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A supplement to the sAn diego business journAl

preSenting SponSorS

Admired

CEO

AwArds 2009

most

B2 Most Admired CEO Awards November 30, 2009A Supplement to the San Diego Business Journal

November 30, 2009 Most Admired CEO Awards B3A Supplement to the San Diego Business Journal

Letter From the Publishers

CEO AwArDS JudgesJudy ForresterPresident and CEOLEAD San Diego Inc.

Fred BaranowskiSenior Vice President

1st Pacific Bank

Darin AndersonChief Operating OfficerESET

Joanne M. PastulaPresident and CEOJunior Achievement

Ed SternaglePrincipalCreative Professional Services

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Welcome to the San Diego Business Journal’s third annual Most Admired CEOs publication, recognizing local industry leaders’ great achievements within their companies and in the community.

From nonprofit organizations, business nonprofits, government agencies and private and public companies, an independent panel of judges accepted 61 finalists and identified 20 honorees. In addition, Pat Hyndman, Vistage group chair, Vistage International Inc., received the lifetime achievement honoree award and Paul Hering, CEO of Barney & Barney, received the exemplary honoree award. These finalists and honorees have demonstrated determi-nation and insight, which has yielded huge successes for their organizations. All finalists are listed and all honorees are profiled in this supplement.

The San Diego Business Journal would like to thank all participating CEOs and the judges for their in-volvement. The judges are Darin Andersen, chief operating officer of ESET LLC; Fred Baranowski, senior vice president of 1st Pacific Bank; Judy Forrester, president and CEO of LEAD San Diego Inc.; Joanne Pastula, president and CEO of Junior Achievement; and Ed Sternagle, principal of Creative Professional Services.

With their impressive success stories, these leaders and others like them have taken the lead in driving their businesses and the regional economy. While economic turbulence has hit the region and the nation, these executives have managed to keep organizational performance strong while continuing to make contributions in their communities.

The San Diego Business Journal would like to thank Most Admired CEOs presenting sponsor Vistage International as well as co-sponsors California Bank & Trust; ESET LLC; and RSM McGladrey.

The San Diego Business Journal is proud of this third annual Most Admired CEOs event and publication and we look forward to sharing the success stories of local CEOs in the years to come.

Congratulations to all of the finalists and honorees!

Armon Mills Reo CarrPresident & Publisher Editor-in-Chief/Associate PublisherSan Diego Business Journal San Diego Business Journal

reo CarrArmon Mills


Paul HeringBarney & Barney LLC

Paul Hering, CEO and managing principal of Barney & Barney LLC, had a unique vision when he be-came CEO in 2004. Hering has been the driving force behind Barney &

Barney’s sig-nificant ex-pansion over the last few years, which boasts an 18 percent an-nual growth rate and on-going growth opportunities as a result

of his leadership. Early in his career with the firm, Hering quickly dem-onstrated his industry prowess and became an owner after four short years. He leads the firm with an en-thusiastic, entrepreneurial spirit of innovation. In recognition of Barney & Barney’s centennial anniversary this year, Hering’s longstanding com-mitment to community involvement went into overdrive with the creation of the Barney & Barney Foundation

in June. Hering entered the social media arena as a means to build awareness and raise funds for the foundation. Setting up Facebook and Twitter accounts, he invited associ-ates and community partners to fol-low the fundraising progress online. He was also essential in spearheading various fundraising efforts, develop-ing an ownership group fundraising “match” and leading a grant benefi-ciary identification process. Hering’s ongoing community and civic ac-tivities also include serving on the boards or committees of Big Brothers & Sisters of San Diego, United Way of San Diego, Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation, UCLA, San Diego Sym-phony, Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers, San Diego Regional Cham-ber of Commerce, San Diego Founda-tion, Assurex Global and San Diego Private Bank.

LiFEtiME ACHiEvEMENt award

Pat Hyndman Pat Hyndman was born and

raised in Pittsburgh, Pa., graduated with a major in business from UC Berkeley, and has worked steadily since he was 11 years old. After col-

lege, Hynd-man enlisted in the U.S. Army and while on in-active ser-vice, joined Sperry, a m a n u f a c -turer of anti-aircraft equipment,

as a field engineer. In this position he worked with U.S., British and Canadian troops around the world. After leaving the Army, he worked in a variety of sales positions in Los Angeles, and later worked in the container business. Hyndman went on to pioneer the automotive and equipment leasing industry with his own San Diego company in 1953, first known as San Diego

Auto Lease and later as PHD. He ran the successful business for 25 years, eventually selling it in 1978. In 1970, Hyndman was invited to join TEC International, later Vistage International. After Hynd-man sold his business, Fred Chaney persuaded him to join TEC as head of marketing. After successfully get-ting TEC groups started up in ma-jor metropolitan areas across the country, he was offered the post of TEC president, where he served for five years and oversaw the organi-zation’s continual growth. Then Bill Williams succeeded him and Hynd-man was made TEC chairman of the board. Since then, as TEC became Vistage, he originally led two chief executive groups, and achieved leg-endary status among the select community of Vistage chairs. Hynd-man was a founding board member of Grossmont Bank, later renamed California Bank & Trust. He cur-rently serves on the board of direc-tors of Huntington Capital and the Ken Blanchard Cos.

ExEMPLAry award


ESET, LLC �� West Ash StreetSuite ��San Diego, CA ��

Tel: �� • www.eset.com

ESET congratulates San Diego’s most admiredChief Executive Offi cers

ESET develops the security solutions business leaders trust.ESET salutes San Diego’s top CEOs – your vision and guidance are making our city a better place to do business.

ESET is dedicated to making cyberspace a profi table and safe place for commerce. We pioneer proactive antivirus protection to aid businesses of all sizes. Our smart scanning catches more viruses and spyware – without system slowdown or annoying pop-ups.

Working hand-in-hand with IT departments, ESET helps maximize a company’s valuable time. Tools like ESET Remote Administrator remove the headaches and server downtime from managing enterprise-level protection, so companies can get back to what they do best – serving their customers.

Again, congratulations. Such leadership and perseverance in these challenging times is inspiring to all of us. Anton Zajac, ESET, LLC founder and CEO


GOvErNMENt Honoree

David wescoe San Diego City Employees’ Retirement System

David Wescoe has reduced the San Diego City Employees’ Retire-ment System administrative budget by 23 percent in three years; insti-

tuted stricter policies on e m p l o y e e spending, re-porting and o v e r s i g h t ; implemented technology to reduce over-head; re-viewed out-dated asset

allocation policies and implemented new investment strategies. Because of his incredible ability to simplify complex issues, his willingness to speak candidly on highly political is-sues, and his extensive knowledge of pension, investment and regulatory industry practices and pitfalls, Wes-coe has become a sought-after speak-er in the community. He has worked tirelessly through speaking engage-ments, media interviews and pro-files, and government consultations

to help the business community, and the general public, separate the real issues from the never-ending political spin. He testified before California’s Commission on Public Employee Post-Employment Benefits and has spoken at multiple local service or-ganizations including the Downtown Rotary Club, which he was subse-quently asked to join. In addition to his membership in Rotary, Wescoe en-courages and supports all employees to participate in industry and service organizations. Wescoe has served as national board chair of the Kansas University Alumni Association and a trustee of Trinity School in New York City. He has served as a director of La Jolla Music Society, was a member of San Diego Social Venture Partners, chair of the KPBS Planned Giving Advisory Committee and a member of the Development Committee of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. He also implemented an em-ployee holiday giving program at SD-CERS, which has made donations to both Toys for Tots and the San Diego Food Bank.

NONPrOFit COMPANiES Honorees

Joe CraverAmerican Red Cross San Diego/Imperial Counties Chapter

Joe Craver has been CEO of the American Red Cross San Diego/Impe-rial Counties Chapter for almost two years. During this time, he has led

the chapter through the evacuat ion of more than 350,000 San Diegans dur-ing the 2007 wildfires and renewed the community’s faith in the Red Cross. It would not be

an understatement to say that his ef-forts during the wildfires helped res-cue a contentious view of the chapter and turn it into one of success and promise. Craver understands that emergencies occur unexpectedly and the Red Cross must continue to grow to meet the demands of wildfires, earthquakes, floods, a pandemic such as Swine Flu, and any other natural disaster. He takes a collaborative ap-proach in engaging and working with

staff, volunteers and board mem-bers to achieve desired results. He has created a positive work environ-ment that encourages excellence and causes retention. Under his leader-ship, the SD/IC Chapter manages the Performance Development Process module. PDP reviews are intended to reflect employee effectiveness on the job, and are a continuing record of job performance.

Craver currently serves on the board of directors of Fleet Week San Diego, USS Midway and the United Way. He led and ensured the account-ing of all funds received for 2007 wildfires for San Diego/San Ber-nardino and Los Angeles Counties disaster through the RP&A Program. He also oversees the Women, Infants and Children Program which resides within the local chapter. More than 100 WIC employees are part of the San Diego/Imperial Counties Chap-ter of the American Red Cross.

GOvErNMENt Finalist

Shannon thompsonShakti Rising

Instead of the typical nonprofit model, founder and visionary CEO Shannon Thompson has created a fi-

nancially vi-able hy-br id - so c ia l enterprise in Shakti Ris-ing. Shakti is self-sustain-ing, with 30 percent of in-come earned, not donated. Initially met with skepti-

cism, Shakti’s practice of generating income as a hybrid-social enterprise is now considered a leading model for nonprofits. Shakti is the culmination of Thompson’s personal, professional and educational path, at the heart of which is a devotion to youth, women and community development. She has taken a recognized, but underserved need – for women and girls in San Di-ego to have the support and services to heal themselves – and developed a community-based, comprehensive

and holistic model of recovery that is about fundamentally shifting from a perspective of survival to a perspec-tive of thriving, dreams and hope. Since Shakti’s inception, Thompson and her staff have built a powerful track record of success – impacting the lives of more than 1,000 women. Shakti has established a reputation in the community based on the integ-rity of service provision, the leader-ship of staff and graduates, and an 80 percent success rate with a popu-lation dealing with multiple addic-tions, coexisting mental and physical health issues, histories of traumatic occurrences and prior treatment fail-ures.

Thompson also serves as an advi-sor to and resource for multiple part-ner nonprofits in the San Diego area including San Diego Youth and Com-munity Services, Social Advocates for Youth, South Bay Community Ser-vices, Outdoor Outreach, ARTS, and TranscenDANCE.

Fred MaasCentre City Development Corp.

