2025 Top 30 - Directory_Web

THE 2025 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO, MR. D-MARS

We are in our 12th year of The Top 30 Influential Women of Houston, and the bar keeps getting set higher and higher for the accomplishments of the women of this city and the surrounding areas. We celebrate and honor all the trailblazing, powerful, and influential honorees who have not only made their

It has always been and will always be a personal mission of mine to uplift the voices of as many women as I can and provide them with a platform for recognition. That’s why I’m proud to announce the launch of ShesGotInfluence.com, a brand dedicated to the influential women of Houston, the state of Texas, and the nation. We will feature speaker series, highlight professionals, host podcasts, and more, allowing women from all over to tell their stories and inspire, inform, and educate others.

own way in their respective industries but have also made it a point to bring others up with them. Whether or not you know it, you’ve made history, and you've made this world a better place.

In a community renowned for its innovation and ever-growing industry, these women are not just participants; they are the trendsetters and the architects of modern advancement. Through their dedication, they have created a support system for the next generation, providing the blueprints and tools for future leaders to build even higher. They have turned glass ceilings into faded memories and obstacles into opportunities, proving that a combination of unwavering faith and a powerful work ethic can reshape entire communities.

Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees. We hope that you take this night and every night to not only celebrate the accomplishments of your peers but to reflect on and celebrate the impact you have made.

Thank you,

MR. D-MARS

President and CEO

Vaskey Media Group, Inc.

Parent Company of:

Top 30 Women

She's Got Influence d-mars.com

Subcontractors USA-Texas

A woman with a voice is by definition a strong woman. – Melinda

Gates

MESSAGE FROM CHIEF OF STAFF KIMBERLY FLOYD

Each year, I look forward to this special occasion where we celebrate the incredible women who propel this city forward. Tonight, we honor the 2025 Class of the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston — a group of women whose vision and determination are not just shaping their industries but are also constructing a more promising and equitable tomorrow.

These remarkable women come from every corner of our community, from diverse backgrounds and vastly different fields, but are united by a rare and powerful quality: a courageous willingness to challenge the status quo. Influence, we believe, is not simply earned through success. It is forged in moments of calculated risk, in the audacity to embrace change, and in the unwavering belief in one’s own abilities, even when they’re surrounded by doubt.

Each of our honorees has a story of resilience. They embody a spirit of selfless service, understanding that true leadership is not about personal gain but about lifting up the entire community. They live by the principle that there is always room at the table for everyone, actively creating opportunities for others to succeed alongside them. Their influence extends far beyond their professional accomplishments, reaching deep into the lives of those they mentor and inspire. They are advocates and trailblazers who generously share their wisdom and are willing to learn from those who came before them. They understand that true success is not a solitary pursuit but a collective achievement, built upon a foundation of mutual support and sisterhood. Thank you to the 2025 honorees for the remarkable grace and dignity that you show under pressure. You constantly work to forge new paths while ensuring you always have time for those who follow you. Congratulations on your incredible accomplishments and for receiving this well-deserved recognition. We salute the impact that you’ve made, and we look forward to what the future holds.

With deep admiration and respect,

KIMBERLY FLOYD

Chief of Staff and Managing Editor

Vaskey Media Group, Inc.

Parent Company of Top 30 Women, She's Got Influence, d-mars.com, and Subcontractors USA-Texas.

Friends. Sisters. Mothers. Professors. When women affirm women, it unlocks our power. It gives us permission to shine brighter.

— Elaine Welteroth

HONORARY CO-CHAIRS

Carlecia D. Wright Chief Business Equity Officer Port Houston

Carneal Addison

Emma Aguiñaga

Ronda Damon

Dy’v-l Davis

Melinda S. Balezentis MHA, Ph.D. Vice President, National Account Executive

Cigna Healthcare

Deshonda P. Charles, Esq. CEO | Managing Attorney D. Charles Law Firm, PLLC

MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES

Shern-Min Chow anchors KHOU 11 News at Noon weekdays, fills in on other newscasts and reports. She joined the station in 1996.

She began her career in journalism as a stringer for Newsweek and has worked at KTRK-TV and anchored at KPRC-TV in Houston, as well as KENS-TV in San Antonio.

Chow’s awards include the Houston Press Club Award for Best Series, the Texas Associated Press Award for Best Spot Newscast-Producer and an Emmy for the documentary “Hong Kong Under the Dragon.”

Shern-Min speaks often to civic groups, schools, churches and other organizations. Over the years, she has made close to 1,000

community appearances. She is currently on the advisory boards of the Asia Society and the Chinese Community Center. She has previously served on the boards of SpringSpirit Baseball, the Bo & Stacey Porter Self Foundation, the YWCA, the Houston Ballet, the Chinese Community Center and the Bayou City Medical Center.

A history graduate from Yale University, Shern-Min speaks conversational Mandarin and Shang Hai dialects of Chinese. She has also studied Spanish, French and German. Shern-Min and her husband have two sons. They are students at Rice University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

PHOTOGRAPHER Grady Carter

George Gustin

Chivon Jones

Eugenie Doualla Conrad Garcia

Shahzad Shahab

2025 ADVISORY BOARD

SPONSORS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

2013 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

ICON HONOREES

Dr. Patricia Brock – Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Medical Bridges

Donna Cole – President & CEO, Cole Chemical & Distributing, Inc.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee – 18th Congressional District of Texas

HONOREES

Nargis Ahmed – Director, Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas

Maria Moncada Alaoui – General Manager, Momentum BMW West State Rep Carol Alvarado – Texas House District 145

Rhonda C. Arnold – Director of Community Relations, Houston Airport System

Lisa Ashley – Director, Corporate Communications, Port of Houston Authority

Karen Becerra – Chief Operations Officer/Principal, The Principle Partnering Group, LLC

Dr. Heather Brown – Owner & Orthodontist, Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics

Madeline Burillo, Ed.D. – Associate Vice Chancellor, Houston Community College

Helen Callier – President, Bradlink, LLC

Emelda Douglas – SVP and Chief Development Officer, Neighborhood Centers, Inc.

Wilma J. Evans – President, North Houston Frontiers Club & Managing Partner, DeMand Staffing & Consulting, LLC

Christina Robinson Grochett – Chief Strategist for Innovation and Research, Lone Star College

Dr. Irishea Hilliard – COO & Pastor, New Light Christian Center Church

Carla Lane – President & CEO, Lane Staffing

Shara McClure – Vice President Network Management, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas

Catherine Mitchell – COO, Amerigroup

Marlene Petry, RN, MSN – SVP, GP Industrial Contractors, Inc.

Eva Pickens - Associate Vice President, University AdvancementCommunications & Marketing, Texas Southern University

Vanessa Reed – Assistant Vice President, South Texas CRA Manager Corporate Public Affairs & Community Reinvestment, Comerica Bank

Susan Repka – Executive Director, Women Contractors Association

Dr. Jonita Wallace Reynolds – Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Coast Community Services Association (GCCSA)

Kandice Rose – Founder, Pretty Girls with Cancer

Jamilah Shami – Project Manager, Farouk Systems, Inc.

Melinda Spaulding – Anchor, Fox 26 KRIV-TV

Dr. Angela Sturm – Facial Plastic Surgeon, Facial Plastic Surgery Associates

Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade, BS, RN, BSN, DDS – Cosmetic and Neuromuscular Dentist, Cosmetic Dental Texas

Cynthia Wenz – President & CEO, The Source for Women

Nicole C. West – President, NCA Investigations

Dr. Anjanette Wyatt – Pharmacy Manager, President & CEO, Clinical Care Pharmacy, LLC

Judge Mimi Yam – United States Immigration Court

*Companies and titles in 2013

2014 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

ICON HONOREES

State Senator Sylvia Garcia - Texas Senate

Karen E. Jackson – Founder/CEO, Sisters Network, Inc.

HONOREES

Dr. Lacey Brooks – Audiologist/Regional Manager Houston, Hearing Aid Express

Latoya Bullard-Franklin – Chief Executive Officer, The Bulsard Group

Marian Cabanilla, MBA – Vice President Marketing, UnitedHealthcare

Shern-Min Chow – Anchor, KHOU 11

Sonia Clayton – President & CEO, Virtual Intelligence Providers, LLC

Pamela Ellis – Chief Executive Officer, Smahrt Solutions

Sonia Guimbellot – Director/Secretary, World Chamber of Commerce, Texas

Joanie Y. Hare, M.D. – Physician, Houston Perinatal Associates

Nikki Elizabeth Hart – President & Owner, inMotion Marketing Group

Miranda Horn – Vice President, Industrial Welding Academy

Judge Maria T. Jackson – 339th District Court

Justina Mann – Chief Procurement Officer, Houston Airport Systems

CleRenda McGrady – TV Host, Thryv360

Sharon Murphy – Founding Partner, McConnell Jones Lanier and Murphy

Kim Ogg – Attorney, Ogg Law Firm

Carrie Poole – Chief Executive Officer, Professional Career Training Institute

Ronda M. Prince – Chief Operations Officer, Rap-A-Lot Records

Maria Rios - President & CEO, Nation Waste, Inc.

Dr. Docia Rudley – Executive Director for Academic Assessment, Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law

Neeta Sane – Board Chair/Trustee District VII, Houston Community College

Thelma Scott – Founder & CEO, Barbara Jordan Endeavors

Dr. Alison Scott Cuillier – Owner/Dentist, Lasting Impressions Dental Group

Sonya M. Sloan, M.D. – Orthopedic Surgeon

Laurie Vignaud – Senior Vice President, Capital One Bank

Barbara Walker-Green – Financial Advisor, Advanced Wealth & Retirement, LLC

Reva Witherspoon – Vice President, Marketing, Amerigroup

Mia K. Wright – Co-Pastor, The Fountain of Praise

Carlecia D. Wright – Director, City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity

Dr. Betty Young – Educator

*Companies and titles in 2014

2015 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

SPECIAL GUEST

The Honorable Ivy R. Taylor - Mayor of San Antonio

ICON HONOREES

Dr. Selina M. Ahmed - Texas Southern University

Dr. Judith Craven - The United Way of the Texas Gulf Coast

Deavra A. Daughtry - Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation International

State Representative Jessica Farrar - Texas House District 148

Melanie Johnson, Ed.D. - The Health Museum: John P. McGovern Museum of Health and Medical Science

Susan A. McEldoon - KHOU-TV

Wanda Thornton Mott, M.D. - Houston Women’s Obstetrical and Gynecological Associates

Stephanie D. Nellons-Paige - USA Funds

Page Parkes - Page Parkes Center of Modeling & Acting

HONOREES

Devon Anderson - Harris County District Attorney’s Office

Dell H. Braunsdorf - M.D. - Amerigroup

Camille Cash - M.D. - Camille G. Cash, M.D., Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

April Day - Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance

Dr. Marla Fielder, R.Ph. - The Kroger Co. - Southwest Division

Samille Frazier-Savoie, LPCS, LCDC, NCC - The BES Group, Inc.

Kim Gagne - Steve Harvey

Marian Harper - Houston Astros

Tammy Harris - Soul Grooves®Fitness

Vernita Harris - IMPACT Strategies Consultants, LLC

Winell Herron - H-E-B

Heather Holland - TransCanada

Connie Kwan-Wong - CKW LUXE Magazine

Raquelle Lewis - Tx-DOT - Houston District

Petria McKelvey - Precision Medical Billing, Inc.

Katie Walthall Mehnert - Pink Petro

Dr. Felecia M. Nave - Prairie View A&M University

Krista L. Olson, M.D. - Baylor Facial Plastic Surgery Center

Erma Palmer - Autos R Us Collision Center

Crystal Perkins - My Legacy Foundation

Letitia D. Quiñones - Quiñones & Associates, P.L.L.C.

Dr. Kamala Raghavan - Texas Southern University

Liliana L. Rambo - Houston Airport System

Nannette Ray, MBA - Medical Information Records, LLC

Mary Redmond - Redmond Management-McDonald’s

Theresa Roemer - Theresa Roemer, LLC

Lina Sabouni - AUTOARCH Architects, LLC

Rhonda Skillern-Jones - Houston Independent School District

Joyce Tyler-Williams - Frost Bank

Jennifer Yen, M.D. - UH Medical School, Baylor College of Medicine & Author

UNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD:

LaShonda Pierce and NaKeitha Ross - I.C.O.N. Women’s Organization

*Companies and titles in 2015

2016 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

THE HONORABLE SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Roxann Thomas Chargois - Director, The Western Area of The Links, Incorporated

ICON HONOREES

Yolanda Adams - Grammy Award-Winning Gospel Artist

Suzan Deison - CEO/President/Founder, Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce

Zina Garrison - CEO, Zina Garrison Foundation & Former 4th-Ranked Tennis Player in the World

Nathelyne A. Kennedy, P.E. - President, Nathelyne A. Kennedy & Associates

Dr. Laura Murillo - President & Chief Executive Officer, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Sallie Sargent - President & CEO, Houston Super Bowl Host Committee

HONOREES

Farida Abjani - Co-Founder/CEO, Shining Nightingale, Inc.

Wanda Adams - Board of Education First Vice-President & District IX Trustee, Houston Independent School District

Sehba Ali - Chief Executive Officer and Superintendent, KIPP Houston Public Schools

Jackye Alton - President, Almeda Travel

Erin Asprec - Regional President, Memorial Hermann Health System

Dr. Kimberly Beatty - Vice Chancellor of Instructional Services, Chief Academic Officer, Houston Community College

Mary Benton - Director of Communications and Strategic Projects, Harris County Precinct One

Marianna Brasel - General Manager, Porsche of West Houston

Carlotta Outley Brown, M.Ed. - Principal, Lora B. Peck Elementary School –Houston Independent School District

Victoria Ai Linh Bryant, PharmD - President, World Chamber of Commerce Texas & Founder, Ambassadors Caregivers

Frances Castaneda-Dyess - President, Houston East End Chamber of Commerce

Denise Castillo-Rhodes - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Texas Medical Center

Marina Coryat - Senior Manager, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of TexasSoutheast Texas Region

Katya Dow - Legal Program Director, Juvenile and Capital Advocacy Project & Adjunct Law Professor, University of Houston Law Center

Debbie Drury - President, Market Doctors

Amanda K. Edwards - Attorney & Houston City Council Member At-Large Position 4

Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz - Board Secretary & District IV Trustee, Houston Community College

Sameera Faridi - Director & Designer, Poshak Fashion & Style

Victoria A. Guster-Hines - McDonald’s Vice President, Operations and FranchisingHouston Region

Ana Hernandez - State Representative, District 143

Loren Lane - First Lady, Texas Southern University & Key Account Manager, EMD Serono

Nancy J. Li - President, Easton Resource Development, Inc.

Rania Mankarious, MA, JD - Executive Director, Crime Stoppers Houston

Dr. Saundra Montgomery - Life Coach/Author/Leadership Consultant & First Lady, Abundant Life Cathedral Church

Gigi Myung - President & CEO, GLM Energy, Inc.

Toni Pierre - Business Change Manager-NAIP, Amerigroup Community Care

Sonia Rivera - National President, National Hispanic Professional Organization & Owner/Consultant, Genesis Consulting, Inc.

Ingrid M. Robinson - President, Houston Minority Supplier Development Council

Kim Roxie - Creative Director, LAMIK Beauty

Graciela Saenz - Founder & Attorney at Law, Saenz Burkhardt P.L.L.C.

Sonya Stevenson - Executive Director, The Fort Bend Church

Tene Thomas - CPA Partner, Tax Practice, McConnell & Jones LLP

Joi-Lin Venison, Esq. - CEO/Co-Founder, Super Weave Xpress

Teana V. Watson - Principal Attorney, T.V. Watson Law, PLLC.

Spring Williams-Cox - Director of Operations Southeast Texas, UPS

Kimberly J. Williams, JD - Deputy Chief Procurement Officer, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County

*Companies and titles in 2016

2017 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

THE HONORABLE SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Dorinda Walker - Vice President, Multicultural Marketing – Prudential

ICON HONOREES

Cynthia Cisneros - Vice President of Community Affairs, ABC 13/KTRK-TV

Vanessa D. Gilmore - United States District Judge, Southern District of Texas

Shauna Johnson Clark - Head of Employment and Labor - United States, Norton Rose Fulbright

Deborah Duncan - Television Host/Personality, Great Day Houston/KHOU-TV

Carrin F. Patman - Board Chair, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO)

Ann Stern - President & CEO, Houston Endowment

State Rep. Senfronia Thompson - District 141, Texas House of Representatives

Dawn Ullrich - President & CEO, Houston First Corporation

HONOREES

Juuhi Ahuja - President, Founder & CEO, Wise Men Consultants

Margaret Allen, DDS - Owner, Amazing Smiles, PLLC

Johnte’ Archer, JD - CEO/Founder, J. Archer Insurance Group and SHE IS A CEO Foundation

Karina Barbieri - Vice President, Mediplus Panama, S.A. & Philanthropist

Lea Bogle - CEO, Premier Wireless

Carol B. Brace MS, LSSBB, CTL, CIL, SCOR, PMP - Lecturer/Business Development Specialist, UH-Downtown

Dr. LaQuita Carter - Assistant Superintendent of Performance Management, Spring Independent School District

Twila Carter - Executive Director, Astros Foundation

Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin - President and CEO, Cobbin & Associates Consulting, LLC.

Tamar Davis - Grammy-Nominated Artist and Edu-Tainment Advocate, Syren Music Group, LLC.

Cheryl L. Duncan, BSN, RN, CVRN - Founder, Ashley Jadine Foundation

Diane Englet - Senior Director, Corporate Community Relations, CenterPoint Energy

Diedra Fontaine - Executive Director, Office of Development, Prairie View A&M University

Karina Gonzalez - Principal Dancer, Houston Ballet

LaTreace Harrison - RN, MS, CMCN, Director of HealthCare Management Services, Amerigroup Texas

Karen Hill, MD - Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer, Community Health Choice

Carneta Hunte-Larkin, BSW,MSHEA,MBA - Founder and CEO, I Love My Children, Inc.

Antoinette M. Jackson - Partner, Jones Walker LLP

Courtney Johnson Rose - Principal Broker, George E. Johnson Properties

Ige Johnson - Broker, Re/Max & Owner, GLO Beauty Bar

Torsha Johnson - First Lady & Author, Higher Dimension Church

Carla Kuaiwa, BS, MA, MBA - Owner/Managing Director, Cross OD Consulting, LLC

Monica Lewis - Founder/CEO & Certified Etiquette Consultant, Monica Lewis School of Etiquette

Paula McHam - Account Executive and Community Involvement Lead, Cigna South Texas/Louisiana

Regina Mellinger - President & CEO, Primary Services LP

Cydonii Miles - Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel & Assistant Secretary, American Capital Ltd.

Mary Moreland - Director of Strategic Planning - Latin America, Quanta Services, Inc.

Anhlan Phuc Nguyen, DBA, PMP - Director of Development and Marketing, Institute for Civic Education in Vietnam

Delesa O’Dell-Thomas - Principal, Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy

Debra C. Stewart - Director of Supplier Diversity & Diversity Outreach, Shell Oil Company

Kimberly Gee Stith - Vice President and General Counsel - Employment & Benefits, Waste Management

Nicole Streeter, MPH, MA - VP/Chief Governance Officer, Harris Health System Board of Trustees

Kristin Tassin - President, Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees & Co-Founder, Father’s Joy

Kelley Taylor - Chief Executive Officer, Taylor Construction Management

State Representative Shawn Thierry - District 146, Texas House of Representatives

Barbara Vilutis - Executive Vice President, Amegy Bank of Texas

Dr. Cynthia Wilson - Chief of Staff, Houston Independent School District

Mary L. Young - Executive Director/Chief of Police, Department of Public Safety - Texas Southern University

*Companies and titles in 2017

2018 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

THE HONORABLE SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Dr. Betty N. Adams - Professor and Dean, College of Nursing, Prairie View A&M University

ICON HONOREES

Dr. Alma A. Allen - State Representative, Texas House of Representatives, District 131

Anna M. Babin - President and CEO, United Way of Greater Houston

Cheryl D. Creuzot - President and Chief Executive Officer, Wealth Development Strategies, LLC

Karen McKemie - Senior Regional Vice President of Operations, Sonic Automotive

Donna Sims Wilson - President, Smith Graham Investment Advisors

Merele Yarborough - Philanthropist and Community Service Advocate

Judge Clarease Yates - Judge and Founder, Indestructible Beginnings

HONOREES

Ann Harris Bennett - Tax Assessor - Collector and Voter Registrar, Harris County, Texas

Gita P. Bolt - Vice President and General Counsel, Houston Housing Authority

Vera Bumpers - Chief of Police, METRO Police Department

Karla Cisneros - Council Member, District H

Helen Conte - Senior Vice President/Group Manager –Business Banking, Comerica Bank

Barbara Harris Curtis - Founder and President, RARE Pearls, Inc.

