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More than a seat at the table

WOMEN HELP DRIVE THE FUTURE OF FINANCE

Bailey Thomas and David Tyler

They say not everyone is a ‘natural-born leader’ — but as many great leaders know, the most effective leadership skills are often built through experience, support, and opportunity.

When organizations create environments that recognize diverse strengths and perspectives, leaders at all stages can grow, contribute, and make a meaningful impact.

A historically male-dominated leadership sector, the banking and finance industry offers a prime example of a recent environmental evolution:

Globally, women currently hold approximately 18% of C-suite roles in financial institutions. Women represent about 30% of board members, 22% of executives, and 27% of senior management positions in companies worldwide with a market value of at least $2 billion, according to the World Economic Forum.

Yet, although women continue to be the minority of leaders in most financial institutions, a shift has begun to take place.

Studies show women in senior-level leadership positions were on the rise over the last decade, and these numbers continue to increase.

It prompts the questions:

• Why the shift, and what does it say about the current industry climate?

• How are women leaders, experienced and emerging, leading their institutions to success?

• What does it take to become a highly effective leader and where do you start?

The following Central New York financial leaders share their perspectives.

LISA WHITAKER

President & CEO of Beginnings Credit Union

Lisa Whitaker has served as Beginnings Credit Union’s CEO for 15 years. With a total of 25 years of CEO experience at credit unions, Whitaker continues to be a pioneer within the industry’s gender and leadership evolution.

Interestingly enough, women now hold 51% of CEO roles at U.S. credit unions, according to CUNA’s 2023 Women in Credit Union Leadership brief. According to Whitaker, two factors are driving women in leadership:

1. Financial institutions are rethinking how they invest in their work culture to cultivate an internal talent pipeline

2. Banking institutions are reframing their role in their communities

For Whitaker, cultivating a healthy talent pipeline means nurturing leadership at every level through mentorship and providing growth opportunities. This type of leadership made a difference in her own early career.

Whitaker said she actually did not face challenges as a woman — contrary to what some statistics lead one to think.

“Do not be afraid to be the only woman in the room,” is her motto.

As for institutional shifts, she said community-minded banking contributes to the climb of women in leadership.

“Early in my career, I was fortunate enough to work under a CEO who challenged our credit union to go beyond the numbers and consider: ‘What does a caring financial institution look like? How do we make a long-term positive impact in our communities?’ For us to even pursue those questions, we needed to have a supportive work culture that gave us the space to go against the grain and invest in our own professional development,” said Whitaker.

CHRISTINA SAUVE

CEO of Cooperative Federal Credit Union

For Christina Sauve, creating a financial institution with positive community impact means expanding access and opportunities.

Since becoming CEO of Cooperative Federal in 2019, she has made deepening the organization’s mission of connecting underserved communities to banking services a primary focus.

Though Sauve initially envisioned a career for herself in education, she felt called to the finance industry as a first-generation, low-income college graduate.

“I ran into a job posting for people who wanted to use the tools of finance to make a difference for people and neighborhoods that needed the most investment, and I was hooked,” said Sauve.

“My inspiration for working in the world of finance has always been viewing it as a way to build a more just and equitable world.”

As a leader in her institution, Sauve describes herself as “consultative,” who prioritizes listening to her team and valuing perspectives.

Part of that means understanding work-life balance and what it means for everyone. She strives to ensure her team has the space they need to grow in their professional careers and has the flexibility needed to take care of personal priorities.

“With experience, it has become easier for me to set boundaries that ensure I can have a balanced life. I want for other people to experience the same, so I do my best to not only lead by example in this area but also support and encourage others in taking time,” said Sauve.

JENNIFER GREEN

Senior VP, Managing Director at Tompkins Financial Advisors

Similar to Sauve, Jennifer Green believes work-life balance is transformational for leaders at all stages.

She thinks it is essential, especially for women, who “frequently carry more” of the invisible labor that comes with leadership: “mentoring, culture building, and representation work.”

“By providing executive coaching, leadership sponsorship and operational support,” Green said that firms can enhance their support of not just women leaders, but all leaders.

These kinds of changes are beginning to be implemented throughout the industry.

“There is a growing recognition of diversity as a performance advantage — not just a social initiative — that is helping to accelerate the change,” said Green. “Different perspectives challenge groupthink, manage risk better and ultimately lead to better outcomes for clients. So, the evolution is real… but the most interesting chapters are still being written.”

In her own career journey, Green is committed to “servant leadership.” Rather than focusing on her own voice, she prefers to remove obstacles, develop talent, and create an environment where the best ideas can rise.

To women who may be considering careers in finance, she urges them to push aside the inherent industry intimidation and take the leap.

“Confidence in this industry often follows competence — not the other way around,” said Green.

Like Whitaker, Green believes that structural industry shifts drive lasting change and that these changes allow the retainment of talented women leaders.

SANDY MCKENNAN

Regional Branch VP at Sidney Federal Credit Union

Sandy McKennan’s leadership journey was shaped early on by a powerful example: her mother.

Long before becoming a leader at Sidney Federal Credit Union, McKennan watched the impact of her mother’s own work at a credit union, first-hand.

“I saw her leadership, strength and passion for what she did,” McKennan said. “She was able to help people and make a difference in their lives while building relationships.”

Because of this, McKennan’s own leadership style is grounded in empowerment.

“I lead by example, empowering my team to make decisions and supporting them,” she said.

Like the other women leaders, she believes in fostering collaboration, building strong relationships, and listening to ideas, helping to implement those ideas when appropriate.

As a branch VP, McKennan not only values the growth of the institution, but the strength of the team behind it. As her organization continues to grow, she sees that sense of unity as essential to long-term success.

“I believe we are all driven by a shared purpose and that having an aligned team allows us to collaborate seamlessly and effectively,” she said.

To young women considering a career in finance, McKennan emphasized the importance of passion and work ethic. She encourages them to take advantage of the many learning opportunities available today and to seek out those who can help them along their journey.

According to all the Central New York women leaders in finance, one fact is clear: Mentors and other supportive leaders can make all the difference in making room for emerging leaders and fostering industry-wide success.