Fred Maas is chairman of the board and CEO of Centre City Development Corp., and managing director of Pa-cific EcoCompanies. His leadership role with the CCDC has fostered re-

development in downtown San Diego by stimulating the develop-ment of 6,740 h o u s i n g units, 2,334 hotel rooms in 10 hotels, and 621,000 square feet of office space. While still

managing his former company, Maas stepped in to serve as CCDC’s inter-im CEO when the corporation’s presi-dent resigned suddenly in June 2008. For more than a year now, Maas has dedicated himself to running CCDC as a non-compensated volunteer, spending more than 25 years a week working on major downtown projects and issues. Through Maas’ leader-ship, CCDC has heightened its focus on public realm and public infra-

structure improvements, adding new sidewalks, streetlights and parks, and planning for a vibrant and sus-tainable future. Maas has also taken significant steps to ensure public trust and transparency remain at the core of the corporation’s activities. He created a new audit committee to review all expenditures, adopted a strict no-gift policy, and worked to re-vamp and strengthen the controls of the corporation’s contracting policies. Despite his busy schedule, Maas has made CCDC a top priority and given staff the support and leadership it needed during a challenging time. He has taught staff to work smarter and remain focused on the important role the corporation plays in the future development of a successful down-town.

Maas is a member of the city of San Diego’s Joint Powers Authority for the North Embarcadero Vision-ary Plan, the City Council Task Force for the Permanent Winter Homeless Shelter, and the Convention Center Expansion Task Force. He serves on two nonprofit boards, CleanTech San Diego and Move San Diego.


Team McGladrey Golfer Natalie Gulbis and her caddie, Greg Sheridan.


NONPrOFit COMPANiES Finalists

irma CotaNorth County Health Services

At North County Health Services, Irma Cota runs a 10-clinic system that improves the lives of more than

60,000 people each year. Her commitment to the health and well-be-ing of the pub-lic transcends federal and state budget cuts. She is a tireless ad-vocate of the

necessity for accessible, high quality, affordable health care for all individ-uals, regardless of their race, ethnic-ity or socio-economic status. Under her direction, NCHS has become a recognized “preferred place” to work in North County and a leader in the training and professional advance-ment of a diverse work force. Of its staff of 514 personnel, 75 percent are minority and 65 percent are Latino. Eighty-six percent are female. Many staff members are long-term employ-ees. Some work with their children and other family members at the or-ganization.

Cota’s journey began in the fields of Calexico and her career has been driven by hard work and a focus on helping the working poor. While earning a bachelor’s degree in com-munity health and a master’s degree in public health, she volunteered in free clinics. She worked at NCHS during the late 1970s, and rejoined the organization 12 years ago while it was facing some challenges. Since then, the organization’s budget has more than tripled and the work force has more than doubled.

Nonprofit Finalist

Julian DuvalSan Diego Botanic Garden

Julian Duval, president and CEO of the San Diego Botanic Garden, has dedicated the last 14 years of his life to creating a beautiful retreat that acknowledges and appreciates the native landscape of San Diego. In re-cent years, Duval has ensured that the garden highlights local plant life as well as important community con-cerns. Each year, San Diego Botanic Garden hosts numerous events that promote education, involvement and appreciation of California’s plant life. Duval is not the traditional CEO: on any given day, you can find him stroll-ing through the garden, chatting to

in his church; and is active in the Ar-menian community.

Nonprofit Finalist

Maria OlsonCystic Fibrosis Foundation, San Diego and Imperial County Chapter

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is an organization focused on raising money to support research for finding

a cure for cys-tic fibrosis. Under Maria Olson’s lead-ership, the San Diego and Impe-rial County Chapter has been a lead-ing contribu-tor to the organization.

Olson’s adept ability to recruit vol-unteers and raise money through events and personal giving has been the driving force for the chapter’s high level of success. With more than 20 years of expertise in advertising, marketing and fundraising, Olson stands out in a field of strong leaders due to her high level of professional-ism, quest for success, and most im-portantly, her passion.

The CFF supports all the local families here in San Diego that have a member with cystic fibrosis. This in-cludes support groups, and fundrais-ing to raise awareness and provide 90 percent of the monies to support scientific support for a cure. In addi-tion to the work CFF does in the com-munity, Olson has been a Girl Scout leader for three years; participates in service work with the Del Mar Ro-tary Club; and supports the Del Mar Schools Education Foundation.

Nonprofit Finalist

william PollakovBikes for Kids Foundation Inc.

CEO William Pollakov, along with Meadowlark Lemon – Harlem Globe-trotter and member of the Basketball Hall of Fame – founded the charity Bikes for Kids Foundation Inc. al-most seven years ago. The vision of the charity is to help orphaned and disadvantaged children in San Diego, and it began by giving away 125 new bikes out of Pollakov’s garage. Today, he has given away almost 20,000 bikes and has now expanded to New Orleans, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City and Bridgeport, Conn. The founda-

a visitor about the benefits of using succulent plants in their garden, and even distributing tickets at the ad-missions booth. He is a dynamic, per-sonable CEO.

San Diego Botanic Garden sup-ports the San Diego County Water Authority’s 20-Gallon Challenge campaign through the garden’s use of recycled water. San Diego Botanic Garden was also recently involved in the Hire-A-Youth program, part of the American Recovery and Rein-vestment Act stimulus package. The garden employed six teens during the summer, who worked in the gar-den helping with light landscaping, working in the admissions booth, and assisting in the Hamilton Children’s Garden.

Nonprofit Finalist

John Ohanian211 San Diego

Starting his career with 211 San Diego two days before the devastat-ing October 2007 wildfires, John Ohanian was selected by a panel of

211 support-ers and com-munity deci-sion-makers to lead the f inanc ia l ly struggling or-ganization to sustainabil-ity. With his expertise and background

as a CPA, Ohanian has extensive knowledge in corporate accounting. Coined “211 San Diego’s Community Solutions,” Ohanian created a busi-ness structure with the goal to work collaboratively within community pil-lars to efficiently and cost-effectively provide services to the public while ensuring 211’s financial foundation. Utilizing this model, 211’s fiscal year 2008-2009 was the first in more than 35 years that closed with a surplus. Ohanian has brought life to a strug-gling organization through his com-bination of fundraising talent, ability to connect with people and business innovation. This success and his gen-uine concern for the staff have made him admired by staff and community partners alike.

Ohanian is a board member of the California Alliance of Information and Referral Systems, and a member of the Community Health Improve-ment Partners Executive Committee. He is a key member of the county of San Diego’s THRIVE initiative. Oha-nian is also involved in Boy Scouts, soccer and Little League; is a leader

tion’s biggest presence is in San Di-ego, where it has partnered with the San Diego Chargers. Pollakov has

contributed to the finan-cial success of Bikes for Kids by be-ing respon-sible for all of the charity’s fundraising in San Diego. The founda-tion gives

100 percent of its raised money to the kids. There are no expenses and no employees; all work is provided by volunteers.

Pollakov is the largest donor to Bikes for Kids. He is also on the board of directors of another chari-table organization here in San Diego, Solutions, an organization that helps children go to college. Through The Pollakov Financial Group Inc., where Pollakov is president and CEO, his firm is active in 70 charities and com-munity organizations here in San Di-ego.

Nonprofit Finalist

Debra rosenSan Diego North Chamber of Commerce

Debra Rosen has led the San Di-ego North Chamber of Commerce on an encouraging financial path during the stressful economic times of the past year. With her leadership over the past months, SDNCC has been able to not only sustain itself but grow to become a dominant source of busi-ness support. Rosen has captained ef-forts by the chamber to overhaul all its programming to better encompass the needs of business. Rosen created a program for staff to be able to reach out into the community giving hours each month to various community service projects. Rosen had created an environment of innovation and hard work that has raised the image of the SDNCC throughout the region. Her involvement with the chamber truly turned the image from that of a fallen community group to the pre-eminent business support organiza-tion in the region. The innovation she has brought with her has allowed the chamber to provide supportive pro-gramming, cost-saving benefits and motivation for the business commu-nity during uncertain times. Rosen has championed businesses and brought integrity to every aspect of the chamber and its involvement in the community.


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JOE TORRE, MANAGER

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JH Cohn would like to congratulate the Most Admired

CEO of the Year Finalists and Honorees

BuSiNESS NONPrOFit COMPANiES Honorees

irene OberbauerSan Diego County Credit Union

Since Irene Oberbauer took over as president and CEO in 2007, San Diego County Credit Union has con-tinued to grow. Even in the midst of adverse economic conditions, SDC-

CU’s custom-er base has increased by 8 percent, asset size by more than $1 billion and membership has expanded to include Or-ange County r e s i d e n t s and workers.

There are several factors that place Oberbauer at the top of her field, in-cluding her receptivity to new ideas, ability to spot talent, success in com-municating and a penchant for op-timism. Her co-workers notice her willingness to listen and learn and down-to-earth management style. Oberbauer’s extensive career expe-rience and positive leadership skills provide a standard of excellence for the more than 600 employees at

SDCCU to strive for. Oberbauer en-courages widespread employee en-gagement, involvement and incen-tive development, as she manages for peak performance.

Oberbauer is committed to giv-ing back to her community, both on a personal and corporate level. She is currently in the process of becoming a wish grantor for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of San Diego. Oberbauer has volunteered for various corporate community sponsored events benefit-ing San Diego Blood Bank, Multiple Sclerosis Society, United Cerebral Palsy, Hands-On San Diego, Better Business Bureau, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Pacific Life Holiday Bowl and San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl, among others. She recently implemented corporate fundraising at SDCCU’s administra-tive offices in various departments with proceeds contributed to local nonprofits.

Michael MercurioSan Diego Association of Realtors

In a very difficult time for the real estate community, Michael Mercurio was able to increase revenues with

the philoso-phy of doing more with less. By re-ducing annu-al operating expenses and contractual obligations, he was able to save the association

$1.8 million. And despite reducing its membership dues, the San Diego Association of Realtors was able to increase revenues through sponsor-ships and by creating other revenue-generating events and classes, while providing more member benefits.

Mercurio’s dedication to education has been shown repeatedly through-out the year when he brought lead-ers from across the country to our lo-cal real estate market to share their

knowledge. Since taking on the posi-tion of CEO, Mercurio honed in on the strategic goal of solidifying SDAR as “The Trusted Voice of San Diego Real Estate” by providing accurate num-bers and analysis on median pric-ing, sold listings and number of days properties remained on the market to the media and the general public. Through the association’s analysis on real estate trends, community in-formation and tips, Mercurio is help-ing to educate the media, elected of-ficials and general public on how to navigate a challenging market. Early this year, Mercurio signed a deal with KOGO AM 600 to host a weekly real estate radio show, “Real Estate To-day,” and he continues to engage local elected officials on important issues. Taking his influence to the state and national level, in the last year Mer-curio has also joined fellow SDAR members to lobby in Sacramento and Washington, D.C.