Dannette K. Davis - Principal, Kay Davis Associates LLC

Tiffany Massie Davis, MSN, RN - CEO, E-PIC Training Center, Inc

Gaynell Floyd Drexler - Corporate Attorney and Community Advocate

Melissa Edwards - Executive Director, Central South Texas, American Diabetes Association

Brenda Erickson - Director, Corporate Supply Chain, ConocoPhillips and Board Chair, Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance

Tammy Faber - Vice President of Operations, Fort Bend Services, Inc.

Staci Taylor Fullmighter - Officer of Student Assessment, Houston Independent School District

Mary Griffin - Grammy-Nominated Artist and Owner, Mahogany Entertainment, LLC

Arquella Hargrove - CEO, Epic Collaborative Advisors

Debra Gatison Hatter, Esq. - Member, Clark Hill Strasburger

Marvalette Hunter - Chief of Staff, City of Houston

Grayle Tully James - Trustee, Fort Bend Independent School District

Constance Jones - Vice President of Operations, Houston Minority Supplier Development Council

Eva L. Loredo - Board Trustee, District VIII, Houston Community College

Jalene Mack, Esq. - Entertainment Attorney, Actress, Producer, Author, Playwright & Founder, Mack Performing Arts Collective

Maria Emee Mendoza-Nisnisan - CEO, Acacia Medical Research Institute LLC and Medical Practice Administrator: Royal Oaks Medical Home and Wellness Clinics

Roslyn Bazzelle Mitchell - Senior Counsel, Weycer, Kaplan, Pulaski & Zuber, PC

Desrye M. Morgan - Managing Director, Wells Fargo Securities and Vice Chairwoman, Houston First Corp.

Marie Myers - Global Controller, HP Inc.

Amber Newman - Chief Executive Officer, Boys & Girls Club of Brazoria County

Dr. Dieu-Thoa Khoa Nguyen - Founder & CEO, DT Pharmacy/DT Collagen and President, VAPhA

LaToshia Norwood - Managing Partner, L’Renee & Associates

Farrah Sabouni Oranje - Principal, AUTOARCH Architects

Stacey M. Parker-Blake - Director of Behavioral Health Services, Amerigroup Texas

Tiko Reynolds-Hausman - President and CEO, TKO Biz Solutions

Michelle Riley-Brown - Executive Vice President, Texas Children’s Hospital

Maribel Rodriguez - CEO, Sunshine Personnel Solutions, LLC

Sadie Rucker - President, Horizon International Group

Cindi Salas - Director, Purchasing and Logistics, CenterPoint Energy

Shawn Emerson Simmons, PhD - Environmental and Permitting Manager, ExxonMobil Chemical Company

Hazel Smith - Owner/Operator, McDonald’s

Heidi McDonald Smith - Chief of Staff, Texas Southern University

Maya P. Thornton - Director, Supplier Diversity, University of Houston HUB

Joycelyn Williams - Vice President of Sales, Williams6Enterprises

Nancy Yuill, PhD, RN - President, Chamberlain University, College of Nursing – Pearland

*Companies and titles in 2018

2019 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

THE HONORABLE SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Yolanda Ford - Mayor, City of Missouri City

ICON HONOREES

Brenda W. Bazan - President and CEO, Houston First Corporation

Hon. Dr. Teta V. Banks - National Chair, United Nations Association of the USA

The Honorable Lizzie Fletcher - Congresswoman, Texas’ 7th Congressional District

Judy Foston-Stanford - President, Foston International Communications Inc.

Joyce L. Jacquet - Licensed Therapist and Counselor

Myrtle L. Jones - CPA - Senior Vice President of Tax, Halliburton Company

Melanie Lawson - Anchor/Reporter, KTRK-TV/ABC 13

Kim Padgett - President, The Padgett Group

Lisa Trapani Shumate - Associate Vice President and General Manager, Houston Public Media

Vanessa E. Wyche - Deputy Director, NASA Johnson Space Center

HONOREES

Leanne Dobard Alvarez - President & CEO, The UPS Store at Shadow Creek – Pearland

Tracey L. Anthony - Vice President & Chief Compliance Officer, Crane Worldwide Logistics

Colleen D. Banks - Financial Professional, Wealth Development Strategies, LLC

Juliet Breeze - MD - CEO and Founder, Next Level Urgent Care

Michelle Bythewood - President, Salata Salad Kitchen

Dr. Courtney Jacocks Chance - Co-owner/ General Dentist, Oaks Point Pediatric Dentistry

Jane E. Cheeks - IPMA-SCP - Director, City of Houston

Connie L. Cochran - Assistant Vice President of Alumni Relations & Special Events, Texas Southern University

Audrey Marie Cosby - First Lady, Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church

Rachel Andress Davis - PharmD, RPh - Licensed Pharmacist, OptumRx, a division of United Health Group

Leona E. Filis - Founder/Managing Attorney, The Filis Law Firm, P.C.

Michelle Garrison - Chief Financial Officer, GetixHealth, LLC

Dr. Melissa N. Gonzalez - President, Houston Community College – Southeast

Mia Gradney - Emmy Award-Winning Journalist and Anchor, KHOU11

Addie Heyliger - Business Engagement Manager, CenterPoint Energy, Vice President, Fort Bend ISD Trustee

Tami Hunter - Advisor, Compliance, Global Supply Chain & Supplier Diversity Advocate ConocoPhillips

Kelly A. Irving - Associate Director Patient Care S ervices/Chief Nurse Executive, Michael E. DeBakey, VAMC

Olivera Jankovska - Global Citizenship Fellow, UNICEF USA

Dr. Grenita F. Lathan - Interim Superintendent, Houston Independent School District

Angela Lee - CEO, Evolution by Design

LaMonica Love - Attorney & Business Consultant, The Love Law Group & Consulting Services, PLLC

Christine Mack - Regional Head of Procurement, Americas, BP

Shawntell L. McWilliams - CEO, SM Global Consulting, LLC & Infinity Cleaning Solutions

Paula M. Mendoza - CEO, Possible Missions, Inc. & Pos Mis, Inc.

Jamila S. Mensah - Partner, Norton Rose Fulbright US, LLP

Chau Nguyen, LMSW - Chief Public Strategies Officer, Houston Area Women’s Center

Eureka Patton - Owner, Massage Envy – Aliana

Eileen Perillo - Vice President Finance, Shell Energy Resources Company

Marilyn A. Rose - Accounting Administrator, Harris County Sheriff’s Office & Regent, Texas Southern Universit y

Gabriella Rowe - CEO, Station Houston

Sherrie Sams - Founder and Executive Director, AFC Youth

Mya Smith-Edmonds - Owner/Operator, McDonald’s

Bridgette Smith-Lawson - Managing Attorney - Regions 5&6, The Department of Family and Protective Service - Office of General Couns el

Carolyn Watson - Vice President of Corporate Responsibility, JPMorgan Chase

Dr. Tamara L. Williams - President, Chamberlain University – Houston Campus

Jennifer St. Julian Wooden - Director, Humble Civic Center/Charles Bender Performing Arts Center

Dr. Janet Wormack - Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, Houston Community College

*Companies and titles in 2019

2021 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

THE HONORABLE SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Dr. Janice M. Beal - President , Beal Counseling Associates / Beal Behavioral Health

HONOREES

Saba Abashawl - Chief External Affairs Officer, Houston Airports

Talia Alfred - Director of Operations, The Alfred Firm

Dr. Patricia K. Allen - Trustee District IV, President, HISD

Marna Graham Arvie, CPA - Franchise Owner, Mobility Plus Pearland

Dr. Vanessa T. Barrow - Founder & Owner, Sole Aesthetic

Dr. Ira K. Blake - President, University of Houston-Clear Lake

Cindy Clifford - Founder & Owner, The Clifford Group

Glenda Demas, MA, LPC, ACTP - Lead Practitioner and Owner, Pearls of Change Wellness, LLC.

Shelly Lesikar deZevallos, Ed.D. - President, West Houston Airport

Raynese Edwards - CEO/Chief Strategy Consultant, OutsideIn Consulting

Melinda Faust - Managing Director, Detring Energy Advisors

Dr. Charlene Flash - President and CEO, Avenue 360 Health & Wellness

Dr. Reagan Flowers - Houston Community College, Board of Trustees

Lauren Haller Fontaine - Senior Director & Legal Counsel –Operations, Pattern Energy

Eureka Gilkey - Executive Director, Project Row Houses

Cynthia Ginyard - Chairwoman, Fort Bend County Democratic Party

Dr. Cherry Ross Gooden - Retired, Texas Southern University

Veronica Chapa Gorczynski - President, East End District

DeAnna Green - CEO and Founder, The Nydan Group, LLC.

Teneshia Hudspeth - County Clerk, Office of Teneshia Hudspeth, Harris County Clerk

Jenifer Jarriel - President and CEO, DePelchin Children’s Center

Tennille Johnson - Co-Founder, Co-Owner & CEO, Scrubs to the Rescue

Jamie Jordan - Family Law Attorney and Owner Community Service Advocate, Jamie Jordan, PLLC

Vivian R. King - First Assistant/Chief of Staff, Harris County DA’s office

Linda Leto Head - Senior Associate Vice Chancellor, Lone Star College

Cassie A. Levy - CEO, Emmit Moss Trust

Melanie Miles, Esq. - Board Certified Family Law Attorney and Real Estate Professional, The Law Office of Melanie Miles, P.C.

Amber Mostyn - Co-Founder, Mostyn Law

Denise Navarro - President and CEO, Logical Innovations, Inc.

Andrea Nguyen - Director of Community Relations, Executive Director of Education Foundation, Pasadena ISD

Tamla Oates-Forney - Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer, Waste Management

Rani Puranik - Co-Owner and Global CFO, Worldwide Oilfield Machine

Linda M. Rhodes - Executive Director, Women’s Fund Health Education & Resiliency

Karen Carter Richards - Forward Times Publishing Company, Inc.

Dr. Shirley Rose-Gilliam - Secretary, Fort Bend ISD, Board of Trustees

Erica Davis Rouse - Trustee, San Jacinto College District Board, Co-Founder of ReachOne713

Tasha Royal - Founder, The Royal Agency

Dr. Reem Sabouni - REI Physician, Director of Infertility and Oocyte Cryopreservation, Houston Fertility Institute

Dr. Roberta Grace Scott - Director Social Emotional Learning & Student Discipline, HISD

Tracy T. Smith - CEO, Taylor Smith Consulting, LLC

Lenora Sorola-Pohlman - Broker Consultant, Navarro Insurance Group

Helen Stagg - Chief Executive Officer, Change Happens

Tiffany D. Thomas - Councilwoman, District F, Houston City Council

Molly Waits - Chief Marketing, Air Service Development and Communications Officer, Houston Airports

Janice Weaver - Director of Community Relations, City of HoustonMayor’s Office

*Companies and titles in 2021

2022 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

THE HONORABLE SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Lucrecia Smith - Seniors Executive Assistant to CEO, American Red Cross

HONOREES

Sallie Alcorn - Houston City Council Member, At-Large Position 5

Sofia Adrogué, P. C - Attorney and Partner, Diamond McCarthy LLP

Anita Bates - Chief Operating Officer, She’s Happy Hair

Antrece L. Baggett, Ed.D - Interim College Operations Officer, Houston Community College - Southeast College

Candace Blue - Brokerage Owner and Team Leader, NextHome Elite Advisors

Susanne Brady-Lusk - Vice President and General Manager, Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest B everages

Maxine N. Buck les - Chief Equity Officer, PortHouston

Marilyn Burgess - Harris County District Clerk

Patricia Cantu - Assistant Chief of Police, Houston Police Department

Michelle Carbone - Senior Vice President of Operations and Chief of Staff, BMC Software

Martha Castex-Tatum - Houston Vice Mayor Pro Tem, Council Member District K

Lynn Clouser - Missouri City, City Council At-Large, Position #2

Laquita J. Cyprian - Chief Banking Officer, Agility Bank

Regina G. Deadrick - Assistant Vice President, Aon

Martina Lemond Dixon - Chief Executive Officer, C3 Building Solutions

Candace Ford - Founder, Project Beautiful Me

Ana Paula Do Nascimento - Consulate General, Republic of Angola

Sherrita Monique Dorsey - US Advocacy & Patient Engagement Lead, GlaxoSmithKline

Dr. Simone A. Ellis - Owner and Entrepreneur, Smile Design Studios

DeMonica D. Gladney - Senior Counsel, Exxon Mobil Corporation

Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney - Superintendent of Schools, Aldine Independent School Distric t

Wendy Granato - President and General Manager, ABC13 KTRK-TV

Latris Hamilton - Chief Nursing Officer, Universal Health Services

Paula Harris - Senior Vice President of Community Affairs, Houston Astros

Dorita Hatchett - Founder, Owner & Lead Consultant, D.L. Hatchett & Associates, LLC

Dr. Cashuna Huddleston - Licensed Psychologist and Owner, New Way Psychological Services, PLLC

Dr. Cynthia Lenton-Gary - Chair, Houston Community College Board of Trustees

Ashlee Martin - Attorney and Partner, Gerger Hennessy & Martin, LLP

Pamela McKay - Vice President and General Manager, Radio One Houston

MaryJane Mudd - Executive Director, East Harris County Manufacturers Association

Dr. Jennifer Murdock - Oculofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

Rhonda Roychelle Newhouse - Board of Trustees, Spring Independent School District

Kisha M. Porch - Head of Retail Banking, Small Business and Online Products, J.P. Morgan Chase

Bhakti Salunkhe Puranik - Executive Director, Puranik Foundation

LaShaunda P. René - Vice President, TruFund Financial Services - Texas Market

Karen Scott - Owner, Founder & CEO, KNS Industrial Supply

Cindy Siegel - Chairman, Harris County Republican Party

Adrian Stephens - President, Galena Park ISD School Board

Juliet K. Stipeche - Director of Human Services, Houston-Galveston Area Council

Adriana Tamez, Ed.D - Board of Trustees, Houston Community CollegeDistrict III and CEO, Tejano Center

Carla Tharp - Vice President of Corporate Development, Apache Corporation

Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson - Speaker, Author, Life Coach Life Coach, and Philanthropist

Merinda Watkins-Martin - Entrepreneur and Owner, Lemond Kitchen

Dr. Christie Whitbeck - Superintendent, Fort Bend Independent School District

Carolanda Bremond Woodgett - Associate Vice President and General Counsel ad interim, UTMB

*Companies and titles in 2022

2023 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

THE HONORABLE SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Karen Levingston-Franklin - CEO & Chairman, The World Youth Foundation

HONOREES

Claudia Aguirre - President & Chief Operating Officer, BakerRipley

Toni Beck - Vice President, External Affairs, Comcast Texas

Jennifer Blaine, Ed.D - Superintendent, Spring Branch Independent School District

Raquel Boujourne - CEO, Indi Construction Partners, LLC

Dr. Darlene Breaux - CEO & Principal Consultant, Insight Ed. Consulting

Charity Carter - Founder and Executive Director, Edison Arts Foundation

Amber Casanave - CEO, CAS + COMPANY

Deshonda P. Charles, Esq - CEO, D. Charles & Associates, PLLC

Chita Craft - Meteorologist, KHOU 11

Danielle A. Davis - VP, Southwest Head of Diverse Businesses, Commercial Bank, JP Morgan Chase & Co

Kelly S. Dempsey, MD - Doctor, The Breast Center of Southwest Surgical Associates

Diana Pérez Gomez - Shareholder, Chamberlain Hrdlicka

Tracie Greene - Founding President/CEO, Culture Arts Initiative, Inc.

Daniella Guzman - News Anchor, KPRC 2 TV

Yasmin Huebinger - Houston Market President, Capital One

LeBrina Jackson - Owner/Founder, Escape Spa

Leela James - Award Winning Recording Artist

Nia Johnson-Jones, MD - Doctor, Nia Aesthetics MD

Christina A. Jones - VP HR US Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Shell USA Inc

Ruthie Lee-Esene - Director of Human Resouces, Butler-Cohen-Design + Build

Wendy Lewis Armstrong - Vice President, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Melissa Macheska-Duarte, Ed.D - Superintendent, Texas City Independent School District

Lilyanne McClean - Senior Vice President, Global Public Policy and Government Affairs, FuelCell Energy

Carmen McZeal - Co-Founder for Remarkable Kids Pediatrics Therapy & Edge Sports Counselings

Quianta Moore, MD, JD - Executive Director, The Hackett Center for Mental Health

Sineria Ordóñez - VP, External Affairs, National Hispanic Business Development Manager, Comerica Bank

Ada Ortega - Dir of Public Affairs, Comm & Sustainability, Arca Continental/Coca-Cola SW Beverages

Paula Patterson - Superintendent, Crosby Independent School District

Dr. Kerrie Patterson-Brown - Chief Executive Officer / Founder, Legacy the School of Sport Sciences

Dr. Letitia Plummer - Maxwello Dental, Owner / City Council Member At-Large 4, City of Houston

Tracey Prince, EMPA - Sr. Director, Government Relations, Houston First Corporation

Dr. Tonie Reincke - Founder / Medical Director, Reincke Vein Center

Conchita Reyes - Small Business Owner / Fractional CFO, CR Financials

Dr. Martha Salazar-Zamora - Superintendent of Schools, Tomball Independent School District

Lauren M. Sparks - Founder & CEO, Agility Bank

Dr. Pretta Vandible Stallworth - District 9 Trustee, Houston Community College

Dr. Neema Stephens - National Medical Director for Health Equity, Cigna Healthcare

Lacey Tezino - Founder & CEO, Passport Journeys

Adrienne C. Trimble - Vice President, Chief Diversity and Culture Officer Sysco Corporation, Sysco

Rashi Vats - News Anchor, FOX 26

Jacqueline Ward - System Chief Nurse Executive and Sr. Vice President, Texas Children’s Hospital

Mandy Westerman - Regional Vice President of Behavioral Health, Universal Health Services

Chasity Moniek Williams - Senior Director, Media & Entertainment Advisory, Microsoft

*Companies and titles in 2023

2024 TOP 30 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF HOUSTON

THE HONORABLE SHEILA JACKSON LEE COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Jackie Anderson - President, Houston Federation of Teachers

HONOREES

Carolyn Benton Aiman - President & Chief Operating Officer, BakerRipley

Melinda S. Balezentis, MHA, Ph.D - Vice President, National Account Executive, Cigna Healthcare

DeJuena Chizer - Executive Senior Associate Athletic Director, University of Houston

Chartenya Cleveland - Director of Underwriting Solutions, The Hanover Insurance Group

Khori Dastoor - General Director, CEO, Houston Grand Opera

Robyn Doughtie - Director of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer, Fort Bend County

Renee’ Downey - Area Director of Sales and Operations, Arca Continental CocaCola Southwest Beverages

Tejuana L. Edmond - Vice President, Plastic Additives Americas, BASF

Chelsea Edwards - Talk Show Host, Media Professional, Fox 26

Dr. Margaret Ford Fisher - Chancellor, Houston Community College

Kathy C. Flanagan, MD - Physician/Board Certified Psychiatrist, Kathy C. Flanagan, MD

Tabitha Garcia - Vice President, Partner, Page Parkes Corporation

Monica R. Glover - Senior Manager, Government Relations, Port Houston

Amanda Hammel - Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer, Memorial Hermann Health System

Brandi Harleaux - CEO, South Post Oak Recycling Center

Dr. Dionne M. Hill, LPC-S - Practice Manager, Southwest Adult Clinic, The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD

Claudia Ortega Hogue - Partner, SSP Engineering & Consulting

Shae Keefe Jacobs - Senior Counsel, Husch Blackwell LLP

Argentina M. James - Founder, President, CEO, HillDay

Staci LaToison - Founder & CEO, Dream Big Ventures

Liza Lawrence - CEO and Founder, Perfect Connection

Thanh Le - Chairwoman, Vietnamese Culture and Science Association

Tomikia P. LeGrande, Ed.D - President, Prairie View A&M University

Apriél Powell Martin - Attorney, UnitedHealthcare

Kristin L. Massey - Vice President, Bayou City Event Center

Lora L. Mayes, BSN RN - Founder, CEO, Beacon Home Health Agency, LLC

Belinda Mays - Author, Speaker, Woman in Tech, Lockheed Martin Enterprise Operations

Dr. Sheri L. Miller-Hoskin - Chief Executive Officer, TranscEnDence Educational Partners, LLC.