“They can guide you, challenge you, and help you grow in ways you might not expect,” said McKennan. “When it starts at the top, it becomes part of the culture.” SWM

Sweet Treats to support the MOST

The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST) held its annual Chocolate Discovery fundraiser on Thursday, February 12. Presented by Byrne Dairy & Deli and co-hosted by Sweet on Chocolate, the event featured a spread of incredible chocolates, fresh ice cream made with liquid nitrogen right in front of guests, and a special Star-Crossed Lovers planetarium show in the National Grid ExploraDome. More than 250 people turned out for this popular night, which raises money to support the educational programs and exhibits at the museum.

JAIME “JJ” WEISBERG

Heading northbound

BRINGING THE SCIENCE OF WELL-BEING TO CNY

Janelle Davis

Most of us have heard the advice to think positively. Jaime “JJ” Weisberg takes that idea a lot further, grounding it in science and building around it businesses that are quietly changing how CNY workplaces and individuals approach well-being.

Weisberg, a Minoa-based entrepreneur and self-described “Human Potentialist,” runs two businesses based on a single, driving belief: that human potential is limitless, and that what stands between us and our fullest lives is largely our mindset. Through Northbound Coaching & Consulting and Root to Rise CNY, she's on a mission to help people, and the organizations they work for, move north of neutral and into a place of genuine thriving.

“I was always super curious about the human condition and how we can live better and feel better and maximize this one life we get,” she said.

Weisberg studied human development and developmental psychology in college, initially thinking she'd become a therapist. But a corporate career post-graduation left her feeling unfulfilled, even with the stability and a good salary. Then, about 12 years ago, she watched a TED Talk on positive psychology and felt something click.

“I said, that's what I was meant to do,” she recalled. “Maybe that's why I didn't go back to become a therapist.”

She pursued the field, earning eight certifications across various modalities, and slowly began offering programs and trainings. The work grew organically, embedding itself into organizations, and eventually took on a life of its own.

What positive psychology actually is

Positive psychology is a formal field of psychology, not simply a feelgood philosophy. It emerged in the late 1990s with a distinct focus: rather than studying and treating what goes wrong in the human mind, it examines what is strong and how people flourish.

“Treating mental illness doesn't mean you're happy,” Weisberg explained. “If you fully treat depression, you're not depressed, but it doesn't mean you're thriving.”

Positive psychology works within a model called PERMA — Positive emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and purpose and Achievement — essentially a framework for understanding what makes us well as human beings. And, according to Weisberg, it shows up everywhere: in how we think, how we connect, how we work and how we move through the world each day.

“Our brains actually work differently in a positive state,” she said. “We're more creative, more flexible, and we can retain and retrieve information better. Everything works differently when we feel well.”

The work itself

Through Northbound Coaching & Consulting, Weisberg works primarily at the organizational level, supporting employee well-being, workplace culture and leadership through consulting, training series, one-on-one coaching and keynote speaking. One of her flagship offerings is a 12-part well-being series she originally built for Syracuse

University faculty and staff seven years ago and recently relaunched this year. Each session tackles a different dimension of well-being, from mindset to relationships to the science of positive emotion.

Her second venture, Root to Rise CNY, takes a more personal, experiential approach. Co-founded with two other local women, Meg Thomas and Tracy Dando, Root to Rise offers affordable, accessible day retreats held at Vanderkamp Center in Cleveland, N.Y.

“We started with the idea of doing one retreat, and the demand was just really high,” Weisberg said. “People kept asking for more.”

The two businesses complement each other naturally: Northbound meets people where they work, Root to Rise meets them where they live.

Meaningful work, real impact

When asked about her most meaningful wins, Weisberg points to her work with nonprofits, particularly Ronald McDonald House and David's Refuge, where she's been able to support not just the staff, but the families and individuals those organizations serve.

“I love when I can impact at multiple levels in an organization, and that work ripples out into the community,” she said.

She's also excited about deepening her work at Syracuse University, where her well-being series has a way of expanding naturally; faculty attend a session and then invite her back to their own departments. It's the kind of slow, meaningful integration she loves most.

“I'm not interested in a one-time training,” she said. “I want to embed deeper, develop relationships and really affect culture. That's where the change actually happens.”

A philosophy worth living

One of the things Weisberg most wants people to understand is that well-being at work isn't a perk, it's a foundation. Research consistently shows that employee well-being ties directly to engagement, retention, creativity, productivity and even company performance. Yet many organizations still treat it as an afterthought.

“We think, if we succeed, then we get to be happy,” she said. “But it's actually the opposite. The better our well-being, the more likely we are to succeed in every domain of life.”

The values she brings to that work are authenticity and connection, showing up fully herself and creating space for others to do the same. Weisberg is also an active member of the Women's Business Owners Connection (WBOC), which she joined when she launched her business as a way to connect with other women entrepreneurs. She's since become a speaker within the organization and makes a point of hiring fellow members for her own business needs.

“It's inspiring to be surrounded by women who are passionate and creating something,” she said. “A lot of them are the first to do what they do, and they're really impacting this community.” SWM

JENNIFER SHORR

That Insurance Girl

A BRAND BUILT ON BEING YOURSELF

Lorna Oppedisano

Jennifer Shorr hadn’t always planned to be “That Insurance Girl.” But today, with an approach to the health insurance sector that is certainly unique from many others in her field, she’s successfully built a strong sense of authentic community and connection through her business.

“I started to do it differently – slowly and consistently,” she said. “I really built my business through trust, one kitchen table conversation at a time.”

Having grown up in Auburn, Jennifer had occasionally dreamt of moving away, but ultimately chose to stay close to family in an area that offers relatively easy access to everything from Finger Lakes to the Catskills to the Adirondacks, as well as bigger cities like New York.

The youngest of five, Jennifer had the opportunity to form a particularly close relationship with her parents and though she had family in the insurance business, following that career path never crossed Jennifer’s mind when she was preparing for college. An excellent musician, her parents suggested she become a music teacher.

Continued on page 24

"I really built my business through trust, one kitchen table conversation at a time."

— Jennifer Shorr

That Insurance Girl FROM PAGE 23

“That would be the next logical step. Of course, I cannot sing, so I was not going to be a really great music teacher for 5th graders,” she remembered with a laugh. “I went to school and I earned a business degree. But, even then, I wasn't really sure.”

Years before she considered career path options, Jennifer joined the workforce in the restaurant industry at 14. Once she earned a management and marketing degree, she accepted a management opportunity. In her late 20s, Jennifer found herself working 80-hour weeks with little sense of fulfillment or growth; she knew it was time for a change.