SAN DIEGO ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

The Trusted Voice of San Diego Real EstateGrowing together®


to succeed Girgis and his team perse-vered and quickly rose to the top.

Girgis is heavily involved with the Small Business Administration and other professional organizations, including the Armed Forces Commu-nications and Electronics Associa-tion, the National Defense Industrial Association, the San Diego Military Advisory Council, and the Associa-tion for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International. In addition to being actively involved in the community, Girgis, and SGIS as a company, make philanthropic contributions to a vast array of community causes, including charitable, educational, cultural and professional organizations, and other civic endeavors. On a continuous ba-sis, Girgis provides time and financial contributions to the Partners Mentor-ship Program and the Renaissance Program at Wilson Middle School.

Bill GeppertCox Communications

Bill Geppert leads by example. His belief in the importance of relation-ship building and his hands-off ap-proach to management allow his team

to explore new, cre-ative ways to challenge the status quo and take risks to find new ways to propel Cox Communica-tions into the forefront. He

sets clear expectations for his senior leadership team and relies on them to drive results. As a result, the San Diego system has remained one of the top leaders among Cox locations nationwide. Geppert was instrumen-tal in launching Channel 4 San Di-ego, home to the San Diego Padres for the past 13 years and award-win-ning programming. Due to Geppert’s vision and ability to produce results, Cox was the first company in San

Hany GirgisSGIS

Hany Girgis, SGIS CEO and found-er, is ultimately accountable for the astounding growth and financial suc-cess of SGIS. He has grown the com-pany immensely, increasing the or-

ganization’s e m p l o y e e base, open-ing new of-fices each year, expand-ing into new market seg-ments with a diverse set of service of-ferings and dramatically

increasing revenues each year. His ambition, innovativeness, abilities to overcome adversities, recognition within the industry and enthusiasm to give back to the community are what set him apart from those within his industry. Girgis left a success-ful career and embarked on a quest to establish his own business that would surpass industry standards and outperform competitors. Girgis entered the government contracting market with a limited customer base, little support and no brand recogni-tion, but with ambition and a drive

Mel KatzManpower Inc.

Mel Katz has been one of San Di-ego’s most respected business leaders since 1977 when he purchased the local Manpower Inc. franchise with Phil Blair. San Diego is now the larg-

est Manpow-er franchise in the Unit-ed States. Katz’s devo-tion to both e c o n o m i c development and civic im-p r o v e m e n t has earned him an im-peccable rep-

utation in the San Diego community. His success is marked by not only talent and business acumen but also by an innate desire to contribute to the fabric of the entire community. This accessibility is evident in his re-lationships with employees, clients, charities, professional organizations, local government and citizens groups. Katz has served as chairman for the San Diego Library Commission, San Diego Workforce Partnership, San Diego Regional Chamber of Com-

merce and the San Diego Convention Center.

Katz is an outspoken advocate of child literacy and K-12 and higher education, and has spearheaded so-cial initiatives for both issues. He currently serves as the vice chair of the San Diego Library Foundation, which raises funds for the 36 librar-ies in the city of San Diego and is rais-ing the funds to build a new central library in San Diego. He also serves on the advisory board for the San Di-ego Organizing Project. Katz has led Manpower of San Diego to become one of the city’s leading philanthropic companies as well, sponsoring events and donating resources to such orga-nizations as High Tech High, School-to-Career Task Force and San Diego Workforce Partnership, San Diego Community Foundation and the NTC Foundation.

Diego County to launch a bundle of video, Internet and telephone service, a model now used by industry com-petitors. The Cox San Diego system is also consistently used by the com-pany to be the first market to launch new services.

Geppert is well-known in the San Diego community and his strong ties are evident in his continued involve-ment on a variety of boards. He is a tireless champion of education and truly believes in giving back to his community. Under Geppert’s leader-ship, the Cox Kids Foundation was formed 10 years ago to support chil-dren and families in San Diego. Since 1999, this foundation has raised more than $3 million to support children and families in need throughout San Diego County.

PrivAtE COMPANiES Honorees

PrivAtE COMPANiES HonoreeOn behalf of

PrepareSanDiego.org

CongratulationsJoe W. Craver,

CEO of the American Red Cross

of San Diego/Imperial County

Honored as the2009 Most Admired CEO

in the large non-profit categoryby the San Diego Business Journal

AmericanRed Cross

San Diego/Imperial CountiesPrepareSanDiego.org


CONGRATULATIONS



robert Christie3E Co.

Robert Christie joined 3E Co. be-cause he saw an opportunity for inno-vation and an opportunity to further strengthen 3E’s leadership position.

An indepen-dent thinker, Christie had a vision of le-veraging 3E’s subscription-based busi-ness model and high re-newal/reten-tion rates to create a glob-

al business with sustainable com-petitive advantages. Less than three years into his tenure, the company has already acquired two companies, Ariel Research and HSE Systems, and is set to acquire more. Since joining the company, the number of employ-ees has more than doubled, the num-ber of offices has expanded from one to six, annual revenue has increased organically in excess of 20 percent and profitability has increased in ex-

Jeff HarperHarper Construction Co.

Jeff Harper grew up with Harper Construction. His father founded the company in 1974, and Harper has worked for the firm ever since; first as a job site laborer, then as a proj-

ect manager, and then vice p r e s i d e n t . In 2005, he a c q u i r e d ownership of the company from his fa-ther, and cur-rently has complete re-sponsibility and control for all Harp-

er Construction business operations. Harper maintains a hands-on ap-proach to every company project. He contributes his experience and lead-ership to every project which trans-lates to the bottom line profits. He regularly meets with bankers, insur-ance agents and financial advisors to best position the company for the best balance of current financial stability, while still allowing for future growth. He has also established cost controls

cess of 100 percent annually. Christie is an avid high-speed per-

formance boater and has leveraged his passion for the benefit of the Make a Wish foundation as well as for physi-cally challenged people. He is an elder in his church and has spent 15 years as a board member of the Police Ath-letic League, including the last five as president. He has also sponsored the 3E-Xtreme team, which raises money for the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association by hiking to the summit of Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the continental United States. Christie strongly en-courages his team to give back to the community. Employees participate in a Christmas in July event to gather bins of garments for those in need of extra clothing for their families. 3E also sponsors a beach cleanup in North County.

and accounting processes that have allowed the company to continue to grow and prosper, even during the current economic down cycle.

Harper is active in both industry and community support. Through Harper’s leadership, Harper Con-struction has supported the develop-ment of San Diego State University’s Construction Education program, and he has served as a mentor and speak-er for high school students. Harper is a major supporter of various local and national Christian organizations. He serves on the San Diego Executive Board for Fellowship of Christian Athletes and financially contributes to the Alliance Defense Fund to de-fend religious liberties. He is a ma-jor contributor to his church and has greatly contributed to the construc-tion of both the church and the new Maranatha Christian School.

Douglas BurkeDefenseWeb Technologies

Douglas Burke joined DefenseWeb Technologies in 2003 and shortly thereafter developed and implement-ed a successful strategy that has led to 2008’s revenues being the compa-

ny’s largest to date. Under his guidance and support, DefenseWeb grew from a small, strug-gling, sole-p r o p r i e t o r business to a major and stable corpo-ration, now

part of one of the largest publicly traded health care providers in the United States, Humana Inc. While maintaining a focus on company growth, employee satisfaction and retention remain high on his list of priorities. Burke provides a relaxed, competitive work environment where his employees have the tools avail-able to succeed. He solicits input from employees on work-related is-sues, promotes ongoing communica-tion and contributes to their well be-

ing via health club memberships. He employs a diverse work force to bring about the best end results.

Burke is an advocate of communi-ty involvement and a member of the board of directors for both the San Diego Software Industry Council and Outdoor Outreach. Burke is a strong believer in philanthropic contribu-tions not only from a personal stand-point, but from a company position as well. Because of this, Burke allocates two days a year for employees to vol-unteer at not-for-profit organizations. Staff members also support military families and participate in the Toys for Tots drive, Meals on Wheels, and are currently on the list to help build homes in Tijuana through Habitat for Humanity. DefenseWeb Technologies is also a member of and volunteers for the National Military Families Association.

PrivAtE COMPANiES Honoree

Palomar Pomerado Health

is extremely proud to

congratulate Michael Covert

for being honored CEO

of the Year. His vision,

motivation and keen sense

of community service make

him a wonderful leader.

We admire his success in

Building Your Healthcare

System of the Future.

www.pph.org


James LasswellINDUS Technology Inc.

With superb technical performance and strategic partnerships with prime contractors, INDUS CEO James Lasswell has established an out-standing record of consistent growth

as a sought-after contrac-tor in the San Diego marketplace as well as growing offic-es across the nation. IN-DUS’ growth, averaging 19 percent since 2004, is par-

ticularly noteworthy, as it occurred after it transitioned from a Woman Owned SDB, 8(a) to Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business, and has been accompanied by even stron-ger performance and an enhanced reputation with the customer com-munity. Losing his partner in the business in 2004, as well as life, to breast cancer was heartbreaking, but Lasswell gathered strength by continuing to fuel and grow INDUS. Many companies can falter after los-

ing a beloved leader, but under Lass-well’s leadership INDUS has contin-ued to thrive.

Lasswell is an active member of the NDIA National Small Business Division, where one of his initiatives has been to duplicate the tremendous success of the San Diego Small Busi-ness Committee in other regions. He has worked diligently through the committee and personally to provide the local defense small business com-munity, especially struggling start-ups, with mentoring, training and the priceless opportunity to network with other small businesses, large businesses and government program managers. Lasswell has demonstrat-ed a strong and lasting commitment to the San Diego community, as well as the communities where INDUS is located nationwide. Since 1998, Lass-well and INDUS have had a team walking in the local San Diego “Race for the Cure.”


Bob Leone Mr. Copy

Bob Leone founded Mr. Copy in San Diego in 1994 and is a San Diego success story. He has the No. 1 Xerox agent/dealer operation in the coun-try, maintains an all-inclusive work

environment, offers excel-lent advance-ment oppor-tunities, and gives back to the commu-nity. Leone’s p r o u d e s t achievement is helping his e m p l o y e e s

move their lives forward profession-ally and financially, and honors the more than 220 spouses, significant others, and offspring in helping them realize dynamic success. Adding to Leone’s career successes, on Oct. 1, Xerox acquired Mr. Copy as a 100 percent wholly owned agency and dealer, and Leone was named core president of global imaging systems. Leone’s proven business practices re-sult in consistent growth even in dif-

ficult economic times. He embraces challenge and develops innovative strategies to add market share while maintaining a strong emphasis on customer retention. During his 15 years in business, Leone’s biggest challenge has been committing to the capital and resources needed to grow at the projected rate. He overcomes the struggle by embracing a slow, me-thodical approach to growth expecta-tions and setting goals within reach-able guidelines.

