore the world, she is stepping into a chapter defined by choice.

The Season That Changed Me

There is always a season that shifts everything. Sometimes it arrives unexpectedly. A challenge. A loss. A risk taken before feeling ready. Other times, it comes quietly through reflection and realization. But once it passes, nothing looks the same.

This season doesn’t always feel transformative while you’re in it. Often, it feels uncomfortable. Uncertain. Heavy. It stretches confidence and tests resolve. Yet it becomes the turning point that shapes what comes next.

Women who reflect on this season often recognize how it refined them. What they learned to release. What they learned to protect. What they learned to trust within themselves.

The season that changes you isn’t about perfection. It’s about growth. It reveals strength you didn’t know you had and clarity you didn’t know you needed.

Looking back, these women see that the hard moments were not detours. They were preparation. They didn’t break her. They built her.

And that season becomes a reminder that growth rarely happens in comfort but always leaves wisdom behind.

RE FINE MENT

ELEVATE THE DETAILS UNTIL EXCELLENCE FEELS EFFORTLESS.

Monica A. Butz, NP

Monica began her career at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, working in neonatal and pediatric intensive care. There, she developed a deep understanding of complex medical needs while caring for some of the most vulnerable patients. That early experience shaped both her clinical precision and her calm, attentive approach to care.

After becoming a nurse practitioner, Monica spent time in pediatric primary care before transitioning into otolaryngology. Since 2005, she has practiced exclusively in ENT, providing comprehensive ear, nose, and throat care for patients of all ages. Her ability to combine technical expertise with genuine compassion has made her a trusted provider within the community.

Now with Covington ENT, Monica continues to deliver thoughtful, patient-centered care rooted in experience and consistency. Board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners since 2003, she is known for her clinical excellence, approachable demeanor, and unwavering commitment to helping patients feel heard, cared for, and confident in their treatment.

Dr. Hailey BaldwinMcSwain

Dr. Hailey Baldwin-McSwain brings a thoughtful, modern perspective to audiology at Covington ENT, grounded in precision and purpose. As a provider and mother of two, she values balance, moving between patient care and family life with intention and responsibility.

Her path into audiology was personal. Inspired by her grandfather, a WWII veteran with significant hearing loss, her direction became clear in college. When he passed during her first audiology course, the moment reinforced her desire to help others navigate similar challenges with empathy and care.

At Covington ENT, she creates an environment where patients feel informed and supported. She prioritizes education alongside treatment, ensuring clarity and confidence in every step of care. Her approach is steady, approachable, and rooted in trust.

She also embraces advancements like Auracast technology, focused on improving accessibility and everyday experiences for those with hearing loss. Her goal is simple: provide compassionate, informed care that leaves a lasting impact.

Dr. Lara Boudreaux is stepping into a season of life that feels both new and deeply meaningful, one where growth is happening in every direction. As a physician at Northlake Gastroenterology Associates, a wife, and a mother of two young children, she describes this chapter as exciting, a little intimidating, and full of purpose.

Raised by parents who modeled both strength and support, Dr. Boudreaux credits her foundation to their influence. Her mother showed her how to lead with warmth and creativity, while her father’s steady encouragement gave her the confidence to pursue her goals. That balance continues to shape how she shows up today, both in medicine and at home.

DR. LARA BOUDREAUX

Photo by: Allison Mula

Photography

For Dr. Boudreaux, excellence is found in the small, intentional moments. It is taking extra time with a patient or being fully present with her family at the end of the day. That same mindset defines her view of success, which has shifted from achievement to fulfillment. Today, success looks like loving her work, being present for her family, and finding balance in both.

Her leadership style has evolved as well. Once believing she needed to be more rigid to be respected, she now leads with both confidence and compassion, knowing authenticity builds stronger connections.

Now calling the Northshore home, Dr. Boudreaux is most excited about building lasting relationships and raising her children in a community that values connection. Through it all, she remains grounded in one goal: to live with positivity and presence, leaving people feeling supported, valued, and cared for.

McCall McDaniel, MD

“Becoming a surgeon taught me discipline, persistence and resilience, but becoming a mother taught me perspective and compassion.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY. WHAT SHAPED THE WOMAN YOU ARE TODAY?