Then, a relative in the insurance industry made what would prove to be a life-changing suggestion: “You should try this.” It wasn’t an immediate fit.

“I fought it tooth and nail,” Jennifer said. “I thought, ‘ I don't know if that's for me.’ I'm very shy and introverted. In this business, you deal with a lot of rejection, and I wasn't really up for cold calling people.”

The idea of going into strangers’ houses to discuss their finances and health insurance was miles outside of her comfort zone. The dayto-day pace was vastly different from the industry she had come up in. Gone were the 80-hour weeks with a dedicated place to be. Now, she had a desk at Mutual of Omaha, where she started her new career as a selfemployed 1099 employee, but everything else was up to her.

The schedule was hers to set. The computer, paper, work phone, pens – all hers to get. She found herself struggling and flailing at the onset, she admitted.

When Jennifer earned her license in 2006, she didn’t anticipate Medicare would end up being her specialty.

“Medicare wasn't very glamorous, either. The financial industry can be glamorous – financial advisors, things like that,” Jennifer remembered. “A lot of people in the office said, ‘I don't want to do that. I want to do the bigger things, the more important things, the financial planning aspect.’”

So, when potential clients asked about Medicare, they would naturally fall to her.

As she learned the industry, Jennifer flexed out of her comfort zone. She stayed with Mutual of Omaha until around 2012, when she began to work with doctors’ offices and entities like St. Agatha Foundation and Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY – all strong support systems.

“They helped me get confidence and momentum in my career. I was kind of paralyzed in the beginning,” she said. “As I got better at it and became more comfortable talking to people, that's where the momentum started.”

By 2015, she had built enough momentum and, leaning into her marketing background, Jennifer founded That Insurance Girl. Since she was an entrepreneur by default, she truly wanted to make it her own.

“I really wanted to do the branding part, the marketing part – set myself apart from other people in my industry and do it completely differently,” she explained.

In that spirit, Jennifer chose to shy away from “traditional” insurance colors like navy blue, gold, and dark green, and instead used her favorite color, pink.

“I struggled with it – would that repel different groups? – but I wanted to be true to myself,” she said.

The name of her business – That Insurance Girl – came from her clients.

“It just comes from making phone calls,” she explained. “You call a client and she might say, ‘Hey, Bob, that insurance girl is calling.’ So, that’s really how I came up with it – just hearing other people say it all the time.”

In the wake of the pandemic, Jennifer found herself at another turning point when she could no longer visit clients in their homes and needed a home base. She found the perfect spot at The Barn at Collamer Road. Now, not only does she have her own physical space to meet with clients and one other person on the That Insurance Girl team, but Jennifer is taking on other agents, with the goal of building a community.

“The most important part of my business is treating people with respect. My tagline has always been ‘kindness in business,’” Jennifer said. “I think you should always be kind to people, and we are very client-centered.”

Along with growing That Insurance Girl, Jennifer started a new venture about two years ago. With a business partner, she’s launched Up North Outfitters and Trading Post, located in the former Salmon River Fishing Museum in Pulaski, which she describes as an amazing community that’s incredibly supportive of local business.

“It's going to be a lodging and events space. So, very different from insurance but also exciting,” she said. “And, again, customer- and client-centered, making sure that that experience is really wonderful.”

Currently in the first phase of development, a handful of guests have stayed in the three available rooms. A community space will soon be available to rent. In about three to five months, Jennifer envisions Up North Outfitters and Trading Post as an ideal space for retreats and meetings, intimate gatherings, and even small weddings.

As she grows her two businesses, Jennifer has built meaningful connections with fellow female entrepreneurs through unique networking opportunities like Loving My Company LLC’s monthly group photo sessions, founded by Syracuse Woman Magazine’s cover photographer, Alice G. Patterson.

“When we talk, we all have the same struggles. But everyone is doing such different things with their business. They're brilliant,” Jennifer said. “And Alice is so good at bringing a community of women like that together.”

It’s clear that from her early days in the restaurant industry to That Insurance Girl to Up North Outfitters and Trading Post, community and kindness are at the core of Jennifer’s motivation. And that can be traced back to her roots.

“The most important thing to me is that I can look at myself in the mirror every day, and I know that I've made my parents proud,” Jennifer said. SWM

For more about That Insurance Girl, visit thatinsurancegirl.com. For more about Loving My Company, LLC, visit lovingmycompany.com.

“The most important part of my business is treating people with respect. My tagline has always been ‘kindness in business.”

—Jennifer Shore

Spring reset

HOW FOOD AND MOVEMENT BRING YOUR ENERGY BACK TO LIFE

Eric Rose

After a long Central New York winter, spring offers more than warmer weather. It offers a chance to reset our energy, habits, and health.

There is something about spring in Central New York that feels like a reset button. After months of gray skies, heavy coats, and comfort foods that kept us warm through winter, the first warm breeze reminds us it is time to open the windows, get outside, and start fresh again.

Our bodies feel that shift too.

Many women tell me that by March they feel a little sluggish, a little tired, and maybe even a little stuck in habits that carried them through

Why energy matters more than weight

For many years women were taught that getting healthy meant eating less and focusing only on the number on the scale. But the real goal of health is not shrinking your body. It is expanding your energy.

Energy is what allows you to show up for your family, your career, your friendships, and the passions that make life meaningful. When your metabolism is supported and your blood sugar is stable every thing feels easier. Your mind is clearer. Your mood improves. Your body feels stronger.

Food plays a powerful role in creating that energy.

Spring foods your body craves

One of the simplest ways to support your body this time of year is to eat foods that naturally arrive with the season. Spring vegetables are lighter, vibrant, and full of nutrients that help your body recover from heavier winter meals.

Some of my favorites include: Asparagus, Spinach, Arugula, Peas, Radishes, Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and mint.

These foods are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support digestion, reduce inflammation, and help your body feel energized again. Adding just one or two seasonal vegetables to your meals can dramatically change how you feel throughout the day.

In my health coaching work I see one common issue that drains energy faster than anything else: Unstable blood sugar. When meals are built around refined carbohydrates or when we skip meals entirely our blood sugar spikes and crashes. That crash leads to cravings, fatigue, irritability, and the feeling that we need more coffee or sugar just to keep going.