In 2008, Leone established a com-munity involvement team to spear-head charitable projects in the local community. During the 2008 holiday season, Leone cancelled all internal holiday parties and redistributed $10,220 to help people in need. He is on the board of directors at Father Joe’s Villages and has organized his entire organization to serve dinner to those in need on a quarterly basis at St. Vincent de Paul Villages.

www.barneyandbarney.com 800.321.4696

Paul HeringChief Executive OfficerManaging PrincipalBarney & Barney LLC

Whether you represent a multi-national �rm

or an emerging new business, Barney &

Barney LLC will design an insurance package

that is exactly right for you. We have been

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Barney & Barney congratulates Paul Hering for being honored with the SDBJ’s "Exemplary CEO” award. As our leader and mentor, Paul has been instrumental in ensuring the continued growth of

our 100 year old company and solidifying our commitment to the community by establishing the Barney & Barney Foundation.



Eric BasuSentek Global

Eric Basu has contributed signifi-cantly to Sentek Global’s financial success. He has made it possible for Sentek to provide true value-added support of commercial and govern-

ment consult-ing and their servic-es are avail-able both directly and via a myriad of primary government contractors. Sentek is thriving due

to Basu’s ability to offer a wide range of solution offerings to clients, includ-ing technology services; federal, state and local government support ser-vices; and management consulting. Basu is also a quiet force in helping other Navy officers transition from the military service to the private sector. Basu, a seasoned veteran of 17 years, is an expert in entrepre-neurial leadership and information technology. He possesses a profound

understanding of military command and control and special operations. He currently serves in the U.S. Naval Reserve as a SEAL Officer, holding the rank of commander.

Basu works with the California Disabled Veteran Business Alliance network and is a member of the Na-tional Defense Industrial Associa-tion, Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association, PMI Association, Product Development and Management Association, IEEE Association, and the UDT-SEAL As-sociation. Basu and Sentek make nu-merous philanthropic contributions each year with a primary focus on encouraging kids to stay active and involved in team sports. Because of this emphasis, Basu’s donations to youth athletic organizations provide resources for three to four teams to purchase uniforms each year. In ad-dition, Sentek provides cash dona-tions to military-oriented charities including the Naval Special Warfare Foundation and the USO.

reid CarrRed Door Interactive

Reid Carr has contributed to Red Door Interactive’s financial success by creating a successful operational model and management structure that helps clients profit from Web ini-

tiatives and allows those o r g a n i z a -tions to pro-mote beyond the typical browser ca-p a b i l i t i e s . Carr is not only devoted to educating clients and

the public on the concept of Inter-net presence management and how it can contribute to their businesses, but he continually employs methods to retain a satisfied work force. He utilizes an open office model to pro-mote teamwork and communication among all staff. Carr is a very savvy, forward thinking and charismatic CEO who willingly gives of his time and advice to other entrepreneurs.

Despite great demands on his time, he continually serves on boards of advisors for San Diego startups and is always willing to share ideas and insights with other business leaders on successfully starting a business.

Carr is an active member of the San Diego Venture Group, the San Diego Rotary Club and San Diego CommNexus. He launched “Ground Floor at Red Door,” a unique intern-ship program comprised entirely of marketing and business interns who join together to form a pro bono proj-ect team. In 2009, Carr helped orga-nizations including San Diego Social Venture Partners, Step Up San Diego and the Downtown San Diego Rotary Club. Additionally, Carr and Red Door created a philanthropy committee re-sponsible for organizing a monthly sponsored event as well as encourag-ing employees to get involved with charitable causes.

ted FoglianiOutsource Manufacturing Inc.

Ted Fogliani has been the CEO of Outsource Manufacturing Inc. for more than 11 years, during which time he has methodically, intelligent-

ly and com-passionately grown Out-source Man-u f a c t u r i n g into one of the premiere manufactur-ing compa-nies in San Diego Coun-ty. He has

developed a sound business model, hired the right people, and attracted a solid and growing customer base. This year, Outsource will achieve its highest revenue numbers in the his-tory of the company, its highest head count in the history of the company, and its highest customer count in the history of the company. Beyond the numbers, Fogliani has proven to be an honest, reliable, compassion-ate, hard-working, humble leader. He

works tirelessly to ensure that his employees have a job to come to every day, and that his customers continue to receive the highest level of quality and service that has become synony-mous with Outsource. The goal of ev-ery business is to be as profitable as possible. Fogliani insists that at the very foundation of Outsource’s profit-ability lies the highest level of com-passion for all those who make that profitability a reality.

Fogliani is actively involved in the AeA, a nonprofit trade association focused on improving the success of local San Diego businesses. Fogliani sits on the board of the Police Foun-dation, helping to ensure that the San Diego Police Department has the re-sources to help police officers do their job and protect our communities.

PrivAtE COMPANiES Honoree

Advanced degrees are increasingly necessary in today’s competitive business world. Webster University’s Master’s Program in Management and Leadershipis a broad-based business degree designed to give you a solid foundation in:• Strategic Planning • Change Management • Organizational Development/Behavior

• Critical Thinking • Managerial Leadership

www.webster.edu/sandiego(858) 458-9310

•We are a private, non-profit university regionally accredited since 1925

• Yellow Ribbon School for the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill

• Accelerated terms (9 weeks)

• One of the most affordable Master’s programs in San Diego.

• Webster University is ranked as having one of the highest graduate business enrollment rates in the U.S. by the Association to Advance Collegiate Business Schools (AACSB International)

• Consistently ranked among “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report

• Small classes taught by instructors with real-world experience

• Online classes available


PrivAtE COMPANiES Finalists

Jeff GoldbergCali Bamboo

The financial success of Cali Bam-boo started with Jeff Goldberg when he obtained the initial line of credit on his house to launch the compa-

ny in 2004. Cali Bamboo achieved an 877 percent growth rate from 2005 to 2008 by fab-ricating and m a r k e t i n g one of the world’s most durable, sus-

tainable and renewable materials: bamboo. Goldberg practices what he preaches in providing a supportive, casual environment that disregards pomp and circumstance in favor of focusing on offering top-notch service and the highest quality bamboo prod-ucts. The company was founded on Goldberg’s drive to do something that matters above something that’s tra-ditional and commonplace. To Gold-berg, taking care of other team mem-bers will set the example for how staff should service the customers. There’s

a unique and special bond Cali Bam-boo employees have with one another, and that comes from knowing that they are making a difference for cus-tomers as well as the planet.

As part of its membership with “1 Percent for the Planet,” Cali Bamboo allocates 1 percent of its annual rev-enues towards environmental groups around the United States, setting an example for the rest of the business community. In 2009, Cali Bamboo contributed more than $62,000 in funds and materials to organizations including the Surfrider Foundation’s San Diego chapter, San Diego Coast-keeper, Reverb, TreePeople and San Diego Habitat for Humanity. Addi-tionally, Cali Bamboo participated in Surfrider San Diego’s “Paddle for Clean Water” festival and donated proceeds that it collected at the event to the organization.


Maureen SullivanSan Diego Magazine

Maureen Sullivan started as the general manager at San Diego Maga-

zine in 2003 and quickly was able to s t reaml ine e x p e n s e s to increase profitability. After being promoted to p u b l i s h e r in 2004, her l e a d e r s h i p contributed

to the company’s financial rise. Under her direction, the company developed a cutting-edge multimedia platform. Sullivan was responsible for the suc-cessful launch of Exquisite Weddings magazine in 2007, which continues to grow in readership on newsstands. She was promoted to president and publisher in December 2008. Sulli-van’s strength, passion, enthusiasm and strategies have rejected national sales trends and have resulted in the magazine’s sales team frequently overshooting their forecasted sales

goals. Besides being successful in the San Diego community and publish-ing industry, she has an incredible understanding of how to form suc-cessful connections among people. She recognizes and comprehends the consumer as well as the advertiser and has numerous success stories of how she is able to connect and build successful and profitable business re-lationships.

With a strong passion for commu-nity and a heart for kids, Sullivan serves on the boards of the Junior Seau Foundation and Promises2Kids, formerly known as the Child Abuse Prevention Foundation, and works actively in areas that help at-risk youth, including with the Monarch School, Team KO, La Cuna, Walden Family Services and Voices for Chil-dren. Sullivan handles and oversees hundreds of tasks and priorities, yet somehow finds a way to continually keep herself composed and focused. She gives each one of her commit-ments 100 percent of her attention and energy.

Andy AbramsonComunicano Inc.

Andy Abramson founded Comuni-cano Inc. 16 years ago, and has since built the company from a one-person

operation to a 28-person global, full-service com-munications consultancy. C o m u n i c a -no’s virtual office model uses cutting edge technol-ogies to con-duct business

in an ultra-cool and time efficient way. Clients can literally be anywhere in the world, and Abramson can close a deal. In addition to being CEO of Co-municano, Abramson is also one of the most respected commentators on the subject of next-generation communi-cations. Abramson authors one of the most widely read VoIP (voice over IP) blogs, “VoIPWatch,” and, since 1998, has served as co-host of KenRadio’s “World Technology RoundUp,” which is heard on CBS Radio and down-

loaded by more than 200,000 listen-ers per day. Abramson’s team has an impressive reputation in the telecom community, co-hosting several indus-try events and constantly working to promote emerging technologies. For example, Comunicano provided publicity support pro bono to Gadget-Fest in San Diego last year – part of his commitment to local community involvement. Abramson’s industry reach and compelling personality make him a great leader within the San Diego technology industry.

Private Finalist

Brent AltomareGroovy Like a Movie

Brent Altomare has spearheaded one of the most successful companies in San Diego. He has achieved this through a keen focus in providing “big firm-type” expertise with per-sonalized customer service to a wide range of clients, including corpora-tions, government and advertising agencies both in Southern California and around the country. Despite an economic downturn that normally

plays havoc with multimedia produc-tion companies, Altomare has been able to thrive in the current climate

by ensuring that his com-pany’s proj-ects are not only pleasing to the eyes and ears, but also support the organiza-tion’s quanti-fiable goals. One recent example of

this was Groovy Like a Movie’s direct help to the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System that increased rider-ship by more than 15 percent by pro-ducing a “Dump The Pump” television ad and online video campaign in 2008 when gas prices were skyrocketing.