My journey has been shaped by caring for children at some of their most vulnerable moments and by learning, over time, to balance excellence in medicine with presence in my own life. Becoming a surgeon taught me discipline, persistence and resilience, but becoming a mother taught me perspective and compassion. Both continue to shape who I am.

WHAT SEASON OF LIFE ARE YOU CURRENTLY IN, PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY?

I’m in a season of intentional growth—professionally, continuing to build a practice focused on high-quality, compassionate pediatric orthopedic care, and personally, being more present and protective of my time with my family. It feels like a season of clarity and purpose.

WHAT DOES EXCELLENCE MEAN TO YOU?

Excellence means doing what is right for each child—even when it takes more time, more thought, or more humility. It’s not about perfection, but about consistency, integrity, and always being willing to learn.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS AT THIS STAGE OF YOUR LIFE?

Success now looks like providing excellent care, building strong relationships with families, and still having the energy and presence to be fully engaged at home. Balance and sustainability matter more than titles.

HOW DO YOU HANDLE PRESSURE OR CRITICISM?

I try to approach it with reflection rather than defensiveness. Medicine requires accountability, and I believe growth comes from being willing to listen, learn, and continually improve.

WHAT DOES COMMUNITY MEAN TO YOU ON THE NORTHSHORE?

Community on the Northshore means connection—families who support one another, schools and healthcare working together, and people who genuinely care about their neighbors. It’s a place where relationships still matter and where children are truly supported.

WHAT LEGACY ARE YOU INTENTIONALLY BUILDING?

I hope to be known for caring deeply about children and families, for mentoring others in healthcare, and for contributing to a culture of compassion and excellence in pediatric orthopedics.

Sunny R. McDaniel, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, CAS, leads with a rare combination of clinical expertise and lived experience. That approach has shaped her into a powerful advocate for women, families, and the autism community.

To Sunny, impacting other women begins with resilience and a willingness to use her voice with intention. Inspired by the strength of women who came before her, she has built a platform rooted in advocacy, support, and meaningful change, particularly for mothers navigating challenges she understands both professionally and personally.

As a doctorate prepared nurse practitioner with a certification in autism, Sunny’s work is deeply personal. As the mother of an autistic son, she has experienced firsthand the emotional and systemic barriers families often face. This perspective fuels her leadership on the St. Tammany Health Foundation Board, where she spearheads the STHS Autism Initiative.

Sunny R. McDanielimpacting women

Through this work, she is helping create more accessible and supportive healthcare environments while addressing gaps that directly impact women, including mothers, caregivers, advocates, and autistic women themselves.

Her passion is driven by a defining realization. Too many women are quietly carrying the weight of uncertainty while navigating systems that were not built with them in mind. Sunny has made it her mission to change that narrative by building stronger support systems and advocating for better outcomes.

What sets her apart is her ability to lead with empathy. As a wife, mother of three, healthcare provider, and autism advocate, she understands the balancing act women face. That understanding allows her to connect, mentor, and uplift others in a way that feels both authentic and impactful.

DNP, APRN, FNP-C, CAS

For Sunny, the most rewarding moments come when she sees another woman shift from fear to confidence and from uncertainty to empowerment. Those transformations reinforce the importance of women supporting women, especially in spaces where challenges are shared and deeply interconnected.

Her vision for the future is clear. A world where women have access to comprehensive support systems that combine practical resources, emotional care, and opportunities for growth. Through her work, she hopes every woman she encounters feels understood, supported, and empowered to move forward with confidence.

Sunny’s legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and advocacy, creating pathways for women to rise and ensuring they never have to do it alone.

Kathleen McCullough

In her years living in Louisiana, this Wisconsin native has spent decades building a career of bringing visions to life. Kathleen is a licensed Interior Designer who prides herself on the relationships she’s built with her clients over the years. She loves to think outside the box, filling each home with eclectic pieces that make each client feel at home.

WHY CHOOSE GREIGE HOME INTERIORS?

