Deena Parker Director, WBE Services and Engagement
Monica Ballen, Manager, Certification and Sourcing DMV
Leandra Joseph Chief Operating Office
Andy Ramos Senior Manager, Learning and Development Programs
Diana Camosy Certification Specialist DMV
Karen Migliaccio Certification Coordinator NY
Patrick Gaeta Director, Operations
Kyra Berkheiser Senior Manager, Certification and Sourcing NY
Tashia Sewel, Certification Coordinator DMV
Ronora Bylykbashi Certification Coordinator NY
Caroline Carrai Director, Marketing
Vanessa Foster Manager, Communication & Special Programs
Sharon Gutierrez, Certification Coordinator NY
LETTER FROM OUR CHAIR
Where has the time gone and what difference a year makes! It’s hard to believe that just 12 months ago, we were together at this very event to bid a fond farewell to our CEO, Sandra Eberhard, and to welcome our new leader, Phala Mire. The event marked both an ending and a beginning—a passing of the torch that reflected WBEC NY DMV’s ongoing commitment to growth, innovation, and the advancement of womenowned businesses. We also celebrated another milestone, the 25th year anniversary of WBEC NY DMV by reflecting on the progress over those 25 years, the incredible people who blazed the trail and looked with much optimism to the future. Since then, the world around us—and our world of supplier inclusion—has transformed in profound ways. Shifting economic landscapes, emerging technologies, and new paradigms in supplier diversity have challenged us to rethink how we connect, collaborate, and create opportunity within our ecosystem.
And yet, amidst all the disruption, what continues to shine brightly is our collective spirit of resilience, purpose, and possibility. WBEC NY DMV has not only adapted but also reimagined how we empower women in business and strengthen partnerships across industries. There is much to be hopeful. The future of our organization is one of optimism, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to inclusion. Together, we are writing the next chapter of this story, one that honors our legacy while boldly embracing the promise of what lies ahead.
With warm regards,
Mary McEvoy
Mary McEvoy Board Chair, WBEC NY DMV
GREETINGS FROM WBENC
WBEC NY DMV Community, Partners, and Friends,
It is a true honor to join you for the Impact Awards Luncheon as I address you for the first time as Interim President and CEO of WBENC, on behalf of Chief Operations Officer Jill Sasso and the entire WBENC Leadership team and staff. Being part of this incredible network of women business enterprises, corporate members, and allies is both inspiring and energizing. The WBENC’s mission has always been about creating access, opportunity, and equity — values that continue to guide us as we navigate new realities in the world of business. Today, as we celebrate the achievements of our women’s business enterprises and recognize the dedicated leaders who drive this work forward, I am reminded that supplier inclusion is not only a business imperative, but a force for innovation and community impact.
In this moment of transformation, the collaboration between WBENC and our regional partners, including WBEC NY DMV, has never been more critical. Together, we are redefining what it means to lead with purpose and to build ecosystems where entrepreneurs and small businesses thrive. The challenges before us are real — but so are the opportunities. With passion, partnership, and perseverance, we will continue to shape a future where women entrepreneurs have every opportunity to succeed, grow, and lead. I look forward to the journey ahead and to celebrating continued success with all of you.
Warm regards,
Nedra Dickson
Nedra Dickson Interim President & CEO, WBENC
HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE
From handcrafted sweets to sustainable style and smart solves you didn’t know you needed, the Holiday Marketplace showcases womenowned brands that make gifting feel good. Explore, shop, and spark a little economic magic with every purchase.
Absolute Green — Non-toxic, USDA bio-based cleaners. | www.absolutegreen.com
Amodex Products Inc. — Legendary ink and stain remover. | www.amodexusa.com
Bake Me Healthy — Allergen-friendly, upcycled baking mixes. | www.bakemehealthy.co
Brand, Style & Bloom — Personal branding meets styling. | www.brandstylebloom.com eat2explore — Cook the world, one kit at a time. | www.eat2explore.com
Geeta’s Ethnic Collections — Festive jewelry and apparel.
Likha — Ethical Filipino artisan home & jewelry. | www.shoplikha.com
Maptote — Brooklyn-made, map-happy totes and gifts. | www.maptote.com
Mella Home — Cozy scents and home accents. | www.mellahome.com
Mestiza New York Inc. — Effortlessly polished occasion wear. | www.mestizanewyork.com
Mary McEvoy, Board Chair, WBEC NY DMV, VP, Source to Pay, Shared Services, PepsiCo
1:05pm IMPACT AWARDS PRESENTATION
2:20pm CLOSING REMARKS
2:30pm NETWORKING + HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE
3:00pm END OF PROGRAM
SPEAKERS
Nedra Dickson
Interim, President, WBENC
Following the sudden passing of Pamela Prince-Eason, the WBENC Executive Committee appointed Nedra Dickson as WBENC Interim President & CEO. Nedra served as the WBENC Board Chair since January 2023, working closely with Pam and WBENC leadership throughout that time. She also recently retired from her longtime leadership role with Accenture and has been involved with WBENC and its partner organizations for many years.
