april 1, 2016 women outstanding -...

APRIL 1, 2016

30 outstanding women making a difference in business

and our community.

O U T S T A N D I N G

OMENIN BUSINESSW

SPONSORS:

12 PHOENIX BUSINESS JOURNAL

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APRIL 1, 2016 13

HOPE.Delivering

Building stronger communities through our support of local nonpro�ts.

srpnet.com/community

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Carnes, Rhoshawndra 16Cavallari, Renie 31Conboy, Pam 17Contreras, January 17Dawson, Barbara 27Feroleto, Danielle 19Garcia Duarte, Patricia 20Ho, Melissa 20Holdaway, Melissa 21Hunter Wiest, Candace 32Jackson, Becky 21Lang, Anita 22Lawless Robertson, Laura 18Mac Lennan, Michelle 22Matos DeBleiux, Lily 27McGinty, Michelle 31

McMullen, Beth 24Meaney, Barbara 24Nollenberger, Mary 25Polanski, Jodi 25Poon, Jenny 26Pratte, Danna 26Rogers, Eileen 23Rowley, Marcia 28Saaty-Tafoya, Avein 29Scrivano, Catherine 30Silveus, Brenda 30Stevens Anderson, Lisa 23Stockley, Molly 16Sullivan, Marie 32

FROM THE EDITOR�e Phoenix Business Journal has consis-tently recognized the accomplishments of women to the business community. Since 2001, the PBJ created the Women in Busi-ness publication and awards program to spe-cifically honor women who have made giant contributions to the business community and to the community at large.

Each year since, we have received nomi-nations for thousands of inspiring and influ-ential women in the community who are offered as potential Outstanding Women in Business honorees.

From those nominations, an impressive number of women have been honored. �e alumnae have helped the program thrive and expand. To find our Outstanding Women in Business honorees, we call for nominations, asking the community to share the names of women who are shaping the growth of their companies and the community.

�e women selected must have the pow-er to make command decisions within their organizations, be highly respected with-in their industries, mentor others, and lead the way in philanthropic and civ-ic endeavors.

�is year, the Outstanding Wom-en in Business Awards program recognizes 30 Valley women who have proven to be dynamic and remarkable leaders with estab-lished track records of significant accomplishments in business and/or community service. A panel of judges — Laura Capel-

lo, MaryAnn Guerra, Kristine Kassel, Sheila Kloefkorn, Christine Nowaczyk and Nicole Stanton — along with PBJ editorial leader-ship, pored through more than 150 unique entries and reached unanimous decisions on which business leaders to honor this year.

As we celebrate the 16th year of this pro-gram, we are pleased to share the stories and honor this fabulous lineup of Outstanding Women in Business.

On the following pages you will meet these women — many who began their careers serving in education, finance, law and shattering the glass ceilings as the first women hired to lead their companies. �ey have helped run nonprofits, launch startups and shape the future of technology. �ey’ve spurred innovation, helped heal the sick and propelled the region’s economy.

�ey’ve suffered tragedies and rebounded with great triumphs.

Read about each of them here and see the answers to our questions about lead-ership, best advice, mentoring, networking

and more. �e Phoenix Business Journal is proud to honor this amazing group.

�eir achievements underscore the ever-prominent role women have taken in leading this com-munity and the world!

Connect with Ilana Lowery at [email protected]

or on Twitter at @PhxBixEditor.

in their industries, mentor others, and lead the way in philanthropic and civ-

�is year, the Outstanding Wom-en in Business Awards program recognizes 30 Valley women who have proven to be dynamic and remarkable leaders with estab-lished track records of significant accomplishments in business

�e Phoenix Business Journaproud to honor this amazing group.

�eir achievements underscore the ever-prominent role women have taken in leading this community and the world!

Connect with Ilana Lowery at [email protected]

Project Editor: Ilana LoweryLead designer: Joel ChadwickPhoto editor: Jim PoulinEditorial contributors: Dale Brown, Patrick O’Grady, Masada Siegel

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O U T S T A N D I N G

OMENIN BUSINESSW

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CAREER: After graduating from college I started work as a banquet manager at a restaurant named Top of The Plaza. From there I was a buyer at Xerox Corp. In, 2001 I relocated to Arizona and worked for the state of Arizona in the Department of Economic Security as a Homeless and Food Bank Contract Management Specialist managing contracts throughout the state. Afterward, I went back to Corporate America to work for Honeywell International Inc. as a contract administrator. Eventually, I was asked to come to work in the Division of Student A�airs to assist with the establishment of Arizona State University’s Downtown Phoenix campus. In June, 2012, I was hired by Pilgrim Rest Foundation Inc. to establish its Family Services Division as its first director.

CIVIC: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. member since 1995; president, 2012 to present; National

Association for the Advancement of Color

People (NAACP), 2010 to present; Order of Omega;

National Urban League; National Coalition of 100 Black

Women Inc., Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter, Charter Member, 2015

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I am responsible for the planning, implementation, distribution and oversight of all benevolence gifts and services provided to individuals and families in the community. I manage and coordinate various programs and services to address the needs of families and individuals. I am accountable for securing grant funding, and I am charged with developing operating budgets for various social service programs the organization operates. I manage a $500,000 budget that provides various services to the community. I also am responsible for establishing partnerships and relationships with various organizations such as nonprofits, corporations, small businesses, and faith-based organizations.

AHA MOMENT: Volunteering as a youth I

realized the importance of giving back so I organized my friends to assist seniors in our community by doing various errands for them such as going grocery shopping, cleaning their homes, or doing yard work for them. It was during those times that these individuals would often impart their knowledge to me about life, faith and family. This helped shape me as a leader because it allowed me to view things from di�erent perspectives.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: From my mother: Always remember to keep God first, and He will direct your path. At the end of the day, you are only accountable to God and the person you see reflecting back in the mirror because if you can face Him and like what you see in the mirror beyond the physical and be okay, than you will always be a blessing to others.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Have a mentor in your personal, professional and spiritual life. They will assist you in being who God destined you to be so the “dash” in life doesn’t became a buried treasure.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: My

philosophy is based on servant leadership coined by Robert K. Greenleaf. It is a set of practices that enriches the lives of individuals, builds better organizations and ultimately creates a more just and caring world.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: Either a physical education teacher, a drummer or saxophone player. I was very involved in sports during my youth, and I always had this high adoration for music.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I can go

fishing for hours.

YOUR ANTHEM: “I Was Here” by Beyoncé. It has

three stanzas that basically state how I try to live my life.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Travel and see more of the world.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: I

would like to continue to grow the family services programs at

Pilgrim Rest Foundation into one of the best places for people to receive social services.

Rhoshawndra CarnesDIRECTOR OF FAMILY SERVICES | PILGRIM REST FOUNDATION INC.AGE: 41 BORN: Bradenton, Florida RAISED: Albion, New York

NETWORKING TIP:

“Find your “superconnectors.”

�ese are individuals that will bring

various

CAREER: More 23 years of experience in management, sales, marketing, advertising, broadcasting, branding and media. I came to CTCA after working on the branding and advertising side at multiple television stations in Seattle, Washington, Portland, Oregon and Phoenix, most recently KTVK Channel 3 and KASW CW6. Prior to this venture, I worked within the marketing department for the Anaheim Angels Major League Baseball Organization and the minor league a�iliate, Lake Elsinore Storm. I was also a sportscaster in Lafayette, Louisiana, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Seattle, Washington.

CIVIC: Vice president of Kristi Cares, the Kristina A. Stockley Melanoma Foundation; vice president of Arizona Assistance In Healthcare; Catholic Community Foundation and the Diocese of Phoenix: Catholic Leadership Circle co-chair and member; Phoenix Heart Ball committee member, Phoenix Symphony: Savor the Symphony committee member; city of Goodyear Police Department Shop With A Cop committee member.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I have been with the company for more than seven years. The executive-

level position sits on the eight-member Senior Leadership Team and includes both clinical and non-clinical leaders. I collaborate with hospital/corporate leadership and both the regional/national boards of directors to establish marketing/outreach strategies. I am responsible for executing that strategy with the mission of raising awareness about CTCA. I also lead the marketing arena for a 13-state region.

AHA MOMENT: It happened on Dec. 28, 2008, the day CTCA opened our doors to patients. It was six months after I had been

hired as director of marketing. I had no health care experience

and only pure will. Leading up to the opening, I hired my first employee, a public relations/crisis management expert as my sidekick, a female who was fresh out of the U.S. Air Force, captain ranking, and

together we successfully marketed and branded the

hospital. The “opening” became the model in the company.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: “Be yourself.” Simple, yet meaningful advice.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Don’t worry about the glass ceiling; your ceiling is where you

put it. I see far too many women restrict their own growth because they don’t allow themselves to believe they can go further. Set your goals high, believe that you will achieve them, and then put the work in.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: My leadership philosophy is to hire the “right” stakeholders and empower them to be non-traditional in their approaches. It takes a certain type of person to work within the departments that I oversee. They must be authentic, expert in their field, ambitious, take initiative, open to feedback, accountable, studious and most importantly, have the passion to work in such an emotional profession.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: I can remember when I was little, my dad (parents are originally from Seattle) would take me to 7-11 to get Slurpies in the plastic cups with the Seattle Seahawks (players) on them. He would teach me their names and stats. I was reciting their defensive end, Manu Tuiasosopo, at 3. Then growing up in Louisiana, the closest baseball team to us were the Atlanta Braves. My dad and I would watch the games together where he taught me the specifics. In short, it was engrained in me

that I wanted to be a sportscaster. And I became one. Goal accomplished.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I am a former “Beauty Queen.” Growing up in Louisiana, towns have their own pageants in connection with a festival, focused on their industry purposes where winners receive scholarships.

YOUR ANTHEM: “(I had the) Time of My Life,” the theme song of the film “Dirty Dancing.” This is my favorite movie and it explains my life.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Continue to manage work/life balance.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: To obtain a master’s degree in business administration.

NETWORKING TIP:

“Add value to a relationship without expecting anything

in return.”

Molly StockleyVICE PRESIDENT OF HOSPITAL GROWTH | CANCER TREATMENT CENTERS OF AMERICA AT WESTERN REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER AGE: 42 BORN: Aberdeen, Washington RAISED: New Iberia, Louisiana

APRIL 1, 2016 17

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CAREER: I began my Wells Fargo career in 1979 as a banker. I was promoted to vice president, Community Banking district manager, senior vice president, and then market president. In 2001, I was named executive vice president and regional president for Wells Fargo’s Northern California Regional Bank. From 2004 to 2007, I managed the Learning and Sales Development team. In 2007, I became regional president for Wells Fargo in Arizona and in 2014, my responsibilities expanded to include Idaho. On Jan. 1, I became the CEO in charge of Wells Fargo’s Regional Banking operations in Arizona, Nevada and Utah.

CIVIC: I currently serve as past chairwoman for Valley of the Sun United Way, and co-chairperson for Thriving Together, a birth-to-career education

initiative; advisory board member for the Arizona We Want and Expect More Arizona; board member for

Teach for America; and chairperson of

Wells Fargo’s Arizona community advisory

board and Wells Fargo’s enterprise-wide Women’s

Team Member Network. I served as past chairperson for the Greater

Phoenix Chamber of Commerce; Valley of the Sun United Way 2012 campaign; Advanced Business and Financial Services Leadership Council; House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee for Multiple Sclerosis Awareness; and MCCCD Chancellor Search Committee.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: Responsible for 496 community banking stores and 6,355 team members.