Lisa Modica - Vice President, Global Labor & Employment Law, Halliburton Company

Sheroo Mukhtiar - Chief Executive Officer, SERJobs

*Companies and titles in 2024

KATHY TAYLOR

NATIONAL RECORDING ARTIST

As an accomplished National Recording Artist, Minister of Music, songwriter, producer, and community activist, Kathy Taylor has been appointed for a time such as this to bring music that not only inspires, but encourages, uplifts, and heals the spirit and soul of mankind. Kathy is the walking embodiment of the term “Minister of Music.”

Her musical gifts have brought her before both national and world leaders. She has

ministered before Queen Elizabeth, former President Bill Clinton, Senator Hillary Clinton, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Cicely Tyson, Maya Angelou, and many others. Kathy has received resounding critical acclaim for her outstanding, soul-stirring, and inspirational performances.

She began her recording career as a soloist with the legendary James Cleveland’s Gospel Music of America and The Mass Choir. She was the featured vocalist on

songs such as, “Anticipation,” “It’s Your Decision,” “He Did It,” and “I Got My Joy Back.” These projects, along with her captivating and live performances, have catapulted Kathy into the national spotlight. In her never-ending quest to serve the Kingdom of God, Kathy answered her calling and founded Kathy Taylor and Favor, a multi-talented singing ensemble known for their meticulous and breathtaking harmonies. They have graced the stage with many of today’s most renowned gospel artists. To their acclaim, they have released three projects to date. The first two albums produced by Kathy were entitled, He’s Worthy and What Would It Profit Me to Gain the Whole World and Lose My Soul?, which were both well received. The third album, Taylormade, was released on Aleho International Records, under the leadership of gospel music executive, Al ‘The Bishop’ Hobbs, and produced by Grammy Award-winning, legendary gospel music producer, Sanchez Harley. This powerful collaboration produced an incredible project that yielded a Stellar Award Nomination.

Kathy’s purpose is tri-fold. She has fully embraced her mission to carry the gospel in song all over the world. Through Kathy, God continues to pour out His Spirit. Her dedication to the Body of Christ and limitless love of God places Kathy in a unique position to minister the “Good News” of Jesus Christ. Today, Kathy allows herself to be a vessel God can use to pour out His Spirit upon all flesh, for tomorrow she desires to make the music relevant to the next generation. For yesterday, she stands humbly on the shoulders of her mother and grandmother to carry the gospel in song to the outermost parts of the world.

KATHY TAYLOR

National Recording Artist www.kathytaylorlive.com

IG: @kathytaylorofficial

FB: @kathytaylorofficial

X: @kathytaylorlive

LASHANDRA “SHAUN” BODDY

CHAIRMAN, BLACK HERITAGE COMMITTEE OF THE HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW AND RODEO

LaShandra "Shaun" Boddy is a native and lifelong resident of Houston, TX. She graduated from Texas Southern University with a bachelor’s degree in administration of justice and holds a master’s degree from Sam Houston State University in criminal justice. Currently, she is a Probation Officer Supervisor for Fort Bend County, where she has proudly served the citizens of Fort Bend County for more than 20 years.

Boddy is a member of the Texas Probation Association and serves on the Silent Auction Committee, as well as the Exhibitors Committee. A strong advocate for the re-

habilitation of those with mental illness, she is a member of the Specialty Court Alliance as a representative for Mental Health Courts — both organizations focus on public information and education. She reinforced her commitment to effective leadership in Law Enforcement after graduating from the Mid-Management Leadership for Corrections Professionals at the Correctional Management Institute of Texas.

She is currently in her third year as Chair of the Black Heritage Committee of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where she has served the committee for

over a decade. During her tenure as Chair, Boddy has increased the profits of the Fall Roundup and Annual BHC Gala, thus helping further the presence of Black individuals in Western culture. She has also made it a priority to instill the rich history of Black Western culture in members by doing unique activities like their recent participation in the Black Cowboy Museum in Rosenberg, TX.

Boddy is a dedicated active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated of 22 years. She currently serves on both the Local and Regional Level in several positions, including Regional Investigator and member of the Regional Rehabilitation Oversight Committee. She has also graduated from the Regional Preparing Emerging and Aspiring Regional Leaders Program. She has served the Houston Alumnae Chapter in various roles including First Vice President and Second Vice President. She has been both a mentor and mentee with the Houston Alumnae Chapter’s L.E.A.D. Program for future leaders.

She is also doing her part in preserving the history of Black arts in Houston. Boddy supports the Ensemble Theatre as a Founder’s Circle member, which is one of the theatre’s major fundraisers. She also serves the Theatre as a Theatre Guild Volunteer.

Boddy is a Member of the Links, Incorporated Texas Spring Cypress Chapter, which is an international, not-for-profit corporation. The membership consists of more than 17,000 professional women of color. She is the wife of Mr. Julian Boddy. They enjoy traveling and supporting various volunteer organizations together.

LASHANDRA “SHAUN” BODDY Chairman

Black Heritage Committee of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

NRG Center, 3 NRG Park Houston, TX 77054

O: 832.667.1000

Bhcchairman11@gmail.com www.rodeohouston.com

LESLEY BRIONES

COMMISSIONER, HARRIS COUNTY PRECINCT 4

Commissioner Lesley Briones has dedicated her life to advancing the American Dream because she has lived it. A proud Latina and native Texan, she was raised on the U.S.Mexico border in Laredo by two teachers who instilled in her the values of hard work and service to others.

Briones graduated with honors from Harvard University. Her journey from the border to the Ivy League was fueled by a deep belief in the power of education — not just to change one life but to lift up entire communities.

After college, she returned home to South Texas to teach students in underserved

schools. Moved by the injustices her students faced, she decided to pursue a law degree at Yale University to become a stronger advocate for systemic change. Between classes, she provided pro bono legal support to survivors of domestic abuse and counseled juvenile offenders.

After graduating from law school in 2007, Briones accepted a position at Vinson & Elkins LLP in Houston and quickly fell in love with the grit, energy, and possibility that define the city she now calls home. She later served as General Counsel and Chief Operating Officer of the Laura & John Arnold Foundation.

Briones then became judge of Harris

County Civil Court at Law No. 4, where she served with distinction and a commitment to upholding the law with impartiality. She earned the highest ratings in the 2019 and 2020 Houston Bar Association Judicial Polls.

In 2022, Commissioner Briones was elected to represent Precinct 4 on Harris County Commissioners Court, becoming the first woman to hold this position and the first mother elected in her own right to the Court. She brings her diverse experiences — as a teacher, attorney, judge, parent, and nonprofit leader — to serve over 1.2 million residents and fight for a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Harris County.

Briones’ leadership has earned widespread recognition. In 2023, she was named one of Houston Woman Magazine’s 50 Most Influential Women, received the Trailblazer of the Year Award from the Hispanic Bar Association, and earned the Eleanor Tinsley Ally of the Year Award from the Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus. In 2024, she was honored with the Women of Influence Award from the National Council of Jewish Women, named Pride Houston’s Ally Grand Marshal, and received the Houston Bar Association President’s Award for Outstanding Service. In 2025, she was named Woman of the Year by WTS Houston and presented with the Breaking Barriers award by Run Sister Run.

Briones and her husband, Adán, live in Houston with their three daughters and worship at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

LESLEY BRIONES Commissioner

Harris County Precinct 4 1001 Preston St., Ste. 950 Houston, Texas 77002

O: 832.927.4444

service@hcp4.net www.cp4.harriscountytx.gov

IG: hcp4__briones

ELIZABETH GONZALEZ BROCK

BOARD CHAIR, HOUSTON METRO

Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock serves as the Board Chair of the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO).

Appointed by Mayor John Whitmire in February 2024, she made history as the first Hispanic woman to assume the role. As Chair, Brock plays a pivotal role in leading the transit agency's Board of Directors, which is responsible for guiding the agency’s $1.9 billion annual budget and overseeing policies across METRO's expansive 1300-square-mile service area. The Authority provides essential transportation services to the City of Houston, significant areas of Harris County, and 14 surrounding multi-cities. Brock is deeply committed to upholding METRO's mission of delivering safe, clean, reliable, on time

and accessible public transportation services to the Houston region, with a strong focus on increasing ridership and enhancing mobility for all.

Under Brock’s leadership as Chair, the METRO Board of Directors passed in September 2024 a Fiscal Year 2025 budget that focuses entirely on the customercentric initiatives intended to build a robust transit culture in the Houston region. In order to grow ridership, METRO’s investments will focus on proof-of-concept infrastructure projects and enhancements, safety and security personnel and procedural expansion, more efficient and transparent use of taxpayer dollars in coordination with local and county officials, facility upgrades, more stringent cleaning

protocols and performance, and overall improvements in frequency, on-time performance, accessibility, technology, and customer service.

A strong advocate for sustainability, Brock is a founding member of Evolve Houston, a nonprofit promoting electric vehicle adoption to improve air quality. Her support of METRO’s clean-energy microtransit partnerships reflects a commitment to bridging first- and last-mile mobility gaps and advancing environmental justice.

Brock has been a member of the Board of Houston First Corporation since 2017, where she serves as Chair of the Finance Committee. Her other community leadership positions include serving as a Board Member of the Greater Houston Partnership, the Greater Houston Area Women’s Chamber, which she chaired in 2019, and a former Board Member of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Texas.

Professionally, Brock is Vice President of Federal Relations at CenterPoint Energy, where she supports capital planning and regulatory strategy. Her expertise spans utility planning, economic development, energy efficiency, and local and state policy advocacy. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Houston. With a deep commitment to public service, strategic leadership, and community impact, Brock continues to shape Houston’s future through transit, sustainability, and civic engagement.

GONZALEZ BROCK Board Chair

Houston METRO 1900 Main St. Houston, TX 77002

O: 713.739.4840 www.ridemetro.org

IG: @metrohouston

FB: @RideMETRO

X: @METROHouston

YT: @METROHouston

LI: @metropolitan-transit-authority-of-harris-county

JACQUELINE BROCK, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, CCHP

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF NURSE EXECUTIVE, HARRIS HEALTH

With over 35 years of nursing leadership experience, Jacqueline Brock has played critical roles in driving quality improvements and excellence in nursing practice at healthcare organizations throughout the state of Texas.

Brock earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Central University, a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Texas Christian University. She also demonstrated her commitment to lifelong learning by completing an Executive MBA from the University of Texas at Dallas after joining Harris Health.

After holding several leadership positions at Dallas’s Parkland Health & Hospital System, she served as the Division Vice President of Clinical Education for the North Texas Division of HCA, Medical City Healthcare. In this role, she oversaw and centralized the division’s clinical education program and led the implementation of new professional development and competency models. Brock also established local academic partnerships to further graduate registered nurse development. Brock joined Harris Health in Houston as a member of the Senior Executive Leadership Team in 2021. Harris Health is the public healthcare safety net provider, serving the uninsured, underinsured, and

low-income residents of Harris County. Despite having worked in the private healthcare sector for most of her career, the opportunity for Brock to care for the most vulnerable patient population is something that is dear to her heart and has driven much of her nursing career.

Brock is responsible for the practice of all professional nursing at Harris Health, which includes creating a culture of safety through collaboration and excellence in clinical care, education, research, and promoting evidence-based practices. Under her leadership, Harris Health continues to maintain excellence in nursing practice as evidenced by Ambulatory Care Services Pathway to Excellence® Designation, Magnet® Designation at Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital, and Magnet® with Distinction at Ben Taub Hospital through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Brock ensures the Nursing Strategic Plan aligns with and supports the Harris Health Strategic Plan to achieve the vision of Harris Health. Through ongoing strategic initiatives, she continues to advance nursing practice to create the optimal environment for professional nurses, ancillary personnel, and all other healthcare disciplines to support the health and wellness of patients, families, and communities. Her presence at the Texas Legislative hearings related to healthcare issues, including workplace violence, demonstrates an ongoing commitment to serve her profession and communities.

JACQUELINE BROCK, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, CCHP

Executive Vice President & Chief Nurse Executive Harris Health

4800 Fournace PL Bellaire, TX 77401

O: 346.426.0175

jacqueline.brock@harrishealth.org www.harrishealth.org

SONYA BROWN-MARSHALL

CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE POSITION 1 AND MAYOR PRO TEM, MISSOURI CITY, TX

Sonya Brown-Marshall is a Business Executive and Commercial Real Estate Practitioner. Presently, she serves as the Chief Executive Officer of a Real Estate Management firm that operates and manages a portfolio of corporations and not-for-profits.

Sonya's career spans over 30 years and includes achievements in strategic initiatives that involve budgeting and project management, which have culminated into millions of dollars being invested back into well-designed infrastructure and new amenities. She has developed team implementation strategies that remain focused on objectivity and produce clear project plans that are sustainable and have true value.

Sonya has resided in Missouri City for over two decades, and she is dedicated to seeing the city’s continued and successful growth. Having served on and as the chairwoman of the Planning and Zoning Commission, she has had the distinct pleasure of being involved with and approving billions of dollars in plats. Those plats have brought businesses, homes, and infrastructure to the city of Missouri City. She has also served on various advisory committees and task forces.

Community Involvement

• Licensed Texas Realtor

• Member of the Texas Association of Realtors

• Member of the Houston Association of Realtors

• Member of The Houston Black Real Estate Association

• Member of the NAACP, Missouri City Branch

• Member of the Missouri City 2017 Comprehensive Planning Committee

• Corporate Member of the Community Associations Institute

• Member of the American Planning Association

• Alumna of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses

• Lifetime Member of the Cambridge Entrepreneurs Division

• Former Member and Chairwoman of the Missouri City Planning and Zoning Commission

• Former Ex-Officio Member of the Texas Parkway/Cartwright Road Corridor Committee

• Former Treasurer of the Texas Parkway Alliance

• Former MCJCF Gala Chairwoman

On Nov. 8, 2022, the citizens of Missouri City, TX elected Sonya to serve on City Council as the At-Large Position Number 1 Councilwoman. In December 2024, by a majority vote of her colleagues, Sonya was elected to serve as Mayor Pro Tem. Sonya understands that the city is aging, and she is prepared to forge a path toward the imminent need for redevelopment, continued growth, and support for public safety and business development that will keep the tax rate down.

Sonya's promise: to use her experience to advocate for citizens and to work co-

hesively with council in finding balanced solutions.

Sonya is supported by her husband, retired police officer Anthony, and their two sons, Payton and Mathew.

SONYA BROWN-MARSHALL

City Council At-Large Position 1 and Mayor Pro Tem

Missouri City, TX

1522 Texas Pkwy.

Missouri City, TX 77489

O: 281.403.8500

www.missouricitytx.gov/371/At-LargePosition-1-Mayor-Pro-Tem

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PHUONG CARDOZA

GROUP DIRECTOR & CEO, WEST OAKS HOSPITAL

Phuong Cardoza is a highly respected healthcare executive with a proven track record of leadership and innovation in behavioral health. Currently, as the Group Director and CEO at West Oaks Hospital, Cardoza provides strategic oversight for several psychiatric hospitals serving diverse communities across Texas and New Mexico. A licensed professional counselor with a master’s degree in clinical psychology, she brings deep clinical knowledge and a patient-focused approach to all aspects of administration.

Cardoza’s career in hospital mental health began in 2009, giving her a front-line per-

spective on the challenges and opportunities within behavioral healthcare. She quickly advanced into leadership roles, including Director of Admission and Utilization Review and then Chief Operating Officer, where her ability to combine operational efficiency with compassionate care became evident. In these early leadership positions, Cardoza developed expertise in process improvement, regulatory compliance, and creating environments where both patients and staff could thrive.

By 2017, Cardoza had earned her first CEO appointment at Cypress Creek Hospital, where she implemented initiatives that led to record improvements in care quality

and hospital performance. Her leadership journey continued as CEO of El Paso Behavioral Health System in 2019, and more recently as CEO of West Oaks Hospital in 2024. In each organization, Cardoza has been recognized for her transformative impact, earning two Chairman’s Council Awards and the prestigious Eagle Award for operational and quality excellence.

Her passion is rooted in a commitment to helping vulnerable populations access high-quality mental health care. Cardoza believes that, as an administrator, she has the unique privilege and responsibility to make positive, large-scale changes that benefit both patients and staff. She takes a hands-on approach, remaining accessible and involved with teams at all levels, fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Throughout her career, Cardoza has advocated for the ongoing professional development of her staff, championed evidence-based innovations in clinical practice, and worked tirelessly to improve access to mental health services in underserved areas. Her leadership is marked by her ability to balance organizational objectives with compassion for individuals—a quality that inspires those around her to strive for excellence.

Outside of her professional life, Cardoza is a lifelong learner, always seeking new knowledge and insights to bring back to her teams and communities. She is committed to leaving a lasting, positive impact on the field of behavioral health, continually motivated by the belief that every day presents an opportunity to do meaningful work and touch lives for the better.

PHUONG CARDOZA

Group Director & CEO West Oaks Hospital

6500 Hornwood Dr. Houston, TX 77074

O: 713.778.5220

Phuong.cardoza@uhsinc.com

CELINA L. CARTER

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL, BWC TERMINALS

Celina Lopez Carter is an accomplished lawyer who has practiced law for 23 years. Currently, she serves as the Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary at BWC Terminals, a leading bulk liquid storage company in North America, based in Houston, TX. In this role, she leads the legal function with a focus on integrity, strategic alignment, and operational excellence. Carter advises senior leadership on a wide range of legal and regulatory matters, ensuring the organization's compliance with law and regu-

lations while supporting its mission and long-term goals.

Carter is a trusted legal and business partner known for delivering practical, solutions-oriented counsel that balances risk with results. She is deeply committed to fostering an ethical culture, advancing diversity and inclusion, and building strong relationships across departments and with community stakeholders. Carter’s goal is to make a positive impact through her work by fostering meaningful relationships and promoting diversity in the legal profession.

Prior to her current role, Carter practiced law in both the private and public sectors, gaining extensive experience in corporate law, governance, and compliance. Originally from the Rio Grande Valley, Carter graduated from the University of Texas Pan American. She moved to Houston after graduating to attend Thurgood Marshall School of Law, where she graduated magna cum laude.

Carter began her legal career as an associate in the Corporate, Business, and Banking section at Fulbright & Jaworski LLP. She has held numerous senior executive roles throughout her career, including serving as Vice President, General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer, and Corporate Secretary of Paragon Integrated Services Group; Senior Vice President and General Counsel of QMax Solutions; and senior roles at M-I SWACO, a business segment of Schlumberger. Her work has consistently reflected a passion for service, mentorship, and empowering women through thoughtful leadership.

Today, Carter is a proud Houstonian actively involved in initiatives that support legal education and community wellness. She has held numerous board leadership positions.

Outside of work, Carter is married to Victor Carter and is the proud mother of their 11-year-old son, Little Victor, along with two beloved rescue dogs, Madi and Nero. She enjoys exercising and has built strong friendships with eight inspiring women she affectionately calls the Fit Girls Klub. Carter believes that prioritizing health and fitness helps her be her best self, and she brings the same dedication and heart to her family and friendships as she does to her professional life.

CELINA L. CARTER

Senior Vice President & General Counsel BWC Terminals

1200 Smith St., Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77002 www.bwcterminals.com

DAPHANE CARTER

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GENESYS WORKS HOUSTON

Daphane Carter lives by the famous Shirley Chisholm quote:

“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” But Carter has done more than spend her career pulling up a chair; she’s built the table — creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and ensuring others have a place to thrive.

In September 2023, she made history as the first Black female Executive Director of Genesys Works Houston, bringing a bold vision for expanding access, fostering talent, and driving impact. With over two decades of expertise in organizational effectiveness, leadership development, and business transformation, she is committed to closing opportunity gaps and ensuring young professionals gain the mentor-

ship, resources, and skills needed to excel in competitive career fields.

Her career spans corporate and academic sectors, where she has witnessed the transformative power of leadership training and workforce development. Her passion for economic equity and access to opportunity aligns seamlessly with Genesys Works’ mission to provide meaningful work experiences that lead to lifelong success.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Carter is a passionate advocate for women’s health, youth advancement, and community empowerment. As a breast cancer survivor, she actively supports Susan G. Komen, working to increase awareness and expand access to mammograms in underserved communities. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta So-

rority, Incorporated; The Links, Incorporated; Women of the Vine and Spirits; and the Women’s Leadership Council—organizations dedicated to service, leadership, and the advancement of Black professionals. Carter also lends her expertise as a board member for two national nonprofits. Her drive to create a lasting impact extends beyond nonprofit leadership. As co-founder of Daphane Limoncello, she and her best friend became the first Black women in the U.S. to own a citrus-based liqueur brand. What started as a gathering of friends sharing laughter and life’s moments evolved into an award-winning brand now sold in major retailers across five states. As an entrepreneur, she is building a legacy of ownership and innovation for her daughters.