Nedra brings a wealth of experience, insight, and purpose-driven leadership that will prepare WBENC to reach even greater impact in the years ahead, and we are honored and excited to welcome her as she shares her insights at the WBEC Metro NY Impact Awards.
Mary McEvoy
Board Chair, WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV
VP, Source to Pay, Shared Services, PepsiCo
Mary McEvoy, Vice President, Source to Pay Global Services at PepsiCo, is responsible for transforming and establishing an E2E approach for this key business process. Mary also plays the role of Global Functional Lead for Procurement.
Mary is based in Purchase, New York and joined PepsiCo in 1998 as a scientist in Research & Development. She made a career shift to procurement in 2003 as an ingredient buyer with PGCS. In her time with procurement, she has acquired diverse critical experiences, including global leadership roles in packaging, commodities as well as leading procurement for PBNA.
Mary is the New York Executive Sponsor of EQUAL, the ERG at PepsiCo committed to promoting an open and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ associates. She is actively involved in non-profit organizations and serves as Board Chair of WBEC Metro NY.
EMERGING 10 (E10) HONOREES
EMERGING 10 (E10) HONOREES
THE GOTTESMAN ORGANIZATION, INC. DBA ALTUS METAL & MARBLE | www.altusmm.com
Lina Gottesman, President
As a proud member of WBEC, I am honored to receive the Emerging 10 recognition. Being nominated for this award is a meaningful achievement.
Personally, it affirms the dedication and passion I have poured into The Gottesman Organization, Inc. dba Altus Metal & Marble Maintenance since its early days. This recognition validates years of hard work, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence that have guided both me and my team. It reflects that our company’s commitment to quality workmanship, integrity, and client trust is being seen and valued on a larger scale. It also inspires us to continue setting the standard for restoration services in our industry.
Professionally, this recognition strengthens our resolve to uphold the values that align with WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV. Like WBEC, we are driven by excellence, accountability, and the belief in empowering women-owned businesses to thrive. We take pride in uplifting our team, fostering diversity, and creating opportunities that strengthen not only our company but also the industry as a whole.
BLINK SUPPLIES, INC. | www.blinksupplies.com
Mirian Freilich, Owner
Blink Supplies is grateful to be nominated for this prestigious award and honored to be part of such a dynamic and supportive community. WBENC brings forward incredible opportunities by promoting and empowering women-owned businesses.
As a WBENC-certified company, we are proud to carry the values of diversity, innovation, and excellence in everything we do, delivering on our promise of providing high-quality products at great prices, expeditiously.
This recognition is not only a reflection of our work, but also a testament to the power of community and the shared commitment to excellence that WBENC fosters. We are excited about the future and the continued opportunities to grow and support the great work being done across industries.
EMERGING 10 (E10) HONOREES (CONT.)
GROWTH POTENTIAL CONSULTING, LLC |
www.growthpotentialcons.com
Jennifer Smith, CEO and Strategic Advisor
Being nominated for the Emerging 10 Award is deeply meaningful to me. Personally, it represents a recognition of the purpose that fuels my work—helping leaders unlock their passion and potential so they can create impact that extends beyond themselves and into future generations. I truly love what I do, and this honor reminds me that the legacy I am building is not only about the clients I serve today, but also about the ripple effects they will carry forward. It feels like a celebration of the vision that has guided me from the start: cultivating a community of passionate leaders committed to lasting, meaningful impact.
Professionally, this nomination acknowledges the influence we have been fortunate to make across 14 industries and 26 countries. It affirms that our work is transforming organizations and that our voice has a place in shaping the future of leadership. For my team, clients, and partners, it is a reminder that we are collectively contributing to something much larger than ourselves.
My work aligns closely with WBEC Metro NY’s values of advancing women in business and leadership. Through mentoring female college students and women at the early stages of their careers, and by serving as executive coaches who help women earn promotions and thrive at senior levels, we are not only creating pathways for individual success but also strengthening the organizations they lead. In doing so, we echo WBEC Metro NY’s commitment to empower women and drive lasting impact.
HIGHLIGHT DIGITAL | www.highlight.nyc
Ola Parks, CEO, Executive producer
Being nominated for this award is both a personal honor and a professional milestone. Personally, it affirms the resilience, vision, and values that have guided my journey as a woman, immigrant, and entrepreneur. Professionally, it recognizes the impact Highlight has made in amplifying authentic voices and creating cultural storytelling that inspires audiences to act and shapes meaningful change. While our work has reached Fortune 500 companies, trade associations, and nonprofits, the heart of our mission has always been to inspire trust, drive inclusion, and prove that diverse stories can move culture and make a true difference in the world.