Altomare is active in volunteer ef-forts and is a strong contributor to several organizations, including the Monarch School for Homeless and At-Risk Children, the San Diego Film Commission, San Diego Asian Film Festival, and San Diego Film Festi-val, by hosting various events and workshops in Groovy Like a Movie’s studios free of charge. He is also a

frequent guest speaker at various college film classes, including San Diego State University and Palomar College.

Private Finalist

Matt BakerFeast on This

The success of Feast on This is due to the vision and perseverance of Matt Baker. His vision is simple – provide

the highest level of cater-ing services by using top quality in-g r e d i e n t s , p r e p a r e d hygienically and present-ed attrac-tively. This approach has resulted in

incredible client loyalty by many of San Diego’s top corporate employers. His company has survived the cur-rent economic downturn by his per-

Please turn to PRIVATE on Page B16



severance in adhering to his vision. Everyone who meets Baker admires him. Against huge odds he overcame his deafness to become a success in a business where communication – with employees, vendors and clients – is critical. He faces setbacks with a smile, offers a helping hand to those in need, and deals with economic hard times with tenacity and resolution.

Since Baker has been profoundly deaf from birth, he has taken a spe-cial interest in educating and mentor-ing deaf kids and those who wish to enter the culinary field. In this role, he routinely lectures at primary and secondary schools, and gives cooking lessons. Feast on This has contributed food and service to many local chari-ties, including the San Diego Breast Cancer Walk and the American Can-cer Society Relay For Life Event.

Private Finalist

George Devries iiiAmerican Specialty Health

In 1987, George DeVries III, chair-man and CEO of American Specialty Health, co-founded an organization

that has since become one of the nation’s larg-est health improvement and comple-m e n t a r y health care o r g a n i z a -tions. As an entrepreneur and health

care innovator, DeVries has taken great personal and financial risks to achieve his goal of building a unique business based on nontraditional health care concepts. He launched ASH with just a few thousand dollars of his own savings. Working from a second bedroom in his condominium, he posted $34,000 in revenues that first year. In 22 years of operations, the company has increased its mem-bership every single year and has been profitable every year it has been in business.

DeVries supports numerous com-munity activities and events, includ-ing an internal community service committee; Adopt-a-Family and First Impressions programs; care packages for troops overseas; Ronald McDon-ald House collections; Make-a-Wish and Challenged Athletes Foundation fundraisers; the American Heart As-sociation Heart Walk; and donations to the American Liver Foundation and San Diego School Board. He

has also hosted holiday parties for military families and has opened his company’s doors for events hosted by the San Diego Hospice and Network of Strength National Breast Cancer Organization. In both 2008 and 2009, DeVries championed onsite Commu-nity Service Volunteer Fairs.

Private Finalist

Lisa DruxmanStroller Strides

A lifelong fitness enthusiast, Lisa Druxman first recognized the need for a “mommy-friendly” workout af-

ter the birth of her son in 2001. Want-ing to maxi-mize time with her baby, but also needing to get back into p r e - p r e g -nancy shape, she created a series of

exercises using power walks, her stroller, exercise tubing and the out-doors. Druxman started classes in her neighborhood, and soon enough, a small business was born. Within a year, her exercise program “Stroller Strides” went from one location with four moms to 12 locations with more than 1,000 moms. Stroller Strides currently boasts tens of thousands of participants and more than 1,000 locations across the country and in Canada. Druxman has provided an opportunity for thousands of moms to regain confidence through exercise, develop lasting friendships, and have a family-friendly, flexible career.

Through Druxman’s Moms with a Mission, Stroller Strides adopts a dif-ferent charity – from Breast Cancer Fund to March of Dimes – and the franchise locations work together to raise funds and awareness for the cause by offering community events and education. Stroller Strides has also been committed to raising funds and awareness for partner Pampers’ One Pack = One Vaccine program that benefits UNICEF. Druxman has been involved with the Postpartum Health Alliance, including creating a unique, charitable event in San Diego called MamaFest.

Private Finalist

David DuongShoe Metro

David Duong embodies the spirit of a true entrepreneur and CEO. At the young age of 26, he and his part-ner, Will, started Shoe Metro from their living room in Ohio. In the past

five years, Duong’s knack for busi-ness, operations and leadership have helped Shoe Metro achieve a level of

success he couldn’t have ever imag-ined. What started as a $20,000, two-man home operation has b l o s s o m e d into a thriv-ing multimil-lion dollar business that

resides in a 36,000-square-foot facil-ity in Miramar. And he did this with-out any outside investors other than traditional banks. To Duong, good business means doing the right thing and he leads by example in this area. Duong strives to better the world we live in through his employees’ growth, bringing value to his customers, and through support of various charitable organizations.

Shoe Metro employees recently participated in the San Diego 5K Heart Walk and joined on with Soles 4 Souls – an organization dedicated to providing footwear to those in need all over the world. Duong also supports many different local organi-zations, including the Boy Scouts of America, The Boys & Girls Club of San Diego, and the Junior League’s Kids in the Kitchen event. Duong has made generous donations to a num-ber of organizations that work to help those in need.

Private Finalist

Keith Michael EsshakiGTC Systems Inc.

More than a decade ago, CEO Keith Michael Esshaki founded GTC Systems Inc. Now a profitable net-

working com-pany, GTC S y s t e m s continues to grow thanks to Esshaki’s d e d i c a t i o n to building r e l a t i o n -ships with his clients and commit-ted vendors.

His trustworthy and ethical business practices have brought him much success as an industry leader. Es-shaki doesn’t give up, but continues to move forward with his goal to im-pact the market with an ethical, non-harassing sales team. When the com-pany faced economically challenging times, Esshaki didn’t close its doors; instead, he put his own house up for

mortgage and risked everything to keep the business afloat. He has im-plemented diversity in the workplace and created an environment where employees feel like family. Esshaki is also deeply involved with the commu-nity, donating to various local chari-ties and serving as an active member within his church.

Private Finalist

Douglas FordThe I.T. Pros

Douglas Ford is a self-made execu-tive and IT guru, working for many technology companies before start-

ing The I.T. Pros in 2001. Ford has led the trans-formation of The I.T. Pros from a one-man consult-ing company to a thriving corporation laser focused on provid-

ing IT services to the SMB market-place. Every year from 2001 to 2007, The I.T. Pros consistently doubled in annual gross revenues, earning recognition from local and national media as one of the fastest growing privately held companies and value added resellers in the country. Ford encourages the employees to grow on both a personal level and a pro-fessional level. The passion for tech-nology and providing value-driven services will keep Ford a leader in this industry for many years to come. Ford is committed to his community, having been involved with the Ra-mona Pony Baseball team as board president, team manager and spon-sor. He is a corporate donor for Day for Change Rady’s Children’s Hospi-tal San Diego, and World Stem Cell Foundation. He is an American Can-cer Society Relay for Life sponsor and team leader, a Boy Scouts of America scout leader, an elder in his church and teaches Sunday School.

Private Finalist

Aaron FulkersonMindTouch Inc.

Aaron Fulkerson’s innovative ap-proach to community outreach, so-cial media usage and thought lead-ership in the software industry has taken MindTouch Inc. from a small, unknown venture into one of the world’s most popular open source collaboration products in less than three years. With the company’s tens of millions of users globally and an


PrivateContinued from Page B15


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impressive customer list of more than 1,000 Fortune 500 corporations, gov-ernment agencies and mid-market companies, Fulkerson has been the primary evangelist and direct reason for MindTouch’s financial success. Fulkerson’s continued investment, support and one-on-one time with his employees on a regular basis has re-sulted in employee satisfaction and low turnover rates.

Even though Fulkerson only moved the company to San Diego two years ago, he has taken the time to deeply integrate himself into the San Diego community. Fulkerson and MindTouch employees participate regularly in beach cleanups with the Surfrider Foundation; speak at local MIT forums; volunteer with Mama’s Kitchen; donate old computers, office supplies and extra company apparel to Father Joe’s Village; and volunteer on the board of directors of the Ocean Beach Town Council.

Private Finalist

raj Ganti SQL Star

Raj Ganti took over SQL Star in 2005 and restructured the underper-forming company by developing ef-

fective strat-egies and r e c r u i t i n g “Grade A” players. He has built a culture that makes each e m p l o y e e feel like he or she is the most valu-able asset by

creating a feeling of ownership and responsibility among employees. His persistence, attention to detail and analytical skills have resulted in an increase in the revenues over the last three years by reducing operating losses by 70 percent. Ganti raised sub-stantial PE capital to fuel inorganic growth. The company made three acquisitions within a span of two years. All operations were central-ized and fully integrated/streamlined to ensure operational efficiencies and bottom line growth. Under Ganti’s leadership, the company’s stock price grew more than 200 percent in two years, and consolidated revenues grew more than 180 percent.

Ganti donates liberally to various charities in San Diego, including San Diego Women’s Shelter, Red Cross and the San Diego Blood Bank. He is an avid blood donor and has donated blood more than 17 times in the last two years. He also volunteers week-ends to build shelters for underprivi-

leged societies in Tijuana, Mexico. Ganti is a little league tennis coach and volunteers a lot of time on week-ends to coach deserving kids.

Private Finalist

Bruce GeierTechnology Integration Group

As Technology Integration Group’s CEO and founder, Bruce Geier is as actively involved in the company’s

d ay - t o - d ay success as he was 28 years ago. His rec-ognition of changes in the technol-ogy mar-ket and re-sponse to the c o n s t a n t l y c h a n g i n g needs of cus-

tomers has kept TIG consistently successful in a market where many others have come and gone. His in-novative approach of adapting the company organization to best meet the needs of the customer has kept TIG on the leading edge of the in-dustry. Geier has created an organic organization that promotes employee empowerment and recognizes and re-wards successful employees in all ar-eas of the company. He has not only championed a diverse workplace, but made it a core value at TIG. He has also created a learning environment at the company through internal and external training, giving employees the ability and opportunity to keep up with the evolving technology.

In addition to TIG’s community involvement, Geier is a member of the Pacific Life Bowl Game Associa-tion Redcoat Committee, and is in-volved in Rotary Club and the San Diego Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. He is an active supporter of the Deacon Jones Foun-dation and Young Audiences Arts for Learning in San Diego.

Private Finalist

John HeffnerCreative Nail Design

As president and CEO of Creative Nail Design for the past 12 years, John Heffner has contributed to the company’s financial success by in-creasing sales by 80 percent and profit by 400 percent. He created new products that improved revenue and profits. He fosters teamwork, educa-tion, growth and cares deeply for all of his employees. Heffner was hon-ored by the City of Hope with the “Spirit of Life” award in 2007.