Carter’s leadership has earned recognition from multiple organizations, including the Houston Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business Award (2021) and the Invest & Ivy Educational and Charitable Foundation of Houston (2024 Honoree).

When she’s not gardening, curating cocktails, or hosting the perfect gathering, she’s planting seeds of opportunity and watching individuals flourish in their careers. Just as she finds joy in cultivating vibrant gardens and creating welcoming spaces for friends, she takes pride in helping people grow, connect, and thrive. Through every initiative, mentorship, and opportunity she creates, Carter proves what’s possible when vision meets action.

She lives in Missouri City with her husband, Stephen Carter, and their daughters, continuing to nurture both her community and the legacy she is building.

DAPHANE CARTER Executive Director Genesys

Works Houston 3100 Main St., Ste. 702 Houston, TX 77002

dcarter@genesysworks.org genesysworks.org/Houston LI: @daphane-carter-441055208

We proudly raise a glass to Daphane H. Carter, honored as one of the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston 2025. As the visionary force behind Daphane Limoncello, Daphane blends passion, craftsmanship, and premium ingredients to create an award-worthy spirit.

Daphane Limoncello is a handcrafted lemon liqueur, made with the finest citrus, small-batch distilled, and crafted to perfection. Whether served chilled, in a craft cocktail, or as the perfect after-dinner indulgence, every sip delivers a taste of luxury.cc

SUPARNA CHHIBBER, MD, FAAFP

PRESIDENT, HOUSTON FAMILY & GERIATRIC MEDICINE

Apracticing family medicine physician, Dr. Suparna Chhibber has more than two decades of experience in clinical care, medical education, leadership, and advocacy.

Dr. Chhibber is triple board-certified in Family Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, and Hospice and Palliative Medicine. She currently leads a personalized wellness practice and serves as the President of Houston Family and Geriatric Medicine, a practice she founded to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care across the lifespan with a focus on longevity, healthy aging, chronic disease management, and preventive health.

Dr. Chhibber earned her medical degree from India and completed her residency at

The Methodist Family Medicine Residency and a fellowship in Geriatric Medicine at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston. She also completed an Academic Faculty Development Fellowship while serving as a faculty member at the residency program she graduated from.

A passionate educator, Dr. Chhibber continues to serve as a volunteer clinical preceptor for the Texas Academy of Family Practice teaching medical students. Her scholarly work includes research in geriatric pharmacology, health disparities, and contributions to respected medical texts. She has also given national and international presentations at conferences for the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine, the American Academy of Family

Physicians, the North American Primary Care Research Group, and the Texas Academy of Family Practice.

In addition to her clinical roles, she has held multiple leadership positions throughout her career. She serves on Texas Academy of Family Physicians councils and is an active member of the Memorial Hermann PCP Governance Council

Dr. Chhibber has received multiple recognitions throughout her career, including the Methodist Hospital ICARE Award and most recently The Houstonia Magazine Top Doctor Award.

Dr. Chhibber believes that genes are not our destiny. She works closely with her patients to prevent, manage, and often reverse chronic diseases through lifestyle-based, evidence-driven care. As a certified lifestyle medicine physician and a Culinary Health Education Fundamentals (CHEF) Coach, she emphasizes the power of healthy habits — such as regular physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, and positive social connections — and combines this with practical nutrition and cooking guidance to help patients make sustainable, health-promoting choices. Her mission is to empower patients to live long, healthy, and joyful lives.

Outside of her professional life, Dr. Chhibber volunteers at local charity clinics, providing care to underserved communities. She is married to her husband of 31 years and is a proud mother of two children — a daughter who is a passionate scientist and a son currently in high school. She brings the same dedication to her family that she brings to her patients and community.

SUPARNA CHHIBBER, MD, FAAFP President

Houston Family & Geriatric Medicine

1026 Blackhaw St. Houston, Texas 77079

O: 281.721.4325

www.mdvip.com/doctors/suparnachhibbermd

IG: @lifestyledoc21

FB: @suparnachhibbermd

PRIMARY CARE That Makes You Primary

We focus on personalized primary care from evidence-based lifestyle interventions and treatment to care for you and your family. Located in the energy corridor, Houston Family & Geriatric Medicine serves Memorial, Spring Branch, Katy, Cypress, Sugar Land and Houston Harris county areas. Schedule Your Appointment Today!

1026 Blackhaw St., Ste. 201 Houston Texas 77079

281-721-4325

recep_mdvip@hfgmed.com

mdvip.com/doctors/suparnachhibbermd

SUSAN CHRISTIAN

SENIOR DIRECTOR, CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND CONFERENCE SERVICES, RICE UNIVERSITY

With nearly four decades of dynamic stewardship spanning the administrations of seven Houston mayors, Susan Christian has transformed Houston's cultural landscape into a nationally recognized hub for creativity and celebration. As the recently retired Director of the Mayor's Office of Special Events (MOSE), Christian's imprint extends far beyond event planning, encompassing a holistic approach to community enrichment and talent development.

Central to Christian's strategy is her unwavering commitment to inclusivity. Under her guidance, serving as the City's event producer for local and national events, the city's Civic Celebration Program blossomed into a year-round showcase of Houston's rich cultural tapestry. From the iconic July 4th SHELL Freedom Over Texas celebration to the beloved HE-B Thanksgiving Day Parade and neighborhood favorite Cigna Sunday in the

Park, Christian curated platforms that not only entertained millions but also profiled emerging talents alongside established luminaries, providing them with prominent exposure.

Christian's foresight and dedication are evident in the creation of the City's Special Events Ordinance, a pioneering framework that sets the standard for safety, efficiency, and transparency in event management. Leveraging her expertise, Houston has emerged as a premier destination for nationally competitive events, including NCAA Championships, Super Bowls, and the upcoming 2026 World Cup, where she served on the bid committee. Through strategic collaborations with partners like Houston First and the Houston Sports Authority, Christian fosters a sense of unity and pride within the community. She has produced all of Houston's eight national sports championship victory parades for the Houston Rockets, former Houston Comets, and the Houston Astros. She co-

produced the 1997, 1998 and 1999 Power of Houston events — the largest events in Houston’s history.

In 2015, Christian co-founded Houston Civic Events, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the work of MOSE to create an efficient and transparent organization for raising funds for the City’s Civic Celebration Program and to nurture the city's burgeoning talent pool. Through mentorship programs, workshops, and strategic alliances with educational institutions, she has cultivated an ecosystem where aspiring producers, artists, and musicians can flourish.

In March 2025, Christian joined Rice University as the school's first senior director of campus and community engagement and conference services. She plans to share her decades of experience by helping Rice develop major productions and conferences aimed to elevate Rice's profile locally and globally. The multifaceted position includes overseeing a wide variety of high-profile campus events, innovative community engagement initiatives, and fostering goodwill and cultural exchange. Additionally, Christian will spearhead the launch of a new conference services division aimed to attract more top-tier academic conferences, symposiums and intellectual forums to Rice.

Christian's passion for community enrichment is deeply personal, and she has served on numerous boards and committees. As a proud parent of two young boys, alongside her partner Laura Spanjian, she understands the importance of nurturing future generations and leaving a lasting legacy of inclusivity and opportunity. Christian holds a BFA in Theatre from Texas Christian University.

SUSAN CHRISTIAN

Senior Director, Campus and Community Engagement and Conference Services

Rice University 6100 Main St. Houston, TX 77005

O: 713.348.6771

susan.christian@rice.edu www.rice.edu

Globally recognized as “The Transformationist,” Dr. Jacque Colbert is a visionary leader. Her extraordinary journey embodies a profound commitment to service, purpose, and the limitless potential of the human spirit.

Born in Guyana, Dr. Colbert's early life as the third of eight children in Brooklyn, New York, instilled in her a deep sense of gratitude, resourcefulness, and community. These foundational experiences continue to ground her, fueling an unyielding drive to live fully, honor her past, and boldly shape a brighter future for all.

Dr. Colbert embarked on a career in the United States Army, where she served for over four years. Her military service instilled a disciplined approach to problemsolving, an unwavering commitment to team excellence, and the strategic foresight that would define her subsequent corporate career.

With over three decades of unparalleled experience, Dr. Colbert has become a trusted voice in global Human Resources leadership, leaving an indelible mark at industry giants such as Google, VMware, Dell, and ConocoPhillips. Her strategic and inspirational leadership has been instrumental in enhancing organizational capabilities, fostering innovation, and strengthening the overall cultural fabric by implementing scalable processes, optimizing talent strategies, and ensuring a balanced, impactful approach to business partnerships. As Senior Managing Director of Human Resources at Google, she leads a team of 100+ HR leaders supporting 100,000+ Googlers worldwide.

As a 17-year breast cancer survivor, Dr. Colbert intimately understands adversity and the power of resilience. This, coupled with her military background and humble origins, has cultivated a leadership style characterized by unwavering strength, a clear vision, profound empathy, and undeniable grace.

Beyond the boardroom, Dr. Colbert's heart beats for community transformation. She is the visionary founder of Sipping PositiviTEA™, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to uplifting those impacted by breast and chest cancer through financial assistance and emotional support. The organization has raised over $150,000 and partners

DR. JACQUE COLBERT

FOUNDER & PRESIDENT, SIPPING

with groups like The Rose, SurviHER, and brands like Max Mara, Tod’s, and Easy Spirit.

Dr. Colbert has penned "Corporate Sisterhood," a powerful call to action and prescription for every working woman, and "The Gratitude Journal," a purposeful tool for living a life anchored in intention and gratitude. She has a heart that is grounded in seeing other women grow, and it is through that center that she continuously coaches and mentors others.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Management and HR and an MBA with a concentration in HR. Her commitment to lifelong learning culminated in a doctoral degree in Management and Organizational Leadership. An avid drummer, dancer, and exercise fanatic, Dr. Colbert infuses joyful movement into her daily rhythm, finding restoration and self-expression in these passions.

A two-time Congressional Award recipient, CW39 Remarkable Woman Finalist, and a consumer peer reviewer for the DoD Congressional Research for Cancer, Dr. Colbert continues to spark transformation, amplify underrepresented voices, and drive meaningful change — from the highest levels of leadership to the heart of the communities she serves.

DR. JACQUE COLBERT Founder & President

Sipping PositiviTEA

Manvel, TX

O: 512.300.3800

info@sippingpositivitea.org www.sippingpositivitea.org

IG: @drjacquecolbert, @sippingpositivitea

ERICA RICO CONTRERAS

MORNING SHOW HOST, RADIO ONE/93Q

Erica Rico is the strong, loving mom on 93Q’s Morning Show. Born in Tucson, AZ, she grew up listening to George Strait and wanted to live in Texas her whole life. She has now been a Houstonian for over 20 years and loves the community.

Rico battled with a stutter growing up and still does at times. She’s done some hard work and has learned to tame it. She still can’t believe she gets paid to talk!

Rico’s journey is an inspiration to many Latinos, especially young women: she grew up in a tough environment, dropped out of school, and became a mother at a

young age. But she went back to get her education and completely turned her life around. She truly is a testament to what hard work and a good heart can do. Her talents have taken her beyond the microphone, having appeared on reality shows and hosting her own cooking and BBQ shows. She’s a busy mom with very active children who participate in every sport imaginable. She's also a band and theater mom. Rico loves cooking, gardening, doing home improvement projects with her husband, and traveling in her RV with her family.

Rico considers community service the

most important part of her job with 93Q. She volunteers her time with many organizations and holds positions on several boards. She is the Vice President of the Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP), Vice President of the Eagle Lake Fire Department Auxiliary, and Gala Chair for the Relentless Defender Foundation. Rico dedicates her time to hosting events, emceeing galas, and helping raise funds for charities that benefit First Responders, Military Members, cancer patients, and Houston’s homeless population. She also supports organizations that advocate for adults and children with autism, as well as battered women and children.

Among her many radio awards, Rico was voted the “Hottest Woman in Radio.” At the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, she has earned the titles of Grand Champion for Celebrity Wild Cow Milking, Grand Champion for Llama Showing, and Reserve Champion for Celebrity Goat Milking. Rico's family is everything to her. Rico’s husband, Mark, is a First Responder and a Veteran. They have 10 kids between them, ranging from ages 6 to 30, as well as six beautiful grandsons. Rico has a son in the Marines and a son in the Air Force. They are a proud Military and First Responder family. Rico is all about family and living the country life; she cares for two goats, 40 chickens, and two dogs. In her off time, you can find her in the large garden built for her by her husband or in her yard shooting her longbow.

Erica Rico is a name you can trust in the Houston community. Houston knows if something is needed, she will be there to help.

ERICA RICO

CONTRERAS Morning Show Host Radio One/93Q

1990 Post Oak Blvd., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77056

O: 713.963.1200 erica.rico@radio-one.com www.93qhouston.com

IG: @radioericarico

KEASIA MURRAY DANIELS

OWNER & PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT, VANTAGEPOINT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

Keasia Daniels, PE, ChPP is an accomplished engineering and project management executive with a distinguished career leading capital projects across the globe. A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Daniels earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Florida A&M University (1994) and a Master of Science in construction engineering & management from Purdue University (1995). She is a licensed Professional Engineer in Texas and holds the prestigious Chartered Project Professional (ChPP) designation from the Association for Project Management.

Daniels began her career in field engineering and construction management, contributing to major infrastructure and energy projects across the U.S., Canada,

Germany, Malaysia, and Algeria. Her expertise spans manufacturing, refining, LNG, urban development, and onshore drilling.

In 2005, she joined Royal Dutch Shell, where she held progressive leadership roles over 16 years. As General Manager for Project Services - Americas, she led a team of 50+ professionals delivering cost engineering, planning, scheduling, and risk management for projects ranging from $50 million to $10+ billion across Shell’s Downstream, Deepwater, LNG, Offshore Wind, and Renewable Natural Gas portfolios. Her legacy includes building highperforming teams, driving technical excellence, and championing talent development.

In 2021, Daniels transitioned from corporate life to entrepreneurship, founding

VantagePoint Business Solutions, where she now serves as Principal Consultant. She partners with mission-driven organizations to deliver services in project management, event planning, leadership development, and team facilitation.

A proud Senior Fellow of the American Leadership Forum (Class 50) and graduate of the Center for Houston’s Future, Daniels remains deeply committed to civic leadership and community engagement. She actively supports initiatives through her involvement with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., The Links, Incorporated, and Jack & Jill of America, Inc.

Daniels was raised by parents who were life-long educators in the public school system. Although, she did not pursue education as a career, she has been influenced by her parents to have a passion for children and youth. When not working, Daniels spends her free time as a S.T.E.M. advocate encouraging youth to prepare for college and particularly, encouraging girls and youth in under-represented communities to pursue S.T.E.M. courses and careers. She serves as the college scholarship coordinator for The Kaleidoscope Foundation, where she has helped students access higher education for over a decade.

Daniels lives in Sugar Land, TX with her husband of 29 years, Kelvin Daniels. Together, they celebrate their daughter Kaylin, a scholar-athlete at Northeastern University, who carries forward the family’s legacy of excellence and purpose.

KEASIA MURRAY DANIELS

Owner & Principal Consultant

VantagePoint Business Solutions

18802 University Blvd., Ste. 117-104 Sugar Land, TX 77479

O: 832.279.6267

www.kdaniels@vantagepointsolutions.org www.vantagepointsolutions.org

FB: @keasia.daniels

IG: @keasiamd

DR. TABITHA S. DAVIS

CAMPUS PRINCIPAL, YOUNG WOMEN’S COLLEGE PREPARATORY ACADEMY – HOUSTON ISD

Aproud wife, mother, and educator is how Dr. Tabitha S. Davis defines herself. She is a native Houstonian who was proudly educated in Houston ISD schools before earning a Bachelor of Business Administration and Marketing from Houston Baptist University, an MBA from the University of St. Thomas, a Master of Education from Lamar University, and a Doctor of Education from the University of Houston.

Wanting to give back to the district that raised her, Dr. Davis joined HISD in 2008 as a high school Career & Technology Education teacher. Her administration journey began as Dean of Students at West-

bury High School and the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy (YWCPA) before serving as Campus Principal at Reagan K-8 Educational Center, Sterling High School, and YWCPA.

Dr. Davis has been a principal at HISD schools since 2016. She served at Reagan K-8 and Sterling High School before joining YWCPA, a STEM and College Prep school for girls, in 2021. Known for running her administration with compassion and a focus on engaging education, she thoroughly enjoys supporting teachers, advocating for students, and working with business and community partners to develop and support initiatives designed to provide her students with valuable enrich-

ment opportunities. Under her inspiring leadership, YWCPA is an A-rated National Blue Ribbon School, ranked No. 2 in the Greater Houston area, with 100% annual graduation and college matriculation rates. Her daughter, Andrea, is a proud YWCPA scholar.

Dr. Davis’ career is highly decorated, receiving awards at all levels. She won the Pinnacle Award for Influential Women in Energy from Hart Energy in 2023, the Teacher of the Year award in 2013 at Challenge Early College High School, the Principal of the Year award (HISD South Area) in 2020, and the Principal of the Month award (HISD high schools) in December 2022. Dr. Davis also received the Houston ISD Excellence in Leadership award in September 2024. She served as a facilitator for the College Board’s Prepárate Conference in Los Angeles in April 2023 and as adjunct faculty for the University of Houston where she taught master’s and doctoral level educational leadership courses from 2018 until 2022.

Dr. Davis extends her abilities outside of the school, leading the Young Christians Ministry at Holy Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, where she is a faithful, lifelong member. She is one of 75 school leaders from across the United States selected to participate in the 2024-25 cohort of the Cahn Fellowship of Distinguished Principals. She is also a member of the Bay Area South Houston chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc.

Dr. Davis’ mission is to glorify God through her work as she endeavors to enrich the lives of young people via guidance, mentorship, and encouragement.

DR. TABITHA S. DAVIS

Campus Principal Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy – Houston ISD 1906 Cleburne St. Houston, TX 77004

O: 713.942.1441

www.houstonisd.org/ywcpa

CONGRATULATIONS

The Rose and Davis families wish to congratulate our very own Dr. Tabitha S. Davis, proud principal of the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy.

Dr. Davis is the creative force behind this series of weekly planners designed to help students and adults with organization, planning, inspiration, and the achievement of their personal goals.

Purchase the planners on Amazon or by scanning the QR Code to the link below.

IRMA DIAZ-GONZALEZ

CEO, EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING CENTERS, INC.

Irma Diaz-Gonzalez is the Chief Executive Officer of Employment and Training Centers, Inc. (ETC). ETC has been named a top workplace by the Houston Business Journal and the Houston Chronicle, with a special expertise in bilingual staffing including Spanish, Vietnamese, and Chinese.

Irma’s personal story is directly tied to her career. She grew up in a family of migrant farm workers, but her life changed as a teenager when a non-profit helped her father find permanent employment and housing for the family, allowing the children to enroll in school permanently.

She was so grateful that she began volunteering for the organization; later she was hired as an employment counselor while attending community college. After placing three men in jobs making over $10 an hour, instead of $2 hourly, their

families stopped by to thank her—"and I was hooked,” she recalls.

Now, more than 40 years into her career, she still loves helping people find meaningful employment. Married and the proud mother of three grown daughters, she continues to serve the community in a multitude of ways.

Recently, Irma was named Chair of the Board of Directors at BakerRipley—an organization she has been connected to since the 1980s. Irma has served on the Board since 2019.

“I was drawn to serve on the Board of BakerRipley because I believe deeply in its mission to create opportunities and strengthen communities,” says Irma. “I have seen firsthand the challenges many families in Houston face—whether it’s access to education, job training, housing, or social services, and I admire

how BakerRipley meets those needs in a holistic and respectful way.”

She is also inspired by BakerRipley’s long history of innovation and adaptability. Since 1907, BakerRipley has met the changing needs of Houstonians and offered emergency aid during times of crisis.

“I admire BakerRipley’s history, resiliency, strong mission, and its unwavering commitment to empowering people,” says Irma. “BakerRipley focuses on building skills, creating opportunities, and fostering dignity—helping individuals and families become self-sufficient and resilient. That philosophy resonates deeply with me because of my personal story and because it creates long-term impact, not just temporary relief.”