AHA MOMENT: It was when I realized that women really can have it all, and that only you can define your all. The support of my family and friends and working for one of America’s great companies created the opportunity to live and perform to my full potential.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: I learned from a young age to tell the truth,

admit mistakes and always give your best — most of those from my mother. I’ve had many mentors and managers who provided invaluable advice throughout my career, one I’ve learned through our Wells Fargo culture is people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Whether you’re an individual performer or a manager leading many, focus on the customer, focus on the team. Do what is best for the customer, do what is best for the team and do what is best for company, and you will win. Lead yourself always. This truly applies to all industries. Also keep learning and keep growing, stay curious and stay hungry for knowledge, improve your skills and gain new experiences. Learning is a journey!

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Leadership is not a coat you where or a hat you put on, it is something you possess always. It’s what you do when no one is looking that is most important. Leadership matters, and it’s a true di�erentiator in business and in life. Do what’s right and do the right thing.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: I’ve always loved numbers and excelled in math, accounting was a passion. I thought about a career as a CPA, I also love listening and then providing advice whether to friends, family or business situations. I combined both of these passions and became a banker.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I was a cheerleader, but those who know me well might not be surprised by that fact.

YOUR ANTHEM: I love music, all music. Too many to name as my anthem.

One that is a favorites is “Shake it O�” by Taylor Swift. It is

about being confident and knowing who you are.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Short term is to plan our family vacation with our children and grandchildren. Long term

is to learn to read music and take piano lessons.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Continue to further

my leadership skills. Also to look for opportunities to further connect with our communities and become even more collaborative with fellow leaders.

CAREER: I began as a prosecutor under the Maricopa County Attorney and the Attorney General. After prosecuting health care fraud, I moved to health policy, serving as an assistant director at AHCCCS and a policy adviser to former Gov. Janet Napolitano. I went on to serve the Obama Administration as a senior advisor to Secretary Napolitano, the U.S. Ombudsman for Citizenship and Immigration Services, and designee to the White House Council on Women and Girls. I now focus on ensuring that vulnerable women and youth in Arizona have someone standing up for them and their legal rights.

CIVIC: I serve as on the board of directors of the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence and participate on the Community Advisory Board of Arizona Fostering Advocates, which drives reforms to support the success of youth transitioning out of foster care. I also serve as an advisor to SheLEADS. I previously served on the board of directors of Los Abogados Hispanic Bar Association for 11 years.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I work with the sta� and board to

carry out the organization’s vision and strategic goals, to build partnerships with community allies, and to establish and reach goals related to service delivery, fund development, systemic reform advocacy, and volunteer programs.

AHA MOMENT: My first aha moment came at the age of 15 when I suddenly realized that nothing had as much influence on my future as my own actions.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Treat every day like an interview.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN

LEADERS: Seek out mentors who model the values you

cherish most. Don’t be afraid to let them know would like to learn from them. The leaders you admire are likely to gain just as much inspiration from you, as you do from

them.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Leadership isn’t

about titles or demanding all of the oxygen in the room, it’s about influencing decisions, actions and people around you to accomplish outcomes. Sometimes you are called to lead when you least expect it. It may take courage to step forward and

answer the call, but I’ve always found it worth it. Ultimately, I believe any well-intentioned person has the power to create amazing change in our state and in our world.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: As a young girl, I idolized Linda Alvarez, a former news anchor in Phoenix. My mother introduced me to Linda at a conference, and I decided I wanted to be just like her. By high school, I was writing essays about being a change agent in media, government and politics.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I accomplished a career goal when I worked as a broadcast associate for a television news station while studying for the LSAT.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Just Fine” by Mary J. Blige. As she often does, Blige provides an anthem for women about living life on your own terms, being thankful for the gifts in your life, and keeping your head up.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: I have two major personal goals lined up. The first is to madly enjoy my children before they run o� to college. The second major goal is to put pen to paper and finally begin writing the book

that has been writing itself in my mind.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: My goal is to keep up with and adapt to the needs of our clients. ALWAYS has moved beyond the start-up phase and now must mature in a sustainable way. We will keep delivering high quality legal services, while also finding ways to work smarter and to be innovative in building capacity in the community through training, open source resources, and partnerships.

Pamela ConboyLEAD REGION PRESIDENT FOR ARIZONA, NEVADA, UTAH | WELLS FARGOAGE: 56 BORN: Baldwin Park, California RAISED: Southern California

January ContrerasCEO/MANAGING ATTORNEY | ARIZONA LEGAL WOMEN AND YOUTH SERVICESAGE: 45 BORN: Austin, Texas RAISED: Phoenix and Mesa

NETWORKING TIP:

“Building and maintaining a vast network is not only invaluable, it’s also

a great to learn.”

NETWORKING TIP: “Be curious. �ere’s something valuable to learn from every person we interact

with.”


Whether she’s setting and implementing IT strategy for Avnet’s Global

Logistics & Operations organization or signi� cantly improving our service

levels, Beth McMullen is both an inspiration and tireless advocate for

women in business.

Her strategic vision and leadership have proved essential at Avnet, a

FORTUNE 500 company at the heart of the technology supply chain. With

more than 30 years of experience in the IT industry, Beth works closely

with nonpro� t organizations and serves as a board member at Arizona

Women’s Education and Employment (AWEE) to help more women pursue

career opportunities.

Congratulations on winning the Phoenix Business Journal’s Outstanding

Women in Business award.

Outshines. Outperforms. Outsmarts.

facebook.com/AvnetInc twitter.com/Avnet youtube.com/AvnetInc

That’s why Beth McMullen is an outstanding woman in business.

Innovation

CAREER: Since graduating from law school in 2005, I have been practicing in the field of labor and employment law. My practice includes litigation and trial work, of course, but I particularly enjoy partnering with business and human resources professionals to develop policies and processes to maintain a safe, welcoming, inclusive, diverse workplace.

CIVIC: For nearly 15 years, I have been actively engaged in the mental health advocacy and research community, both here in Arizona and nationally. I have held positions on the boards of the Institute for Mental Health Research; Mental Health America – Arizona; Recovery Innovations Inc.; HOPE Inc.; and the Arizona Foundation for Behavioral Health. I am also involved in the county and state bar

associations, including in the state bar’s mentoring committee.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP

ROLE: Our labor and employment law team

— locally, nationally and internationally — leads by

collaboration, and I share that vision. I am proud to work daily

with some of the most learned and creative professionals in the field and to

support and mentor our cadre of up-and-coming attorneys.

AHA MOMENT: Becoming a parent transformed me as a professional. There is no greater motivator to give your all, aspire to more, and live and lead by integrity than knowing your pint-sized conscience is watching and learning from you.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: I should not be satisfied, ever, with anything less than excellence, that there is always room for improvement, and that the drive to succeed must come from within.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Don’t become complacent. Although women have made significant inroads professionally, there remains much work to be done to balance

boardrooms, smash glass ceilings and eliminate once and for all gender-based pay disparity.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Be humble. No man (or woman) is an island, so when there is a client victory or other achievement, don’t for a moment believe one person is solely responsible for that outcome. Recognize and reward mentors, colleagues, and support sta�. Be abundant and e�usive in gratitude.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A musical theatre star, an operatic mezzo-soprano, a classical pianist, or a nun.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I have an unfortunate habit of breaking out into show tunes, loudly, at inopportune times.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Eye of the Tiger.” My husband is a Harley rider, and my biker nickname became “Tiger” along the way somehow. Aside from the reference to my biker handle, it’s hard not to feel invincible picturing myself running up the 72 steps in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art

like Rocky Balboa.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: To balance two competing interests while raising my daughter. On the one hand, I want her to grow up believing, without any doubt or thought to the contrary, that she has an equal opportunity to succeed and achieve her dreams and goals as her male counterparts, and for that gender parity to be so normal, so expected, that she can scarcely imagine otherwise. On the other hand, the fact of the matter is that there remain far too

many roadblocks before her, and it is incumbent upon me to be

vigilant and to give her the self-empowerment tools to

be able to stand on her own two feet and find her voice in this world.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: With respect to client representation,

to be ever more responsive, creative, and

hard-working and to earn their business and trust each

day. Within the firm, I’m eager to advance within the organization and

build my client base, and to expand on my role as a mentor to younger lawyers.

Laura Lawless RobertsonATTORNEY, LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT | SQUIRE PATTON BOGGSAGE: 37 BORN: New York City, NY RAISED: Flushing, NY

NETWORKING

TIP: “Look up from your

phone.”

APRIL 1, 2016 19

480.782.2680 · www.ChandlerCenter.org /ChandlerCenterfortheArts

@ChandlerArts

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Chandler Center for the Arts congratulates all of the women recognized for their contributions to Arizona businesses!

Located in the heart of Downtown Chandler, the Chandler Center for the Arts serves over 300,000 patrons annually and is near some of the best

shopping, dining, living and culture in the region.

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CAREER: I started my career out of college as a photojournalist with the Mesa Tribune as a stringer. To supplement my meager income, I took a job as the editor of an HVAC and electrical publication. The surprise in this position was that I found my passion for the commercial real estate and construction industry — the deals, the building process and the great people. I moved up in my career as a regional publication editor before going in-house with a construction company doing business development and marketing. I started Small Giants to be able to serve all aspects of the commercial real estate industry through creative and strategic marketing.

CIVIC: Committing time to serve others is possibly more important than the daily job you do. It is infinitely more rewarding

to use your time and talents to make a contribution to others, the industry and the community. As I have

grown in my career my time has shifted and

all have been enjoyable. Currently, I am very

dedicated to mentoring young women growing in their career,

teaching students at Arizona State University and supporting a family

through Prison Fellowship.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: When I first started the company the model was selling and executing to my personal strengths. I quickly learned that model accomplishes burnout and limited growth. By hiring people who are experts in all aspects our of the marketing trade, we found a fast-track to scalability and sustainable growth. I am now able to spend my time on what I love — spending time with the clients on strategic activities to grow their business and prospecting with new clients.

AHA MOMENT: I am most e�ective as a leader when I am reminded that God is in charge of the business. When I find that I am pushing for my way, communication is strained or assumptions about a situation are made, I inevitable discover I am have

taken the steering wheel of the business. If I trust, use the gifts that God has given to our team, the clients we serve and me, not only do we always succeed, we are more profitable and we have so much fun!

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Two pieces of advice continue to come up for me and have been bits of advice I have passed on to others: “Be undeniably good at what you do.” This means proving it over and over, pushing yourself to continuously learn and stay in the lanes of what you are best at. Second, “Make sure your business model is recession proof.”

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Build your career purposely forgetting that you are a woman. It is not a crutch. It is not a privilege. It is not special. You have nothing to prove. You are a brilliant contributor to the world beautifully disguised as a woman. Let them think you are less, not as capable, not a fit in a male-dominated industry — that is not your issue to address, it is theirs to overcome.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Leave a legacy.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A National Geographic photographer (and still do!)