The solution is surprisingly simple. Every meal should include three elements: protein, healthy fat and fiber rich plants. This combination slows digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar which keeps energy levels steady. There is also some interesting science behind why this works. When you eat carbohydrates alone like a piece of fruit or a bagel the quickly and glucose enters the bloodstream rapidly. That creates a spike in blood sugar followed by a drop shortly after. That drop is what often makes people hungry again within an But when you pair carbohydrates with protein or healthy fat digestion slows down. Protein stimulates hormones that increase satiety and slow the release of glucose into the bloodstream. The result is a steadier blood sugar response and a longer feeling

A simple example illustrates this well.

carbohydrates and if eaten by itself may keep you satisfied for less than an hour. But if you pair a smaller apple with a piece of cheese the protein and fat from the cheese slow the digestion of the carbohydrates from the fruit. Instead of a spike and crash your body experiences a slower release of energy. That means steadier blood sugar, fewer cravings, and a feeling of fullness that can last much longer. It is a small shift that can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day.

Movement that matches the season

Spring is also the perfect time to reconnect with movement. After a long winter our bodies do not need punishment. They need momentum. Start simple. Take a walk outside when the sun appears. Stretch in the morning. Try yoga, Pilates, or light strength training. Even twenty to thirty minutes of movement can improve insulin sensitivity, boost mood, and wake up your metabolism after winter.

But let us be honest. Some days you just do not feel like doing it. That is when I remind my coaching clients of something I say often. When you do not feel like moving, move anyway.

We often hear the phrase fake it until you make it. I prefer a different approach. Act yourself into doing it. Action creates motivation not the other way around. Once you start moving your body usually thanks you for it.

Small habits grow big results

One thing I often remind my coaching clients is that transformation rarely happens through dramatic changes. It happens through small habits practiced consistently.

Drink more water. Add protein to breakfast. Eat a vegetable at lunch. Take a walk after dinner. These simple actions compound over time and create lasting change.

Spring is a powerful reminder that growth happens gradually. Just like plants pushing through the soil after a long winter, our health improves when we nurture it day by day.

And the best part is it is never too late to start.

Eric’s 3 spring energy habits

If you want to feel better this spring you do not need to overhaul your entire life. Start with a few simple habits that support steady energy and better metabolic health.

Build a balanced breakfast

Many women start the day with coffee and carbo-hydrates and then wonder why they crash midmorning. Try starting your day with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Eggs with vegetables, Greek yogurt with berries, or a protein smoothie can stabilize blood sugar and keep you full much longer.

Pair carbohydrates with protein

Instead of eating carbohydrates alone combine them with protein or healthy fat. An apple with cheese, berries with Greek yogurt, or whole grain toast with eggs slows digestion and helps prevent the blood sugar spikes that lead to cravings and fatigue.

Move your body early

You do not need a ninety-minute workout. Even ten to twenty minutes of walking, stretching, or strength work in the morning can wake up your metabolism, improve mood, and set the tone for the rest of the day.

Small habits practiced consistently create powerful long-term results.

Eric Rose is an award-winning chef and health coach.

JULIA FREEMAN

Savorcuse merges one woman’s passion for food, her hometown and marketing

Elena Ehrhart

What do you get when you cross a love of food, social media and marketing? The answer is something Julia Freeman never imagined becoming such a large part of her life – her viral Instagram account, Savorcuse. Better yet, there is nobody more qualified to run a Syracuse-centered food and marketing account than Julia.

She grew up in Liverpool, attended Bishop-Grimes Junior/Senior High School, then returned to downtown Syracuse after graduating from Niagara University in 2019. Not only is Julia a woman passionate about her hometown, but she has the educational background with which to create quality content.

While at Niagara, Julia studied hospitality and marketing, combining her love of food with her creative side. She learned everything from wine and cheese pairings to what makes a good burger. After graduation, Julia and her high school sweetheart moved into an apartment in downtown Syracuse. Like many young couples, they took full advantage of all Downtown Syracuse offered, frequently eating out and exploring new places around the city.

“Social media is a different creative outlet,” Julia said. “I started posting for fun … 2019 was kind of the era of posting what you eat online.”

It was Julia’s husband who recommended she start a page dedicated to the food she finds around the area. Not long after the page launched, Julia realized how much her posts helped small local businesses garner more interest.

As her platform grew, Julia began to use her page to aid these local businesses with their marketing efforts. Two years into running Savorcuse, she hosted various small businesses for a sampling event. Roughly 400 people came to check out the vendors and samples, creating more visibility for the participants.

Julia strives to keep her content authentic. For her, that means including the face behind the account and beong thoughtful about who she works with.

“It isn’t just about the food,” she said. “I look at how they treat their employees and customers as well as the experience.”

Every business Julia has worked with has been just as excited and eager as she is.

“I’ve met such wonderful, upbeat people,” Julia said. “They are excited about Syracuse. This is why we’re doing it. They are so passionate about their food and businesses. It gives me hope for Syracuse.”

Savorcuse has also led to working on a larger scale. She has done marketing for places like Turning Stone.

“I’ve been told it’s my authenticity that keeps my clients coming back,” Julia said.

However, with success, Julia often finds herself battling “imposter syndrome.” Does she really have over 10,000 followers on Instagram? Do people really like her work? Despite this, Julia says she is really proud of herself.

“People show up in Syracuse,” Julia said. “They support local businesses. It is just so heartwarming to see.”

Julia does not see her posts as the reason for the growth of many small businesses but, with her assistance, she has seen many of them expand and increase their customer base.

“It is so cool to grow alongside them,” she said. “Like Cake Bar. I do a lot of work with them and we started out around the same time. Now it has multiple locations.”

Running Savorcuse combines her love of social media and food in a way that gives Julia creative freedom. With a position in marketing for Advanced Media, most of Julia’s professional work is corporate-based. Savorcuse allows her to extend her expertise and enjoyment of food by helping businesses in a more creative light.

“I have to go from work mind to part-time mind,” Julia said on balancing her professional work with her work for Savorcuse. “When I go to a restaurant for a shoot, it is important that I keep in mind my consumers. If you have an authentic brand, it keeps you real.”

“It really is fulfilling,” she said. “And to have my name on those signs … it’s really crazy.”

Going forward, Julia would like to organize more events for local businesses.