Irma’s additional service to the community includes Chair Emeritus of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Past Chair of Mi Familia Vota; Lifetime Board Member of Memorial Hermann Children’s Hospital; Amegy Bank Board Member; and past member of the United Way of Greater Houston Board of Trustees. Her awards include Hispanic Business Woman of the Year by the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Comcast’s Hispanic Hero Award; Woman on the Move by Texas Executive Women; 50 Most Influential Women in Houston by Texas Women’s Magazine; and the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame.

“The golden rule is important to me; treating other people the way you would want to be treated,” says Irma. “I want to be known for having made a difference in people’s lives.”

IRMA DIAZ-GONZALEZ CEO

Employment and Training Centers, Inc. 2000 Bering Dr., Ste. 150 Houston, TX 77057

O: 713.439.7530

irma@etchouston.com www.etchouston.com

Values are more important than valuation.

A bank is more than just products and services. At Comerica, we believe corporate values are bigger than account features.

That’s why inclusion is embedded throughout our business strategy, celebrated among our colleagues, and extended to our community and business partners.

That’s how we’re raising expectations of what a bank can be.

HOLLY DOOL

FOUNDER & PRESIDENT, CAMO RESCUE

Holly Dool is the Founder and President of CAMO Rescue, a specialized dog rescue organization that offers dogs a safe haven and housing. With an annual budget of $1.2 million, the organization rescues approximately 1,200 dogs a year from the streets and high-kill shelters. Dool said she never intended to work in rescue, but sometimes you never know where life will lead you.

In 2013, she moved to Odessa, TX. During

her second week there, she stopped by the city shelter to introduce herself as a rescue person and offered to volunteer. She said she was met with indifference by the staff, and as she walked through the shelter, she was dismayed to see an overcrowded and outdated facility. A particular terrier caught her eye — she was shaking and trying to hide under the elevated bed amidst four other dogs. Dool adopted the dog with the intention of vetting and rehoming her. And that’s how CAMO Rescue began.

The Odessa city shelter offered its animals no vet care or vaccinations, leading to rampant disease, an inhumane gas chamber, and an inexplicable 83% euthanasia rate. Dool felt the shelter was failing the animals, so she decided to step in. She regularly visited the shelter, adopted dogs, nursed them back to health, and found them new homes. Her home quickly filled with dogs waiting for their new families. She officially launched CAMO Rescue as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2013. Not content in just saving lives, Dool wanted to make meaningful change. For two years, she sat on the shelter’s advisory board and lobbied for shelter reform.

In 2016, Dool moved back to Houston and expanded the rescue. CAMO networks with volunteers, shelters, and rescues all over the state of Texas. Many of CAMO’s dogs come from disadvantaged areas in the Rio Grande Valley. To date, CAMO has rescued and rehomed close to 12,000 dogs. CAMO has over 200 foster families who care for the dogs while they’re waiting to be adopted. It takes a village, and there’s a lot of hard work and sleepless nights that go on behind the scenes. They rely heavily on donors, volunteers, and adopters. They often rescue the less-adoptable dogs: the injured, ill, and seniors. Dool says that seeing the transformations is truly amazing and rewarding. Thanks to the generosity of CAMO’s supporters, the organization purchased two acres in Magnolia, Texas, and built a kennel that houses roughly 75 dogs while they wait for vetting and adoption.

HOLLY DOOL Founder & President

CAMO Rescue

26233 Dobbin Huffsmith Rd. Magnolia, TX 77354

O: 832.520.1803

hollydool@hotmail.com

www.camorescue.com

IG: @CamoRescue

FB: @HollyDool

KANDI EASTMAN

MID-DAY RADIO PERSONALITY, RADIO ONE, INC.

An accomplished media personality, Kandi Eastman enjoyed success as a station manager and news director at Boston’s 104.9 (WRBB-FM). Before gracing the studios of the city's top-rated college station, she held on-air positions at 1090 (WILD-AM) in Boston, 97.5 (WQOK-FM) in Raleigh, NC, and 102.9 (WOWI-FM) in Norfolk, VA. Eastman left the east coast and made her way down to Houston, where she joined the Majic 102.1 (KMJQ-FM) family on Halloween Oct. 31, 1994 and has been the Queen of Houston airwaves for 30 years.

Eastman is a household name in Houston — known as "The Sweet Talker" because of

her friendly encounters and joyful spirit. To date, Eastman has received recognition and earned numerous honors and awards for her contributions and longevity in the radio industry. She has also been recognized for her efforts to inspire and improve the Houston community.

In 2019, she was honored with the proclamation of "Kandi Eastman Day" on Nov. 8 by the late former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. She also received recognition from the late U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.

During 2023, Eastman celebrated some incredible milestones. She was presented with the President's Volunteer Service

Award for outstanding contributions in community service in the United States, received an Honorary Doctorate, and was inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame. Eastman continues to conduct engaging interviews for audiences’ entertainment with celebrities like Bobby Brown, Mary J. Blige, Tamar Braxton, Snoop Dogg, Vivica Fox, Charlie Wilson, New Edition, and more.

As Eastman celebrates 30 years in midday on KMJQ, this Boston-grown-nowHouston's-own Kandi girl has reinvented herself on social media and given her loyal listeners a deeper inside look at "The Only Kandi Mom Wants You To Have." Between her fan girl New Edition posts, love of line dancing, nail art, community service, and her own "Kandi Kisses Wine Collection,” Kandi has connected with people of all ages and has taken her ratings to top 5. Eastman is not only a breast cancer survivor, she is a thriver. When she was diagnosed with the disease in fall of 2013, she used her platform to raise awareness, particularly during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She is a champion for women's health and is dedicated to raising awareness for issues facing women and families. Eastman practically raised her sons on the radio. She brought them into the stations on the weekends and even hosted the memorable broadcast from home while she was taking care of her sons with chickenpox. Radio also runs in the family: Eastman's son Amir Diamond is Lead Promotions Coordinator at Radio One Houston's 97.9 The Box, Majic 102.1, and Praise Houston.

KANDI EASTMAN

Mid-Day Radio Personality Radio One, Inc.

1990 Post Oak Blvd. #2300 Houston, TX 77056

Keastman@radio-one.com www.myhoustonmajic.com

IG: @Kandieastman

SUSAN EDIONWE, MD, FACS, DIPABLM

FOUNDER & CEO, BLUE RIBBON ENT

Susan O. Edionwe, MD, FACS, DipABLM is a board-certified Otolaryngologist and fellowshiptrained Advanced Rhinologist and Skull Base Surgeon, proudly serving the Sugar Land and Houston communities. Her clinical expertise spans allergy care, sinus surgery, and complex skull base procedures—delivered with compassion, innovation, and precision.

She is the founder of Blue Ribbon ENT, Allergy & Sinus Center, a forward-thinking practice rooted in the belief that health care should be both high-tech and deeply human. The name, Blue Ribbon, was chosen with purpose – it represents her commitment to delivering firstclass, exceptional care in every patient interaction. Dr. Edionwe's vision extends

beyond clinical excellence to create an environment where patients feel truly valued, heard, and cared for as individuals.

Her journey began at the University of Texas-Pan American for undergraduate studies, followed by medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston. After completing an intensive five-year residency in Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery at UTMB, she pursued advanced fellowship training in Rhinology and Skull Base Surgery at McGill University in Montreal, Canada.

Dr. Edionwe is one of fewer than 1% of practicing Black Otolaryngologists in the United States, a distinction she carries with pride as she advocates for representation, equity, and access in medicine. She

was named a Top Doctor by Houstonia Magazine in October 2020, recognizing her excellence and impact in the field. In addition to her surgical practice, she is a certified Lifestyle Medicine Physician, national health educator, and soft skills expert dedicated to patient-centered care and advancing leadership in health care. Dr. Edionwe frequently advises health systems, corporations, and medical organizations on integrating AI and emerging technologies while strengthening human connection and communication in clinical practice.

She is the current President of the Nigerian Physicians Advocacy Group (NPAG), where she champions policy reform and health equity initiatives locally and globally. A respected voice in values-driven leadership, she promotes emotional intelligence, empathy, and active listening as critical tools for effective governance and organizational culture.

Dr. Edionwe is currently pursuing an Executive MBA at Baylor University, expected to graduate in 2026, to further prepare for expanded leadership and board service. She recently earned her Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification, equipping her with advanced tools for driving innovation, quality improvement, and strategic transformation in health care delivery.

With over a decade of experience, Dr. Edionwe is known for her commitment to mentorship, systemic change, and compassionate healing. Grounded in faith and purpose, she remains passionate about educating, inspiring, and building impactful collaborations that elevate health and humanity.

SUSAN EDIONWE, MD, FACS, DIPABLM

Founder & CEO

Blue Ribbon ENT

7616 Branford PL, Ste. 350 Sugar Land, TX 77479

O: 281.843.4364

info@blueribbon-ent.com

www.blueribbon-ent.com

IG: @BlueRibbonENT

FB: @theBlueRibbonENT

Congratulations Dr. Edionwe—may God continue to bless your leadership and impact!

- Joel Edionwe MD Orthopedic Spine Surgeon South Texas Spinal Clinic

- SQUAD Team, VA & Tech services squadinventive.com

The Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas congratulates Dr. Susan O. Edionwe on being named among Houston’s Top 30 Influential Women. A former Houston Chapter Chair and National Membership Chair, she now leads our 501(c)(4) affiliate, the Nigerian Physicians Advocacy Group, with passion and vision—exemplifying ANPA’s mission in health and advocacy.

- Clifford Eke MD, FACS, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, ANPA National President, www.ANPA.org

Your passion and impact make us & Houston proud! Congrats, Dr. Susan!

- Founder, Maha Health & Holistic Wellness | www.mahahealth.org We are celebrating your remarkable achievements, Dr. Edionwe! You inspire everyone around you!”

Dr. Edionwe, this recognition is well-deserved— may God continue to bless your path.

- Etinosa Edionwe, CEO, Becoming HIS

Congratulations, Dr. Edionwe!

- BU Hankamer School of Business

ADAEZE EGESI, MD, MBA, FAAD

OWNER & BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST, HUMBLE DERMATOLOGY

Adaeze Egesi, MD, MBA, FAAD was born and raised in Houston, TX by her immigrant Nigerian parents. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She then attended the internationally recognized Baylor College of Medicine for her medical education, where she graduated at the top of her class. Dr. Egesi completed her internship and residency in dermatology at the University of Cincinnati and served there as a chief resident. Upon completion, she became a board-certified

dermatologist and the first physician in her family.

Living in Ohio afforded her the pleasure of the breathtaking beauty of the four seasons in their climate and how to survive the winter, among other things.

In 2018, she opened the first femaleowned Nigerian dermatology practice, outside of Houston in the small town of Humble to give back to her community. Her practice offers the latest lasers and cosmetic treatment options. She prides herself in treating all skin colors and skin

types with a special focus on skin of color. Dr. Egesi’s “Patient First” philosophy in medicine motivates her to deliver superior service in her pursuit to improve the quality of life of her patients and create a pleasant experience with every encounter. She and her team, which includes another board-certified dermatologist and a nurse practitioner, provide comprehensive dermatological services to the community.

Dr. Egesi is an expert in all aspects of dermatology including medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with special interest and advanced skill in the treatment of alopecia (hair loss) and complex dermatological cases. Given her expertise in alopecia, her practice has the latest treatments for hair loss including stem cell treatments such as platelet rich plasma and exosomes. Her deep appreciation for the challenges of eruptions that can affect the skin, and its various presentations, makes Dr. Egesi a caring physician who is widely admired by peers and patients alike.

In her free time, Dr. Egesi enjoys traveling with her family and partaking in couple trips with her husband, especially to the Caribbean. When not working or traveling, she enjoys watching her favorite reality television shows. She believes that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential, particularly in the demanding medical field.

Dr. Egesi is dedicated to mentoring future medical professionals and welcomes students to shadow her in her clinic. She routinely gives back by providing free skin cancer screenings for the community. In the future, she hopes to expand her dermatological services to more of the greater Houston area.

ADAEZE EGESI, MD, MBA, FAAD Owner & Board-Certified Dermatologist Humble Dermatology

18980 North Memorial Dr., Ste. 200 Humble, TX 77338

O: 281.707.6400

www.humblederm.com

IG: @humbledermatology

FB: @humblederm

Nursing

Nutrition & Food Science

Occupational Therapy

Physical Therapy

Health Care Administration

LAURA URQUIZA GUMP

PRESIDENT, HOUSTON KROGER

Laura Urquiza Gump serves as President of Kroger Houston — a division of The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) — where she leads 106 stores across Houston, East Texas, and Southwest Louisiana. In this role, she is responsible for setting the division’s strategic direction, driving market growth, and overseeing a team of more than 14,000 associates committed to serving customers every day through food, inspiration, and uplift.

A trailblazer in the grocery industry, Gump is proud to be Kroger’s first Latina division

president, an achievement that underscores her extraordinary leadership, perseverance, and commitment to advancing diversity in the workplace.

Gump began her career in grocery retail in 1989 and spent nearly 30 years with H-E-B, where she rose through the ranks to become Group Vice President of Center Store Operations for the San Antonio Food-Drug Division. She also served as Border Regional Vice President of Operations, District Manager, and Store Manager. In 2020, she joined The Kroger Co. as Vice President of Merchandising for the

Houston Division, where she quickly made a meaningful impact before being named division president.

Recognized as a respected and influential voice in the industry, this year, Gump was honored as a Top Women in Grocery – Senior Executive by Progressive Grocer, reflecting her leadership, operational excellence, and dedication to empowering others.

Beyond her professional achievements, Gump is deeply committed to service work and community engagement. She has served on the board of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston and Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Within Kroger, she contributes her leadership as a member of The Kroger Co. Foundation and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Council.

Gump holds a BBA in Marketing and Management from the University of Texas at El Paso, an MBA in International Business from Our Lady of the Lake University, and executive certifications from Cornell University’s Food Industry Management Program and the Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program.

A proud first-generation Latina, Gump credits her family as her greatest inspiration. She and her husband, Tim, have been married for over 28 years and are the proud parents of two adult children — a son working in IT and a daughter serving as an environmental subject matter expert.

Gump’s career is a testament to the power of grit, gratitude, and purpose-driven leadership. She remains deeply committed to mentoring the next generation, championing inclusion, and creating lasting impact in the communities she serves and leads through advocacy.

LAURA URQUIZA GUMP President

Houston Kroger

19245 David Memorial Dr. Shenandoah, TX 77385

O: 346.223.5803

FB: @laura.gump.94

Jennine Hovell-Cox is a seasoned attorney and executive leader with over two decades of legal experience in real estate, bankruptcy, and corporate governance. She currently serves as the Senior Vice President and General Counsel of the Houston Housing Authority (HHA).

In her role at HHA, Hovell-Cox focuses on transparency, accountability, and a commitment to serving Houston’s low-income and most vulnerable populations by providing safe, decent, and affordable housing options. From October 2024 – February 2025, she was appointed Interim President and CEO during a critical leadership transition. In this role, Hovell-Cox was instrumental in guiding the agency through organizational challenges, including addressing cybersecurity threats and reinforcing ethical governance practices.

Prior to joining HHA in November 2022, Hovell-Cox led her own legal practice, the Law Offices of Jennine Hovell-Cox, for over 15 years. Her firm specialized in bankruptcy, consumer protection, and real estate law, serving clients across the Greater Houston area. Her legal acumen earned her recognition as a Texas Rising Star by Super Lawyers in 2004 and 2005. Hovell-Cox also served as General Counsel from 2019 to 2022 for Sister2Sister2.0, a new iteration of the Sister2Sister brand (Sister 2 Sister Magazine), founded by legendary journalist Jamie Foster Brown, where she provided strategic legal counsel. She also served as a reporter and journalist during her tenure.

Throughout her career, Hovell-Cox has been involved in high-profile legal cases, including representing clients in complex civil rights and public interest matters. Notably, she advocated for the Houston family of four “step” children (one deceased) found abandoned and severely neglected in a Houston apartment, as well as the questionable and racially charged “traffic stop” of a former New England Patriots linebacker. Both cases drew national and worldwide attention. Hovell-Cox has also been featured on the platform Medium and provided commentary on Fox 26 News as part of a report surrounding the Deshaun Watson legal proceedings.

A graduate of the Southern University Law Center, Hovell-Cox was admitted to

JENNINE

HOVELL-COX

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL, HOUSTON HOUSING AUTHORITY

the Texas Bar in 1997. In 2024, she was named as a Top 100 Lawyer by the National Black Lawyers Association and has been recognized for her contributions to the legal community. Hovell-Cox sits on the Advisory Board of the Hermann Park Conservancy and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Hovell-Cox has two children, Justin and Gia, who are embarking on their own journeys that will focus on community impact.

JENNINE HOVELL-COX

Senior Vice President & General Counsel

Houston Housing Authority

2640 Fountain View Dr., Ste. 409 Houston, TX 77057

www.housingforhouston.com

IG: @houstonhousingauthority

A message from Lina Sabouni, AIA AUTOARCH Co-Founder & Principal In Charge

To our Community Leaders:

• Empower Locals: they are the backbone of our Community.

• Empower Women: they shape the Future.

• Empower Entrepreneurs: they carry the Potential.

To our Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs:

• Embrace Conviction: Stand for what you believe in.

• Define Your Path: Clarify your aspirations.

• Rise to the Challenge: Step up to the plate and give it your best.

• Be Unique: Ignite your Individuality and create your Impact.

Founded three decades ago, AUTOARCH Architects is on a mission to enhance lives through thoughtful design. We are a specialized architecture and planning firm focused on designing quality smart facilities. Over the course of 30 years, AUTOARCH has evolved into a renowned expert in design excellence. With a portfolio spanning more than 350 local projects, encompassing a remarkable total of over 40 million square feet, our influence on the built environment is deeply embedded in our local fabric. Specializing in education, healthcare, and civic projects, we are dedicated to shaping spaces that enrich our communities.

We hold firm our commitment to functionality, adaptability, and seamless technology integration. Our award-winning designs are meticulously crafted to inspire and create spaces that evolve with changing needs and technological advancements.

In a rapidly evolving industry, AUTOARCH stands as representation. As a women-owned local firm, we are tied to community values – we are constructing legacies, not just buildings. Our dedication echoes in every project and every community we have touched.

CYLENTHIA HOYRD

DIRECTOR, COH - OFFICE OF BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Cylenthia Hoyrd is a visionary leader whose career spans over three decades of unwavering dedication to championing underserved communities. Hoyrd's impactful journey began in Chicago, where she advocated tirelessly for the disenfranchised. Her early work as a Program Monitor for the Illinois Department of Public Health laid the groundwork for nonprofits to deliver vital public health services.

Hoyrd’s leadership truly blossomed at Catholic Charities, where she directed Chicago's largest Head Start program, providing over 1,500 children, ages five and younger, with early childhood development and vital supportive services. She pioneered a groundbreaking Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Immunization Initiative. Her strategic focus then transformed resident services as Chief of Resident Programs for the Chicago Hous-

ing Authority, creating a one-stop Service Connector Model that dramatically improved the lives of 25,000 residents. In 2000, as Assistant Commissioner for the Mayor’s Senior Initiatives, she oversaw the development of ten award-winning Senior Satellite Centers and championed affordable housing solutions for grandparents raising grandchildren — a profound testament to her deep empathy and commitment.

In 2012, Houston welcomed Hoyrd’s expertise to the Houston Public Library. There, she spearheaded the Broadband Technology Opportunity Program, creating 90 public computer labs that became crucial digital learning hubs. Her influence continued to grow when she led the opening of cafécollege Houston in 2015. The program connected over 1,200 students to college opportunities and secured vital scholarships and grants in its first year

of operation. She also served as an Adjunct Professor of Grant Writing and Community Assessment for the University of Phoenix for three years. Hoyrd has also been an owner and partner in several successful business ventures over the years, including a commercial cleaning service, an accounting firm, childcare provision, and business consulting and development where she enjoys shepherding new businesses.

By 2023, Hoyrd reached another pinnacle as the Director of the Office of Business Opportunity, overseeing Houston’s Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprise (MWSBE) program. With over 5,000 certified businesses under her purview, it’s the largest municipal program of its kind in Texas, directly fostering economic growth and equitable opportunity.