Private Finalist

Jim HollenRich Ltd

For two consecutive years, Inc.com ranked Rich Ltd within its 5,000 fast-est-growing companies, noting a jump in revenue from $2 million in 2004 to $5.8 million in 2007. Jim Hollen was able to achieve this by shifting focus from stock to custom designs, taking advantage of inexpensive overseas manufacturing, and using services to manage different production stages. Hollen is a great leader and knows what he stands for. People respect his opinion and constantly look to him for guidance. He values his employ-ees and their families more than dol-lars, and expresses it in his actions daily. Hollen is loaded with energy and comes to work with great enthu-siasm, inspiring his employees. His perseverance and courage is amaz-ing in tougher times, when everyone looks to him for support and leader-ship. Hollen sets an example by at all times acting with character, integrity, compassion and respect.

Hollen’s passion for philanthropy is evident in his daughter Paige Hol-len, with whom he helped start a charity organization called Xslaves in 2007, when she was still in high school. Xslaves raised $500,000, which was used to develop and imple-ment education, vocational training and economic assistance programs to former slaves and returning refugees of Sudan.

Private Finalist

Bruce HuenersPalomar Technologies

Amidst challenging economic times, Palomar Technologies has suc-ceeded and is continuing to succeed through Bruce Hueners’ guidance and leadership. When Hueners took over as president in 2005, he was tasked with reversing a trend of declining revenues, low operating margins and poor morale. With a lean staff, he was sometimes down on the factory floor or in the field helping to make sales. It was a difficult struggle; how-ever, the efforts of all were rewarded. Hueners was able evaluate his team under these tough conditions and put them in positions where they would be most productive. In 2007, Palo-mar finally became profitable, and in 2008, Palomar posted its most profit-able year of the decade.

Hueners is currently the vice chairman of the San Diego World Trade Center and has been an active member since 2004. He participates in Adopt a Family on annual basis

and is a member of the Tri-City Hos-pital Foundation Diamond Society. Hueners has also been an active ser-vice member for more than 40 years in the Boy Scouts of America, earn-ing his Eagle Scout in 1968 and then going on to serve as Council Round-table Commissioner, Assistant Scout Master, Cubmaster and Merit Badge Counselor.

Private Finalist

Daniel KhabieDigitaria

Daniel Khabie’s intuitive indus-try acumen has driven Digitaria on a path of year after year growth. He, along with five partners, founded the company in 1997 from scratch with only a $100,000 loan. His pragmatic agenda for stable, controlled growth was a leading factor in Digitaria’s sur-vival of the infamous dot-com boom and subsequent bust. Khabie has led the organization through more than a decade of economic ups and downs, yet has remained a beacon of stability as he establishes a diversified client base, ensuring a buffer against reces-sion-sensitive industry specific agen-cies. Khabie has created a culture in Digitaria that allows all employees direct access to the executives, shows transparency in organizational busi-ness strategy and operations, and rewards hard work with recognition and acknowledgment.

Khabie is currently serving a two-year term on the San Diego Ad Club board of directors. Digitaria created the Invisible Children Web site and developed Facebook pages that al-lowed it to raise more than $8,000 in donations per week. In addition, Kha-bie personally provides complimenta-ry marketing and business strategy consulting services to a local Jew-ish school. Digitaria has sponsored the fundraising golf tournament for Tri-City Medical, as well as donated goods and services to the San Diego Ad Club’s annual fundraising auc-tion.

Private Finalist

John KlinedinstKlinedinst PC

John Klinedinst’s success is self-made, and is the product of hard work, a commitment to excellence and a unique desire to create a law firm that operates with a corporate struc-ture, not as a traditional partnership. When Klinedinst first opened Kline-dinst PC in 1983, he was a young at-torney looking to make a difference





in the San Diego legal community. Under his guidance and leadership, the firm has expanded from its one location in San Diego to four offices in Southern and Northern Califor-nia, and has grown into a multifac-eted practice catering to regional, national and international corporate clients. Klinedinst’s innate talent for identifying potential business oppor-tunities, combined with his boundless energy and persistence is unmatched, particularly in the legal industry. He combines people skills and visionary leadership that is constantly focused three to five years down the road.

Klinedinst and his wife started the John and Cindy Klinedinst Hon-or Scholarship at Washington and Lee University. Locally, Klinedinst and the firm give back significantly to various organizations. This year alone, the firm has been a major spon-sor with many worthwhile causes, including the San Diego Volunteer Program, which provides legal repre-sentation to poor and indigent resi-dents of San Diego, and the Califor-nia Women Lawyers.

Private Finalist

Greg KochStone Brewing Co.

Greg Koch is highly involved with every aspect of Stone Brewing Co., and has taken a startup 13 years ago and turned it into one of the fastest grow-ing breweries in America. His role is critical in how the business runs and how it grows, and he firmly believes the only way to do this is on his own terms. From starting and running one of the largest recording studios in Los Angeles, to making Stone Brew-ing what it is today – he’s done it all. He was also the brains behind the amazingly successful Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens. Koch never stops thinking, never stops work-ing and never stops dreaming about what Stone Brewing can become. The highly acclaimed company is on the cutting edge of biodiversity and en-vironmental awareness, and a key leader in its industry, and Koch is the reason, pure and simple.

Stone Brewing is very active in many charity and environmental causes. The company donates well over $100,000 each year to local or-ganizations, along with being active regionally and nationally with a vari-ety of groups. In the past year, it has been recognized for its philanthropy efforts from the Surfrider Founda-tion, San Diego North Chamber of Commerce, and North County Phi-lanthropy Council.

Private Finalist

Ken KuangTorrey Hills Technology

Torrey Hills Technology CEO Ken Kuang’s mantra is to help his cus-tomers be successful in their busi-ness, and later share with their suc-cess. Kuang is an uncomplicated, transparent person. You can see his determination to help his employees in any situation, by doing their job if needed, regardless of the task. He treats his employees like family, tak-ing a sincere interest in their lives. You can feel the excitement in his voice when he shares his vision of his company’s future. Kuang’s technical and engineering abilities were always known to others, but with the birth of his company, his true gift of leading a company to success was unveiled. His keen sense of business aptitude to read the market, follow the trends and find new opportunities keeps the company focused with their eyes on the prize.

Torrey Hills Technologies is ex-tremely involved with the Interna-tional Microelectronics and Pack-aging Society, with Kuang holding various leadership positions. Kuang contributes to Kidsclothes and was a key organizer of a donation drive to help victims of the recent San Diego wildfires, which raised thousands of dollars. Kuang is passionate about his own foundation, Torrey Hills Founda-tion, which helps fund education for underprivileged children in various areas of Asia.

Private Finalist

Jason KulpaUnderground Elephant

As founder and CEO, Jason Kulpa brings strategic initiative to Under-ground Elephant. He is responsible for relationships and alliances with key media companies, networks and ad distribution partners. Kulpa is known for his uncanny creation of win-win business development and his reputation is rock solid in the in-dustry. He is a motivator, manager and marketing pro when it comes to finding emerging markets and estab-lishing a foothold. Once anchored, he creates barriers to entry with savvy marketing play and streamlined sup-ply chain management. Swift deci-sion making and creativity position his companies at the head of the pack where they have long-term shelf life. Previous to founding Underground Elephant, Kulpa launched another advertising agency in 2003. After ag-gressive growth and expansion he took the company public, along with three others, via a successful reverse

merger in 2008. Putting a deal to-gether during that time of dry capital markets was a testament to his long-term stance on creating a win-win for everyone. Kulpa graduated from the School of Letters and Sciences at Arizona State University, with a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Degree in Business and Communica-tion. He is a passionate supporter of the Arsenal Football Club of the Eng-lish Premier League.

Private Finalist

raj LahotiOnlineGURU Inc.

At 27 years old, Raj Lahoti is a Web guru and the successful owner of a multimillion-dollar company. He started his first business at age 14. By the age of 18, he had co-founded his first online business, and by 21, he had formed an Internet-based affiliate portal that still exists as a profitable entity and in which he still maintains a 30 percent ownership stake. His next business venture, in which he partnered with his brother, Ravi, was OnlineGURU Inc., an In-ternet marketing and publishing business. Today, his company runs and operates a few brands, including its flagship site – The Unofficial DMV Guide. Lahoti took the company from a two-man show to a 20-person oper-ation, increasing its revenue by more than 300 percent. The company has doubled the size of its portfolio of Web sites, and is set to launch another four sites by the end of the year.

Some OnlineGURU employees are involved in Outdoor Outreach, an organization aimed at empowering at-risk and underprivileged youth through comprehensive outdoor pro-gramming. The company donates funds to the National Alliance on Mental Illness and employees par-ticipate in a Thanksgiving food drive through the San Diego Food Bank, as well as Toys for Tots each December.

Private Finalist

Judy LawtonTLC Staffing

Judy Lawton founded TLC Staff-ing in 1985. In its early days, TLC was primarily an administrative tem-porary staffing firm serving only San Diego. Over the years, TLC Staffing has grown to operate three branches in Southern California, providing temporary, contract and direct-hire staffing services in multiple divisions, including accounting and finance, human resources, engineering, IT and biotech. Even though 2008 and 2009 have been tough years for the staffing industry, Lawton’s positive can-do attitude is pervasive in the

company and leads others to create their own destinies. While TLC Staff-ing has had to pare expenses, it has kept a continual focus on customer satisfaction in order to keep market share. Lawton is a self-made wom-an from humble beginnings, whose life and business experiences, both failures and successes, have helped her grow her company to the largest woman-owned staffing firm based in San Diego.

Lawton is the current president of California Staffing Professionals, and she supports and is active on nu-merous boards and associations, in-cluding Soroptimist International of San Diego, LEAD San Diego, Women President’s Organization, and the San Diego Workforce Partnership. Lawton shares her employment ex-pertise, having served on the San Diego Workforce Investment Board, as past chair, and currently serves on the Workforce Advancement Com-mittee.

Private Finalist

Christopher LeeACCESS Destination Services

Throughout the hospitality in-dustry, the names Christopher Lee and ACCESS Destination Services

e p i t o m i z e e x c e l l e n c e in destina-tion manage-ment. Lee has grown the company more than 300 percent since tak-ing on the role of CEO in 2002. The

company’s financial success is due to Lee’s strategic financial planning and management in addition to his positioning ACCESS as the top des-tination management company in Southern California from a sales and marketing position. Lee is an innova-tive leader and he serves as a great motivator to his team. Clear commu-nication is of the utmost importance to employee motivation, performance and job satisfaction. Lee has the in-nate sense to find and develop team members who have endless potential that they may not even see in them-selves.