“The event world is where I thrive,” she said. “I can be creative.” As her connections have grown, she is open to more opportunities where she “gets to have fun.”

“I’ll never stop supporting these small businesses,” she said. Julia hopes to encourage more people to pursue their dreams of opening small local businesses.

“It is really how our city thrives,” she said.

She is passionate about helping people bring their visions to life and keep Syracuse as community-focused as possible. “We don’t need all these big chains, especially downtown. What we need are small, locally owned businesses.”

Julia is eager to see Savorcuse continue to grow alongside the city. She stressed that, as more opportunities grow for people to visit and move to Syracuse, so, too, will their desire to know where to go in the city, and even, perhaps, open their own businesses. Recently, Julia has been broadening her content to outside of Syracuse, encompassing more of Central New York, as well as places like Rochester.

“I kind of have gotten into tourism. It’s stuff you should do and will do. Not just for the tourists, but locals. I want to be able to give examples of day trips Central New Yorkers can do,” she said.

Running Savorcuse fulfills the loves of Julia’s life in a way that helps her feel close to her community. While it is easy to say that the food is a favorite part, Julia loves the deep connections she makes with others.

“I can walk downtown and run into 10 people I know,” she said. “It’s so hopeful to have this feel of community. We are a wave ‘hi’ to people and smile at people across the street kind of city. The sense of community is incredible.” SWM

KIELBASINSKI

A business journey full of resilience, connection and support

Elena Ehrhart

Michelle Kielbasinski wanted to open her own business … So she did. There were no years of planning, no second-guessing. She was going to make something of her own and saw no better moment to do it.

For many, starting your business is daunting, but not for Michelle –she was ready. After years of balancing design work and sales with her family, Michelle felt she had gained enough skills, knowledge and experience to start something that was uniquely hers.

It was not difficult for her to figure out what she wanted to do. Gift giving has always been her love language. But instead of simply doing it for her loved ones, she wanted to help others build deep connections with those they care about.

As one who always prioritized supporting small businesses and artists, Michelle would fill her inventory with handcrafted and specialized products. And thus, Alderhaus was born.

Michelle’s values are showcased in the name of her business.

“Alderhaus was chosen because the alder tree symbolizes resilience, connection and support,” she said. “The name reflects a business built to be grounded, supportive and beneficial to the community around it. This directly ties to my desire to connect people, givers, recipients, businesses and makers.”

Michelle has developed “an exclusive framework” for connecting with her customers, ensuring that they get the best possible product. She takes the time to talk to her clients and learn about the occasion they wish to get a gift for and who the recipient will be. For corporate gifts, she discusses the company’s values and goals and determines how they translate into items that suit not only the recipient but also the celebration or recognition. The products Michelle uses when curating gifts come from other small businesses.

Her values are also demonstrated by how she conducts her business and how she approaches working with others as a female entrepreneur. Michelle is a firm believer that you must surround yourself with people familiar with what you do that have talent and the ability to be someone you can trust. For her, it’s the support of close friends and family, as well as her collaboration with women and small business owners, that allows her to live out her values every day.

Michelle started her family young. Because of this, she has always prioritized work that allows her to balance professional life with her family life. With Alderhaus, she has found this balance, regardless of if it means working late into the night.

“Neither my family or my business go without,” she said. “Both get what they need.”

Michelle strives to be a role model for her five children as they watch her build her own company from the ground up. “It provides me with a tremendous source of pride and to see my kids watch me do this. They’ve seen all the work I’ve done for the years; the highs and lows, that is the part that means the most to me.”

The company is reaching a point where Michelle is looking to expand, including hiring staff. However, as Alderhaus grows, she strives to maintain the same level of connection with her clients that she has now.

“I’ve been so moved by the vulnerability that people have shared with me,” she said. “That is such a win for me. The world can feel really heavy and, every day, I get to talk to people who get to tell me about someone they really care about. That is really special to me.”

When it comes to her success as an entrepreneur, Michelle credits her family and friends for being pillars of support and encouragement, as well as her perspective.

“I place a heavy importance on getting to know the stories of the makers behind the products,” she said. This aligns with her values of high-quality items, care and commitment to supporting artists. For her, supporting small businesses go beyond simply buying their items. It is about recognizing the value of the creators. “You have to be in a position to value their skill, heart and talent.”

“No matter which path you choose, finding people whose values, character and heart align with yours can make the journey easier,” she said. “No matter your age or experience, when you begin to see life not through opportunities lost but through opportunities gained, success becomes something you define for yourself.”

Connecting with others is what Michelle hopes other entrepreneurs get out of their own journeys. Whether it is personal or professional, it is the value of connection that will mean the most in the long run. SWM

Women supporting women

On February 13, UBS Financial conducted a free seminar for women interested inplanning for their long-term care needs as older adults. Held at the Century Club, more than 40 women heard from Andrea Cruz, senior vice president-wealth management and financial advisor at UBS; Emilee Lawson Hatch, estate planning attorney with LawsonHatch, PLLC; and Carolyn Hendrickson, director of planned giving at the Upstate Foundation. While treated to a special Valentine’s luncheon, women learned tangible next steps to ensure their legal documents are in order, and how long-term care insurance factors into their planning, as well as charitable gift planning when philanthropy has been a lifelong priority. “Talk to your trusted person, make sure your plans are in place so you have the peace of mind that comes with such planning,” was the shared message from the three hosts.

Kids, neighbors, friends and 120,000 pounds of hope

EARTH DAY LITTER CLEAN UP IS APRIL 24 & 25

Tammy Palmer

Something special happens every year in late April. For two days, thousands of people in Onondaga County, of all ages, recognize their individual power to make a difference in our community. The work isn’t glamorous. Volunteers commit to picking up trash – TONS of trash. At last year’s annual OCRRA Earth Day Litter Cleanup event, 120,000 pounds of litter were collected. None of that trash ended up in our streets, parks or waterways because more than 4,000 people saw a need and rolled up their sleeves.

Since joining the Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency (OCRRA) a few years ago as the public information officer, I’ve tried to visit some of the hundreds of groups that register for the agency’s annual Earth Day event. What they all have in common is a sense of civic duty and a can-do attitude. There are garden clubs, small businesses, school kids, pockets of neighbors and families that register. Groups with names like the Bayberry Pickers and the Cornwall Cleanup Crew proudly share photos of their litter hauls. Many others participate by themselves, taking the opportunity to accomplish something important while they quietly enjoy the great outdoors.