Hoyrd's dedication to serving others extends beyond her professional life, showcased by her volunteer leadership. As CEO and Founder of the LeadHer Tour, she empowers women. Her empathetic spirit shines through her role of leading her church's Divorce Care Ministry. Hoyrd also powerfully advocates for crime survivors as the Houston Chapter Coordinator for Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice. Adding to her impressive portfolio, she recently co-founded LipStick Leaders, an invaluable network supporting executive women. Her service to others began in college as a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

But above all her professional triumphs, Hoyrd cherishes her role as a mother to four beautiful daughters, who are undoubtedly her greatest joy.

CYLENTHIA HOYRD Director

COH - Office of Business Opportunity 611 Walker St. Houston, TX 77002

O: 832.393.0615 obo.director@houstontx.gov www.houstontx.gov/obo/ IG: @Houston_OBO

QIANA JOI JAMES

FOUNDER & CEO, FRIENDLY FACES HEALTHCARE, LLC

Adynamic healthcare executive and accomplished entrepreneur, Qiana James is known known for building impactful relationships across a wide range of industries. With a strong foundation in leadership, mentoring, and professional development, Qiana is a driven visionary and full of energy — traits that define both her personal and professional journey.

She holds a BBA in Entrepreneurship and Management from the Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston and is a proud alumna of the prestigious Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship — ranked as the #1 undergraduate entrepreneurship program in the nation.

James’ entrepreneurial spirit emerged early. By the age of eight, she knew she wanted to run her own business. In 2010, she brought that vision to life with the founding of Friendly Faces Senior Care,

a premier home care agency committed to helping seniors age in place with independence, dignity, and personalized support. The company has earned numerous accolades, including Provider of Choice, Employer of Choice, Top Home Care for Houston, and a BBB Award of Excellence. It has also been named to the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing companies and the Houston Chronicle’s Top Workplaces.

Continuing her legacy of innovation, James has expanded her portfolio to include:

• Talent by Friendly Faces – a staffing and recruitment firm

• iLUXE Rides – a luxury medical and VIP concierge transportation company

• Purple Rose Academy of Caregiving - an upcoming CNA training school, dedicated to preparing the next gen-

eration of certified nursing assistants and caregivers

• Friendly Maids - providing professional residential and commercial cleaning services

• Friendly Faces Visiting Nursesprovides compassionate in-home nursing care for seniors and expert recovery support for cosmetic and post-surgical procedures.

In addition to her business endeavors, James is the founder of The Doll Foundation, named in honor of her late grandmother, “Mama Doll.” The foundation provides vital education and resources for caregivers and underserved seniors.

James’ commitment to service extends into her community work. She has served on multiple boards and advisory councils, including CAP of Houston, CAP of Pearland, The Perfect Connection, the Pearland Chamber of Commerce Executive Board, the Bauer College of Business Advisory Board, and the Inde-pendent Home Care Alliance Advisory Board. She is deeply engaged in philanthropic initiatives throughout the Greater Houston area.

Grounded by a strong spiritual foundation, James dedicates countless hours to volunteer ministry, offering Bible-based guidance to those seeking a deeper relationship with God. She treasures her marriage of nearly 18 years, proudly calling her husband her best friend. In her downtime, she enjoys travel, fine dining, and luxurious spa experiences — identifying wholeheartedly as a “foodie” and a “spa connoisseur.”

Her guiding philosophy: “Always believe in yourself and be your own greatest advocate.”

QIANA JOI JAMES Founder & CEO

Friendly Faces Healthcare, LLC

2743 Smith Ranch Rd. #2004

Pearland, TX 77584

O: 281.302.4138

www.friendlyfaces.com

FB: @friendlyfacesseniorcare

Talent by Friendly Faces is your trusted recruitment partner, specializing in healthcare and executive-level staffing. Whether you’re a company seeking top talent or a professional looking for your next opportunity, Talent by Friendly Faces delivers qualified candidates ready to make an impact.

HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL TALENT:

• Nursing (LVN, RN & NPs)

• Physicians

• Speech Pathologists

• X-Ray Technicians (LMRT & ARRT)

• Phlebotomists

• Caregivers/CNAs/PCAs

• Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs)

• EMTs

• Physical Therapists

• Social Work

• Healthcare Sales Representatives

• Medical Office Staff

• Pharmacy

PROFESSIONAL TALENT:

• Administrative Professionals

• Sales Executives

• Executive Assistants

• C-Suite & Senior Leadership

• Information Technology

• Finance & Accounting

• Human Resources

2025 TOP 30 HONOREE FOUNDER & CEO

Compassionate Comprehensive Care

Safe

depression,

and life transitions. We care about you, your family, and your story. You can trust that we will treat you with respect, dignity and compassion in every interaction, while maintaining the highest standards for integrity and ethics.

DR. COSHA JOSEPH, LPC-S, NCC

FOUNDER & CEO, SAFE PLACE COUNSELING & CONSULTING, LLC

Committed to transforming lives through mental healthcare, innovation, and community empowerment, Dr. Cosha Joseph is a highly accomplished entrepreneur, licensed professional counselor, and visionary leader. Originally from Zachary, LA, Dr. Joseph has turned personal adversity into a platform for meaningful change, becoming a recognized trailblazer in both mental health and entrepreneurship.

As the founder and CEO of Safe Place Counseling & Consulting, LLC, she leads a thriving outpatient behavioral health agency that serves individuals from age

three through adulthood. With over 30 employees and multiple locations across Texas and beyond, her work has directly impacted hundreds of families and communities. She also owns and operates more than five healthcare agencies, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and mental health professionals in launching and sustaining successful practices.

Dr. Joseph holds counseling licenses in six states and maintains the highest standards of clinical care as a National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Clinical Supervisor. Her academic background in criminal justice and

her master’s degree in professional counseling provide the foundation for her excellence in care, leadership, and advocacy.

Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her innovative projects like Mind Buddy, an AI-powered therapy platform designed to make mental health support more accessible and engaging. Through her mentorship company, Cosha Joseph, Inc., she provides coaching, training, and strategic guidance to help emerging leaders and business owners build impactful, purposedriven brands. She is also the visionary behind HerSoul: The Experience Tour, a global platform for women to begin their healing journeys in empowering, connected spaces. Through this initiative, women across the world are reclaiming their voices, stories, and strength.

Inspired by her own family’s struggles with mental health, Dr. Joseph’s journey has been one of resilience, determination, and unwavering faith. Her motto, “I shall not be defeated,” reflects the heart behind her mission to create safe spaces, effective tools, and powerful experiences that foster healing and growth.

Beyond her clinical and entrepreneurial work, she is a dynamic speaker, author, and coach who equips others to step fully into their purpose. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, where she continues to serve her community through education and empowerment initiatives.

Dr. Cosha Joseph’s impact spans far beyond counseling rooms. Through her leadership, innovation, and passion, she continues to inspire others to heal, lead, and live with intention.

DR. COSHA JOSEPH, LPC-S, NCC Founder & CEO

Safe Place Counseling & Consulting, LLC

11767 Katy Fwy. #1130

Houston, TX 77079

O: 832.831.6178

info@safeplacecounseling.org

www.safeplacecounseling.org

IG: @shecounsels

FB: @shecounsels

CONGRATULATIONS

DR. COSHA JOSEPH, LPC-S, NCC

Congratulations to Dr. Cosha Joseph on being named one of Houston’s Top 30 Influential Women from the Safe Place team and your husband Donald Joseph, COO of Safe Place Counseling!

NICOLE LANDER, R.D.

CHIEF IMPACT OFFICER, HOUSTON FOOD BANK

Nicole Lander is a bold strategist and compassionate changemaker whose work is reshaping how communities confront hunger. As Chief Impact Officer at the Houston Food Bank, she brings over 20 years of experience in food systems, public health, and nonprofit leadership to one of the largest food banks in the nation.

A registered dietitian by training, Nicole has led transformative initiatives that have expanded the food bank’s reach and deepened its impact. She manages over $30 million in annual expenses —nearly

half of the organization’s total budget — ensuring resources are used efficiently and equitably. Under her leadership, the food bank reached a historic milestone in FY19, distributing 5.5 million meals to children, the highest in its history.

Nicole was instrumental in developing the Food for Change philosophy program, a groundbreaking approach that reimagines food assistance as a catalyst for long-term stability. By integrating food distribution with wraparound services like healthcare, education, and workforce development, she helped shift the narrative from char-

ity to empowerment — ensuring that food becomes a bridge to opportunity, not just a temporary fix.

She also led the construction of a 10,000-square-foot kitchen, resulting in a 25% increase in meals served through afterschool and summer programs. In addition, she built the food bank’s first in-house research team from the ground up, using data to drive smarter, more targeted interventions in underserved communities.

Nicole’s career includes leadership roles in healthcare and education, including Director of Food Services at ARAMARK Healthcare and Manager of Nutrition Services at Alief ISD. Her work has always centered on systems change, equity, and measurable impact.

Beyond her professional achievements, Nicole is deeply committed to community service. She serves on the board of CyHope, a nonprofit dedicated to “Making Life Better for Kids” in underserved communities through after-school centers, counseling, mentoring, food assistance, and STEM education. She also co-chairs the Feeding America Ending Hunger Community of Practice, mentors students through the Mentoring Alliance with Houston ISD, and serves on the Social Determinants of Health Planning Committee.

Nicole holds a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Michigan State University and has been a registered dietitian for almost 20 years. Her leadership continues to inspire innovation, collaboration, and a more just approach to ending hunger.

NICOLE LANDER, R.D. Chief Impact Officer

Houston Food Bank

535 Portwall St. Houston, TX 77029

O: 832.369.9210

NLander@houstonfoodbank.org www.houstonfoodbank.com

1600+ commmunity partners work with the food bank to provide food and services to people throughout our 18-county service area

63.8 million pounds of fresh produce provided

140 million meals

In Houston Food Bank’s 18-county service area, there are nearly 1 million food-insecure individuals, meaning they cannot afford enough food to fuel a healthy lifestyle. Each year, HFB provides access to more than 140 million meals. The impact of the Houston Food Bank extends beyond putting food on the table.

22 million meals provided to kids through our Backpack Buddy, Kids Cafe, and School Market programs

93,000+

People volunteered to support our efforts in reducing the hardship of making difficult financial choices, such as deciding between paying for medicine and paying for groceries. Houston Food Bank also provides programs and services aimed at helping families achieve long-term stability, including nutrition education, job training, health management, and help with securing state-funded assistance In collaboration with the community, we advocate for policy change to increase access to food and further improve the lives of those we serve.

8,250+ teachers Received school supplies through the Teacher's Aid program

houstonfoodbank org

DANIELLA D. LANDERS

PRESIDENT, HOUSTON BAR ASSOCIATION

Daniella Landers is the President of the Houston Bar Association (HBA) for 2025-26. She is the first African-American woman and only the seventh woman to hold that position in the organization’s 155-year history.

The HBA is a nonprofit organization that provides legal education for residents in the Greater Houston area and service to the Houston community through lawrelated or high-impact and high-involvement projects. It promotes professionalism, access to justice, the rule of law, and equality and inclusion in the legal profession. With over 10,000 members, it is the largest metropolitan bar association in Texas and fourth-largest in the country.

Landers is an attorney with over 28 years of experience. She represents energy, chemical, commercial, and industrial clients on a broad range of environmental, health and safety, and land-use issues that focus on dispute resolution, risk mitigation, regulatory compliance, ESG and sustainability, and transactional matters (mergers, sales, acquisitions, joint ventures). She has served as an adjunct law professor for over 14 years at South Texas College of Law and University of Houston Law Center and guest taught at Rice University and other institutions. She is also a prolific speaker and writer on a variety of legal and business topics.

Landers is also actively involved and holds leadership positions in several community

and industry organizations, including the National Bar Association, Center for Women in Law, Women Energy Network, 50/50 Women on Boards Houston, Institute for Energy Law, Houston Area Youth Center Foundation, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the Fort Bend County (TX) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, the Continentals Houston Chapter, EMERGE Houston, and the Purdue University Honors College Advisory Board.

Landers is the recipient of many awards and recognitions, including Texas Super Lawyers, Lawdragon 500, Chambers rated, GHWCC Role Model Award, Texas State Bar AALS Outstanding Achievement Award, Texas Lawyer Diversity Champion Award, GHWCC Breakthrough Woman Award, HLA Alice Bonner Trailblazer Award, L.I.F.E. Matriarch Award, NBA Region V Bar Leadership Trailblazer Award, and more.

Landers received her bachelor’s degree from Purdue University, a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California, and her law degree from The University of Texas School of Law.

In her spare time, Landers is the proud mother to one son, Morgan Landers, a recent graduate of Cornell University Law School. She also enjoys theatre, the arts, and traveling abroad. Her greatest joy is hiking in national parks and other mountains around the world, having summitted Mount Kilimanjaro and other notable peaks.

DANIELLA

D. LANDERS President Houston

Bar Association

1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77002

O: 713.759.1133

www.hba.org

FB: @houstonbarassociation

LI: @daniellalanders

SHAREEN LARMOND

PRESIDENT, WEST GULF MARITIME ASSOCIATION

Shareen Larmond is President of the West Gulf Maritime Association, a maritime trade association representing the interests of almost 200 companies in the maritime community. The association primarily negotiates and administers the multi-employer collective bargaining agreements on behalf of employers of the International Longshoremen’s Association throughout the Gulf Coast. Her official appointment as President on January 31, 2018 made Larmond the first female and first person of color to run the West Gulf Maritime Association in all its 50-year history. It also

made her the first female to head a Port Association of its kind in the country.

In 2018, Larmond increased company profits and successfully guided employers through labor negotiations, ultimately producing and implementing fourteen collective bargaining agreements to ensure a peaceful labor climate in Texas over the next several years.

Prior to her appointment as President, Larmond was employed as the Association’s General Counsel and oversaw all aspects of litigation; most notably discrimination and harassment cases, as well as

enforcement of the multi-employer collective bargaining agreements.

Prior to her maritime work, Larmond served as General Counsel for State Senator John Whitmire, Dean of the Texas Senate. For over five years, she performed advanced and complex legal and legislative analytical work in both Austin and Houston. Larmond was fortunate to have a part in many of the major criminal justice reforms that took place in 2007.

She is active in both maritime and local communities. Ms. Larmond is appointed to the Houston First Corporation board of directors where she serves on the Finance and Asset Management Committee. She is also on the board of the Lower Kirby Pearland Management District. She has been a board member for the District since its statutory creation in 2007 and currently serves as the District’s President. Larmond is a Co-Administrator for the J.H. “Buddy” Raspberry Scholarship Trust Fund that awards educational scholarships for individuals in the maritime industry. She also holds board positions on the Gulf Coast Workforce Development Board and the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region.

Larmond received her Bachelor of Science in Corporate Communications from the University of Texas at Austin and her law degree at Thurgood Marshall School of Law. She is a bar member of the State Bar of Texas, the U.S. District Court for the Southern and Eastern Districts of Texas, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court.

SHAREEN LARMOND President

West Gulf Maritime Association 1717 Turning Basin Dr., Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77029

O: 713.715.6430

www.wgma.org

LI: @shareen-larmond-1981a91

JUDY LE

PRESIDENT, TAKEROOT, LLC

When Judy Le came to America as a Vietnamese refugee, she saw firsthand the need for leadership at all levels of society. It shaped her approach to helping others develop their own authenticity in how they lead — to embrace uncertainty, get clarity around what matters most, and build community. Le sees leadership as an activity that ignites moral courage and imagination for the common good. This belief has shaped her 25-year career in leadership development in higher education, corporate, and non-profit sectors.

Le started her career at Deloitte Consult-

ing as a change leadership practitioner and then became program director for Leadership Houston. With a passion for teaching and coaching, Le then spent seven years as the director of Leadership Rice at Rice University. She continues to teach at Rice as the instructor for the Leadership Certificate through the Glasscock School.

In 2015, Le started TakeRoot, LLC, a leadership development firm. As president of TakeRoot, Le works with clients to create meaningful change in their work and communities. TakeRoot’s approach to leadership development is anchored in the belief that leadership starts with trust, requires

empathy, and is in service to positive change. Her wide array of clients includes the Houston Food Bank, Boston Consulting Group, TotalEnergy, the Governor’s Task Force for Sexual Assault Survivors, and the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam.

Le is a lead facilitator for the American Leadership Forum Houston. She serves on the boards of EMERGE, Post Oak School, LeaderShape, and the National American Leadership Forum, as well as the advisory boards of the Asia Society and the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights. She has been featured on a national broadcast of Chicken Soup for the Soul’s “Hidden Heroes” and recognized as an honoree for World Refugee Day by Mayor Sylvester Turner. She has shared her insights on leadership and personal development in speaker series hosted by Houston Public Media, the Center for Houston’s Future, and OpenRice.

Le is trained in adaptive leadership through a master class program at Harvard Kennedy School, completed the Social Justice Institute's training program, and is a Board Certified and Team Performance Certified coach. She earned her bachelor’s degree at Rice University and her graduate degree at the University of Texas.

Le has called Houston home for over forty years. She vigorously practices optimism through her seasonal attempts at gardening. Her idea of a treasure hunt involves exploring Houston’s rich and diverse food scene for the perfect bite. She weight trains and kickboxes for her health (and to fight the patriarchy). She enjoys gathering people in her kitchen around food and conversation, embarrassing her three kids with really witty/bad puns, and cuddling with her very charismatic dogs.

JUDY LE President TakeRoot, LLC

O: 832.910.7668

judyle@gotakeroot.com www.gotakeroot.com

LIBI LEBEL

FOUNDER & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, TEXAS MEDICAL CENTER ORCHESTRA

Libi Lebel is a visionary conductor, educator, and arts advocate whose extraordinary contributions have shaped the cultural landscape of Houston for over two decades. As the founder and artistic director of the Texas Medical Center Orchestra (TMCO), she has harnessed the power of music to inspire, heal, and unite communities. TMCO has become one of the nation’s leading community orchestras and was voted Best Community Orchestra in Houston, serving as a cultural bridge between the medical community and the public through music.

She founded TMCO in 2000 to offer healthcare professionals a creative outlet and has since led the orchestra to national recognition — including its Carnegie Hall debut in 2013 and winning The American Prize for Best Community Orchestra Performance. Now in its 25th season, TMCO has blossomed into one of Houston’s most esteemed cultural institutions, performing at the Hobby Center, Jones Hall, MATCH Houston, the Wortham Center, and Miller Outdoor Theatre. In 2025, Lebel and the Texas Medical Center Orchestra were named Honored Artists of The American Prize, a rare distinction awarded annually to a select group of individuals and ensembles for sustained artistic excellence.

Driven by her strong belief in the healing and transformative powers of music, Lebel creates interdisciplinary collaborations that unite music with visual arts, dance, theater, and education. She is deeply committed to showcasing local artists, curating performances that combine orchestral music with choral works, movement ensembles, theatrical storytelling, and innovative multimedia presentations — broadening the concert experience and elevating new voices.

TMCO has expanded its community impact through initiatives that bring live music to hospitals, clinics, and senior centers — including Texas Children’s Hospital, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Memorial Hermann, Baylor College of Medicine, and the VA Hospital. It also supports programs that foster creativity and access to music, including a long-term partnership with Pilgrim Academy, a Title I HISD school. Additionally, she initiated TMCO’s Young Artist Spotlight program in collaboration with the Young Texas Artists competition

to feature emerging talent in concerts annually.

Recently she won Third Prize and Best Female Conductor at the Second International Orchestra’s Conductors Competition in Romania. Lebel also guest conducted engagements in Bulgaria, Moldova, and Brazil.

Lebel has united the arts and health communities through impactful philanthropy. She co-founded Gran Fondo Texas, a charity cycling event that has raised over $650,000 for the National MS Society, Montgomery County Food Bank, and TMCO. During the pandemic, she led a global virtual performance of Diane Warren’s “I’m Standing with You,” raising over $7 million for the UN COVID-19 Response Fund.

Lebel feels blessed to have shared her passion for music with the Houston community, where she lives with her husband and three children. She is widely recog-

nized for her contributions to both the arts and medical communities and is frequently invited as a guest speaker. She has been recognized with numerous honors, including theHouston YWCA Outstanding Woman of the Arts Award, Houston Woman Magazine’s 50 Most Influential Women, and the CKW LUXE Top 20 Impact Maker Award.

LIBI LEBEL Founder & Artistic Director

Texas Medical Center Orchestra

P.O. Box 980983

Houston, TX 77098

O: 832.541.0981

libilebel@tmcorchestra.org

www.libilebelconductor.com

IG: @lebellibi

FB: @libi.lebel

MARIAN K. LEDOUX, MBA, RN

VP OF OPERATIONS, ACCURATE SECURITY, INC.