Here at Greige Home Interiors, our full-service interior design is tailored to cater to all your design needs, ensuring a seamless transformation of your space into a personalized sanctuary. Our antique collection is a treasure trove of timeless pieces, carefully curated to add a touch of history and sophistication to your home. As a locally owned business, we’re deeply rooted in the community. At Greige Home Interiors, we’re not just designing homes; we’re crafting lifestyles. Experience the difference that over 30 years of expertise and dedication can make in turning your house into your dream home.

“Kathleen is an amazing interior designer, and Greige is my go-to place for one-of-a-kind furnishings that make our house our home.”

- Dana B

Podcasters

The Hey Haute Mama Podcast, hosted by mother-daughter duo Jenn Perrault of Haute off the Rack and Liz Guidotti, offers an elevated yet refreshingly honest take on modern motherhood. Blending perspective, gratitude, and generational insight with a touch of humor, the show explores everything from identity and relationships to the everyday moments that shape this season of life.

HEY HAUTE MAMA JENN PERRAULT & LIZ GUIDOTTI  @Hey Haute Mama  @Hey Haute Mama

Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with more on Instagram at @heyhautemamapodcast, @hauteofftherack, and @hautemamacollective.

Abbie Crafton

Abbie Crafton’s story is built on resilience and clarity. She has faced seasons that required her to start over, from leaving with very little to rebuilding behind the chair, and later leading through a full team walkout. Those experiences shaped how she leads today with intention, not reaction.

She is now in a season of alignment. As a mom, her priorities are clear. Professionally, she has stepped fully into leadership and coaching, helping salon owners build structured, sustainable, and profitable businesses without having to learn everything the hard way.

To Abbie, excellence is consistency. It is the discipline of showing up and doing the work, regardless of who is watching. Leadership, she’s learned, also comes with pressure. Making decisions that impact others while staying steady is something most people never see.

Her faith, resilience, and mindset keep her focused on what she is building. Success now looks like peace, stability, and alignment. At the center of it all are her boys and a business that creates opportunity, not just for her, but for others. That impact extends beyond the salon as well, with a commitment to giving back through support of women-focused charities, including Haute Mama Collective and Hammers and Heels, organizations that uplift and invest in women within the community.

“Keep growing, stay accountable, and model strength with grace.”

JennyDexter

Jenny Dexter leads with the kind of strength that does not need to announce itself. As Executive Officer of the Northshore Home Builders Association, she brings a rare blend of strategic vision, empathy, and community-minded leadership to one of the Northshore’s most impactful industries.

Her professional journey has been deeply rooted in service. Years spent in the nonprofit sector, including affordable housing, gave Jenny firsthand insight into how development, policy, and people’s everyday lives are connected. Those experiences taught her to listen closely, adapt quickly, and lead with both compassion and clarity. Today, that foundation allows her to advocate for members in a way that is practical, purposeful, and people-centered.

Jenny describes this chapter of life as a season of reflection and growth. Rather than chasing titles or appearances, she is focused on intention. She values presence, meaningful relationships, and showing up each day with greater wisdom than the day before. It is a mindset that has made her both grounded and effective.

What defines excellence for Jenny is not perfection, but progress. It is the discipline to keep building something better, to keep learning, and to remain committed to creating real value for others. Whether through advocacy, connection, or strengthening systems behind the scenes, she believes meaningful impact is built consistently over time.

Her resilience was shaped long before leadership titles ever came. Personal hardships and early life challenges taught her empathy, perspective, and the importance of meeting people where they are. Those lessons now shape how she leads others with understanding instead of assumption.

At home, her children remain her greatest motivation. They inspire her to keep growing, stay accountable, and model strength with grace. Professionally, she hopes to leave every organization stronger than she found it. Personally, she hopes to raise thoughtful, independent people who contribute good to the world.

Jenny’s definition of success is simple and powerful: doing more good than harm, helping others rise, and ending each day knowing something meaningful was added.

As a lifelong Northshore resident, she believes community is built not only in moments of crisis, but in everyday kindness, inclusion, and connection. That belief is evident in the culture she continues to create.

Quietly confident and deeply intentional, Jenny Dexter is building a legacy measured not only by what she accomplishes, but by how people feel after working beside her.