In Eastwood, I learned about three community groups that join forces with a local ice cream shop to make the cleanup a fun annual event for families. Dozens of neighbors show up, ready to wipe out winter waste. Kids see the consequences of littering first-hand. When their hard work is over, friends and strangers gather for a feast of pizza and dessert to celebrate a job well done. “We very much believe in service above self,” said Esther Zorn, last year’s president of the Eastwood Rotary.

On the South Side of Syracuse, I met 9-year-old Devon Williams and a group of friends who cleared litter from several blocks of their neighborhood. Devon smiled wide as he announced, “We are making a difference by cleaning up the Earth and making it shiny.” He was so excited, he sang the final word of his declaration...shi-nee-ee. I took a moment to process the fact that this 9-year-old was having a blast picking up trash. His mom, Darlene Medley, organized the gathering.

“This is our future generation,” she told me. “If somebody is not showing them how to beautify their neighborhood, what community means, then how are they supposed to know?”

That sentiment mirrored what I heard from a mother in Dewitt, who shared a photo of her little boy, Karson, mastering his technique with a litter grabber. They cleaned up part of the ShoppingTown Mall parking lot, the Erie Canal Trail and a local playground together. Like many others, Karson’s mom recognized the opportunity to teach her young son a lesson. People are the beating heart of every community. The way we react to a challenge has a powerful influence on everything around us.

The timing of the annual OCRRA Earth Day Litter Cleanup is important. Litter that accumulates for months during the winter is revealed all at once as the snow melts every spring. It can be an overwhelming sight that leads to anger and frustration OR action and inspiration. A good spring cleaning sets the stage for a brighter May. In Onondaga County, this year’s event is on Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25. Getting involved is easy and flexible. Organize a group of friends, relatives, co-workers, classmates or sign up as a solo volunteer. Choose a time and a safe public location on either day of the event (or both).

Registration is required for individuals and group organizers, preferably online at OCRRA.org/EarthDay. If that is not possible, call (315) 453-2866 for help. Be prepared to share the number of people (if you sign up for a group) and exactly where you plan to clean up. Each municipality has its own rules

Dozens of Eastwood neighbors wrap up an afternoon of litter cleanup with pizza, ice cream and a group photo - in 2023.

for litter disposal during the event. The deadline to register is April 14. That gives OCRRA staff time to mail registrants instructions for litter drop-offs, based on their cleanup location.

Municipalities will deliver the litter to Rock Cut Road Transfer Station so it can be weighed and properly managed. OCRRA, which is not taxpayer-funded, takes on the cost of disposal for this two-day annual event. How big of a difference can you make by participating? Over the years, more than 3 million pounds of litter have been collected in Onondaga County during our Earth Day cleanups.

May that sense of accomplishment inspire you to be mindful of litter throughout year, well beyond Earth Day. Every day, we have an opportunity to teach children good habits. Every month, we have a choice to tidy up our neighborhoods. Every year, we can join a local adopt-ablock program – or create one. Litter is ugly. Watching thousands of people work together to make our community more shiny is a beautiful sight. SWM

Tammy Palmer is the public information officer for the Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency (OCRRA).

Carving out calm

CREATING A HOME OFFICE THAT WORKS FOR YOU

Joy Rafferty

Although it’s been six years already since Covid came into our lives, it’s had a lasting influence on the way we work and live in our homes. For many professional women, working from home, in some capacity, has become the new normal.

Having dedicated home office space has become one of the biggest topics in the home organization space in the last few years. It’s not always practical to spread your work out on the kitchen table and keep the piles there for days if you actually want to use it for meals. It’s also tough to talk on the phone or participate in Zoom meetings with the kids and the family pet in and around you constantly.

To remedy these issues, many people have turned various areas of their homes into better work (and study) spaces. Whether it be an entire spare room, a corner of your bedroom, a space in the basement or a nook in the kitchen, it’s great to have a place that can be used for the specific purpose of working. A place you can go to each day that helps separate work and home life.

There are several things to consider when thinking about setting up a home office space; will you be sharing the space with other family members? Do you need multiple workstations? If so, would you rather

have a separate space for each person? No matter where you decide to make your home office area there are things that can be important to have…surface space to spread out, good task lighting, access to power, file drawers, cabinets/shelves for supplies, space for a printer/scanner, etc.

If the room you’re thinking of using for your home office will be a multipurpose space, you likely want to be able to put things away to keep it neat. If you have a guest bedroom but also want it to function as an office, consider replacing the guest bed with a Murphy bed that can close when not being used. This option allows you to have a real bed for the occasional guest but then frees up that precious floor area and gives the room more space for other uses. That also means a workspace or two won’t feel so crowded and you’ve now got a multi-functional room!

We might not be able to change the new normal of working from home sometimes, but we can change the environment we do it in. Take a positive step in decreasing stress by setting up well-thought-out spaces that allow each family member to work to the best of their ability. That way we can all love where we live and work!

If you’d like to learn more about these options, California Closets Syracuse has an Office display and a Murphy Bed display at their Dewitt showroom, located at 3210 Erie Blvd East. SWM

Joy Rafferty is the owner of California Closets, Syracuse.

Wednesdays, April 8 – June 3

T’ai Chi Chih Joy Through Movement

What: T’ai Chi Chih is a series of gentle easy-to-learn movements originated by Justin Stone in 1974, after studying with various masters in Japan, China, and India. Led by certified T’ai Chi Chih instructor, Jim Campbell.

Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville.

When: 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Info: Series registration: $50; beaverlakenature.org. There will be no class on April 29.

Wednesday, April 8

Trying Poetry: An Experimental Writing Workshop

What: This class is for anyone who has ever thought about writing but isn't sure where to start. A short, instructional conversation about what poetry will be followed by easy writing activities designed to help you get words on the page. Sharing is optional. The instructor will offer supportive feedback. This workshop is beginner friendly.

Where: Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. When: 6:30 p.m.

Info: Registration required; lpl.libcal.com.

Tuesday, April 14

Jodi Kantor

What: Part of the Friends of The Central Library Author Series, this event features the bestselling author and prize winning investigative reporter who, with Megan Twohey, broke the story of sexual allegations against Hollywood producer, Harvey Weinstein.