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I qualified for and completed the Boston Marathon.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Legacy” by Nicole Nordeman.” It’s a great song (chorus is quite fitting).

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: My family and I would like to do a mission in Africa to serve an amazing university, Northrise

University, that is changing the education and leadership possibilities for

hundreds of young adults. I would love for my daughter to

see the need and be able to meet their needs in a small way. And I would like to teach the women there on leadership and setting a vision for their lives.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL:

Small Giants opened a Denver o�ice about a year ago, and it

has taken o�. My goal is to work with our team to grow that o�ice to the equal size of our Phoenix o�ice in five years. We started a second business in Denver that will serve as a feeder to Small Giants, building awareness and growing our services.

Danielle FeroletoPRESIDENT AND OWNER | SMALL GIANTS LLCAGE: 44 BORN: Phoenix RAISED: Durango, Colorado

NETWORKING TIP:

“Always give more than you take and

remember that your network is your

net worth.”

http://www.ChandlerCenter.org


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CAREER: I love my career path because in every position, I have been able to make positive impacts in people’s lives. I started my career in 1987 as an economic development and housing specialist and real estate asset manager at Chicanos Por La Causa Inc. In 1993, I became a loan services manager at Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix Inc. In 1995, I joined Mercy Housing as a housing developer. In 1999, I took my first corporate job at Bank One/Chase as a community development o�icer and later to the Arizona community development manager. In 2006, I returned to NHS Phoenix, now Trellis, as President and CEO.

CIVIC: Inaugural advisory board member to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; board member, Community Housing Capital; board member, Arizona

Housing Alliance; board Member Phoenix Community Development Investment Corp.;

advisory community member to Chase and

Mutual Bank of Omaha; and board member of

the Arizona Foreclosure Prevention Task Force.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: As the president and CEO,

I oversee all affordable housing programs and services provided by Trellis, a not-for-profit organization established in 1975 in Phoenix. Programs and services include pre- and post-purchase counseling; foreclosure prevention counseling; reverse mortgage counseling; financial literacy and homebuyer education; individual credit counseling; home mortgage lending; and financing and development of affordable housing projects. I have been instrumental in forming creative public and private partnerships that promote the development of affordable homes in neighborhoods targeted for revitalization. During my 10-year tenure at Trellis, I have been expanded programs and services offered to the public by tripling the

size of the Organization and have done so in a responsible manner which has strengthened the organization’s financial position.

AHA MOMENT: My aha moment occurred while I served on the Community Advisory Council to the Federal Reserve Bank and realized that I was able to advocate for many struggling homeowners in Arizona and across the nation with real stories and facts about the mortgage meltdown to policy makers.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Learn to say no.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Find your passion and work it.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Do what is right — justice for all.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A medical doctor.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I am an impressive scorpion hunter and eliminator.

YOUR ANTHEM: “One Love/People Get Ready” by Bob Marley.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Learn and implement healthy living elements into my life.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Discover a sustainable model to cover the expenses related to providing housing related and social services.

FAVORITE QUOTE: “Once social change begins, it cannot be reversed. You cannot uneducate the person who has learned to read. You cannot humiliate the person who feels pride. You cannot oppress the

people who are not afraid anymore.” — Cesar Chavez

PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WHO MENTORED YOU: I was

mentored by all of my previous supervisors. I have always counted on advice from people such as Rita Carrillo, Gloria Munoz, Elisa de la Vara, Ruth Osuna, Teresa Brice

and Karen Scates, female leaders, past and present,

in the community who led with courageousness to effect

change.

CAREER: I love being an attorney and a trial lawyer. I am a shareholder at the national law firm Polsinelli. I see myself working with clients for years to come. Many of my clients are companies and individuals involved in government investigations. Helping them preserve their rights and navigate through the legal process without disruption in their businesses or a loss of livelihood or a loss of personal freedom is important to me.

CIVIC: I serve on the board of the Arizona Justice Project. In 2012 and 2015, I was elected to three-year terms on the State Bar of Arizona Board of Governors, the youngest such member. I volunteer my time on guardianship matters as part of the Arizona Volunteer Lawyers. I have served as president, vice president and treasurer of the Arizona Asian American Bar Association, as a past member of the Arizona State University Center for the Study of Race and Democracy’s advisory board, and as a member of the State Bar of Arizona Committee on Criminal Jury Instructions and the Committee on Women and Minorities in the Law.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I am a mentor to young attorneys, women attorneys and diverse attorneys. I strive to be someone that people turn to for advice, support and inspiration. Through my work with the Asian Bar Association, I have mentored students and young attorneys through the State Bar of Arizona, the Arizona Asian American Bar Association and through other informal and formal mentoring programs, particularly my firm’s Diversity Writing Program.

AHA MOMENT: While an undergraduate at ASU, I learned

of a bullying case which resulted in the tragic suicide

of a Vietnamese high school student. His death sparked in me a desire for activism, compassion and a commitment to creating positive social change. I became aware

of the role attorneys play in advocating for and

protecting civil rights. As a result, I became active in building

coalitions and raising social justice awareness. It was through these activities that I knew I wanted to be a lawyer even if it meant not following the path that my father had dedicated his life to building.

I imagine that only those raised in similar family traditions can truly grasp the magnitude of the “aha moment” when I made that choice.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Walk through every door that is open to you. Meet every challenge as an opportunity. Trust that you can figure it out. Just do it!

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Be fair and fearless, even if you are told something is not possible. Embrace your creativity, charisma and courage. Have a joie de vivre so you are able to role model that even when times get tough it is important to focus on the positive and believe in the impossible.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Be kind to everyone.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A doctor like my father.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I am an accomplished skee ball player!

YOUR ANTHEM: “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey because it is an awesome karaoke song.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Discover the next big food trend.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Influence the hiring and retention of diverse attorneys in the legal profession.

FAVORITE QUOTE: “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WHO MENTORED YOU: My first mentor at ASU was Madeline Ong Sakata a community leader who helped to start the ASU Asian Student Coalition. She encouraged me to apply to law school and awakened in me the realization that I could take my career path in any direction I wanted.

Patricia Garcia DuartePRESIDENT AND CEO | TRELLISAGE: 50 BORN: Yuma, Arizona RAISED: Somerton, Arizona

Melissa HOSHAREHOLDER | POLSINELLIAGE: 35 BORN: Hong Kong RAISED: Phoenix

BEST NETWORKING TIP: “Make sure to look people directly into

their eyes as you hold a firm and welcoming

handshake.”

NETWORKING TIP: “Show up early and

often.”

APRIL 1, 2016 21

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CAREER: I started my career in the insurance industry working for an agent and later as a customer service representative for a TPA. I worked my way up to a director and was moving into an executive position when I decided to do something crazy. I quit my job, took a cut in pay and co-founded a charter school. It was the best career decision I have ever made. The feeling that I am making a di�erence in some way in the lives of students, their families and my community is priceless.

CIVIC: I have the honor to serve on multiple boards and commissions including the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce, an honorary Commander at Luke Air Force Base/Fighter Country Partnership, as well as advisory boards for Grand Canyon University Colangelo

College of Business, Arizona Charter Schools Association and Leadership West. I have also served as

commissioner for the Arizona Commission

for Postsecondary Education, commissioner

for the Surprise General Plan Commission and numerous

committees for the Arizona Department of Education. Currently,

I serve on the steering committee for the Boys and Girls club of Surprise.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I am responsible for the overall financial stability and operations, along with community partnerships and engagement. Creating a positive employee culture is close to my heart and really is what drew me to leave my career in the insurance field.

AHA MOMENT: There was a distinct time in my life where I accepted my limitations. Previously I spent a great deal of time attempting to improve areas that were not my natural personality, much to my (and my sta�’s) frustration. At the same time, I decided to “own” my strengths and restructured my areas of responsibility in our organization to play to those strengths. I made sure whatever civic role

I volunteered for was in my strength zone where I could add real value. The power in owning what I was really good at and equally owning those areas where I was not gifted transformed my career.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Have the courage to follow your passion no matter what the cost and dream bigger than what you think is possible.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Be confident no matter where you are in your career. Force yourself out of your comfort zone every week and focus on your strengths rather on your weaknesses. Tell yourself how amazing you are and recognize that everyone struggles in some area, no matter how much they may appear to have it all together. Remain positive, keep confidences and always look for ways to add value to others.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Set a strong vision; remember that people will rise to the level of your expectation; surround yourself with great people who are smarter than you; help others accomplish their goals and dreams; build a strong data system so

you can measure your success and hold yourself and others accountable; build a strong network and make it an extension of your team; work in your strength zone, sta� for your weaknesses; take risks as you will learn more by your failures than your success; have a growth plan, work your way out of a job; and keep it real, relatable and have a positive impact on everything you touch.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A high-level business woman. It has driven me all of my life.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE

PEOPLE: I was so obsessed with being a “businesswoman” as a teenager that I purchased my first business suit at age 13 and, in high school, carried around my books in a briefcase.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Look at Me Now” by Kirk

Franklin as it talks about how the challenges and pain you

experience in life help you grow to be a better person.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Get in the best shape of my life and visit every country in Europe.

CAREER: I started out as a bank teller in 1973 for First National Bank of Arizona, which launched a 30-year career in banking. My final position in that industry was president of community banking for First National Bank of Arizona in 2003. At that time, I decided to change gears and enter the nonprofit sector. I was the president/CEO of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce for five years, executive director for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (Desert Southwest Chapter) for three years, president and CEO for ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth for the past five years, and just recently was appointed president and executive director for Homeward Bound in Phoenix.

CIVIC: At the present time I am focusing all of my energy at Homeward Bound. However, I have previously served as a board member to: East Valley hospitals, Boys and Girls Clubs of Scottsdale, Fresh Start Women’s Foundation, Chandler Chamber of Commerce, Chandler Education Foundation, East Valley Partnership, the Centers for Habilitation, Chandler Horizon Rotary Club, Valley of the Sun Boys & Girls Club,

Chandler/Gilbert YMCA, Valley of the Sun United Way and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: My most important role as a leader is to help grow and groom future leaders. No matter how long the length of tenure is for a leader, mentoring and training those with leadership potential is vital to any organization. Making sure you surround yourself with a team smarter than you and then get out of their way. I also embrace a workplace that is fun and flexible hopefully

keeping everyone happy and loving their job.

AHA MOMENT: My “aha” moment came to me about three years ago when I read the book “Good to Great.” I had the opportunity to hear Jim Collins in person in Phoenix and fortunately

for me, my ICAN executive team was with me at that

conference. That day my thoughts about leadership

changed dramatically. At that time ICAN adopted the philosophies from the book and changed how new employees were hired, worked as a team di�erently and how new goals were set.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Don’t get too high or too low in your expectations and ask lots of questions to get clarity.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Please be careful of what you say and enter on all of your technological devices. Always ask yourself, “Does this pass the headline test?”

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: It’s never too late to develop a strong “bench” in your organization — getting the right people on board in the right seat and grow their specific talents. Lifelong learning is a key to success.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: When I was growing up there were two professions women could be: teachers and nurses. I was very inspired by two of my teachers. They taught me that I had opportunity and obviously made an impression on me, since I still remember them to this day. In a way, my community involvement has given me the opportunity to “teach” through the years.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: During the week I have a bowl of ice cream for dinner.