“Excellence is simple and unwavering. It is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”

MEGAN

HELWICK

For Megan Helwick, the past eleven years as a full time Realtor® have been defined by consistency, growth, and a deep commitment to doing things the right way. Grounded in integrity and shaped by both personal and professional experiences, she has built a career that reflects not only her work ethic, but her values.

Today, Megan is in a season defined by intention. As a wife of nineteen years and a mom to a sixteen year old son, she is focused on creating structure and boundaries that allow her to show up fully in every role she holds. Excellence, to her, is simple and unwavering. It is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

Like many, Megan has had to overcome the quiet challenge of comparison. Learning to step away from measuring her life against what others have has been a turning point,

allowing her to recognize her own accomplishments with clarity and pride. That shift has strengthened how she defines success now, not as sacrifice, but as balance. She believes in reaching professional goals without losing herself or the people who matter most.

Her leadership is shaped by presence. From serving as a Royal Maid with the Krewe of Eve to supporting Brooke It Forward Foundation, chairing the Student Art Exhibit for the Covington Three Rivers Art Festival, and completing Leadership St. Tammany, Megan stays deeply involved. For her, community means showing up, having fun, and making a meaningful impact.

At the heart of it all, her legacy is clear. Work hard, be kind, and enjoy the life you are building along the way.

Leadership, for Leslie Victory, was never about a single defining moment. It was built in real time, through raising a large family, building a career, and learning how to lead through both at once. Those overlapping seasons shaped a woman who leads with heart first, then intention, grounded in experience rather than perfection.

Today, Leslie stands in a season of clarity. Personally, she has learned the value of slowing down and being present. Professionally, she is stepping fully into her voice, embracing opportunities to lead, speak, and coach in ways that help others grow. Her approach to excellence is simple yet unwavering: do what you say you will do, with care and consistency, and honor the responsibility that comes with leadership.

Behind that steady presence are quieter battles. Leslie has navigated seasons of self-doubt and the weight of carrying more than most could see. Learning to trust her voice and stand firm in her decisions has been a defining part of her journey, one that continues to shape how she shows up for others.

What drives her is not recognition, but purpose. A deep internal standard, paired with a commitment to the people who rely on her, keeps her moving forward. Success, at this stage, is no longer defined by external markers, but by alignment, peace, and meaningful impact.

On the Northshore, Leslie sees community as something deeply felt, rooted in trust, relationships, and showing up for one another. The legacy she is building reflects that same belief: creating space for others to grow, lead, and step fully into who they are meant to be.

“Do what you say you will do, with care and consistency, and honor the responsibility that comes with leadership.”

LESLIE VICTORY

ACT IMP

CREATE MEANINGFUL CHANGE THAT RESONATES.RESONATES.

Success REDEFINING

SUCCESS EVOLVES.

What once looked like titles, milestones, or recognition often shifts with experience. Many women find that success becomes less about external markers and more about alignment.

Redefining success means asking different questions. Does this life feel sustainable? Does it reflect my values? Does it leave room for joy, rest, and connection?

For some, success is flexibility. For others, it’s impact. For many, it’s peace. Redefining success allows women to release outdated expectations and build lives that actually fit.

This evolution isn’t a loss of ambition. It’s a refinement of it. These women still strive. They simply strive with intention.

Redefined success honors growth without burnout and achievement without sacrifice of self. It’s personal. Purpose driven. And deeply empowering.

ANNETTE DOWDLE

“Success is rooted in alignment, impact, and remaining true to who you are while building something greater than yourself.”

Annette Dowdle operates with the kind of presence that commands respect long before she speaks. As Senior Vice President of Gulf South at HUB International, she has built a reputation as one of the most influential strategic minds in her industry, known for her ability to lead with clarity, precision, and unwavering discipline. Beyond corporate leadership, she is also a strategist, author, speaker, and the creator of I2S™ (Integrated Stewardship Strategy) Business Advisory Services, a framework rooted in intentional leadership and sustainable growth.

Her journey has been defined by both bold leaps and quiet rebuilding. Every season sharpened her ability to trust herself, adapt under pressure, and continue moving forward even when the next step was unclear. Annette’s leadership style was not built in comfort. It was built through real life experience, navigating challenges that taught her how to remain steady, people focused, and solution driven no matter the circumstances.