The values of WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV of empowering women, advancing equity, and building community through collaboration deeply align with my own. Highlight is a women-owned business that not only delivers creative, high-performing content but also reinvests in people by hiring refugees, supporting underrepresented talent, and telling stories that break barriers. I see our role as more than a content studio. We are advocates for visibility, fairness, and opportunity.
This nomination reinforces my commitment to continue building a company that proves women-led businesses can innovate at the highest level, deliver measurable business results, and uplift communities in the process. It is also a reminder that when women support women, we expand possibilities not only for ourselves but for the generations that follow.
BBeing nominated for The Emerging 10 Award is both humbling and deeply meaningful. Personally, it represents recognition of the courage, resilience, and dedication it has taken to lead Creative Packaging Solutions through 22 years of growth, challenges, and transformation. From the uncertainty of a startup to navigating economic upheavals and industry shifts, this honor acknowledges the perseverance that defines women entrepreneurs. It represents our ability to keep moving forward when the path is not always clear.
Professionally, this recognition affirms the impact our company has had in helping consumer product brands bring their ideas to market with packaging that is innovative, sustainable, and reliable. Over the years, we have faced tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and evolving customer demands, yet each challenge became an opportunity to adapt, innovate, and grow stronger. This nomination is a celebration of that journey.
What makes this especially meaningful is the alignment with the values of WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV. WBENC is not only about certification. It is about building a community where women uplift one another, removes barriers, and creates opportunities for future leaders. Creative Packaging Solutions reflects those same values by simplifying packaging for emerging brands, many of them women-led, so they can focus on scaling their vision.
This recognition is more than a milestone; it is a responsibility. Every challenge has been an opportunity to adapt, innovate, and grow stronger. This honor celebrates not only my journey, but the collective strength of women entrepreneurs.
FIRM-6 INC | https://www.firm6medicalsupply.com
Pamela Zonsius,
President
Our team at FIRM6 is dedicated to helping you maneuver your PPE challenges, at every turn. It is through our extensive manufacturers partnerships we guarantee the highest quality products at the most competitive price points, with on time deliveries. We guarantee that every product procured for you has all necessary FDA certificates, and 510K clearances needed for compliance. It is through these extensive partnerships we have successfully delivered over 20 million PPE products to hospitals and healthcare facilities since March 2020. This is the FIRM6 difference.
EMERGING 10 (E10) HONOREES (CONT.)
UNITED SOLAR GROUP CORPORATION | https://www.unitedsgc.com
Pamela Lucchesi, President
USGC delivers a comprehensive suite of roofing services tailored to meet the diverse needs of various commercial clients across multiple states in the US. With a rich heritage spanning generations, our expertise covers every facet of roofing, from new construction to re-roofing, repairs, maintenance, and installation of metal wall panels and solar solutions.
Founded on the principle that our products, services, and team members are our greatest assets, USGC prioritizes customer satisfaction above all else. We are dedicated to exceeding expectations, ensuring each project is executed to the highest standards. From the initial consultation to the final inspection, we collaborate closely with clients, crafting customized solutions that align with their unique requirements and budgetary constraints.
At USGC, our mission extends beyond providing exceptional roofing solutions; we aim to establish ourselves as the preferred contractor for our customers while fostering a “safety-first” culture for our employees. Drawing on generations of experience as professional commercial, sheet metal and solar roofing contractors, we take pride in our safety protocols, craftsmanship, and personalized customer service. By adhering to our core values, we endeavor to earn your trust and cultivate lasting partnerships.
IP MED INC. | www.ipmedinc.com
Linda Robin Isaacs, CEO
IP Med partners with (physician) inventors, academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies to bring their concepts to market: We create, develop (design and engineer), patent, prototype, build proof of concept, commercialize and/or monetize unique and innovative technologies and compounds in efficient and cost effective ways.
IP Med’s founders bring 35 + years of success and experience in strategic planning and marketing for the pharmaceutical and medical product industries; working with top-tier companies including Pfizer, Wyeth, Eli Lilly, Merck, AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline just to name a few.
IP Med maintains close relationships with a vast network of executives within major companies in the medical arena; including pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device companies.
EMERGING 10 (E10) HONOREES (CONT.)
SALAD HOUSE OF SPARTA | www.thesaladhouse.com
Michele Zentz
This fast-casual restaurant serves customizable salads, grain bowls, wraps, and catering that keep teams fueled and events elevated. Owner Michele Zentz—the brand’s first female franchisee—builds community through fresh, convenient options and local hiring. It’s Synergy in practice: suppliers, staff, and customers moving in step to create healthier choices, repeat business, and real regional economic impact. Michele believes “Being a woman in 2 separate male dominated businesses has had its challenges. However, being WBEC Certified has allowed me to recognize that I am doing this not only for myself, but to help other women recognize that it’s not only possible, but sustainable. It also allows us, as women, to be able to support each other immensely.”