Where: The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse.

When: 7:30 p.m.

Info: Visit ticketmaster.com for tickets.

Wednesdays, April 15, 22

Table 315 Moms Dinner Club

Tuesday-Sunday, April 21-26

‘& Juliet’

What: Created by the Emmy-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. “& Juliet” asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way.

Where: Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse.

When: Showtimes vary.

Info: Recommended for ages 8+. Visit ticketmaster.com for tickets.

Friday, April 24

Boogie Down Disco Night Fur Paws

What: Celebrate HumaneCNY's 60th Anniversary at this evening full of food, drinks, raffles and disco dancing with music from the iconic PopShow Band. Your best Disco-Themed outfit is encouraged but not required.

Where: Marriott Syracuse Downtown, 500 S. Warren St., Syracuse.

When: 7 p.m.

Info: Tickets: $100; humanecny.org. Must be 21 and over to attend.

What: Open to moms in all stages of motherhood who are looking to connect, unwind and enjoy a night out with other moms. Designed to bring women together over great food, conversation and community. Featuring curated connections, where attendees can be matched with a table of like-minded moms. The location of the event is a secret, only revealed the morning of the event, keeping the evening full of surprise and excitement. An exclusive after-party at an optional exclusive after-party location.

Where: Downtown Syracuse When: 6 p.m.

Info: For tickets visit Table315.com/seats. Learn more at table315.com or @table315.moms on IG.

Thursday, April 16

Killer Queen: A Tribute to Queen

What: Killer Queen’s UK popularity grew to such an extent they soon secured a residency in London’s Strand Theatre attracting nationwide BBC coverage – the first tribute to have a show in the West End.

Where: Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St. Syracuse.

When: 8 p.m.

Info: Visit ticketmaster.com for tickets.

Friday, April 17

Good Samaritan Event

What: An Evening of Hope & Resiliency,” celebrating the lives transformed through the center’s mission and recognizing the generosity and commitment of its volunteers, donors and community partners. The Samaritan Center empowers individuals and families on their journey toward stability, offering everything from a hot meal and welcoming environment to assistance with housing and social service navigation.

Where: The Lodge at Skaneateles, 4355 State St, Skaneateles Falls. When: 6 p.m.

Info: For more information visit samcenter.org/good-samaritan-event/.

Friday, April 17

MPH Spring Gala

What: This year’s MPH Spring Gala celebrates the many ways leadership is cultivated and expressed at MPH. Leadership doesn’t just happen –it is taught, nurtured, and practiced.

Where: Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse.

Info: For tickets or more information, mphschool.org/support/gala.

Saturday-Sunday, April 18-19

The Syracuse Orchestra:Let Freedom Ring

Sunday, April 26

Women Composers Across the Centuries

What: The Syracuse Chamber Orchestra will present its annual spring concert and will feature women composers such as Clara Schumann, Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel, Amy Beach, Maddalena Lombardini-Sirmen, Florence Price, Elizabeth Jacquet de la Guerre, Emilie Mayer and Princess Amalie von Prussia.

Where: Park Central Presbyterian Church, 504 East Fayette St., Syracuse.

When: 3 p.m.

Info: Free and open to the public. For more information visit syracusechamberorchestra.com.

Tuesday, April 28

John Legend: An Evening of Songs & Stories

What: John Legend’s live show will feature intimate renditions of his greatest hits and fan favorites from throughout his 13-time Grammy-winning body of work built over 20-plus years—woven together with stories from his life and career.

Where: Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse.

When: 8 p.m.

Info: Visit ticketmaster.com for tickets.

What: In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, The Syracuse Orchestra performs music from around the world that celebrates freedom and our richly diverse local community.

Where: St. Paul's Syracuse - The Downtown Episcopal Church, 220 E Fayette St., Syracuse.

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday

Info: For tickets and more information visit syracuseorchestra.org.

ExplorE thE Charm of Cazenovia! and thE trEasurEs nEarby

Steingraeber joins staff at Crouse

Crouse Medical Practice - Family Practice recently welcomed Myranda Steingraeber to its staff. Dr. Steingraeber completed her medical degree at SUNY Upstate in Syracuse and her residency at Albany Medical Center in Albany. She is board certified in family medicine and is currently welcoming new patients at the Family Practice office at 8324 Oswego Road in Liverpool.

St. Joseph’s Health welcomes Dr. Ishanee Garg

St. Joseph’s Health recently welcomed Ishanee Garg, MD, to its team. Dr. Garg serves in a hybrid capacity with the hospitalist team and the St. Joseph’s Physicians Medical Office Centre (MOC) Primary Care Practice.

Dr. Garg completed her Family Medicine Residency at St. Joseph’s Health and is excited to continue caring for patients across the continuum of health—treating acute conditions in the hospital while emphasizing preventive and long-term wellness in the outpatient setting.

“It feels incredibly meaningful to continue my career as a family medicine physician here in Syracuse, where I’ve spent so many formative years,” said Dr. Garg. “Having studied medicine at SUNY Upstate Medical University and completed family medicine residency at St. Joseph’s, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply this community values compassionate, connected care. I’m honored to continue serving the people who have truly made this city feel like home.”

Dr. Garg earned her Doctor of Medicine from SUNY Upstate Medical University and her Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honors) degree from McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada, graduating Summa Cum Laude. During her undergraduate studies, she contributed to global health research through a malaria control project in Zambia, Africa, and worked on studies addressing access to primary care for patients with spinal cord injuries.

Her clinical interests include chronic disease management, women’s health, preventive care, pediatric and adolescent health and geriatric medicine. She is passionate about fostering long-term relationships with patients and delivering personalized, patient-centered care that enhances overall wellbeing and daily quality of life.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Garg has a strong commitment to education. She served as a course instructor for the “Practice of Medicine” course at SUNY Upstate Medical University during her residency and was a teaching assistant for multiple courses during medical school. She also created an educational module on opioid crisis harm reduction for the emergency medicine rotation.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Garg enjoys playing badminton, traveling and exploring new places, experimenting with recipes from around the world and relaxing with a good book.

Dr. Garg is seeing patients at St. Joseph’s Physicians Primary Care at the Medical Office Centre, 104 Union Ave., Syracuse. To schedule an appointment, please call 315-448-5363.