Marian LeDoux, a proud Houston native, is an influential business leader and the Vice President of Accurate Security Inc., one of the largest Black-owned security com-panies in Texas. With a sharp focus on business development, operational excellence, and strategic growth, LeDoux has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s reach and reputation — tripling its workforce and establishing a strong presence across both private and government sectors.

From an early age, LeDoux exhibited a natural talent for leadership and entrepreneurship. As a child, she and her sister spent countless hours running imaginary businesses — surrounded by rotary phones and the Yellow Pages — laying the foundation for the visionary leader she would become. That imaginative play evolved into

a powerful purpose: building systems that work, teams that thrive, and businesses that grow.

LeDoux holds both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and an Executive MBA from Texas Woman’s University, exemplifying the power of combining compassion with commerce. With over two decades of healthcare experience, she has held leadership roles at some of the nation’s most respected institutions, including The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston Metho-dist, and UnitedHealthcare. Her seamless transition from clinical leadership to corporate strategy reflects her unique ability to lead across sectors with purpose and precision.

At Accurate Security Inc., LeDoux is more than a decision-maker — she’s a changemaker. Her commitment to operational in-

tegrity, client satisfaction, and em-ployee empowerment continues to elevate the company as a model of excellence. Her leadership is marked not only by business success but also by her ability to uplift others, especially women and people of color aspiring to leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated industries.

LeDoux’s influence extends beyond the workplace through her active service and civic involvement. She is a long-standing volunteer with the Houston Food Bank, giving her time to address food insecurity in her community. She is also a former Mother-Member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., a historic organization dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders through family and community involvement. Her volunteerism reflects a lifelong commitment to service, mentorship, and building stronger communities. Her civic engagement also includes support of various women’s leadership initiatives and youth empowerment programs throughout the Greater Houston area. Beyond her professional and volunteer accomplishments, LeDoux leads a life grounded in faith, family, and service. A devoted mother of three and proud firsttime grandmother, she credits her success to her unwavering faith and the support of her loved ones. Known for her positivity and compassion, she is a source of encouragement to all who know her, modeling balance, resilience, and purpose in every area of her life.

Marian LeDoux is not only shaping the future of security and business leadership — she is a force of influence, inspiration, and impact, empowering a new generation of women to lead with heart, vision, and integrity.

MARIAN K. LEDOUX, MBA, RN VP of Operations

Accurate Security, Inc.

15634 Wallisville Rd. #800-162 Houston, TX 77049

O: 713.410.8012

mledoux@accuratesecurityinc.com www.accuratesecurity.com

AILEEN MAYBERRY

CEO, HEART OF HOUSTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Aileen Mayberry is a visionary leader, community advocate, and the founder and CEO of Heart of Houston Community Development Corporation (CDC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating affordable housing and revitalizing underserved neighborhoods throughout Houston. Raised in Wharton, Texas, Aileen is one of six children from a hardworking, humble family. She pursued higher education at Wharton County Junior College and Prairie View A&M University. Aileen built a successful 30-year career in the corporate world before transitioning into real estate

and nonprofit leadership. With a unique combination of business acumen and community passion, she brings decades of leadership experience to her work in housing equity and urban development.

For more than three decades, Aileen has lived in Houston’s historic Third Ward community with her husband of 26+ years, Sharone Mayberry of Mayberry Homes, Inc. It was in this neighborhood — amid growing signs of neglect and disinvestment — that her mission was born: to restore not only homes, but dignity, opportunity, and pride.

In 2020, Aileen founded Heart of Houston

CDC to address the city’s affordable housing crisis. The organization focuses on delivering high-quality housing options to low- and moderate-income families, supporting pathways to stability, generational wealth, and community legacy. Under her leadership, Heart of Houston has completed several major developments, including:

• The Berry Center

A six-unit affordable rental community in Sunnyside.

• Third Ward CHDO Project

Delivering 11 new homes in proximity to downtown Houston.

• Cuney Homes Redevelopment

An ongoing project expected to bring up to 22 new homes to East Downtown, in partnership with the City of Houston and Midtown Redevelopment Authority.

Aileen’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration, integrity, and long-term vision. Her expertise in planning, development, and negotiation has made her a driving force in Houston’s housing movement. Yet beyond her technical skillset, she leads with heart — believing deeply that progress is only real when it uplifts others.

Through her work, Aileen Mayberry is doing more than building homes — she is building futures, restoring hope, and reshaping Houston’s narrative, one neighborhood at a time.

AILEEN MAYBERRY CEO

Heart of Houston Community Development Corporation

3131 Emancipation Ave. Ste. 270, Office #272 Houston, TX 77004

O: 713.842.7535

aileen@heartofhoustoncdc.org www.heartofhoustoncdc.org

FB: @heartofhoustoncdc

IG: @heartofhouston_cdc

Whilst we welcome changes within our communities; Heart of Houston CDC mission in building affordable housing is important to those that live in or desire to move into a community undergoing gentrification.

We believe that building affordable homes in communities undergoing vgentrification is a crucial process that fosters connections among people and creates infrastructures for these connections to happen.

Our heart for Houston embraces the diversity of our communities, that maintains a belief in affordable housing for those who live and desire to play an active role in bettering and developing our community without displacement, while embracing the historic and cultural pillars that make our communities unique.

AILEEN MAYBERRY, CEO

KERRY MCCRACKEN

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE CHILDREN’S ASSESSMENT CENTER

As Executive Director of The Children’s Assessment Center (The CAC), Kerry McCracken oversees the day-to-day operations of The CAC, partner relations, community education and outreach, and development.

Prior to joining The CAC, McCracken practiced law in Harris County, Texas for 24 years. After receiving her J.D. from Thurgood Marshall School of Law in 1994, she worked at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, where she tried over 40 misdemeanor and felony jury trials.

McCracken then worked for several years as a criminal defense attorney, where she learned from her clients the impact sexual abuse victimization can have on their mental health and their behavior, especially if their abuse is never disclosed or addressed. Despite nearly three decades practicing law, McCracken joined The CAC because It was a chance for her to reduce the possibility that they would later become involved with the criminal justice system (or suffer other negative outcomes), as many of the unfortunate people she represented faced due to lack

of opportunity to receive help for a childhood trauma.

At The CAC McCracken works closely with members of the Multidisciplinary Team including law enforcement, Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, the County Attorney’s Office and Texas Children’s Hospital to create a safe, friendly environment for the healing of sexually abused children and their families. McCracken instills a culture of education and training in hopes of preventing child sexual abuse. In her time, she has doubled their training department.

As a leader, McCracken has demonstrated the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Her philosophy is worklife balance is not only key to your own success, but it must be demonstrated to your staff. Not only does it allow them to take time off without fear of disapproval, but it gives them the ability to learn and grow in your absence and shows them that you trust them.

McCracken was born at Andrews Airforce Base in Clinton, MD, and she he grew up in Lake Jackson, TX. Her father was an Airforce Two pilot, having flown for former Vice Presidents Hubert Humphrey and Lyndon B. Johnson, and her mother was a graduate from Rice University. She has been happily married to her husband, Mark, for 26 years. They are parents of one dog and two cats. In their free time, they enjoy traveling, seeing concerts and sporting events, are avid fans of the Astros, and enjoy exploring dining options.

KERRY MCCRACKEN Executive Director

The Children’s Assessment Center 2500 Bolsover St. Houston, TX 77005

O: 713.986.3300

www.cachouston.org

IG: @thecachouston

FB: @thecachouston

Yasmene McDaniel serves as the Chief Executive Officer of HCA Houston Healthcare Southeast, a comprehensive healthcare network throughout the southeastern region of Harris County. As a leader, McDaniel places a focus on execution, care, and compassion, ensuring that staff and patients are treated with the same level of consideration and dignity to promote performance.

Under McDaniel's leadership, HCA Houston Healthcare Southeast has achieved significant recognition. The facility was named one of Healthgrades’ 250 Top Hospitals in both 2025 and 2024 and received the Patient Safety Excellence Award for four consecutive years (2022–2025). It has also been honored as one of Modern Healthcare’s Best Places to Work for four consecutive years and earned the Top Honor for Highest Employee Engagement within the Gulf Coast Division of HCA Houston Healthcare.

Prior to joining HCA Houston Healthcare Southeast, McDaniel held executive roles at Corpus Christi Medical Center, another HCA affiliate, as well as Sparks Health System in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and Jackson Health System in Miami, Florida.

Growing up in a rural community with limited access to healthcare inspired McDaniel’s lifelong commitment to increasing healthcare accessibility. Guided by the principle of “thinking of others before self,” she has dedicated her career to advancing quality care for underserved populations.

As CEO, McDaniel has spearheaded considerable expansion across the Southeast Houston network, including the development of two new specialty units and the opening of a freestanding rehabilitation hospital — the first of its kind within the HCA Healthcare system. Her dedication to delivering exceptional care has helped the hospital earn national recognition for patient safety and clinical excellence.

McDaniel brings a broad range of healthcare leadership experience across hospital, clinic, and physician group operations. She has a strong track record in strategic planning, business development, workforce engagement, and leading large-scale construction and expansion initiatives.

YASMENE MCDANIEL CEO, HCA HOUSTON HEALTHCARE SOUTHEAST

A native Texan, McDaniel holds dual master’s degrees in business administration and healthcare administration from Texas Woman’s University in Denton and a Bachelor of Science from Baylor University in Waco.

McDaniel attributes her success to her ability to connect individuals with the resources they need, always prioritizing empathy and service. Reflecting on her journey, she shares: “Whenever someone asks about my path or what comes next, I tell them my journey has never been linear. Stay open to opportunities and always put others first. When you do, everything else falls into place.”

She is the proud mother to her son, Cam-

ryn, and enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her family.

YASMENE MCDANIEL CEO

HCA Houston Healthcare Southeast 4000 Spencer Hwy. Pasadena, TX 77504

O: 713.359.1060

yasmene.mcdaniel@hcahealthcare.com www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com/locations/southeast

Congratulations

2025 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Honorees

Congratulations 2025 Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Honorees

DR. JACQUELINE JONES MCKINNEY, MSCP

FOUNDER & CEO, THERAPEUTIC ALLIANCE AND TESTING CENTER, LLC

Jacqueline Jones McKinney, PhD, MSCP, is a highly accomplished Clinical and Medical Psychologist with more than two decades in the field of behavioral health. Her distinguished career is defined by specialization in advanced psychological testing, trauma-informed care, marriage and family interventions, medication education and management, and individual psychotherapy for patients of all ages — from childhood to geriatrics.

She earned her doctoral degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri–Columbia and completed her residency at Wilford Hall Medical Center while serving in the United States Air Force. This rigorous training equipped her with the skills and compassion to address a broad spectrum of mental health challenges with precision and empathy, addressing the unique needs of every individual.

Dr. Jones McKinney is also a certified and highly trained PAVING Lifestyle

Medicine provider; a distinction earned through a selective program led by Harvard physicians. This certification reflects her commitment to integrating lifestyle medicine into mental health care, delivering cutting-edge, evidence-based interventions.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Jones McKinney is the creator and author of The Still I Rise Program. This groundbreaking program empowers African American women all over the world to overcome challenges, embrace resilience, and thrive in every aspect of life.

An advocate for innovation, Dr. Jones McKinney has pursued advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and medical psychology. She is an active member of esteemed professional organizations, including the American Psychological Association and Division 55 Society for Prescribing Psychology. As one of the few African American clinical psychologists

with specialized training in psychotropic medications, she advocates for the safe, informed, and effective use of these medications in both behavioral health and multidisciplinary settings.

As Founder and CEO of Therapeutic Alliance and Testing Center, LLC, Dr. Jones McKinney leads a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, mental health therapists, podiatrists, mid-level providers, and administrative staff. Under her visionary leadership, the center delivers innovative programs and holistic care, ensuring patients receive comprehensive support “from head to toe.”

Her team sponsored the 30th Anniversary Health and Wellness House at the Essence Festival in New Orleans, LA— providing education and access to African American healthcare professionals and positively impacting more than 50,000 attendees. She is a sought-after motivational speaker throughout the world empowering women to lead, excel, and create meaningful change in their communities.

As a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated for over 36 years and 12 Days of Christmas, Inc., she is deeply committed to uplifting marginalized communities. Guided by core values of honesty, integrity, compassion, and altruism, she measures her success by the positive impact she has on others.

Her unwavering dedication to improving lives is reflected in the smiles of those she has touched — a testament to her belief in the transformative power of giving back to the community.

DR. JACQUELINE JONES MCKINNEY, MSCP

Founder & CEO

Therapeutic Alliance and Testing Center, LLC

7070 Knights Ct., Ste. 1301 Missouri City, TX 77459

O: 713.352.3166

tatcinfo@treatmentwithtatc.com www.treatmentwithtatc.com

IG: @tatc_llc

FB: @TATCLLC

MAYRA MORENO

NEWS ANCHOR, ABC 13 EYEWITNESS NEWS

Mayra Moreno was born in Guanajuato, Mexico before immigrating to Houston as a child. She was raised in the city’s historic East End.

Since October 2015, Moreno has been a News Anchor and distinctive presence on Houston’s News Leader, KTRK ABC13. Known for her calm demeanor and heartfelt storytelling, she brings bilingual fluency — Spanish and English — to the news desk in a way that deeply resonates with the city’s diverse audience and large Latino population.

Her journey with journalism began in the Rio Grande Valley at KRGV-TV in Weslaco, where she tackled a wide range of stories from border crime issues to hurricane

coverage. There, Moreno honed her craft and made meaningful connections with local communities.

Moreno’s first stint in her hometown came when she joined KIAH-TV’s CW 39 as a fillin anchor and reporter. One of her most impactful early moments came in 2009, when she was among the journalists reporting live from the scene of the aftermath of the Fort Hood shooting.

In 2011, she moved to San Antonio’s KENS 5, spending four years as weekend anchor and reporter. Her investigative work that exposed the backlog issues in the city’s DWI no-refusal program and court system earned her a Lone Star Emmy nomination. Since returning to Houston, Moreno has

been living her lifelong dream of working in her hometown. She continues to report from the front lines during the city’s most critical moments. In 2018, she helped launch the very first 3 p.m. newscast in Texas. She has become a Houston news staple for her extensive coverage of major weather events, breaking news, and community-driven stories. She reported on the devastation of Hurricane Harvey as floodwaters overwhelmed the city, and she field-anchored live the day after a violent tornado tore through Pasadena in 2023. Her committed, sincere presence in times of crisis has helped deliver both critical information and comfort to viewers.

Moreno earned her journalism and Spanish degrees from the University of Houston, graduating magna cum laude.

Off-air, Moreno is an active community leader — making speaking appearances at schools to emphasize the importance of education and emceeing events throughout the city. She currently serves as president of the Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP), an organization that supports and uplifts the next generation of Latino journalists through scholarships, mentorship, and community involvement.

In June 2025, she took a public stance after receiving backlash for her bilingual sign-off, calling it “an example of racism Latino journalists continue to face.” She stated she won’t apologize for being “bilingual, bicultural, and unapologetically me.”

Mayra Moreno continues to carry her community’s stories with professionalism, passion, and pride — anchoring each broadcast with authenticity and heart.

MAYRA MORENO News Anchor

ABC 13 Eyewitness News

3310 Bissonnet St. Houston, TX 77005

O: 713.304.0010

www.abc13.com

IG: @tvmayramoreno

FB: @mayraabc13

ELVIA RIVERA-REYES

FOUNDER & GENERAL DIRECTOR, LA FONTAINE RECEPTION HALL

With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and event planning industry, Elvia Rivera-Reyes has earned a reputation as a visionary entrepreneur and respected leader in Houston, Texas. Born in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Rivera-Reyes emigrated to the United States at age 10. As a child, she displayed an entrepreneurial spirit by selling doorto-door. After the loss of her father, she returned to Mexico, where she later became a young mother.

Still just a teenager, she made the courageous decision to cross the border once more-driven by a deep desire for her son to be born in the United States and grow up with greater opportunities. That act marked the awakening of a woman who would live with purpose, responsibility, and absolute love for her family.

Today, she is the proud mother of five children, raised with values, faith, and

example. Her story is a testament to overcoming struggle: she founded her business with no money, no documents, no credit, and no fluency in English. What she did have was unshakable faith, clear vision, and iron will. In 2007, after attending the "Caminos Guerreros" seminar, her life took a turn. Since then, Rivera-Reyes has invested 18 years in personal and professional growth.

Rivera-Reyes joined the Houston Chamber of Latino Entrepreneurs, led by CEO Adriana González, whom she credits as a visionary woman committed to the development of Hispanic entrepreneurship—a key stage in shaping her business mindset. She has completed multiple certifications, including business development, sales, emotional intelligence, time management, business structures, and executive excellence.

In 2019, she finished a two-year training as a Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP)

practitioner, enhancing her leadership and human skills. Under her leadership, La Fontaine Reception Hall has generated over $3.5 million in annual revenue and is projected to host more than 500 events next year.

Her success stems from strategic vision, conscious leadership, constant innovation, and teamwork. Recently, Rivera-Reyes underwent a new phase of expansion and structure through Konfronta, guided by professor Melesio Ortega. This progress was strengthened by her husband and partner, Camilo Rivera, whom she honors as her greatest strategic and emotional support. Camilo has been instrumental in financial development and creating new venues for the company. Rivera-Reyes also acknowledges her psychologist and advisor, Vilma Pardo, who has provided essential tools to balance her roles as a mother, wife, and entrepreneur.

Rivera-Reyes states, “I have not built this alone. We are more than 120 souls united by a purpose, and every achievement is a result of the commitment and heart of our team as we continue growing with love and excellence.”

Today, Elvia Rivera-Reyes leads with heart, a deep spiritual connection, social commitment, and immense love for her community. Every client who visits her venues experiences more than an event— they live a transformative, professional, and memorable occasion. Her story inspires those dreaming of entrepreneurship, proving that with faith, vision, and hard work, anything is possible.

ELVIA RIVERA-REYES Founder & General Director

La Fontaine Reception Hall 14902 Northwest Fwy. Houston, TX 77040

O: 713.466.2800

admin@lafontainereceptionhall.net www.lafontainereceptionhall.net

IG: @LaFontaineVenues

DR. TE'LILA ROBINSON

DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC & PRESIDENT, FULL CIRCLE CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS CENTER

Ahighly respected chiropractor based in Missouri City, TX, Dr. Te’Lila Robinson is the energetic visionary behind Full Circle Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Renowned for integrating spinal adjustment with holistic wellness, she focuses on helping patients achieve optimal physical, nutritional, and lifestyle well-being.

A Louisiana native and proud military child born on Fort Hood, TX, Dr. Robinson brings a disciplined and compassionate approach to chiropractic care. She completed her training at Texas Chiropractic College and is a member of the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians. She built a thriving practice that teaches patients the importance of spinal correction, corrective exercises, nutritional counseling, lifestyle coaching, and therapeutic massage. With the use of her expertise, patients can

live their lives healthfully long-term with tailor-made home exercise plans, personalized diets, and posture improvements. She is also a proactive community advocate, participating in school career days and donating her free time and knowledge to give spinal and postural screenings at schools, events, and health fairs.

Dr. Robinson operates solely from her Missouri City location, where she welcomes patients exclusively for in-office care. She has made it a priority to accommodate as many people as she can, accepting most insurances, such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, as well as worker’s compensation and personal injury cases.

Her clinic and her staff are a fun and informative follow @full_circle_chiro, where she showcases their involvement in the

community, educational outreach, and wellness advocacy. She is also a fanfavorite online, receiving 5 out of 5 on platforms like Google, praising her accommodating practice and workplace. Patients like her so much, they update their reviews JUST to tell you how much they loved the place: “Now that I have moved away, I realize how much I miss this place! Always professional too. Miss all the ladies and my favorite doctor!”

Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Robinson is the founder of Virtus Invicta, a nonprofit organization whose name means 'Courage Unconquered.' The organization is devoted to empowering veterans and underserved populations through healing, mentorship, and holistic wellness. She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated active with the Houston Alumnae Chapter.

Dr. Robinson has also played an active role in her local community, proudly helping to sponsor the Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration, supporting cultural heritage and unity. Internationally, she has participated in mission trips to Belize, Guatemala, and Panama, where she met with dignitaries and community leaders to understand healthcare needs and explore ways to improve access and wellness initiatives abroad.

In summary, Dr. Te’Lila Robinson is not just a chiropractor; she’s a dedicated community wellness leader committed to ensuring long-term health and wellness for her clients and the public beyond the confines of her practice.