WILSON LAW GROUP LLC | www.wilsonlgllc.com
Margaret Wilson, Partner
A boutique law firm focused on state and local tax strategy—advisory, audit defense, litigation, and appeals working in concert to resolve complex tax issues. Founder Margaret Wilson brings 25+ years of SALT leadership to help clients reduce exposure, recover refunds, and free capital for growth—synergy that turns legal expertise into tangible economic impact for the businesses we serve.
INNOVATION AWARD NOMINEES
INNOVATION AWARD NOMINEES
SHERENE STRAUSBERG Founder, 87th Street Creative |
www.87thstreetcreative.com
This fast-casual restaurant serves customizable salads, grain bowls, wraps, and catering that keep teams fueled and events elevated. Owner Michele Zentz—the brand’s first female franchisee—builds community through fresh, convenient options and local hiring. It’s Synergy in practice: suppliers, staff, and customers moving in step to create healthier choices, repeat business, and real regional economic impact. Michele believes “Being a woman in 2 separate male dominated businesses has had its challenges. However, being WBEC Certified has allowed me to recognize that I am doing this not only for myself, but to help other women recognize that it’s not only possible, but sustainable. It also allows us, as women, to be able to support each other immensely.”
KIMBERLY LAU
Founder, Bake Me Healthy | https://bakemehealthy.co
Kimberly Lau is reimagining the baking aisle with allergy-friendly, vegan, gluten-free mixes and cookies made with upcycled ingredients. Bake Me Healthy delivers school-safe, planet-minded indulgence that’s simple to make and easy to share—because wellness should be inclusive, not exclusive. By uniting food science, sustainability, and joyful flavor, Kimberly shows how innovation fuels both community health and market growth. Her work is synergy in practice: suppliers, families, and retailers pulling in the same direction to expand access, cut waste, and sweeten economic opportunity.
VANESSA BEST President, Precision Healthcare | www.precisionhcc.com
Vanessa Best advances health equity by closing global clinical-trial gaps through Precision Healthcare’s culturally fluent, compliance-driven solutions. Operating across dozens of states and countries, her multilingual teams activate underutilized sites, strengthen informed consent, and exceed enrollment targets among historically overlooked populations—all aligned to FDA, GCP, and ICH standards. Vanessa’s model fuses data, community trust, and regulatory rigor so therapies are safer, faster, and more representative. That is Innovation in Action: cross-sector collaboration delivering better science, better outcomes, and a healthier future for all.
CARRIE SPORER
President, SWAIR | www.swairhair.com
While training for the NYC Marathon, Carrie Sporer turned a universal pain point—sweaty hair and no time—into a performance-beauty category. SWAIR’s showerless shampoo and SweatShield leave-in streamline post-workout routines with clean, vegan, Leaping-Bunnycertified formulas made in the USA and trusted by major retailers and fitness partners. Carrie’s approach blends chemistry, athlete insights, and retail execution to unlock time, confidence, and access to movement. It’s innovation that scales through partnership—proving that when consumer need, product science, and go-to-market align, momentum becomes impact.
POWER IN PARTNERSHIP AWARD NOMINEES
POWER IN PARTNERSHIP AWARD NOMINEES
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY MINORITY SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (NYNJ MSDC)
Terrance Clark, President & CEO | www.nynjmsdc.org
On behalf of the New York and New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council. We are very grateful for this nomination. As the overall business environment has changed, the willingness and ability for like-minded organizations to work together is key to continuing the growth and development of businesses that have traditionally had limited business opportunities Our organization shares the goal of assisting these businesses to locate, develop and get access to new opportunities in the public and private sectors. We must not only continue but expand this work as it is key for the community and economic development of our communities and country.
NATIONAL LGBTQ+ AND ALLIED CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEW YORK (NGLCCNY)
Baron Jackson, Executive Director | www.nglccny.org
True progress is not built in isolation, but in unity. This reflects a spirit of collaboration that has long defined New York’s strength, a city where diverse voices, identities, and dreams converge to build something greater than any one of us could alone. It affirms the value of showing up for one another, of bridging communities, and of ensuring that every entrepreneur can find visibility, belonging, and opportunity within our collective economy. As Executive Director for the National LGBTQ+ and Allied Chamber of Commerce New York, thank you to WBEC Greater NY and DMV for this recognition. Inclusive economic partnerships shape the future of New York’s marketplace. It honors our shared mission to advance visibility, connectivity, opportunity, and build lasting share hold for underrepresented businesses in the economic fabric of New York State
ICIC | https://icic.org
Stephanie De La Cruz, Deputy Director
Being nominated for the Power in Partnership Impact Award is both an honor and an affirmation of the work we do at ICCC to create equitable growth through collaboration. Personally, it represents the collective spirit of our team, partners, and business owners which each of whom believes that meaningful change happens when we work together across sectors, communities, and lived experiences. Professionally, it reinforces our commitment to building bridges between entrepreneurs and the ecosystem of support that helps them thrive.