In this season of life, Annette is embracing elevation on every level. Personally, she protects her peace with intention, understanding that clarity and focus are essential to growth. Professionally, she continues to expand her influence through work that stretches her while creating meaningful impact for others. Excellence, to her, is never accidental. It is consistency over time, showing up with integrity, delivering with purpose, and refusing to cut corners even when no one is watching.

One of the most defining moments in her evolution came when she overcame the fear of being seen. Stepping fully into her power allowed her to lead more boldly and inspire others to do the same. What drives her today is discipline, not temporary motivation. She believes success is rooted in alignment, impact, and remaining true to who you are while building something greater than yourself.

Annette Dowdle is not simply building a career. She is building legacy, influence, and a blueprint for what powerful leadership looks like when vision, faith, resilience, and execution all meet in the same room.

Eugenia Gangi

For fourteen years, Eugenia Gangi has done more than just sustain a business. She has built a legacy of resilience, adaptability, and impact. Her journey as a woman in business has been marked by unwavering commitment, an ability to pivot in uncertainty, and deep trust in her intuition. Through it all, she has created value not only for her clients but also for the community that has supported her. For Eugenia, success is not just about longevity. It is about making a meaningful difference.

Her path was shaped by strong women early in her career. These women led with honesty, kindness, and integrity. Their ability to balance decisiveness with compassion served as a guiding light. In their example, Eugenia found a blueprint for building a business rooted in purpose and authenticity. She carries their influence forward, knowing that success is not just what you achieve, but how you uplift others.

If she could offer advice to her younger self, it would be simple but powerful. Trust yourself. Know when to pivot. Be patient. Success is a process. Most importantly, surround yourself with people who inspire and support you. The right network makes all the difference.

For Eugenia, work is more than a profession. It is a passion. She is driven by the ability to solve real challenges, create solutions, and support long term success. Her daughter sees this firsthand, learning from her mother’s dedication and perseverance.

Ultimately, Eugenia’s story is one of generational strength. It reflects a legacy of determination and the belief that success is about building a future worth inheriting.

EX PAN SION

GROW BEYOND LIMITS AND REDEFINE WHAT’S POSSIBLE.

A LIGN MENT

BRING VISION AND ACTION INTO POWERFUL HARMONY.

Being rooted doesn’t mean staying stagnant. It means growing with intention.

In a world that celebrates constant movement, some women choose to build where they are. They invest locally. They nurture community. They believe impact starts close to home.

Rooted Here

Staying rooted is a choice.

Being rooted doesn’t mean staying stagnant. It means growing with intention. These women understand the power of relationships built over time and the value of showing up consistently.

Their work strengthens the fabric of their community. They support local businesses, mentor the next generation, and create spaces where others feel connected.

Rooted women don’t chase everywhere. They deepen where they are. And in doing so, they create meaningful, lasting change.

WOMEN WH OPEN DOORS

Progress doesn’t happen in isolation.

Women who open doors understand that success multiplies when it’s shared. They mentor, recommend, encourage, and advocate not for recognition but because they remember what it felt like to be on the outside.

Opening doors doesn’t always mean grand gestures. Sometimes it’s a conversation, a referral, an introduction, or simply believing in someone before they believe in themselves.

These women recognize that leadership includes lifting others. They create space at the table and pull up extra chairs. They know there is room for more voices, more stories, and more success.

Their impact is often seen through the people they’ve supported along the way. The careers launched. The confidence restored. The opportunities expanded.

Women who open doors leave a legacy that extends far beyond their own accomplishments. Their influence is carried forward through the lives they’ve touched.

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SURGICAL PROCEDURES

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SKIN & AESTHETIC TREATMENTS

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Microneedling

Chemical Peels

Customized Facials (Diamond Glow)

Class of 2025

PHOTOS BY TIFFANY CHABERT

WE Social hosted its annual luncheon at Apertif Spritz + Bites, celebrating the release of its all-women’s publication spotlighting the best in business, leadership, and community across the Northshore. Guests enjoyed food, conversation, and connection as this year’s edition honored the women setting the standard in their industries.