YOUR ANTHEM: “What a Wonderful World” by Louie Armstrong. To this day that song calms me in any circumstance.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Going to Australia with my best friend and husband Dan as soon as our 2-year-old granddaughter starts kindergarten.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Well, because I am 62 years old, everyone assumes it is retirement! Ha-ha, no way! Right now I am definitely already in my next big professional goal by joining the Homeward Bound team in March. Truthfully, I just want to be passionate about what I am doing every day and I truly believe I am!

Melissa HoldawayCEO | ARIZONA CHARTER ACADEMYAGE: 46 BORN: San Bernardino, California RAISED: Arizona

Becky JacksonPRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | HOMEWARD BOUNDAGE: 62 BORN: Phoenix RAISED: Phoenix

NETWORKING TIP:

“Be confident and genuine, always focus

on getting to know the other person.”

NETWORKING TIP: “Practice, practice,

practice remembering names!”


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CAREER: Interior design happens to be the career that chose me from as early as I can remember I was designing everything from spaces, to apparel, and yes even doll houses. I strongly believe that beauty through good design uplifts the human spirit having the power to elevate our daily existence. It was a natural fit for me with a mind that thinks spatially and creatively. This then balanced with a strong work ethic, the logical thinking influenced by my German engineer father, and business acumen helped set the stage for running a successful design firm even in some of the most di�icult of economic times. During the past 20 years, I feel blessed to be immersed in my passion with myriad opportunities to work on amazing projects, connect with inspiring individuals, give back to the community

and mentor young designers.

CIVIC: Every individual has natural-born gifts

and talents. I believe it is our responsibility to

work on them diligently so these well-developed skills

can then make a positive di�erence in our communities.

I established a 50Ic, the Inspire Foundation in 2005, to share

the powerful and uplifting aspect of design with our community including nonprofit organizations or individuals that wouldn’t typically a�ord design services. In addition, my goal for the Inspire Foundation is to promote the ethical and professional aspects of the design industry and to create a collaborative environment to mentor our design students. In addition to a competition for best design for a worthy cause, Inspire provides internships and scholarships to the next generation of designers.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I believe in a team approach to leadership. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. It is in the acceptance of both that allow a company to become a well-balanced strong team capable of shining far brighter than a single individual ever could. While I am responsible for

the overall growth and direction of IMI Design Studio, I encourage a collaborative approach to leadership, involving my senior leadership team in making key decisions for our company. Leadership is not a place, it is a journey and one that is far better in good company.

AHA MOMENT: I started my business shortly after graduating. Coming from a long lineage of entrepreneurs, I simply didn’t think there was any other way to work. Looking back as myself then — a young entrepreneur who just hung her shingle, I can recall situations where I clearly had more “balls” than brains. I’ve learned many hard lessons over years and while there were many “aha” moments, the greatest realization came from understanding that a true leader lets people in, not shuts them out.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: As a young entrepreneur, I received the best advice from a client that was a retired tuna boat captain… “The worst thing a leader can do is nothing. Chart a course based on the best decision at the moment and move forward. Adjust as you need to along the way. Indecision kills companies, leaders move forward.”

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Know your own voice and listen to it.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Each human has amazing strengths coupled with accepted weaknesses. A good leader creates a platform where individual’s strengths are celebrated and allowing a well-balanced team to benefit and support one another for the greatest good of all.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: Free…it is still my favorite word.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE

PEOPLE: I am a Ducatista.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Authority Song” by John Cougar Mellencamp. Not being one for status quo boundaries, I am always asking, “why not?”

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Fly a small-engine

plane.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: As IMI continues to

become more independent and runs smoothly with strong management team, I would like to give more attention to grow my new company Design 528, a furniture manufacturer based here in Arizona.

CAREER: My career grew out of a passion for theater developed at Central High School in Phoenix. While at Phoenix College, I was an Irene Ryan scholarship nominee and was in the cast of finalists in the Kennedy Center’s American College Theatre Festival. Through internships and jobs with Interlochen-The National Music Camp, the John Paul Theatre at Phoenix College, Arizona State University’s Kerr Cultural Center, ASU Gammage and the Tempe Center for the Arts, I experienced nearly every aspect of theater from acting to scenic design and found my home in arts management with the Chandler Center for the Arts.

CIVIC: Chandler Domestic Violence Coordinating Council; president, Lindon Park Neighborhood Association; advisory board, Westside Multi-Generational Center; city of Tempe, Boys and Girls Club; coordinator of annual fundraiser for the Tempe Community Action Agency; participant-100th Arizona Town Hall Civic Engagement; steering committee-Holocaust & Tolerance Museum

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: Manage the overall programs, sta�, financial objectives, and assist with the strategic analysis and planning for the Arts Center Division of the city of Chandler. Serve as the president of the Chandler Cultural Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, which is the programming and fundraising arm of the Chandler Center for the Arts and Vision Gallery.

AHA MOMENT: It was my second day on the job at a new venue and we were

hosting a classical music duo. Shortly before the performance we were

informed that they required a page turner. No one on

sta� read music, but I was chosen because ‘I was in the band in high school.’ The pianist said to me, “Just turn when I nod, it will be easy.” She started to play and there were no

noticeable nods, she must have felt the flow

and rhythm of the music through every bar. I felt so silly

jumping up and down nervously to a very serious piece of music. Apparently no one else noticed that but me. I learned to take risks, be nervous, and every day make sure to have a hearty laugh at life.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: My mother’s “Don’t discuss politics, religion or your finances publically.” For years I resisted this advice thinking that it was ‘just my mother’ who is a very private person. Even though I still catch myself doing it sometimes, I always hear her voice in my head and realize yet again, that my mother knows what she is talking about.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: While you may not see the importance of it now, or don’t want to be labeled by your gender in business leadership. It is critical that you mentor and identify leaders in the women around you. I say women specifically because many sectors are still dominated by male leadership.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: I believe in what I do. The arts hold transformational power and should be accessible to all people. People first. Smiling and connecting with others is the most important thing I do every day. Nothing hidden. Doing complete work, as it was meant to be done or better, without cutting corners.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A cast member on Saturday Night Live. I have not missed an episode in 36 years.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I was the youngest female to play in the U.S. Open Chess tournament in 1977. In 1986, I broke the gender barrier as the first female ice cream dipper at the original Mary Coyle Ol’ Fashion Ice Cream Shop in Phoenix.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Juke Box Hero” by Foreigner. Never forget where you started and keep the stars in your eyes.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Attend a writers’ conference.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Market research and branding campaign for the Chandler Center for the Arts.

Anita LangCEO, PRINCIPAL DESIGNER | IMI DESIGNAGE: WND BORN: Chicago, IL RAISED: Maine Coast

Michelle Mac LennanGENERAL MANAGER | CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTSAGE: 45 BORN: Ennis, Montana RAISED: Phoenix

NETWORKING

TIP: “Be real. Love and

accept people for the amazing treasures

each and every one has within

them.”

NETWORKING

TIP: “Make it a daily effort

to connect others in your community even if

it doesn’t benefit your organization.”

APRIL 1, 2016 23

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CAREER: In 1983 I arrived in Arizona as a new college graduate. Armed with a marketing and business degree, I hoped to attend Thunderbird and work for a large corporation. Instead, I walked into a small print shop to get my resume printed and never left. An initial sweat-equity partnership deal led to ownership of 100 percent of the company 13 years later. This path allowed me to create a lifestyle business that reflected my values and life desires.

CIVIC: Participation in both Scottsdale Leadership and Valley Leadership gave me a unique perspective on my community and state. Past civic involvement includes the city of Scottsdale Human Services Board, Housing Board, Charter Review Commission, Scottsdale and Phoenix Chamber of Commerce boards, local

community bank boards and others. Community service includes Homeward Bound, Planned

Parenthood, YMCA, Arizona Humane Society

boards and many others. Founded the Baby Diaper

Drive, now the Diaper Bank of Central Arizona. Medical

missions in Africa and Nepal and built a school in Timbuktu in 2010.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: My involvement continues to evolve. Allegra’s daily leadership and operations are now directed by my business partner Ted Raymond. More of my time is spent strategizing with clients, teaching, coaching and running the Women’s Leadership Development Forums I’ve created. I derive great pleasure in supporting and watching others grow, learn and create more success and happiness in their lives.

AHA MOMENT: I had an experience rafting in New Zealand years ago where I almost died. In that moment, I clarified what was important to me and what my values were. There is no time to waste and no better time than right now to take action, to lead, to love and to live authentically.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Don’t try to achieve “balance” in your life — it doesn’t exist. Blend your life choices based on your personal priorities in that moment.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Don’t let your life be what’s left over when you come home from work. Don’t wait to be happy. Live from the inside out and define what success means for you. There are plenty of outside influences ready to define it for you if you don’t.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Maya Angelou got it about right: “People will forget what you said, they will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A few things… an adventure travel writer, an FBI/CIA agent, an ambassador and a social worker. Today I’d like to be Tia Leone’s character on “Madame Secretary.”

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: Many years ago, I worked a seasonal job as the Easter Bunny in Los Arcos Mall. Many scared and crying children sat on my lap for a photo!

I also worked my way through college with 18 jobs, including stints as a USDA potato inspector, a putt-putt golf course manager, Delmonte green bean machine cleaner, Pizza Hut janitor, waitress and more. I was very proud to work so hard to graduate with no debt when I finished school.

YOUR ANTHEM: “The 20th Century Fox Trot Mambo.” This is the song I recently danced to in the Dancing for Arizona Children show where I was the recipient of the People’s Choice Award. When I hear

the song it reminds me that I can do anything I set my mind to.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: I have a lifelong love of travel, especially international travel, and have managed to visit 30-plus countries so far in my life. My partner and I have just created our next 30

years bucket list of places we want to visit and explore.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Continue to transition my

leadership and ownership role. My goals include many development opportunities to expand my skills, knowledge and most importantly — to have more meaningful impact every single day.

CAREER: I have worked in health care administration for more than 25 years, serving in leadership roles within TriWest Healthcare Alliance and Banner Health.

Today I work with an inspired board of directors, a dedicated team of 350 employees, and 4,000 highly-qualified providers to serve the health care needs of more than 400,000 members in the Phoenix-area.

CIVIC: In my volunteer work, with Fresh Start Women’s Foundation and Expect More Arizona, I look to improve the “health” of our communities. I believe we can grow the potential of the individual contributors in our communities through educational opportunities and greater financial stability.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I serve as CEO for Banner Health Network. This division of Banner Health was created in 2011 to partner with employers and payers in the delivery of high-quality health care and a great service experience at an a¤ordable price. We have found success through provider engagement, harnessing data to better

coordinate care, and advocating for our members’ best personal health.