Lee has been active in the com-munity for many years, serving on committees and boards for San Diego State School of Hospitality and Tour-ism Management, San Diego Con-vention & Visitors Bureau, San Diego Convention Center, March of Dimes, Peninsula Family YMCA and the San Diego chapter of Meeting Profession-als International. Lee gives gener-ously of his time and money to many





community organizations, including the YMCA, March of Dimes, Father Joe’s Village, Love’s Gift, Goodwill Industries, Point Loma Youth Sports and many other worthy causes.

Private Finalist

Gary LevineG.S. Levine Insurance Services Inc.

Gary Levine was and continues to be one of the top selling producers for G.S. Levine Insurance Services Inc.

because of his empathy, i n s u r a n c e knowledge, c o n s i s t e n t f i r s t - c l a s s service and loyalty to clients, and respect for i n s u r a n c e c a r r i e r s . Levine is a

humble, self-made businessman who is intelligent and genuinely inter-ested in others. Levine attends many classes and group meetings with oth-er insurance professionals to find out

how he can service his clients better and what product may provide them with better coverage. One of Levine’s goals more than 10 years ago was to embrace the rapid improvements in technology systems by going paper-less in 1998. While it was difficult at first to convert paper files to images on the monitors, the company made the conversion in one year. Levine is always ahead of the curve as far as utilizing new ideas and systems within his agency to make it better and allow employees to better service their clients.

Levine’s financial support of Kids Included Together and the FACE foundation through the donation of office space has allowed these non-profits to grow. Levine has and con-tinues to serve on the boards of the YMCA, Guardians, Boys and Girls Clubs, Hall of Champions, Seacrest Village Retirement Communities and Torrey Pines Bank.

Private Finalist

Michael LombardiLombardi Contracting Corp.

Michael Lombardi purchased a

company solely specializing in carpet and flooring. Due to his personal rela-tionships with his clients, he predict-

ed a change in his orga-nization. His background in all aspects of hotel man-agement and o p e r a t i o n s gave him the wisdom to become a turnkey con-tractor. By

changing the company name to Lom-bardi Contracting Corp. and obtain-ing his general contractor’s license, he moved the company forward into a hospitality niche. This allowed the growth of the company while retain-ing both his customers and employ-ees. Lombardi’s philosophy about his employees pushed him to provide job security and unlimited opportu-nities for advancement within the company. His generosity and wisdom have proven successful in retain-ing both employees and customers alike. His personal achievements and background have only motivated him more to help others.

Lombardi’s involvement includes many charities and associations throughout San Diego County. Pro-fessionally, he is a member of the Better Business Bureau, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, San Diego Hotel’s Engineers Association, and the San Diego Hotel / Motel Asso-ciation. Lombardi and his wife spend countless hours raising money and supporting charities that are close to their hearts, including holding board positions for three of them.

Private Finalist

Bryan MallindineFlexiciser International Inc.

Bryan Mallindine is president and CEO of Flexiciser International Inc., a Carlsbad-based manufactur-er and marketer of durable medical equipment for the mobility chal-lenged. Mallindine has lived in four continents where he has gained vast knowledge in international trade, marketing and strategic issues. In his consulting work, he has coached top executives across the country and been involved with major corporate turnarounds. Mallindine was the co-ordinator of the International Lead-ership and Management Program at UC San Diego and was named as chairman of the business committee and appointed to its board of advi-sors when he was there. Mallindine has guided Flexiciser to be one of the leading manufacturers of Durable

Movement Therapy devices in the country. His company was awarded a VA contract with the federal govern-ment and his products can be found at VA hospitals, clinics and homes across the country.

Mallindine is extremely commu-nity minded, supporting veterans causes and organizations that help individuals with movement therapy issues such as Parkinson’s, MS, spi-nal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy and more. Mallindine received the Call to Service Award this year from the President’s Volunteer Service Award program for his more than 4,000 volunteer hours in a lifetime.

Private Finalist

Micha MikailianeBoost Consulting

Micha Mikailian’s vision to build a marketing firm that is predicated on a flat organizational model, in-dustry agnostic, and cross-functional bucked trends in his industry. His leadership and financial acumen brought eBoost Consulting from his basement, literally, as a group that competitors didn’t take seriously, to a company that competitors emulate. Mikailian’s fearlessness and passion are the heart of his company. A serial entrepreneur, Mikailian has started 11 companies since the age of 13, in-cluding the first local search engine in the mid-’90s. Mikailian represents the new model of what CEOs can and should be in the 21st century. He is blessed with sharp business acumen, yet knows when to put that aside and lead with his heart. That mixture of EQ and IQ is the reason why his team works so hard for him.

Mikailian volunteers his time to countless young entrepreneurs from San Diego State University’s MSBA program, his alma mater, and served as head coach of its Venture Team. He also donates his time to SDSU’s co-ed business fraternity, Alpha Kappa Psi. Mikailian established the Entrepre-neur In Residence program at eBoost Consulting, which donates his men-torship and money to a startup that the EIR ignites.

Private Finalist

David OatesStalwart Communications

In 2006, David Oates launched Stalwart Communications, a mar-keting and PR agency with a pay-on-performance model for corporate, government and nonprofit organiza-tions. He has built the company to where it is today and has created



Congratulations Fred MaasFinalist: Most adMired Ceo 2009

Fred Maas has been dedicated to running Centre City Development Corporation (CCDC) for more than a year, spending more than 25 hours a week on major downtown projects and issues.

Through Maas’ leadership, CCDC has heightened its focus on public realm and public infrastructure improvements. Along with being interim CEO, since January 2007 he has also served as chairman of CCDC’s Board, facilitating all monthly board and committee meetings.

Fred works tirelessly to ensure that projects and activities continue as planned and CCDC continues to fulfill its established mission of eliminating blight and stimulating new development downtown.

Despite his busy schedule, as an uncompensated volunteer, Maas has made CCDC a top priority and has given the staff the support and leadership it needed to remain focused on the important role CCDC plays in the future development of a successful downtown.

10-325 Congrats_4C-square.indd 1 11/24/2009 4:49:09 PM



a successful model that has left cli-ents feeling nothing but thrilled and bringing more individuals knocking at his door to provide them with the same proficiency. Oates further dis-tinguishes himself from his competi-tors because he is a firm believer in not just acquiring clients to increase revenue, but is committed to ensur-ing that they will benefit from his ex-pertise and will see results. Oates is also committed to providing nothing but the best working environment for his employees, allowing employees to work virtually, which saves them in transportation costs.

Oates has been a regular donor for the San Diego Blood Bank over the past nine years and contributes blood platelets monthly to help cancer pa-tients. In addition, Oates is a mem-ber of the San Diego Venture Group, Public Relations Society of America San Diego Chapter, MIT Enterprise Forum and the Executives Associa-tion of San Diego. Oates is also in-volved with the Arthritis Foundation where he provides pro bono PR work to help with events including the an-nual Arthritis Walk.

Private Finalist

Andreas roellGeary Interactive

Geary Interactive was co-founded by Andreas Roell in 2000 with found-ing capital. Since then, Geary has

grown from a two-person digital mar-keting shop into an orga-nization of more than 60 employees. Roell is also chairman of Geary’s board of directors, and through

this position, he has expanded Geary’s focus and dominance nationally. This is demonstrated through new office locations and the addition of national brands to Geary’s client portfolio. Ro-ell is creating a new form of agency in Geary Interactive. Targeting middle market clients, a historically under-served market, Roell is developing an innovative operating model to ad-dress their high service needs and modest budgets. Roell is also firmly invested in each employee and his or her professional growth.

In 2009, Geary participated in beach clean-ups, clothing drives, Toys for Tots and a canned food drive. All employees are encouraged to par-ticipate in industry and professional associations. Roell is involved with several organizations outside of the

company. He works with the Make a Wish Foundation and serves on the board of directors for Mainly Mozart Foundation. Roell is also an active member of the Entrepreneur Orga-nization and Vistage, and every year Roell and Geary Interactive select a pro bono client to aid in its digital marketing efforts.

Private Finalist

Linda roseRose Business Solutions

As president and CEO of Rose Business Solutions, Linda Rose cre-ated and grew a startup company to what is today – a thriving pro-fessional services organization. Her CPA background and her business acumen have allowed her to increase the size of the company and its cus-tomer base throughout the country and abroad. Rose formed K. Rose & Co. in 1991, installing multiple ac-counting product lines for business-es, including Epicor, Sage Enterprise Suite and then eventually, Microsoft Business Solutions. With the expan-sion of the business, Rose Business Solutions was created. In 1998, Rose started her second company, Thomp-sonRose Interim Professionals to staff San Diego’s accounting and financial community. Then in 2000, due to an increasing demand in hosted solu-tions, Rose established a sister com-pany called RoseASP to function as an application service provider of hosted front office/back office, mis-sion-critical Microsoft solutions. Rose has contributed to a large number of small to mid-size companies by being their trusted advisor for enterprise resource planning systems. Through her integrity and workmanship, she has shown her strategic thinking and leadership abilities, impacting com-panies across multiple industries by improving their business processes and increasing profitability. Rose has redefined the perception and elevated the expectations of a woman’s place in the technology industry.

Private Finalist

Niels rydderOak Creek Energy

Oak Creek Energy CEO Niels Rydder has cultivated relationships with multiple domestic and multina-tional companies that have resulted in two expansions of the core wind en-ergy facility, and a partnership with a financial entity that achieved the largest wind energy power purchas-ing agreement, 1,500 megawatts, in the history of the industry. Rydder’s challenge was to merge two disparate units into a single functioning corpo-rate entity. The historic Oak Creek

Energy Systems was an operation and maintenance group with a strong technological expertise, yet territori-ally bound to its pioneer core facility on 1,200 acres above Tehachapi. He has overseen a sensitive budget pro-cess for many years to maintain the ongoing viability of the company dur-ing an extensive multiyear period of severely constrained cash flow, while maintaining the thrust of the com-pany’s objectives. Most importantly, he managed the team, capitalizing on individual strengths and motivat-ing his colleagues to do their best, to overcome sustained instances of ad-versity and utilize opportunities as they arose.

Rydder and Oak Creek contrib-ute money to local and nationwide charities, this year donating money to Red Cross, the Humane Society and community colleges, and sending care packages to soldiers abroad. Oak Creek also donates all old cell phones to the U.S. Army for the soldiers to use to call home.

Private Finalist

Mark SchulzeCrystal Pyramid Productions

In 1981, upon graduating from UC San Diego, Mark Schulze started a video production services company called Crystal Pyramid Productions. In the beginning, he videotaped spe-cial events, bar mitzvahs and wed-dings. Now, 28 years later, CPP pro-duces and shoots award-winning video for corporate entities UPS, Denny’s, Microsoft, IBM and AT&T, as well as broadcast companies Oprah, Ac-cess Hollywood, M-TV Gametrailers, Comedy Central and Inside Edition. Because Schulze is such a talented producer and shooter, word has got-ten around in the industry, and the business and its finances have grown exponentially over the years.