DR. TE’LILA ROBINSON

Doctor of Chiropractic & President

Full Circle Chiropractic and Wellness Center 2825 Dulles Ave. Missouri City, TX 77459

O: 832.987.1715

Drrobinson@fullcirclewellnesstx.com www.fullcirclechirowell.com

IG: @full_circle_chiro

FB: @fullcirclechirowell

RUNSI SEN

FOUNDER, PRESIDENT, & CEO, OVARCOME

Runsi Sen is the Founder, President, and CEO of Ovarcome, a leading global advocacy organization dedicated to raising awareness, funding research, and providing financial, psycho-social, and informational assistance to empower women and their families in Ovarcoming ovarian cancer. Sen lost her beloved mother to ovarian cancer, and in her memory and with her inspiration, created Ovarcome. With a vision rooted in empathy, equity, empowerment, and impact, Sen has led Ovarcome's expansion into a globally recognized platform that bridges clinical care, advocacy, and community outreach.

Sen graduated from Rice University with an MBA in Strategy & Marketing. She also holds a master’s degree in economics. Drawing from her academic and business background, international work experience, and as a caregiver and family

member, Sen brings a unique perspective to nonprofit leadership and patient advocacy. Her mission is one that is personal and reflective of her vision, not only as a leader but also as a daughter, caregiver, and a family member of those impacted by this devastating disease. Her work is deeply focused on creating pathways to treatment access and information equity, especially for the underserved and underrepresented communities worldwide.

Key Achievements

• Founded and scaled Ovarcome to reach millions globally through awareness campaigns, support programs, and direct assistance.

• Partnered with leading medical institutions and advocacy networks to establish comprehensive education and survivorship programs.

• Spearheaded the creation of all of

Ovarcome’s valuable programs, services, and events that are always provided to all ovarian cancer patients at no cost.

• Sen has been a TEDx Speaker twice and is regularly featured as a speaker at global health conferences and cancer awareness summits.

• Sen led the selection, preparation, and compilation of the content of Ovarcome’s recently published book, Ovarcoming: Stories of Hope & Healing, available on major outlets where books are sold.

• Sen has recently been appointed as a core member of the Patient Advocacy Committee with NRG Oncology, part of the National Clinical Trials Network of the prestigious National Cancer Institute.

Affiliations & Recognitions

• Member, Rice Business Alumni Board

• Advocate & Advisor, MD Anderson Cancer Center

• Global Impact Award Winner from World Ovarian Cancer Coalition, 2024

• Recognized by major health platforms and media outlets for pioneering work in ovarian cancer advocacy.

• Under her leadership, Ovarcome won the Global Advocacy Award conferred by the International Gynecologic Cancer Society, 2024

A Mom first, Sen is a believer in everything magical and in always choosing to Ovarcome.

RUNSI SEN Founder, President, & CEO Ovarcome

2525 Robinhood St., Ste. 212 Houston, TX 77005

O: 713.800.2976

info@ovarcome.org www.ovarcome.org

LI: @runsi-sen-6b6961

Early Detection Saves Lives

KATHERINE W. SMITH

PRESIDENT & CEO, NEUHAUS EDUCATION CENTER

Katherine W. Smith believes literacy changes everything. As the recently appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Neuhaus Education Center, she leads Houston’s premier nonprofit dedicated to evidence-based literacy education for children and adults. Her mission is personal: ensuring everyone has access to the fundamental right that opens every door — the ability to read.

Smith’s approach to leadership combines strategic thinking with genuine care for people. Known for her candor, she asks tough questions others avoid and drives toward solutions with compassion and laser focus. Colleagues describe her as someone who cuts through complexity to find the heart of issues, then mobilizes teams to clear paths forward.

Her educational journey spans multiple disciplines, creating a unique perspective.

A soon-to-be MFA graduate from the University of Houston’s Creative Writing program, Smith writes short stories exploring human complexity — skills that translate into organizational storytelling and vision communication. She holds an M.Ed. in Policy & Leadership from the University of Texas at Arlington and a B.A. from the University of South Alabama. As a previous fellow of Rice University's Educational Entrepreneurship Program at the Jones Graduate School of Business, she learned to apply business principles to challenges facing the educational sector.

This diverse background prepared Smith for a career bridging education, strategy, and community impact. She spent five

years as CEO of the Houston ISD Foundation, helping the organization carve out an independent identity and establishing it as a respected Houston entity. Despite a myriad of changes in its partner district throughout the years, she positioned the Foundation as a consistent beacon of support and created sustainable partnerships that served students and educators alike.

Before the HISD Foundation, Smith helped launch A+ Unlimited Potential Charter School as a founding member of the executive team. Her experience as an educator tethers her leadership practices to reality, rather than perfect-world scenarios.

Smith’s community commitment is deeply personal. Her own experience with endometriosis led her to support and collaborate with the Endometriosis Foundation of Houston. She serves on the Greater Houston Partnership’s Public Policy Committee and maintains sustaining membership in The Junior League of Houston.

At home, Smith shares life with Paul Castro, an education executive and public safety advocate. Her sixteen-year-old daughter Claire Smith is an honor student, cheerleader, and competitive debater at Lamar High School whose skilled arguments keep her mom on her toes (it reminds Smith that tough audiences aren’t always in boardrooms). Along with Paul’s adult children Anastacia and Luke, they form a busy blended family where Smith trades workdays negotiating diverse perspectives for a different kind of negotiation: seeing if they can all agree on dinner plans.

KATHERINE W. SMITH President & CEO

Neuhaus Education Center 4433 Bissonnet St. Bellaire, TX 77401

O: 713.664.7676

www.neuhaus.org

IG: @katherinekristins

Chief Marion Spann is the first Black woman in the city of Houston’s history to serve as its Fire Marshal. Appointed in November 2024 by Mayor John Whitmire, Chief Spann’s responsibilities in this role involve oversight of the Arson Bureau, including fire investigation, determining the origin and cause, intelligence, and prosecution. She also oversees the Life Safety Bureau of the Houston Fire Department, which includes inspection, education, code enforcement, and code development.

As Fire Marshal, she is a member of Fire Chief Thomas Munoz’s command staff, maintaining an advising role for important issues in the city. In this role, she is dedicated to streamlining the permitting and inspection process, increasing safety for anyone who lives, works, or plays in Houston and better serving the business community. She has presented before Houston City Council on issues like mobile food unit inspections, bar and nightclub code enforcement, and more.

Chief Spann joined the Houston Fire Department in 1994 after a friend encouraged her to explore joining the ranks. In 2000, HFD promoted Spann to Engineer Operator, making her the first Black woman to serve at that rank. From then on, Spann has been the first Black woman for each rank she has achieved in her 30-year career with the department. She holds industry credentials as a Master Fire Inspector. Over her illustrious career, her desire to help others and the camaraderie she has experienced within the organization have kept her not only in the fire department but also in the city of Houston.

Always the planner, Chief Spann lives by the motto “it is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.” She encourages everyone to pursue their education and any certifications for their career path even if they feel it’s not required for them to move ahead in their field.

CHIEF MARION SPANN

FIRE MARSHAL, HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Chief Spann holds an Executive Master of Public Administration from Texas Southern University and a bachelor's degree in public service leadership from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Spann is married to retired HFD Senior Captain Larry Spann, and the two enjoy traveling and playing tennis when she is off duty. Her daughter is currently pursuing a degree in education. She is honored to have been nominated for this award and humbled by her position in Houston’s history as a woman who has broken the mold.

CHIEF MARION SPANN

Fire Marshal

Houston Fire Department

500 Jefferson St. Houston, TX 77002

O: 832.394.6700

www.houstontx.gov/fire

COURTNEY TAYLOR

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, VERITEX COMMUNITY BANK

Courtney Taylor is a dynamic and strategic leader with over 15 years of experience across business, community, and nonprofit sectors. Currently, she is the Senior Vice President of Community Development at Veritex Community Bank, where she leads the institution’s community development initiatives in the Houston, Dallas, and Fort Worth areas.

Taylor excels at forging partnerships with nonprofit organizations; facilitating access to banking and lending resources; and managing community giving, educational programs, and volunteer initiatives. She prioritizes volunteering and is active

on several boards, including the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce and The Houston-Galveston Area Local Development Corporation. She also serves on several advisory boards: the Education Foundation of Harris County, The Women’s Resource of Greater Houston, SurviveHER Breast Cancer Organization, and The Women’s Small Business Center.

As a community advocate, Taylor has chaired numerous fundraisers, generating significant contributions to various causes. She has participated in many host committees and served as a brand ambassador for charitable initiatives. She is renowned for articulating complex financial

topics, delivering the keynote at the Texas Financial Literacy Summit, presenting at the Texas Governor’s Small Business Summit, and engaging as a panelist, moderator, and judge at numerous business events. Her commitment to educating and empowering communities has led her to serve in roles such as president of the Corporate Community Relations Council and board member for both the Houston Community College Foundation and The Credit Coalition. As a lifelong learner, Taylor continuously seeks educational opportunities to enhance her leadership skills. She has completed several leadership programs, including the American Leadership Forum Class LII, United Way’s Project Blueprint, the Federal Reserve’s BOLT Program, the Houston Black Leadership Institute, and the inaugural Texas Woman’s University Bold LeadHership program for women of color executives in 2022.

Taylor’s contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including being named a 40 Under 40 Honoree by the Houston Business Journal in 2024, 2024 Women’s Business Center Advocate of the Year, a 2024 Woman on the Move by Texas Executive Women, a 2023 Certificate of Congressional Recognition, a 2023 Pearl Honoree by the American Cancer Society, the 2022 Leader in Financial Education Award from the Texas Bankers Association, and the 2021 Volunteers of America Difference Maker of the Year Award. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from the University of Texas at San Antonio and an MBA from Texas Woman’s University.

COURTNEY TAYLOR

Senior Vice President Community Development Veritex Community Bank

109 N Post Oak Ln., Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77024

O: 713.275.8530

www.veritexbank.com

AGNES USORO-UMOH, MD

MEDICAL DIRECTOR & OWNER, RIVER OAKS GALLERIA MEDSPA

Anative of Sugar Land, TX, Dr. Agnes Usoro-Umoh is a board-certified emergency medicine physician. She started her healthcare career as an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse after she received her bachelor’s degree in nursing at Georgetown University. Realizing her passion for learning and critical care, she advanced her knowledge and expertise by attending medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) before completing her residency at Johns Hopkins and becoming an emergency medicine physi-

cian. A self-described “adrenaline junky” in the medical field, Dr. Usoro’s passion is treating patients with a sense of urgency. Her clinical interests are global emergency medicine, improving emergency care services in low-resourced environments, and the social determinants of health.

She has worked with international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to improve emergency care resources in Nigeria, Pakistan, Ethiopia, South Africa, and Brazil. She has also worked with

housing revitalization organizations, such as Rebuild Baltimore, to study the impact of neighborhood revitalization in East Baltimore on an individual’s health.

Outside of her clinical pursuits, Dr. Usoro is an avid advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She started the House Staff Diversity Council at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and Johns Hopkins Bayview Hospital during her emergency medicine residency training. This organization is still going strong and aims to improve the experience of under-represented in medicine residents during their medical training.

A current and ongoing passion for Dr. Usoro is regenerative health, wellness, and aesthetics. Inspired by the cancer journeys of her parents, as well as a very close friend who lost her battle to stage IV colorectal cancer, Dr. Usoro founded River Oaks Galleria (ROG) Medspa. The aim is to help others look and feel their absolute best despite life’s challenges. She recognized that as her loved ones embarked upon their cancer journeys, a key priority for them, in addition to their cancer healing and recovery, was their wellness, aesthetics, self-esteem, and mental well-being, as cancer therapy can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s skin health, hair health, gut health, functional capacity, and psyche. Everyone, despite life’s challenges, wants to look and feel their best. At River Oaks Galleria (ROG) Medspa, the priority is self-care. The company aims to be an all-inclusive center for regenerative health, wellness, and aesthetic services that helps the community to live their respective lives to the fullest.

AGNES USORO-UMOH, MD

Medical Director & Owner

River Oaks Galleria Medspa

2111 West Loop South, Ste. 370 Houston, TX 77027

O: 346.741.6772

info@rogmedspa.com www.rogmedspa.com

• Weight Loss & Body Contouring • Hormone Replacement Therapy

• Hair Restoration

• Infrared Sauna

• Laser Hair Removal

DR. CHAKILLA ROBINSON WHITE

CHIEF LEARNING & FULFILLMENT OFFICER, DAVITA

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Chakilla Robinson White is an accomplished healthcare executive in the sectors of operations, learning and development, and teammate experience. A visionary leader, Dr. Robinson White currently serves as the Chief Learning and Fulfillment Officer at DaVita, where she sets the strategic agenda for the Wisdom Teams. In this role, she leads enterprise learning and teammate fulfillment initiatives that bring purpose, connection, belonging, and growth to over 55,000 team-

mates — bringing The DaVita Way to life in meaningful and measurable ways.

Born and raised in Little Rock, AR, Dr. Robinson White is a first-generation college graduate who holds a B.A. in Economics from Wellesley College, an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School, and a Doctorate in Organizational Learning and Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania. Her passion for healthcare was sparked in high school when a close friend was paralyzed in an accident, inspiring her commitment to care that directly impacts patients and communities.

Dr. Robinson White’s distinguished career includes leadership roles at Tenet Health and Booz Allen Hamilton. She previously served as Group Vice President for DaVita’s Team Galaxy, where she improved clinical, operational, and financial performance across five states. Her professional ethos is grounded in the belief that she was created to help others live their best lives. That conviction led her to pursue a doctorate to build systems that enable cohesive teamwork and effective standards at work that exist beyond her supervision.

Dr. Robinson White serves on the board of Bridge of Life, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and treating chronic diseases in underserved communities. She is a former board member of AccessHealth, the Houston National Kidney Foundation, and the Texas Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners. All of these organizations’ goals directly align with Dr. Robinson White’s: better understanding of the plight of the patient to create more effective and efficient healthcare.

She and her husband founded the White Family Foundation, which supports causes related to education, healthcare, and hardship recovery. She lives outside of Houston with her husband and two children, who are her biggest cheerleaders. Together, they are on a mission to visit all 50 states.

Dr. Robinson White’s personal motto is: “Grace is a gift to yourself and others.” It’s a philosophy that underpins both her leadership and life. Dr. Robinson White is deeply committed to advancing human potential, making a lasting impact in healthcare, and lifting others as she climbs.

DR. CHAKILLA ROBINSON WHITE Chief Learning & Fulfillment Officer DaVita

2000 16th St. Denver, CO 80202 www.davita.com

IG: @chakillawhite

FB: @chakillawhite

CONGRATULATIONS

to our Co-founder, Dr. Chakilla Robinson White on being named one of Houston's Top 30 Influential Women!

What’s New?

Hug Versations with Dr. Williams

Where Community Meets Caring Hearts - As a nationally recognized leader and entrepreneur in the healthcare space, Dr. Marisa Williams is creating CEU content while also bringing conversations to the table—literally. Under her personal brand, Igniting Visions, LLP, she is leading dynamic table talks called Hug Versations, where community comes together to focus on real-world solutions to stay healthy, vibrant, and living longer—right where they feel most at home.

A Hug Away’s New Therapy Program –Meeting your need by bringing Healing Right Where You Are

As part of her ongoing commitment to pioneering compassionate, accessible care, Dr. Williams proudly introduces A Hug Away’s expanded Therapy Program—bringing physical, occupational, speech and now RESPIRATORY therapy directly to homes and even workplaces! Partnering with leading insurance providers such as United Healthcare Choice Plus Gold, and accepting out-of-network plans, A Hug Away also offers financial assistance programs to ensure no patient has to choose between healing and hardship.

DR. MARISA WILLIAMS

CEO & CO-FOUNDER, A HUG AWAY

There are leaders who build businesses, and there are visionaries who build movements. Dr. Marisa Williams, founder of A Hug Away Healthcare, is quietly preparing to do both.

With over 15 years of excellence in hospice and home healthcare for both children and adults, Dr. Williams has cultivated more than a company — she’s created a deeply compassionate model that touches

hearts, transforms families, and restores dignity in life’s most fragile moments.

Now, as A Hug Away Healthcare prepares for future franchise expansion, something far more meaningful is unfolding. Dr. Williams is not only building a path to business ownership—she’s reimagining who that path is for.

A proud U.S. Marine veteran, humanitarian, and recipient of an honorary doctor-

ate in Humanitarianism, Dr. Williams has earned recognition from The Wall Street Journal, Voyage Houston, Living Magazine, and d-mars.com as one of the Top 30 Influential Women of Texas and one of the Top 50 Black Entrepreneurs of 2024. And most recently, she has been selected to join the prestigious 2025 debut of Know Magazine – Houston, celebrating the city’s most accomplished and impactful women. But accolades aren’t what define her. What sets Dr. Williams apart is her unwavering belief that ownership and impact shouldn’t be reserved for the privileged few.

In the plans for her future franchise model, she is exploring equity and ownership pathways for her employees and for individuals from underserved communities — those who may have believed business ownership was out of reach. Her goal is clear: to open doors, rewrite narratives, and create sustainable opportunities for others to lead with heart and purpose.

She’s also laying the foundation for a book series — a graceful, honest exploration of the journey behind the mission. While untitled for now, this future literary work promises to awaken something in readers: a memory of dreams once held, or perhaps a permission slip to start dreaming again. Dr. Williams’s movement is unfolding — not with noise, but with intention.

A Hug Away Healthcare is more than a business — it’s a beacon.

The franchise opportunity is on the horizon. And for those watching closely, the invitation to rise will be unmistakable.

DR. MARISA WILLIAMS CEO & Co-Founder

A Hug Away 1203 Avenue D Katy, TX 77493 O: 832.437.1983

marisa@ahugaway.com www.ahugaway.com

IG: @AHugAway

CEO/Co-founder

DR. NICOLE WILSON

CEO, ON THE GO MEDICAL SUPPLY

Aforce to be reckoned with in the business world, Dr. Nicole Wilson is making a significant impact on the industries she has entered. She has a real estate investment firm NW Investment Properties, launched On the Go Medical Supply, took her place in healthcare with SereneLIFE Enterprises, and entered the tech space with The Everyday Living App — all with a mission to empower lives and help families. She is an author, and the Co-Founder of Thrivewell Counseling Solutions LLC, where she used her skills to help build a community-based outpatient behavioral health agency. Her dedication and hard work have been recognized with numer-

ous awards, including a Top 50 Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs in Texas Honoree and receiving an Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy of Humanitarianism. She also is the Vice President of Tri-County Regional Black Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Wilson's passion for entrepreneurship and her drive to succeed are evident in everything she does. She is a natural leader who can build relationships, trust, and rapport with almost anyone. Her ability to negotiate relationships and make connections has allowed her to create partnerships and alliances that drive results and move her businesses forward.

Dr. Wilson's success is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a

willingness to take calculated risks. She and her husband, Randall, were Executive Producers for the film “Jacob Broken By God” through WGW Entertainment, LLC and an investor in the TV Show “America’s Real Deal.” Dr. Wilson is also a Real Estate Agent, which perfectly complements her real estate investment firm, adding another layer of expertise to her professional repertoire.

Dr. Wilson is an inspiration to entrepreneurs everywhere. She successfully established a thriving business empire, generating an impressive annual gross revenue of $7.5 million. With a dedicated team of over 65 employees, she provided exceptional services to more than 100 individuals diagnosed with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Dr. Wilson's visionary mindset enabled her to scale her business and negotiate a lucrative multi-million-dollar deal, culminating in its successful sale in 2021. She is thriving in the Medical Supply industry, and her company is on track to be a leader in this space. Dr. Wilson has diversified her revenue streams by capitalizing on the government sector, securing over $1 million in contracts, as well as commercial insurances as a Licensed Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Provider. Her dedication, passion, and drive make her a true leader in the business world, and her willingness to share her knowledge and empower others is what sets her apart. Dr. Wilson is a true Business Mogul, and she is Making Moves That Matter.

DR. NICOLE WILSON CEO

On the Go Medical Supply LLC

2626 South Loop W., Ste. 238 Houston, TX 77054

O: 888.914.6633

nwilson@onthegomedicalsupply.net

www.onthegomedicalsupply.net

IG: onthegomedicalsupplyllc

FB: @onthegomedicalsupplyllc

LI: @on-the-go-medical-supply

MAKING COMMUNITY MAGIC

Artist Molly Dickson created this artwork, inspired by her own experience, relationship and feelings about the celebration of women's contributions to history, culture and society. Molly’s work is part of the Community Canvas collection, sponsored by Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages to encourage visibility in our community. Learn more at cocacolaswb.com/communitycanvas