AHA MOMENT: My a-ha moment occurred when I heard someone quote me. This person shared something I said two years prior that had a powerful, personal impact. It was in that moment that I understood influence. It was both humbling and inspiring.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: I admire my husband’s calm demeanor and the way he approaches life. Instead of trying

to force the situation or control the response, he often reminds me to

let life happen and a solution will present itself.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Don’t be overly focused on finding the perfect solution to work-life balance or how to “have

it all.” Instead, turn your attention to the things that

matter to you most. Spend time focusing on your passions

and those things that align with your personal values. It will guide you in both your personal and professional paths.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Draw the picture of your destination, and engage

every individual and team in their unique contribution to that end. Never lose sight of your goal. Celebrate milestones and acknowledge personal accomplishments along the way.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: I never had aspirations to be a ballerina or teacher. I wanted to be a lawyer, or become involved in the political process at some level. As it turns out, there were not a lot of job postings seeking a candidate with a political science degree. Fortunately, the experience I gained in some health care jobs during college put me on the path to where I am today.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: Last year I started up piano lessons after a 30-year hiatus. I’m taking lessons alongside my 5- and 7-year-old daughters. I have learned focusing on the music is a great way to unwind at the end of a long day.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Beautiful Day” by U2 is a great reminder that every day is a gift and we all have the ability to make a positive impact on our world.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: We are moving in the next couple weeks. Getting

through that with a smile on my face is my next personal goal.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: In my current position, I have the opportunity to impact the future — how will health care be delivered and reimbursed? How can we keep people healthier, health care a¤ordable, and our health system sustainable? I find this work to be a privilege, a responsibility and a professional goal that is constantly engaging.

Eileen RogersALLEGRA MARKETING & PRINT, PRESIDENT | ONE CREATIVE VIEW LLC, OWNERAGE: WND BORN: Lake Worth, Florida RAISED: Midwest

Lisa Stevens AndersonCEO | BANNER HEALTH NETWORKAGE: 47 BORN: Fargo, North Dakota RAISED: Fargo, North Dakota

NETWORKING TIP: “Ask people where

they are from, instead of what they do.”

NETWORKING TIP:

“In an electronic world, don’t

underestimate the power of a handwritten note

to connect with someone.”


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CAREER: I started working for a brokerage firm in New York right out of high school. I quickly shifted into technology, working for entertainment, telecommunications, and engineering organizations. In my 20s, I started my undergraduate education at night (obtaining my bachelor’s degree in four years – while working full time.). Upon graduation, I moved to Arizona to continue my studies at Thunderbird School of Global Management. Completing my studies broadened my perspective and career opportunities. I moved back East and worked globally — spending time in Latin America and honing my Spanish skills. While I love New York, we moved back to Arizona where I continued working for global organizations. At Avnet, I have the opportunity to continue traveling, leading

and expanding my career.

CIVIC: I currently serve on the board

of Arizona Women’s Education & Employment

(AWEE); co-chair our annual Faces of Success

Luncheon; participate on the development committee; and

serve as an adviser for AWEE’s SheLEADS program focused on

professional development and skills training. I have a strong commitment to STEM-related initiatives, with a specific focus on encouraging girls and young women to view STEM-related careers as a viable career choice.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: As a vice president of information technology at Avnet, I have responsibility for developing and implementing the IT strategy for Avnet’s global logistics and operations business. This include key areas such as distribution services, global compliance services, and integration solutions. I also sit on the leadership team of the Avnet Women’s Forum, which provides networking opportunities, leadership development and support for Avnet women.

AHA MOMENT: Early in my career, I was

confident that the best way to obtain information was to ask specific questions ... never realizing that I was usually getting the answers I expected as I rapidly fired o� questions. One day, a colleague pulled me aside and told me — sometimes the best way to get information is to “respect the silence in the conversation” and let others open up. This might seem very obvious now, however, to this day, I sometimes need to remind myself of this discussion and zip my lips.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Deliver bad news as concisely, timely and professionally as you would deliver good news.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Whether it is your career or personal life, don’t let things happen to you; work to make things happen for you.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Collaboration, communications, diversity, and respect.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A flight attendant.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT

WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I actually interviewed and was o�ered a job as a flight attendant and turned it down at the last minute to take a job working with a close friend. Turned out to be one of the best career and personal moves — I learned a great deal and actually met my husband there.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Born to be Alive” for obvious reasons!

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Not necessarily the next big goal — more of an eventual goal is to obtain my Ph.D.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: I am currently engaged

in two very large, interesting, challenging and global strategic initiatives — immediate goal is to see these initiatives through to successful implementation. And then o� to the next challenge!

PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WHO MENTORED YOU: I am

fortunate to have interacted with many different people who

have influenced my leadership style and career. Some displayed behavior I admired, while some I would never want to emulate.

Beth McMullenVICE PRESIDENT OF IT | AVNET INC.AGE: 56 BORN: Brooklyn, NY RAISED: Brooklyn, NY

NETWORKING TIP:

“Focus on what you can contribute to the network as opposed

to what you will get out of it.”

CAREER: I took a fairly traditional path — undergrad, law school, a judicial clerkship in Washington and another in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona. I thought I would be a great courtroom litigator. After a few years of researching and writing briefs and never seeing the inside of a courtroom, I knew I needed to make a change. I looked into lobbying and government relations on the advice of a law school classmate and have never looked back. I cannot think of a more rewarding career. I get to be a part of shaping important public policy decisions, interact with endlessly interesting people and set my own course as a business owner and member of the best public a�airs team in Arizona.

CIVIC: Legacy Foundation Chris-Town YMCA, board of managers: In addition to health and fitness programs, the organization provides access to quality medical and dental care for our community’s disadvantaged children, teens, adults and seniors; Brophy Community Foundation , board of director: In my capacity on the board, I have assisted the foundation with its legislative efforts

to establish a tax credit program that ensures that students with a verified financial need can afford a quality private education; volunteer at St. Gregory’s Catholic School; and Arizona Chamber of Commerce, member of the Public Affairs Committee.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: Co-founder, equity owner and member of the Management Committee, and, according to my colleagues, the “heart” of the team.

AHA MOMENT: It has never been about one defining moment for me, but

rather a series of experiences and opportunities — having

amazing mentors to provide great instruction and substantive, hands-on opportunities, becoming a wife and mother and being part of a team of professionals

that care about each other and making a di�erence in

Arizona.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Be present in the moment.

Always aim to be the best version of yourself in that moment.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: My advice for

men and women is the same. Listen more.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Keep your commitments and follow through. Know the di�erence between sympathy and empathy — without that understanding you will never truly connect with others. Work harder than anyone else and know when to ask for help.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: I wrote an essay in the fifth grade saying I wanted to be a lawyer. My mom saved it and framed it for me when I graduated from law school. I doubt that at the age of 10 I knew what a lawyer was, but my parents like to tell people that even as a child, I had plans for my life.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I can execute a perfect cartwheel.

YOUR ANTHEM: My 7-year-old loves Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song.” She belts it out with unabashed enthusiasm every time it comes on the radio. That kind of sheer joy is contagious.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: I always try to set new fitness goals for myself. I would like to hike the (Grand Canyon) rim to rim before

I turn 50.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: My next big goal is simple; getting there is the hard part. I want Triadvocates to be viewed as the “go-to” public a�airs firm by every company doing business in Arizona.

PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WHO MENTORED YOU: I am forever grateful to Knox Kimberly, who hired a young lawyer with no understanding of politics. My baby sister who manages to push me outside of my comfort zone while making me feel loved and supported. And the two accomplished career women who rise before dawn to exercise with me. They have taught me to value friendship above competitiveness.

Barbara MeaneyPRINCIPAL | TRIADVOCATES LLCAGE: 46 BORN: New York RAISED: New York and Arizona

NETWORKING TIP:

“Participate in things you truly care about and not because you

are trying to build your resume.”

APRIL 1, 2016 25

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CAREER: My career includes an ever-evolving path that allows me to share the journeys of visionaries, developers, investors, business owners, entrepreneurs and creatives. Every day is a new adventure with chapters that come together in the stories of lives that we are invited into to share in the journey of discovery. ...We consider every assignment and the challenges and rewards that accompany it a part of the relationship that lives long beyond the completion of a task.

CIVIC: My passion for serving others begins with my amazing husband and our dedication to the couples we are blessed to walk beside in mentoring positive change in marriage relationships. We have studied and become certified together to serve in the role of Life Advisors for couples seeking guidance in

their marriage. I also serve in the role of an advisor to women seeking guidance and mentorship in an

individual one-to-one mentorship program. A

long-time passion includes my involvement with The

Emily Anderson Family Learning Center at Phoenix

Children’s Hospital. In addition, I serve as a sta� member at my church,

Cornerstone Christian Church in Chandler.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: My role involves spending every day with the most incredible business partner on the face of the earth, Rommie Mojahed. We are in our 11th year of the most rewarding collaboration imaginable. We are responsible for recruiting, mentorship, training and team building. We share best practices, have topical training opportunities and share learning experiences and victories in the workplace and life.

AHA MOMENT: My aha moment came in a parking lot of a business during the recession and one of the most challenging times of my life. My business partner and I were discussing strategies for survival in the current state of the economy. He said, “I promise, it will be fun again someday.”

I needed a moment of promise. We agreed on the mission statement that has shaped our belief system: “We don’t have a backup plan.” This is our career and we will make it work.”

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: 99% of the things we worry about in life never materialize.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Priorities begin with faith, protecting the needs of family and placing them first, serving the needs of others above self. Bring your sense of compassion and natural ability to nurture those around you. Never be afraid to stand up for those you serve and stand out for being all in.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Be all in in all you do. Serve those you work for and with, and enjoy the adventure. Time passes just the same whether you use it wisely or waste it.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A mom of many children.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: Our family now includes 10 children plus two

incredible daughters-in-law so technically 12 and six grandchildren by the time this is read, two dogs, and two grand-dogs.

YOUR ANTHEM: “I will trust in you” by Lauren Dagle.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: A family vacation get away with all kids and grandkids.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Being honored by being included in this way would have been a dream but is now a reality. Being considered an Outstanding Woman in Business is a humbling dream come true.

PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WHO MENTORED YOU: Eddie

Basha will always stand out as my mentor in serving and giving to those with whom you spend the majority of your day, your work family. Eddie and Nadine Basha have

been an inspiration to me in embracing

the needs of women in business to acknowledge

the priority of children, their educational needs, service to

children and families in community and the value placed upon every member of the team that comprises our labor team or work family.

Mary NollenbergerDIRECTOR OF LEASING AND INVESTMENT SALES | SVN DESERT COMMERCIAL ADVISORSAGE: WND BORN: Wisconsin RAISED: Wisconsin

NETWORKING TIP:

“Building a strong network of collaborative

partners always leads to greater opportunity.”

CAREER: Prior to working in the non-profit sector, my background was in sales and management in the retail and mortgage industries. I was also volunteering for a pet rescue and during the 2008 foreclosure crisis, kept hearing stories of Realtors finding pets abandoned in homes, which is what set me into action to start Lost Our Home Pet Rescue. In 2011, after 2.5 years of volunteering full time while still working my full time job, I took a leap of faith and dedicated 100 percent of my time to help with the extreme demand for our rescue services.