At ICCC, partnership is at the heart of our model. Through collaborations with corporate sponsors, local organizations, and community development institutions, we deliver executive education, coaching, and capital connections that help small businesses in under-resourced communities scale and create jobs. Every success story from our 7,000+ alumni reflect what’s possible when partnership fuels purpose. Our work aligns closely with the values of WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV, particularly in advancing equity, fostering economic empowerment, and strengthening women- and minority-owned businesses. Like WBEC, we believe in the power of networks that uplift entrepreneurs, amplify diverse voices, and open doors to opportunity.
This nomination celebrates not just our impact, but the shared belief that collaboration is the catalyst for lasting, inclusive growth.
POWER IN PARTNERSHIP AWARD NOMINEES (CONT.)
BLACK WOMEN TALK TECH | www.blackwomentalktech.com
Regina Gwyn, Co-Founder
There wasn’t a roadmap to billions designed for us, so we created our own. That’s how Black Women Talk Tech began. We created a tech conference designed specifically for Black women tech entrepreneurs to create a space where black women could for once, be seen and heard and have their ideas invested in. Our conference is now the largest convening of Black women tech entrepreneurs and technologists.
Today, our mission is to help Black women dream big and build the next billion-dollar tech or scalable company.
ASIAN INDIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
(AICC) | www.aicc.net
Komal Dangi, President
Committed to innovation, inclusivity, and community impact. Personally, it represents the culmination of years dedicated to bridging cultures, fostering collaboration, and creating opportunities for underrepresented voices within the business and technology landscape. It acknowledges not only my individual efforts but also the shared achievements of mentors, colleagues, and partners who have contributed to this vision.
Professionally, the nomination reinforces my belief that leadership is measured by impact — by how effectively one empowers others and builds systems that promote equity and sustainable growth. It inspires me to continue advancing initiatives that enhance supplier diversity, strengthen entrepreneurship, and cultivate meaningful partnerships across communities.
My work aligns closely with the mission of WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV, which champion inclusion and economic advancement. Through my involvement with the Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce, I have focused on connecting women-owned, minority-owned, and Asian-led enterprises, encouraging mentorship and ethical collaboration. These efforts echo WBEC’s core values — empowering diverse voices, fostering innovation, and driving equitable opportunities.
What this means to me is the work we are doing at AMC Networks is making an impact with women business owners. It could help them make connections with other corporations by hosting events. Connecting people, building relationships, supplier mentoring, and passion/ enthusiasm are at the heart of being successful in this role and this nomination makes me proud that these activities matter and are making an impact/noticed. Whether it’s the several mentoring programs that include WBE’s we are engage in, the showcases where we connect WBE’s to the ideal decision makers & influencers, the virtual & in-person matchmakers we do, and the in-person events we host at our NYC HQ’s or attend to increase access and relationship building opportunities, it all helps move the needle in a positive direction—creating opportunities. It’s rewarding to advocate exceptional WBE’s to AMC Networks decision makers & influencers, corporate counterparts and to other WBE’s. Being nominated demonstrates we can all make a difference if we try to go above and beyond. Helping others is incredibly rewarding and is the main reason why I’ve been in this role for 25+ years. Getting nominated makes me proud to work at AMC Networks because I have such an amazing, supportive boss (SVP, Procurement -Ken Gottesman) who walks the walk and provides the resources & his personal support to make success stories happen and to drive innovation, increase competition, and ensure ongoing access when possible.
My grandparents were entrepreneurs and community advocates who believed deeply in using business as a force for good. They taught me that success means little if it doesn’t lift others along the way. My mother worked hard, and smart, and was part of that generation that paved the way for women to succeed in life and business. To be nominated for this award is both an honor and a reminder that I am carrying forward their legacy — striving to create opportunities, open doors, and make the path a little easier for those who follow.
Seeing women-owned businesses grow, collaborate, and thrive alongside corporate partners is one of the greatest joys of my work. Each connection, contract, and success story represents not just progress in business, but empowerment, equity, and shared prosperity.
I am deeply grateful to WBEC for fostering a community that embodies these values — where women can lead boldly, learn from one another, and build with intention. Being part of this ecosystem as a certified WBE, board member, mentor to WBE’s, and resource to corporates has strengthened my commitment to advocacy and inclusion. This recognition reminds me that together, we are transforming what’s possible for women in business.
OUTSTANDING ADVOCATE AWARD NOMINEES (CONT.)
SHARI VERRONE, BOSS LADY! | StackableSensations.com President, Stackable Sensations
Being nominated for the Outstanding Advocate Award is both humbling and incredibly meaningful to me. Personally, it’s a reminder of why I do what I do—seeing other women rise because someone believed in them. It validates that the time and heart I’ve invested in helping other women succeed has made an impact. Professionally, I also take pride in connecting other WBEs with corporations we partner with—creating introductions that open doors to new relationships and real opportunities for growth.