Schulze is involved in various community organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce and San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau, and he is current vice president of the San Diego chapter of Media Communica-tions Association International. In ad-dition to giving thousands of dollars every year to nonprofit organizations, Schulze and his partner contribute to nonprofit organizations by giving them video production services either at substantially discounted rates or gratis. Recently, they have worked with Girls Think Tank, Recording Artists Against Drunk Driving, Y-ME Breast Cancer Organization, the Peace Resource Center and others. They recently completed production of a documentary about homeless combat veterans, “The Invisible Ones: Homeless Combat Veterans.”

Private Finalist

John SommatinoLaptops Plus

Laptops Plus CEO John Somma-tino has maintained a well-rounded company for 12 years. He has served in many roles in his company over the years, including CEO, chief fi-nancial officer, manager, sales and technician, all the while overseeing the company growth. Sommatino is constantly looking for new ways to advertise Laptops Plus. He goes to trade show events and networks with other businesses to bring in com-munity customers. He continually makes an impact on people when he meets them, bringing in return busi-ness. Sommatino is always working on new ideas, products and services his company can offer customers, such as pick up and delivery of com-puters, new Web site discounts, and radio commercials, and he is current-ly reworking a new Web site that will include customer testimonials.

Laptops Plus employees are active members of the Better Business Bu-reau, Santee Chamber, and San Di-ego Regional Chamber of Commerce. Sommatino also supports the Mes-sengers Motorcycle club for a woman battling Lou Gehrig’s disease, Chil-dren In Need Inc., Laptopgiving.org, Jackalope golf tournament and vari-ous other organizations.

Private Finalist

David StrobelSpace Micro Inc.

CEO David Strobel inspires his em-ployees at Space Micro Inc. through his own actions, building contacts and relationships with the customer base. Space Micro is an innovative company, working with many SBIRs and cutting-edge technologies. He supports the development of intel-lectual property through patents, an opportunity for the employees. After a long career in high-tech corpora-tions, this is the second company that Strobel has founded. Both were and continue to be successful financially. Strobel is an excellent CEO to work for because he is very ethical, listens to his employees and will take action if it is in the best interest of the com-pany. He sets an excellent example with his work ethic and positive at-titude. He listens to you and you feel like you are a valued member of the team. He knows how to capitalize on good opportunities and he knows how to make adjustments when times are bad. He does this in a very positive way and all the employees are com-municated with on a one-on-one basis as well as during regular company meetings.



PuBLiC COMPANiES Finalist

Juliet Singh, Ph.D.Transdel Pharmaceuticals

Juliet Singh, Ph.D., is the CEO of La Jolla-based Transdel Pharma-

c e u t i c a l s , a specialty pharmaceu-tical compa-ny focused on deve l op ing noninvasive, topically ad-min is tered products. The c o m p a n y ’ s innovative,

patented Transdel cream formulation technology is designed to facilitate the effective penetration of a variety of products through the tough skin barrier. With a lean and experienced management team, strong intellectu-al property and the utilization of the most experienced contract organiza-tions, she led and played a key role in advancing the development of Trans-del’s lead topical pain drug Keto-

PuBLiC COMPANiES Honorees

Michael CovertPalomar Pomerado Health

Before Michael Covert’s arrival to Palomar Pomerado Health, the health system was losing approximately $25 million a year and staff turnover was high. Since coming over to PPH,

Covert chal-lenged the work culture and encour-aged the staff to believe in themselves, and he em-p o w e r e d them to have passion for the organi-zation and

their roles. Nursing and staff turn-over rates at PPH are now among the lowest in California, saving the health system millions of dollars. Since Covert’s arrival, he has led PPH to break new ground in health care. PPH was the first health system in San Diego County to bring remote presence robotics to the bedside with the RP-7 robot. Recently, the organi-zation partnered with 23andMe, and become the first and only hospital in California to offer personal genom-

ics (DNA) analysis for consumers to purchase over-the-counter. Under Covert’s leadership, PPH became the only health system in the county to establish and operate medical clinics in a retail setting.

Covert is deeply committed to the community, and spends a signifi-cant amount of time outside of his role as CEO to enhance the health care profession. Presently, Covert is a member of the American Hospi-tal Association HealthCare Systems Leadership Committee, member of California Association of Hospitals and Health Systems Board, and past chair of the Hospital Association of San Diego and Imperial Counties. He also serves as the American College of Healthcare Executives Regent for District 5, San Diego and Imperial Counties, in California.

Patrick HenryEntropic Communications

Patrick Henry has been at the helm of Entropic Communications since September 2003. As CEO of Entropic, he has successfully shepherded the company from an early stage startup

to a thriv-ing, publicly traded com-pany. During Henry’s ten-ure, the com-pany experi-enced rapid growth, stra-tegic merg-ers and ac-quisitions, an initial public

offering, and an economic downturn. Throughout the peaks and valleys, Henry led the company’s strategy to keep it focused on its mission to be the leader in enabling connected home entertainment network solu-tions. After 15 consecutive quarters of revenue growth, Entropic success-fully completed its initial public offer-ing in December 2007 under incred-ibly challenging market conditions. During the 2009 economic downturn, Henry was willing to make difficult decisions to preserve the financial

health of the company and reduced operating expenses significantly while maintaining the investment in essential R&D to meet the long term strategic goals of the company. Henry is well respected by Entropic employ-ees for being hard working and lead-ing by example – demonstrating his tenacity, creativity and understand-ing of the business, every day.

Henry is an active contributor to many causes, including Horizon Christian Church, the Georgia Insti-tute of Technology, Compassion Inter-national, The San Diego Rescue Mis-sion, Covenant House, the American Red Cross, the Smile Train, and the Georgia Alpha Chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon. Entropic is an active mem-ber and contributor in CommNexus, TechAmerica (formerly AEA), High Tech High, and various University of San Diego programs including CON-NECT. The company is also an active member of the Consumer Electronics Association, Global Semiconductor Alliance, and Multimedia over Coax Alliance.

Blue in PMS 647

Blue in CMYK

transdel. With limited resources and assistance in the startup phase of the company, she aggressively advanced the programs to bring the company to the stage where it is now. Singh has a broad range of expertise in all disciplines involved in the global de-velopment and registration of drugs. Her charismatic personality inspires others to consistently look for new op-portunities, and innovative and cre-ative approaches. She is persistent to pursue several strategies in growing and developing Transdel, the com-pany she founded with the objective to making positive changes in health care and improving the quality of life of patients.

Singh served on the Regulatory Affairs Advisory Committee to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and has been a member of the Ameri-can Heart Association.

The University Club would like to Congratulate the San Diego Business Journal "2009 Most Admired CEOs."

To learn more about The University Club atop Symphony Towers, contact Casey Falkner Membership & Community Relations Director at 619.702.1985 or [email protected]

lOO1 9 0 9 - 2 0 0 9

YEAR S OF EXCELLENCE

C E L E B R AT I N G

THE UNIVERSITY CLUBATOP SYMPHONY TOWERS THE UNIVERSITY CLUB

Celebrates 100 Years1909 | 2009

CONFIDENT IN Our hErITagE, DEDICaTEDTO Our FuTurE.


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REgiStER today!

Congratulations to the Most admired CEo of the year Finalists

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andy abramsonComunicano Inc.

Brent altomareGroovy Like A Movie

Matt BakerFeast On This

Eric BasuSentek Global

douglas BurkeDefenseWeb Technologies

Reid CarrRed Door Interactive

Robert Christie3E Co.

irma CotaNorth County Health Services

Michael CovertPalomar Pomerado Health

Joe CraverAmerican Red Cross San Diego / Imperial Counties Ch.

george deVries iiiAmerican Specialty Health

Lisa druxmanStroller Strides

david duongShoe Metro

Julian duvalSan Diego Botanic Garden

Keith Michael EsshakiGTC Systems Inc.

ted FoglianiOutsource Manufacturing Inc.

douglas FordThe I.T. Pros

aaron FulkersonMindTouch Inc.

Raj gantiSQL Star

Bruce geierTechonology Integration Group

Bill geppertCox Communications

Hany girgisSGIS

Jeff goldbergCali Bamboo

Jeff HarperHarper Construction Co.

John HeffnerCreative Nail Design

Patrick HenryEntropic Communications

Paul HeringBarney & Barney LLC

Jim HollenRich Ltd

Bruce HuenersPalomar Technologies

Mel KatzManpower

dan KhabieDigitaria

John KlinedinstKlinedinst PC

greg KochStone Brewing Co.

Ken KuangTorrey Hills Technologies

Jason KulpaUnderground Elephant

Raj LahotiOnlineGURU Inc.

James LasswellINDUS Technology Inc.

Judy LawtonTLC Staffing

Christopher LeeACCESS Destination Services

Bob LeoneMr. Copy

gary LevineG.S. Levine Insurance Services Inc.

Michael LombardiLombardi Contraction Corporation

Fred MaasBlack Mountain Ranch LLC & Centre City Development Corp.

Bryan MallindineFlexiciser International

Michael MercurioSan Diego Association of Realtors

Micha MikailianeBoost Consulting

david oatesStalwart Communications

irene oberbauerSan Diego County Credit Union

John ohanian211 San Diego

Maria olsonThe Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

William PollakovBikes for Kids Foundation Inc.

andreas RoellGeary Interactive

Linda RoseRose Business Solutions

debra RosenSan Diego North Chamber of Commerce

Niels RydderOaks Creek

Mark SchulzeCrystal Pyramid Productions

Juliet Singh, Ph.d.Transdel Pharmaceuticals

John SommatinoLaptops Plus

david StrobelSpace Micro Inc.

Maureen SullivanSan Diego Magazine

Shannon thompsonShakti Rising

david WescoeSan Diego City Employees’ Retirement System

November 18, 2009 Special awards Reception

4:00 - 7:00 pmSan diego Marriott

Hotel & MarinaSan Diego Ballroom333 W. Harbor Drive

San DiegoCA 92101

Pat HyndmanVistage Group ChairVistage International Inc.

LifetimeAchievementAward

Paul HeringCEOBarney & Barney LLC

ExemplaryAward


LEADINGThousands of CEOs Turn to Vistage Every Day.

www.vistage.com 858.509.5887.

Most Admired CEO Finalists:Reid Carr,Red DoorInteractive,member

John Klinedinst,Klinedinst PC,member

Gary Levine,G.S. Levine InsuranceServices Inc.,member

Niels Rydder,Oaks Creek,member

David Wescoe,San Diego City Employees’ Retirement System, speaker

Lifetime Achievement Award

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