CIVIC: I’m involved with the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, Toastmasters and the Arizona Alliance for NonProfit’s Executive Director Leadership Circle. I’m often asked to speak about the rescue and doing what you’re passionate about to civic engagement organizations. I also mentor a few startup nonprofits, which I really enjoy since it’s another way to stay connected in the community and make a di�erence.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: What started out as “my baby” is now an organization bigger than I am

and has a life of its own. I founded the organization to help pets and pet parents in our community, but it’s the people in our community, our board and sta� that feed, nurture and support it, so that it can do its best in serving our community.

AHA MOMENT: During one not-so-great moment I learned how much something I say can be interpreted in a di�erent way than was intended, giving the message a very di�erent meaning. It really made me realize how important communication is and that I need to slow down and think

about the best way to give a message so that it will be received

correctly.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: A grantor once told me that founders of a nonprofit are usually very passionate about their cause, which is why they are compelled to start

a nonprofit in the first place. Because of that, many lead

only with their heart, which is a mistake. A nonprofit business is

still a business, and needs to be run as one. Decisions should be made using both your heart and your head.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Discover what

you are passionate about and find a way to apply that into your career, or make it your career. If you are passionate about what you do, you will be successful because you love the work and are energized to do your best.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: A leader should be one of the hardest workers on the team and set an example for others. The leader should empower others to run with their job, but also keep an eye on what’s going on so they can guide them and help ensure their success. As I have been maturing as a leader, I have learned to open up more and let more of “me” and my vulnerabilities show through at work. This has helped build a stronger team culture with more respect, appreciation trust and positivity.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A veterinarian.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: From a very young age I wanted be a vegetarian because of my love for animals. When I was 15, my mom was so tired of me asking her for permission to be a vegetarian (and I caught her at the right moment one

day), that she finally agreed to

it. I have been a vegetarian ever since that day more than 31 years ago.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Imagine” by John Lennon. He sings about living life in peace and the world living as one.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: I wish I could say I have big goals of retiring and traveling the world, but honestly, I love my career and would miss my friends, family and pets immensely if I traveled that much. My next big goal seems small, but it’s important to me, which is to finish the remodel on my home that I purchased three months ago.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: My goal is for Lost Our Home Pet Rescue to provide a greater continuum of services for needy pets and pet parents.

Jodi PolanskiFOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | LOST OUR HOME PET RESCUEAGE: 46 BORN: New York RAISED: Tucson

NETWORKING TIP: “Smile, be genuine,

listen and ask questions.”


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CAREER: In 2002, I spent a year in China teaching where I fell in love with sharing knowledge and impacting youth. My first full-time job out of college was as a graphic designer for James Publishing in Santa Ana, California, in 2005. In 2007, I was a graphic designer for 944 Magazine in Scottsdale then became an art director for the Arizona Republic Magazines. In 2009, I founded eeko studio, a graphic design and branding agency. A year later, I founded CO+HOOTS, central Phoenix’s first and now largest co-working community and entrepreneurial collaboration hub.

CIVIC: I volunteered with several local nonprofits, including Global

Family Philanthropy, Child Crisis Center and Girls In Tech. I co-

founded the CO+HOOTS Foundation, the nonprofit philanthropic arm of CO+HOOTS to do social good. The Foundation organizes educational programs for youth and adults focused on business and technology.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I believe it is our job to train future leaders. I love sharing my knowledge and hope to encourage people to dream. Anything is possible.

AHA MOMENT: The day I decided to start my first business, and didn’t want to do it alone.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Don’t forget to take a moment to breathe in all you’ve accomplished.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: It’s OK to not have all the answers.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Help others be great leaders.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: An inventor. I always wanted to solve problems and create things. To take many small parts and meld them into something functional and useful.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I didn’t get my bachelor’s degree until 2013. For 10 years, I was missing one class to be able to fulfill the requirements to earn my degree. That class was a Chinese language class.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors. I wake up every day with the best of intentions. I strive to

make the most of every day, to find joy in every day. It’s so easy to get

caught up in the misery, self doubt and depression of all

the world’s problems, but if you think about it we really are so lucky to just be here on Earth.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: To help raise my

daughter to be a kind, empathetic, strategic-thinking,

caring and strong woman.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: To support 1,000 entrepreneurs through CO+HOOTS and help as many women business owners as I can.

CAREER: My career path is to continue to lead, guide and advance Nutritional Brands and its sister companies within the nutraceutical industry, both in the U.S. and internationally.

CIVIC: I love being involved with students, especially in education of health and wellness. It is so important for students and their families to understand how to make good decisions for their health — simple strategies for a healthy life.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: My role is to motivate and inspire, to lead, and create opportunities and goals. I encourage and support those who share in the journey of reaching these common goals.

AHA MOMENT: Probably when I had children, because that experience of raising three boys, which are all teenagers

now, helped me understand more than anything else the importance of

patience, understanding, stern encouragement, support,

communication and leading by example.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: “Don’t be

afraid to try because you risk failure, and don’t be afraid of

making a decision for fear it may be the wrong one.” Great advice,

but sometimes hard to live by.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Trust your gut

instincts, they rarely lead you down the wrong path.

YOUR LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Leadership to me is about believing in yourself and your ideals, inspiring others to believe, and serving those who trust you enough to follow.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: I knew that I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself, but I didn’t really have a specific profession or job in mind. I knew I wanted to do something that made and other people happy.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: WND

YOUR ANTHEM: This changes over time, but right now I would say “Gotta Want It” by Jordin Sparks is a song I identify with. When you’ve set certain goals and you

want to achieve them so badly, there is nothing that can hold you back.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: My next personal goal is to be present in the moment and to consistently spend time in meditation each day — the benefits are amazing. It seems simple, but trying to find the time is laborious.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: My next professional goal is to remain as CEO of Nutritional Brands and guide the company to the next level of business.

Jenny PoonFOUNDER | CO+HOOTS, CO+HOOTS FOUNDATION AND EEKO STUDIOAGE: 32 BORN: Minneapolis, MN RAISED: Eden Prairie, MN

Danna PratteCEO | NUTRITIONAL BRANDSAGE: 43 BORN: Texas RAISED: Just outside the Dallas/Fort Worth

NETWORKING TIP:

“Go into every meeting with the intent to help the

other person.”

NETWORKING TIP: “Smile. Happy

people are more approachable.”

APRIL 1, 2016 27

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CAREER: Following law school in my home state of Iowa, I moved to Arizona where I have enjoyed working with the wonderful people at, and clients of, Snell & Wilmer for more than 25 years. During these years, I have gained broad experience assisting Fortune 500 business leaders and boards of directors in resolving disputes through litigation, investigations and regulatory compliance work. Often, the matters that I handle involve non-U.S. entities and venues resulting in work around the globe to assist clients in

resolving business issues.

CIVIC: On an international basis, I am active in Lex Mundi, a global

a�iliation of 160 major law firms in 100-plus countries, for which I have served

as chair of the board of directors. On a national level, I serve on the American Bar Association’s Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary that vets and rates candidates for the U.S. District, Courts of Appeal and Supreme Court. Locally, I have served on the board of directors for XICO Inc., Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations, Homeward Bound and the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I was elected to serve on the firm’s five-person executive committee in 2015. I also serve as a chair of the firm’s International and Commercial Litigation

Practice Groups. Over the years, I have enjoyed contributing to the development of the firm’s ombudsperson program, attorney development committee, diversity taskforce and women in leadership program.

AHA MOMENT: Having a daughter changed my life. It strengthened my perspective about priorities, not wasting time (mine and other people’s), the need to speak up, and the value of laughing at imperfection (mine).

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Just buy the shoes.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Trust yourself.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: I see

leadership as the opportunity to serve others.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: Able to get a good education and find a

career where I could continue to learn throughout my life.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD

SURPRISE PEOPLE: I can juggle.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Lord of the Dance” because it is about joy, perseverance

and faith.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Plan less, and enjoy each

day.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Plan less, but continue to watch for new opportunities and challenges from which I can learn while working with great people.

CAREER: My experiences are varied and include serving as a teacher, elementary principal, middle school dean of students, assistant superintendent, adjunct university professor, English as a Second Language Instructor, director of religious education at a military base, business owner and community volunteer. I also owned a technology company for six years before returning to my true love: Education.

CIVIC: Glendale Chamber of Commerce board member; Glendale West Rotary; city of Phoenix Youth and Education Commission; Hispanic Leadership Institute Alumni; Leadership West Class XXII.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I was appointed as the first bi-lingual, Latina superintendent of the

Pendergast Elementary School District in May 2014. I am privileged to

work in an environment with dedicated individuals and

a governing board that supports “empowering excellence and success.”

AHA MOMENT: After my third year of teaching, I was named Teacher of the

Year. A superintendent saw my work and recognized my

talents and recruited me to be a principal.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: You can do anything, believe in yourself and go for it.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Know you are capable of doing anything, ask for what you know you are worth, don’t settle for less.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: To be a role model and to not micro manage. Allow others to use talents and gifts to be the leaders they can be and provide opportunities. Most importantly, to model what you expect from others.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: Growing up as a devout Catholic, I always knew I wanted to be a nun and teach others as I was taught. I loved education and had excellent role models as teachers.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I am full Puerto Rican.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Middler. It is simply beautiful and inspirational.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: My personal goal in life is to be a nanny for my beautiful grandchildren.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Continue to be a motivational speaker and my work with the organization Si No Yo, Quien? LLC, which I founded in 2015.

Barb DawsonPARTNER | SNELL & WILMERAGE: 53 BORN: Iowa City, IA RAISED:Sioux City, IA

Lily Matos DeBleiuxSUPERINTENDENT | PENDERGAST SCHOOL DISTRICT 92AGE: 58 BORN: New York, NY RAISED: New York, NY

NETWORKING TIP: “Enjoy time with

everyone.”

NETWORKING TIP: “Be actively

involved in your community.”

Congratulations to Laura Lawless Robertson, Partner at Squire Patton Boggs, for being honored as one of the Outstanding Women in Business 2016.

T +1 602 528 4000

squirepattonboggs.com

Squire Patton Boggs (US) LLP 1 E. Washington St., Suite 2700

Phoenix, Arizona 85004


And, we are proud to sponsor the Mentor of the Year award for this year.

Wells Fargo congratulates this year’s Outstanding Women in Business honorees, including our own Regional President Pam Conboy. Your leadership, professionalism, innovative ideas, and community support deserve this recognition.

© 2016 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.

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CAREER: I realized my desire to invent new ways to impact people and the world around me while studying English and communications at Kansas State University. My passion for travel, innovation and her community has been instrumental in turning ICE into the industry leader that it is today. I continue to revolutionize ICE’s client programs on a daily basis while inspiring my sta to always be and do their best.

CIVIC: ICE has four charity partners to strategically target both local and international causes. Locally, ICE aligns its eorts with Phoenix Animal Care Coalition (PACC 911), as well as A New Leaf, a nonprofit agency that provides shelter programs for domestic violence victims and homelessness, in addition to youth and community programs. Internationally, ICE supports children’s causes through Christel House International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children worldwide break the cycle of poverty. On a military front, ICE is committed to assisting Operation Comfort Warriors, a program designed to serve the needs of wounded, injured or ill military personnel.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: My husband and I co-founded ICE Inc. nearly two decades ago to provide a valuable travel opportunity to the industry and introduce cruising into the world of vacation ownership. Since then, my leadership role within our organization has grown and evolved just as the company has. From writing ICE’s very first cruise booking to spearheading present-day business agreements, I’ve continuously sought to maintain an ever-growing leadership presence in an innovative, dynamic organization of passionate, dedicated people.