As the owner of Stackable Sensations, I’ve made it my mission to support women-owned businesses whenever possible. Whether mentoring those new to the branded merchandise space, sharing insights on panels about creative ways to engage corporations focused on inclusion, or encouraging every womanowned company I meet to pursue WBENC certification, I believe in the power of women helping women.
That commitment has translated into measurable impact: growing our WBE and corporate diversity spend from just a few hundred thousand dollars to over $3 million—proof that collaboration, creativity, and authenticity lead to success.
My work aligns directly with the values of WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV: empowerment, connection, and growth. I strive to live those values every day—not just through words, but through action that uplifts others. By building partnerships rooted in trust, by amplifying the visibility and opportunities for other WBEs, and by proving that women-owned businesses can compete and lead at the highest level, I hope to show what’s possible when passion and purpose unite.
Founder and President, Embassy Global LLC and Components Source Network
It means the world! Being a certified WBE/WOSB through WBENC and a facilitated DOBE has profoundly shaped both my business and advocacy work. The generosity of spirit, support, knowledge, and sisterhood within this network are unparalleled. It has inspired me to use my platform to advocate for fellow WBEs while helping to expand opportunities for supplier diversity and sustainability. That inspiration led me to develop and launch the Components Source Network— the world’s first global B2B publishing and media platform dedicated to promoting small business growth, supply chain diversity, and sustainability in high-tech manufacturing and engineering, and to serve as a trusted voice within niche industries where women remain so grossly underrepresented.
In addition to my business efforts, I am proud to give back as a volunteer member of the WBENC Certification Committee, conducting 11 site visits across Western and Central New York last year—often covering large distances to do so. I also helped facilitate C-Suite programming in Buffalo, Rochester, and Binghamton, creating spaces where fellow WBEs can grow, connect, share openly, and lead. I mentored 25 WBEs last year, helping them strengthen their positioning and engagement within the WBENC network.
As a proud member of the WBENC Forum and a participant in sponsored programs such as the Federal Reserve Bank of New York Supplier Diversity Mentoring Program, I remain deeply committed to advancing WBENC’s mission. I am also an active advocate in Congress, working to educate policymakers on the value of WBEs and the importance of equitable access to federal opportunities. WBENC continues to provide the foundation of support, knowledge, and community that guides my growth and fuels my life.
Being nominated for the Outstanding Advocate Award is deeply meaningful to me, both personally and professionally. It represents more than recognition — it reflects a shared commitment to creating lasting impact for women-owned and minority-owned businesses.
Personally, this nomination affirms the values that have guided my career since co-founding Savoca Enterprises in 1985 with my father: integrity, collaboration, and the belief that when we lift others, we all rise. Professionally, it underscores the importance of advocacy as a daily practice — not just opening doors for others, but walking alongside them to ensure they have the tools, knowledge, and confidence to succeed.
My work is deeply aligned with the mission and values of WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV. Like WBEC, I believe in the power of connection, education, and empowerment. Through Savoca Enterprises and our partnerships with primes, agencies, and business leaders, I’ve focused on helping certified firms build capacity, strengthen operations, and access real contracting opportunities. It’s about bridging the gap between readiness and results — and ensuring that supplier diversity translates into sustainable business growth.
I’m truly honored to be part of this community of extraordinary women who continue to redefine what advocacy and leadership look like in business.
OUTSTANDING ADVOCATE AWARD NOMINEES (CONT.)
SONIA WALKES | www.coned.com
Sr. Specialist, Corporate Social Responsibility, Con Edison Company of New York Inc.
Being nominated for this award is deeply meaningful to me, both personally and professionally. As a longtime advocate for women-owned businesses, this recognition affirms the passion and purpose that have guided my career for over 30 years. This work isn’t just a professional responsibility; it’s a personal mission. I am truly blessed to have a powerful “why” behind the work I do at Con Edison. Every day I wake up knowing that my efforts help create jobs, support families, and strengthen communities. This nomination reflects the impact that comes from elevating small businesses. I’ve had the privilege of helping entrepreneurs grow from early-stage startups into multi-million-dollar enterprises. That journey, watching businesses thrive and communities flourish, is what drives me. I believe that when we invest in small businesses, especially those owned by women, we foster innovation, economic empowerment, and justice.
The values of WBEC Metro NY and the Greater DMV region are perfectly aligned with my passion for supporting and advancing women-owned businesses. Their commitment to growth, development, and economic inclusion mirrors the work I do every day. Together, we are building ecosystems, where women entrepreneurs can thrive, not just survive, in today’s economy.
That’s why the work we do is so vital. It’s not just about contracts and numbers; it’s about impact. It’s about creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and ensuring that women-owned businesses have a seat at the table. I’m proud to be part of a movement that uplifts voices, drives change, and builds a more equitable future.