Three join CNY Community Foundation staff

The Central New York Community Foundation recently announced three new hires.

Rebecca Balara, Communications Manager

Balara grew up in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, PA, and has been a Downtown Syracuse resident since 2022. She brings experience in digital communications, social media strategy, storytelling, event communications and graphic design.

She first came to the region in 2018 to attend Syracuse University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications with a minor in creative writing. Rebecca previously worked in communications at Central New York nonprofit healthcare organizations, including Loretto and Helio Health, most recently as a social media

Kate Downes, Program Manager

Originally from Northern New York, Downes’ career in agriculture, rural community health and program outreach was shaped by a rural upbringing. Downes’ extensive experience working in statewide, regional and county-based nonprofits has honed a passion for investing in and empowering rural communities.

Before joining the Community Foundation, Downes worked at Seven Valleys Health Coalition, managing food systems and community doula work as part of the rural health network for Cortland County.

Downes holds a master’s degree in sustainable agriculture and rural development from University College Dublin, Ireland. A resident of Homer, Downes volunteers with the Homer Regional Farmers’ Market and Oswegatchie Education Center in the Adirondacks. Downes is a graduate of LEAD NY Class 18 and previously served on several advisory boards, including New York Agriculture in the Classroom, helping school-aged students and their teachers access agriculturally accurate science and curriculum. Outside of work, Downes spends time playing outside in the hills and valleys of Cortland County with their husband, two middle schoolers, rambunctious Border Collie and an ambivalent cat.

Assemblymember Dr. Anna Kelles recognized Downes as a 2024 Woman of Distinction. In 2025, Senator Lea Webb awarded Downes a New York State Senate Commendation for contributions to addressing food insecurity and promoting local food systems.

Izzy Foss, Program Associate

Foss joined the Community Foundation as Program Associate. Foss grew up in West Wales, United Kingdom, and moved to the United States in 2023 to pursue graduate studies at Syracuse University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in geography and international development and a master’s degree in international development and media from the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom, as well as a master’s degree in public health from Syracuse University.

Prior to completing her degree at Syracuse University, Foss worked at Norfolk Community Foundation in the United Kingdom as a program and grant assistant, where she supported grantmaking and community programs. Outside of work, she enjoys baking, crosscountry skiing and hiking.

The Central New York Community Foundation is a public charity that turns community dollars into community change. Established in

1927, it receives contributions from donors, manages them to grow over time and then distributes funding to address the region’s greatest needs. The foundation has invested more than $320 million in community projects that benefit Central New York. It also serves as a civic leader, convener and sponsor of strategic initiatives that foster a thriving and equitable region and address the most critical issues of our time.

Jazzfest leadership expanding

As the Syracuse International Jazz Fest prepares for its 40th edition, the festival's leadership team is expanding to support the festival’s continued growth and long term vision. Stacey Waterman, director of operations, will be stepping into a more active role overseeing day to day festival management and guiding the event’s ongoing development, Marissa Greenlar will be director of marketing and Carrie Wojtaszek will serve as director of sponsorship.

The Syracuse International Jazz Fest is one of the region’s most celebrated cultural events and most beloved summertime traditions, presenting free admission world class performances and community programming. Dates, acts and details for this year’s festival have not yet been announced.

Waterman, owner of DMR Booking Agency, is a SAMMYS Hall of Fame inductee and a longtime production leader at the Landmark Theatre. Wojtaszek is owner of Moment Maker Agency and former chief operating officer of Galaxy Media. Greenlar, owner of Outsourced Brands & Services, is former chief content officer at Galaxy Media.

After presenting and producing 40 festivals— and with a strong transitional team and talented management trio now in place— Founder Frank Malfitano will remain in his role as executive director, focusing on guiding the festival through this next chapter and shaping its future direction.

Malfitano will continue to contribute creatively while stepping back from the year round operational demands required to produce an event of this scale.

“After 44 years at the helm of Jazz Fest, and as the event’s founder, nothing pleases me more than knowing that the festival will continue on long after I retire. As far as event management teams go, Stacey, Carrie and Marissa are the best in the business,” said Malfitano.

“They’re successful, experienced, and dynamic, and they’re not just going to carry Jazz Fest forward . . . they’re going to take it to the next level. With these three powerhouse women in charge, the future of Jazz Fest is in very good hands.”

Now celebrating its 40th anniversary, the Syracuse International Jazz Fest has grown far beyond its origins. What began indoors in 1982 as a Syracuse nightclub showcase featuring regional jazz artists quickly evolved into its first outdoor edition at Song Mountain the following year with jazz legends The Heath Brothers, Mose Allison, and former Tonight Show bandleader Kevin Eubanks, and ultimately into the nationally recognized, “ticketless” festival it is today.

For more information visit syracusejazzfest.com.

Syracuse Woman Magazine - April 2026

More ready than they realize WHAT 2,300 WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS TAUGHT ME

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ADVERTISE WITH US

CONTACT OUR HOME OFFICE

More than a seat at the table

WOMEN HELP DRIVE THE FUTURE OF FINANCE

LISA WHITAKER

CHRISTINA SAUVE

CEO of Cooperative Federal Credit Union

JENNIFER GREEN

SANDY MCKENNAN

Sweet Treats to support the MOST

JAIME “JJ” WEISBERG

Heading northbound

BRINGING THE SCIENCE OF WELL-BEING TO CNY

The work itself

Meaningful work, real impact

A philosophy worth living

JENNIFER SHORR

That Insurance Girl

A BRAND BUILT ON BEING YOURSELF

Spring reset

HOW FOOD AND MOVEMENT BRING YOUR ENERGY BACK TO LIFE

JULIA FREEMAN

Savorcuse merges one woman’s passion for food, her hometown and marketing

KIELBASINSKI

A business journey full of resilience, connection and support

Women supporting women

Kids, neighbors, friends and 120,000 pounds of hope

EARTH DAY LITTER CLEAN UP IS APRIL 24 & 25

Carving out calm

CREATING A HOME OFFICE THAT WORKS FOR YOU

ExplorE thE Charm of Cazenovia! and thE trEasurEs nEarby

Steingraeber joins staff at Crouse

St. Joseph’s Health welcomes Dr. Ishanee Garg

Three join CNY Community Foundation staff

Kate Downes, Program Manager

Jazzfest leadership expanding