AHA MOMENT: The moment I realized the power of having passion for what you believe in. If you truly believe in who you are and what you are representing, your passion and confidence will allow you to overcome great obstacles. Whether it is speaking in public, “selling” your products or services, or leading within your company, great passion equals great results.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Don’t let negative people or unfortunate events distract you from what you want to do.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Women have a number of advantages in leading, including (but not limited to) natural instincts and the power of multitasking. While there are a number of times that women are at a disadvantage in the business world, there are equally as many opportunities where women have a tactical advantage and are key players to achieving goals. Use these advantages to compete and succeed in a male-dominated business world.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Empower others and hold yourself, and those around you, accountable.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: I wanted to be an FBI agent. I liked the idea of trying to solve problems and understand complex scenarios and people.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I graduated high school at age 16.

YOUR ANTHEM: I suppose if I had to choose one that makes me smile, it would be Tina Turner’s “Simply the Best.”

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: My husband and I

just purchased a beautiful property in Colorado, so my next personal goal is to buy some horses and spend some quality time this summer in the Rockies with my family, my dogs and my soon-to-be new horses.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: I

want to form a foundation this year that will benefit the employees of

ICE when they have an unexpected personal tragedy or need. Our company has always been incredibly giving to our partnered charitable organizations, and they’ve always rallied around our own team members who need support, so I want to provide an opportunity for continued support both for and from the ICE family.

Marcia RowleyCHIEF MARKETING OFFICER | INTERNATIONAL CRUISE & EXCURSIONS INC.AGE: 50 BORN: Texas RAISED: Kansas

NETWORKING TIP:

“I will look for guidance from the

other business women on this

one.”

APRIL 1, 2016 29

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CAREER: My interests and education in fine art, medicine,and business have allowed me to work in front line, clinical, administrative and consultant roles in hospitals, private medical practices, public health, community health centers and the Ohio and Arizona Primary Care Associations. In 2010 the Virginia Piper Fellows program allowed me to apply all of these experiences and gain additional expertise and certification in evidence based health care architecture and design as well as environmental sustainability.

CIVIC: Served as secretary of Phoenix Rotary 100, Valley Leadership Class 30, board of directors of the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, board of Valley of the Sun United Way, board of directors of the AZ Alliance of Community Health Centers, Board of Trustees of the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, and the board of directors of the Western Clinicians Network

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: Started in 2006 at Adelante as CEO to provide day-to-day operational leadership and facilitate partnerships with hospitals, health plans, corporate partners, foundations and state/federal agencies to fund the growth and expansion of Adelante over the past 10 years to four times its size and scope.

AHA MOMENT: One of the first CEOs I worked with would often have me work on his assignments and study his presentations (often not showing up at the last minute so I had to stand in for him.) At the time I was both terrified and mortified. Now I know he was making way for me to have an opportunity to learn and grow as a professional and a leader.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: “At every success or failure, ask what did you learn” from one of my favorite health care mentors and heroes Linda Hunt, regional CEO of Dignity Health. She also says, “Successful people make mistakes but they don’t quit.”

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: “Over-prepare

and put the time in especially where you share values with your leadership. Manage your impatience by becoming involved in other departments projects and volunteering to help where capacity in your organization is strained ... Don’t get hung up on titles. Becoming indispensable is the best career insurance and advancement plan.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: My leadership philosophy is a belief that by being genuine and authentic in relationships and inviting others to contribute their unique talents in a culture of collaboration and inclusiveness, you can do the most good. I stand up for what I believe in and those who may not have a voice.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A painter, sculptor, therapist and fashion designer. I am an artist so that came true. Seeing patients involved some measure of counseling and being someone’s boss you have to be a good listener, so most of my childhood dreams were not that far o�.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: After traveling to three continents by age 6, my family and I immigrated to Ohio where I grew up in a rural farming community called Logan.

YOUR ANTHEM: John Mayer’s “Waiting on the World to

Change.” I love the lyrics and the melody especially when

my 5- and 10- year-old sons sing it. It describes my typical state of mind when I observe something or someone that might involve

discrimination or sexism or plain old bad behavior.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Hike up to the Wave, a

sandstone rock formation on the slopes of Coyote Buttes in Northern Arizona near the border of Utah.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Start a not-for-profit, micro-credit entrepreneurial program for immigrant and refugee women in Maricopa County so they can sell their wares at kiosks at Adelante Community Health Centers.

Avein Saaty-TafoyaPRESIDENT AND CEO | ADELANTE HEALTHCARE.AGE: 44 BORN: Sulymania, Kurdistan of Iraq

NETWORKING TIP:

“Rather than asking “what do you do?”

ask people to tell you about “who they

are.”

RAISED: Tehran, Iran & Frankfurt, Germany and Logan, Ohio

CAREER: Early on, I was a stay-at-home mom, just working part-time as a bookkeeper for the Kmart Corp. Once they started school, I went full time, but it wasn’t until I entered the real estate industry in 1984 that my “career” began in earnest. I would eventually serve as president of the Northern Arizona Association of Realtors and be named its Realtor of the Year before getting into the escrow and title industry in 1993. Nearly 25 years later — and an eventual leadership role in marketing for Pioneer Title Agency — it was the best decision I ever made.

CIVIC: Currently, I serve as president of the Flagsta� Leadership Program. During my presidency, we celebrated our 25th anniversary and were honored as the 2015 “Organization of the Year” by the Arizona Daily Sun. I spent 25 years involved with the Soroptimist International, serving twice as the Arizona Peaks president. During my presidency, we founded our own nonprofit, Hope’s Closet. I served on the Northland Family Help Center board for six years, and am a past president of Northern Arizona Housing Solutions, as well as the current secretary. I also serve on the

Flagsta� Symphony Orchestra board and volunteer at Hope’s Cottage.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I oversee all marketing functions throughout northern Arizona and facilitate communications between our marketing team statewide, as well as head up our online and web-based brand presence and manage our public relations. I also help facilitate our Pioneer Title Agency in Action community relations program and served as chair of our 30th Anniversary Pioneer Title Agency “Go Take a Hike” initiative.

AHA MOMENT: In 1988, I was given the opportunity to join the

local chapter of Soroptimist International, with the sole

mission of raising funds and creating programs to help girls and women in my community. I jumped in head first, eventually serving as president twice

and helping to found Hope’s Closet, our own

nonprofit within the Soroptimist organization providing young

women access to professional and other formal attire/wardrobe options.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Anne M. Terrill, who mentored me as I began my career in real estate, often told me: “Give

back to the community that gives to you.” I took this on as my personal mission statement – extending “community” to mean my family, friends, colleagues, customers, neighbors and anyone I saw who was in need.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Of course, the above! I would also add “to take a little” too - take a little time for you; for your family; for your friends; take time to make new friends. And always take a little time for dessert!

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: A leader is really just a guide, taking careful footsteps and setting an example that inspires others. A successful leader is able to inspire people to follow in his or her footsteps, but also is able to create an environment wherein others can pave their own ways.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A high school history teacher.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I love to cook for lots of people and have a “friends and family” catering business of sorts called “Queen B’s Kitchen.” Recently, I formally partnered with a friend to do

home staging — we call our business “Out of the Box.”

YOUR ANTHEM: I like to think I rock this life I’ve been given, so my anthem is naturally Queen’s “We Will Rock You.”

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: I just signed on for it, actually. I recently joined the Flagsta� Symphony Orchestra board of directors. It is a new challenge, and a completely new way to inspire and impact others in our community.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Having just completed our 30th anniversary “Go Take a Hike” initiative, our entire company is inspired. We want to keep that momentum going, so my goal is to increase regular participation in our Pioneer Title Agency in Action community program.

NETWORKING TIP: “Listen to what

people have to say.”

CAREER: I began working in my current profession more than 30 years ago when I was a loan o�icer in a credit union. They brought in a financial planning program, and I persuaded the CEO that it made sense to train me to be a financial planner rather than risk hiring a pushy salesperson. When the credit union was absorbed by another institution, I founded CASCO Financial Group so that I could continue to o�er much-needed advice to those who may need it most.

CIVIC: I honestly don’t remember a time in my life when community service was not a part of my routine. I currently serve on the advisory board of Gina’s Team and the board of directors of Local First Arizona. Having just completed a three-year term as chair of the YWCA board of directors, I continue to support

that organization in developing curriculum and presenting financial education and wage negotiation

workshops as well as serving on the investment

and legacy giving committees.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: As

president of the firm I am responsible for all aspects of operation;

though I recognize and I am grateful for an amazing team that allows me to do the work I love; helping clients realize their dreams and supporting other financial planners in delivering quality service to their clients.

AHA MOMENT: I actually thought of myself as a poor and reluctant leader until a consultant pointed out that in polling my team about what is important about our work, she found their responses nearly mirrored mine. She assured me that leadership is the ability to articulate the vision and create an environment in which it can thrive.

Since that time I have had the confidence to lead from the perspective of “doing the next right thing,” formal or established leadership training may not compensate for experience and passion.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: I asked a good friend on her 88th birthday, what she thought was the best guidance she could share. Without hesitation, she said, “Embrace change. Assume all change will be for the best, don’t resist it. This will lead you to the opportunity and advantage more quickly.”

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Honor those who came before you; study their methods and learn from their experience. Don’t take for granted that those struggles have been resolved; we are seeing many of the rights women have achieved be threatened or revoked all over the world, including the U.S.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Be consistent in demonstrating your values; if your team knows the reason for the e�ort they will find ways to support the vision. WORDS TO LIVE: “Goals are dreams….with deadlines.”

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A teacher; emphasizing special education.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I don’t have

many secrets so there probably aren’t any surprises. I am most creative when it comes to cooking; I even taught a 2-year-old that brussels sprouts are delicious. It is definitely an expression of love for me to create a meal for those I care about; even better if they are in the kitchen with me; learning, teaching and sharing.

YOUR ANTHEM: “What a Wonderful World” recoded by Louis Armstrong…because it is a wonderful world, isn’t it?

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Most of my personal goals are travel-related; I want to go

pretty much everywhere!

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: We are in the

process of developing a very comprehensive planning o�ering that will help people understand the impact of day-to-day decisions on their long-term goals; I am so

excited to be able to o�er this tool to people who are

not particularly wealthy, as I feel there is less room for error and

consequences of decisions can be very impactful.

NETWORKING TIP: “Assume you will meet the right people when

the time is right.”


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Catherine ScrivanoPRESIDENT | CASCO FINANCIAL GROUPAGE: 61 BORN: Phoenix RAISED: Phoenix

Brenda SilveusMARKETING DIRECTOR | PIONEER TITLE AGENCYAGE: 66 BORN: Eªinghan, Illinois RAISED: Findlay, Ohio

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Congratulations to our ownBrenda Silveus,

both an Outstanding Woman in Businessand Amazing Leader in the Community!

We are proudof you!