The WBEC Metro NY and the Greater DMV region has supported our sourcing efforts and helped Con Edison’s Supply Chain power the energy needs of the NY Metro area for over two decades.
CORPORATION OF THE YEAR AWARD NOMINEES
CORPORATION OF THE YEAR AWARD NOMINEES
CON EDISON | www.coned.com
Tohma Gadson-Shaw, Director, Supply Chain Corporate Social Responsibility
Being nominated for the WBEC NY Regional Corporation of the Year is a profound affirmation of our organization’s and SEED team’s commitment to opportunity, equity, access, and advocacy. It highlights not just what we’ve done, but what we aim to build: a supply chain strengthened by competitive, capable suppliers who will partner with us toward our clean energy goals.
Across New York, women-owned businesses represent a meaningful economic force. In New York City alone, there are nearly 600,000 women-owned businesses, among the highest of any city, and they generate over $70 billion in annual revenue. Over a decade, women-owned businesses in the city grew by 43 percent, outpacing both overall business growth and that of male-owned firms. At the state level, women constitute nearly 40 percent of small business owners. This scale of participation supports jobs, neighborhood stability, and innovation across our communities.
We believe in open competition. Inviting women and all small businesses to have a seat at the table is essential because it ensures our supply chain benefits from the widest pool of talent, ideas, and resilience. Representation drives better problem-solving, more creative solutions, and stronger performance outcomes. For the SEED team, this nomination reinforces our mission: to support the development and growth of our communities through championing small businesses to foster equity and build a sustainable ecosystem of suppliers.
As we move forward, we remain committed to equipping small businesses with the support, transparency, and opportunities they need to compete and thrive. In doing so, we help deliver not just a clean energy future, but one grounded in economic inclusion and community strength.
NORTHWELL HEALTH
Dawn Wells, AVP Supply Chain
Being nominated for this award is both an honor and a moment of reflection on what meaningful progress looks like. Professionally, it represents the intentional work of building a supply chain that values quality, innovation, and partnership - where small and local businesses are recognized as essential contributors to our mission of delivering exceptional care. I have seen firsthand how these businesses bring agility, creativity, and a deep commitment to service that strengthens our organization and the communities we serve.
Personally, this recognition speaks to my deep pride in women entrepreneurs - their resilience, vision, and ability to create opportunity not just for themselves, but for others. For me, supporting their growth is a personal passion rooted in the belief that when women thrive, communities thrive. This nomination reaffirms that our work is not only about products and contracts, but about people, progress, and the impact we can have when we open doors for others to succeed.
CORPORATION OF THE YEAR AWARD NOMINEES
PSE&G | www.pseg.com/suppliers
Bianca Reyes, Manager, Small Business Development
Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G), New Jersey’s largest utility, pairs scale with intention: open supplier registration, mentorship for diverse vendors, and partnerships that expand opportunity statewide. By connecting certified WBEs to real contracts and investing in inclusive growth, PSE&G exemplifies a Corporation.
Building on accessible entry points through its supplier registration database and Ariba procurement system, PSE&G actively identifies, bids, and tracks opportunities for diverse suppliers, translating outreach into measurable business. Its Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program and collaborations with community partners further strengthen capacity, preparing WBEs to compete and scale across New Jersey’s energy economy. With 2.4 million electric and 1.9 million gas customers relying on PSE&G, the company’s inclusive supply chain drives impact at regional scale, aligning perfectly with the spirit of the Impact Awards.
SUPPLIERS OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
SUPPLIERS OF THE YEAR AWARD - CLASS I NOMINEES
CRISTINA MICHAELS CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT | www.cmconstructionmgmt.com
A women-owned general contractor delivering meticulous buildouts and renovations that finish on time and on spec. Under the guidance of President, Cristina DeBellas and VP, Nicole Napolitano, project teams, trades, and clients move in sync—proving how synergy on every job creates safer sites, repeat business, and local jobs. Their reliability strengthens supply chains and uplifts our regional economy.
BIENS
CHOCOLATE CENTERPIECES | www.Bienscc.com
Makers of custom, brandable chocolate gifts and edible centerpieces that turn appreciation into unforgettable moments. Led by CEO, Geraldine Keogh, Biens blends craftsmanship with white-glove service, partnering with clients to amplify brand love. It’s synergy you can taste—sparking repeat engagements, elevating events, and fueling economic activity across a vibrant WBE gifting ecosystem.
WOMEN
OF THE VINE & SPIRITS | www.womenofthevine.com
A mission-driven organization advancing women throughout the beverage alcohol industry via community, education, and access. Founder, Deborah Brenner unites brands, distributors, and suppliers to expand opportunity and accelerate growth. This is synergy at scale—where shared purpose creates pathways for women-owned businesses and drives measurable economic impact across a global value chain.
SUPPLIERS OF THE YEAR AWARD - CLASS II NOMINEES
ERIKSEN TRANSLATIONS | www.eriksen.com
A premier language services partner helping organizations connect with clarity in 100+ languages. Founder & CEO, Vigdis Eriksen champions cross-functional collaboration— linguists, designers, and technologists working as one to deliver inclusive experiences. That synergy deepens customer trust, broadens market reach, and powers economic growth for clients and communities they serve.
MRS. PAPER | www.mrspaper.com
A trusted provider of paper, office, and sustainable supply solutions known for dependable fulfillment and responsive care. President, Marion Hindenberg led with a service-first mindset, aligning buyers, vendors, and logistics for frictionless delivery. Everyday synergy keeps operations moving, reduces downtime, and circulates spend locally—creating steady, practical economic value for customers and community.
SUPPLIERS OF THE YEAR AWARD - CLASS III NOMINEES
WADE
RAY & ASSOCIATES CONSTRUCTION, INC. | https://waderay.com
A women-owned commercial contractor delivering planning, design, and construction with precision. CEO, Laura Schnitzlein integrates owners, architects, and trades into one cohesive team, turning complex projects into seamless execution. Their synergy creates safer builds, on-time turnovers, and sustained hiring—demonstrating how disciplined collaboration fuels durable economic impact.
THE
CEMENTWORKS DBA THE BLOC | www.thebloc.com
A health-native creative agency crafting behavior-changing communications for lifescience brands. President, Susan Miller brings strategists, scientists, and storytellers together to launch ideas that matter. When insight, creativity, and execution move in concert, results follow—better patient engagement, stronger brand outcomes, and industry growth that ripples through the supplier ecosystem.
RANGAM CONSULTANTS INC. | www.rangam.com
A leader in inclusive workforce solutions, connecting employers with diverse, qualified talent through technology-enabled programs. Co-Founder & President, Hetal Parikh builds synergy between businesses, candidates, and enablement partners to scale opportunity. The outcome is measurable: expanded access, stronger teams, and economic mobility that benefits companies and communities alike.
SYNKRIOM GLOBAL (SYNKRIOM DIGITAL) | www.synkriom.com Cloud, Salesforce, and talent solutions that accelerate digital transformation. Under Founder & CEO, Komal Dangi, Synkriom orchestrates global teams and partner ecosystems to deliver fast, scalable results. By aligning people, platforms, and process, they turn collaboration into performance—strengthening enterprise resilience and multiplying economic impact across the diverse-supplier network.
SUPPLIERS OF THE YEAR AWARD - CLASS IV NOMINEES
THE MILLENNIUM GROUP (TMG) | www.tmgofficeservices.com
A global provider of mail, print, digital imaging, hospitality, and workplace services that elevate enterprise operations. CEO, Letticia Murphy aligns people, process, and technology to deliver consistent, data-driven results. That operational synergy improves efficiency, unlocks savings, and grows opportunities for diverse suppliers—fueling broad, sustained economic impact.
BLACKHAWK
DATA | http://blackhawk11.com
An IT solutions partner delivering networking, cybersecurity, and managed services engineered for uptime and scale. CEO & Co-Founder, Maryann Pagano cultivates powerful channel and client collaborations—turning integrated architectures into resilient, highperforming environments. The synergy boosts productivity, protects value, and drives growth across sectors that rely on always-on connectivity.
THE ERGONOMIC GROUP (EGI) | www.ergogroup.com/
A 100% woman-owned technology solutions firm guiding digital transformation for enterprise and public-sector clients. CEO, Karen Girards unites engineers, OEM partners, and customers around measurable outcomes—from modernization to managed services. That alignment is synergy in action—reducing risk, accelerating adoption, and delivering economic lift across the technology supply chain.
ICON AWARD HONOREE
ICON AWARD HONOREE
Rosalie Edson
Founder, The Rose Connection, Former Owner, Meadows Office Furniture
Rosalie Stackman Edson was a pioneering entrepreneur and mentor who built Meadows Office Interiors into one of the nation’s leading contract-furniture dealerships, recognized for excellence, scale, and service. A steadfast champion of women in business, Rosalie served on the board of the Women Presidents’ Educational Organization (now WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV) and was an active leader across the WPO/WBENC ecosystem. Her industry impact and advocacy were reflected in national recognition, including selection as a WBENC Women’s Business Enterprise Star.
Rosalie passed on June 26, 2025, leaving a living legacy of opportunity, partnership, and possibility that continues to lift the next generation of women business owners.
METRO NY CORPORATE SPONSORS
VISIONARY CIRCLE – Above and Beyond Ecosystem Leadership Architecting the system so inclusion scales without hand-holding.
• AARP
• Ampcus
• Con Edison
• Capital One
• Dominion Energy
• EY
• Johnson & Johnson
• MassMutual
• Paramount
CHAMPION CIRCLE – Proactive, Cross-Functional Activation Converting intent into enterprise-wise action