C O M M I T M E N T T O S E R V I C E

www.ptaaz.com

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Michelle McGintyPRESIDENT | DRA COLLECTIVEAGE: 38 BORN: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada RAISED: Scottsdale

CAREER: I joined Sheraton out of college in sales and marketing and then moved into strategy and repositioning work for independent hotels and resorts. I built out sales and marketing organizations, led training and development, bought and sold hotels and did so many deals that I took over operations. In 1995, I left Corporate America and started my company, Aspire, doing the things I love … strategically bringing brands to life, leadership development and sales & customer service training that is innovative.

CIVIC: I have been involved with Junior League since 1990, as well as many organizations that support women’s issues. I have been active with Cystic Fibrosis and the U.S. Ski Team, and I am the founder of Wings to Fly, a nonprofit leadership camp for girls.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: To inspire my team to awaken the potential in every client we work with; to coach our people; to bring joy to our workplace; to raise our bar and our brand as the best in its niche; and to pay the bills and employee bonuses!

AHA MOMENT: When I realized that I was living the dreams of my male mentors. I had an opportunity to become a partner in a firm, and I realized that the work I

would do was not the work I was meant to do. I walked away from the opportunity and started this little company called Aspire. We remain rebels for 21 years and counting. It was such a great decision.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: Everything you need is within you, or If you get married now you’ll be married for more than half your life — is this who you want to be married to for more than half your life?

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Nothing

is ever in perfect balance so you just feel bad because all you ever say is, “I’m out of balance!” Life is about choices, so know what matters most to you and live to those choices. Don’t let

other people define you or how you choose to live.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Skip the flu�. Be authentic. Encourage and coach others. Be passionate and compassionate. Small things do matter, and you have to focus on what matters most. Some people aren’t “on the team” so let them go and wish them well. Work hard at your

Renie CavallariCEO AND CHIEF INSTIGATOR | ASPIRE MARKETING & TRAININGAGE: 55 BORN: Philadelphia RAISED: Philadelphia

NETWORKING TIP:

“Smile.”

relationships — they will matter more than anything else. Everyone leads.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A U.S. lacrosse player

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I have played the flute since the third grade o� and on. I am now back on and started taking jazz flute lessons two months ago, and I am loving it.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Shine” by Felix Jaehn and Freddy Verano. It is a message I live by and a melody I love.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Finish my fourth book — “Aspire…to shine”

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Keep enjoying the ride!

CAREER: Following my graduation from Arizona State University, I worked on the Lexus automotive account at Team One, a division of Saatchi & Saatchi, in Los Angeles. I returned to the Valley in 2003, and was lucky to meet Denise Resnik and joined her agency as an account executive. I have been learning from her amazing example for the past 13 years, and I am now lucky enough to continue the legacy she has built with the DRA Collective.

CIVIC: I serve as a board member for Valley Leadership and sit on the management and advisory board of ULI Arizona, a not-for-profit research and education organization. I am an active volunteer at the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center and a teen mentor at New Pathways for Youth. I was

a member of Valley Leadership’s Leadership Institute Class 33 and recognized by the Phoenix Business Journal

as a member of their 40 Under 40 class for 2013.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: As

president of DRA Collective, a public relations and marketing

firm, I lead the development and implementation of strategic marketing

and communication strategies including branding, media relations, community relations, relationship marketing, promotions, social media and experiential marketing.

AHA MOMENT: Building a relationship with my mentee at New Pathways for Youth. The experience proved the only way to lead is by example. It is about action and not words.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: No expectations. Never disappointed.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Learn how to say no. We are a generation of ‘busy.’ Spend your time doing things that fill you up and drive you forward.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Work with the best and learn from them.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: An architect.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I knit.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Good to be Alive’ by Andy Grammar. Because it is!

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: Add many new stamps to my passport. Next up, Paris!

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Continue to grow the talent at the DRA Collective.

FAVORITE QUOTE: “My mission in life is not merely to survive,

but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” — Maya Angelou

PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WHO MENTORED YOU: I have been

lucky to work with and learn from so many talented woman

mentors. My mom was an entrepreneur and an amazing example of what hard work and determination accomplishes. Denise Resnik epitomizes how leading with integrity fuels success. I learn from her daily.

NETWORKING TIP:

“Be yourself.”

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CAREER: My path has certainly not been a straight one. I’ve been an accounting clerk, a secretary, a bookseller, a fund raiser, a policy wonk, and a social justice teacher. But, once I figured out that I wanted to learn and lead and work within the nonprofit arena, I worked that much harder, followed my passions and did what gave me joy. That led me to AWEE, where I have been for 18 years.

CIVIC: I am committed to serving and investing in the community in which I live, and to do what reinforces my social justice commitment beyond my worklife. I’ve served on and led boards of education, of faith, of women’s groups, and political action — locally and nationally. I remain involved through personal investments of time, energy and philanthropy. I believe civic involvement builds better

communities and better lives and have nurtured my civic involvement as both a contribution and an opportunity for

my own personal and professional growth.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I

started as executive director of a small (under $500K)

organization and as the organization grew, the board enhanced my position

to president and CEO. I’ve been at AWEE since 1997.

AHA MOMENT: The moment came when I was working for a college dean. I had made a big work error. I was reluctant to tell him my mistake. I struggled through and told him. The aha came as he accepted my error, coached me through to a solution and had my back the entire way. He believed in me. He trusted in me to do the right thing. It was a learning that it was mine to pay forward if I ever had the chance. To this day, as a leader, I’ve tried to live up to that moment in time.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: To not undervalue or underestimate my self-worth and what I could contribute to the world; to be myself. And, to learn to type — well.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: Appreciate your gender. Seek out women mentors and support systems. Challenge what doesn’t feel right. Keep you integrity. Listen, reflect, learn from others, and be okay with taking risks.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Lead to develop others to become the best leaders they can be ... in their jobs, on their career paths, in their personal lives. Support and coach others to learn, to stumble, to pick themselves up, dust themselves o�, and try again. As a leader, be open to continued learning and the guidance and mentoring of others.

TELL US ABOUT THE PERSON/PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WHO MENTORED YOU: There are and continue to be many mentors in my life — both formal and informal, professional and personal. One that stands out is someone who taught me, and still does, the value of constant learning and reflection. Someone who is a sounding board, a guidance counselor, and an advocate all rolled into one. She is smart, dynamic, and still amazes me with her life choices and commitments even

as she has moved into “retirement.” My mentors are younger than I, peers, clients. My daughter, who I greatly respect and admire, is one of my best mentors.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A spy; a novelist.

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: My daughter states I am, “a great cook and party thrower.” Is that a surprise? I also am a certified (in Austria) strudel maker.

YOUR ANTHEM: “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge. It’s a little bit rock n’

roll, and I love the lyrics — “I’ve got all my sisters with me;”

Get up ev’rybody and sing,” We are family!” I love my family, my sisterhood of friends, and the joy the song imparts — the energy, too. It makes me want to sing and dance.

NEXT BIG PERSONAL GOAL: To adjust to

continuing family transitions with grace and humor.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: It’s still forming, but I am committed to growing my skills as a leader so I can explore additional ways to impact our community in ways that will better people’s lives.

CAREER: Unusual. Single mom at 21 and I needed a job so I went into the restaurant business. When the girls were older I decided I needed to be home on weekends. So I applied at an insurance agency for a clerk position and slightly exaggerated my typing skills. Within five years I was the o�ice manager, had attained my CIC designation and 16 P&C and group health licenses. A bank down the street had an insurance company that had never been profitable and hired me for the turnaround. The CEO of the bank moved me to Arizona in 1986 in time for my first recession. In 1988, I accepted a BDO position in Riverside, California. It was a huge opportunity wrapped up in ugly. The recession had caught up to California and the bank. As I solved problems, I advanced rapidly. By 1993, I accepted the job as CEO of that same bank. I stayed at that bank until I was recruited in 2006 to start WVNB. I landed on March 23 and the bank opened our doors on Dec. 23.

CIVIC: Board member of Greater Phoenix Leadership, Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Delta Dental AZ, Delta Dental Foundation, Rowpar Pharmaceuticals, the 100 Club, and the Arizona Bankers Association. Member of

Charter 100 and the ABA Government Relations Committee.

SYNOPSIS OF YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE: I am the Chief Revenue O�icer, the person that gets fined first if we don’t manage compliance properly, the lady that clients call if there is a problem, the marketing director, the keeper of our bank’s culture and integrity, the cheerleader for our younger stakeholders, the public face of the bank, a director of the board, the woman who approves loans under her authority, and the CEO who is accountable, period.

AHA MOMENT: When I first went into banking in the mid 80s I still had

to work a part-time job to make ends meet. After awhile I was

pretty frustrated and trying to decide if I should go back into the restaurant business. About that time, our CEO held a visioning session and asked us to talk about where we wanted to be in 10

years and to be specific about the details of your life; the car

you drive, your title, how much money you make and where you live.

To my horror, I heard myself say I want to be a bank president making a six-figure income, driving a Mercedes convertible in Arizona. The room was filled with folks who had the right qualifications to achieve that life, but I wasn’t

one of them. At first the room was so quiet I swear I heard some guy’s socks droop. And then slowly but surely, the CEO started clapping and everyone else joined him. My first thought was OMG they think I could actually DO this! It caused me to look at the next job, the next skill set and move my life (and my kids) forward. I have always been so grateful for that moment.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED: When my husband left, the kids were age 4, 2, and 3-weeks-old. I stayed in my pajamas for days until my aunt came over and told me to get up, get dressed and figure things out because life is what you make of it. She was right; you get out of life whatever you put into it.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN LEADERS: There is no balance in life so stop looking for it. Life is an adventure with good days and bad days and lots in between. Your job is to enjoy the journey. Is it hard to raise a family and have a career? Absolutely. But it is not impossible, either. Love your family, but love yourself, too. If you are good to yourself, you will be better to everyone else.

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: Margaret Thatcher is quoted as saying, “If you have

to keep telling people how much of a lady you are, you probably aren’t.” I think the same is true about leadership.

GROWING UP YOU WANTED TO BE: A cowgirl, which is interesting given I grew up in Iowa. My favorite picture is of me at 5 in full cowgirl gear!

FACT ABOUT YOU OR TALENT THAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE: I am frustrated chef and su�er from food envy.

YOUR ANTHEM: “Wonder” by Natalie Merchant. I have been blessed with a great life despite lots of mistakes, and I know that I wouldn’t have made my way without some Divine Intervention.

NEXT BIG PROFESSIONAL GOAL: Raise capital and launch an o�ice of WVNB in Southern California.

Marie SullivanPRESIDENT AND CEO | ARIZONA WOMEN’S EDUCATION & EMPLOYMENTAGE: 64 BORN: Tacoma, Washington RAISED: Tacoma, Washington

Candace Hunter WiestPRESIDENT AND CEO | WEST VALLEY NATIONAL BANK, AZ PHYSICIANS BANK AND AZ DENTAL BANKAGE: WND BORN: Davenport Iowa RAISED: Davenport Iowa

NETWORKING TIP:

“Build genuine relationships. Greet

people you meet with a smile and

a positive demeanor.”

NETWORKING TIP:

“Remember networking isn’t about you at all. People love

to do business with people they

like.”

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