Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of South Carolina for 2024. In 2022, South Carolina’s economy was ranked as the 25th largest in the US. Though the state’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, many dynamic, innovative industries thrive there. These include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, technology, research, distribution, and more.
Across these sectors, South Carolina women hold many leadership roles, as is the case for one of this year’s awardees, Jennifer Martin, VP of Quality for the industry-leading kidney population health management company Healthmap Solutions. In her role Martin leverages her long-time career dedicated to improving quality of care by ensuring a seamless and improved experience for providers and patients.
Another award recipient, Willette Burnham-Williams, an experienced senior leader in higher education, leads and manages the enterprise wide strategic diversity initiatives at the Medical University of South Carolina as its Chief Equity Officer.
Lastly, we extend our honors to Marie Prentice, the Chief Executive Officer for Powerhouse Operatives. With nearly two decades of leadership experiences including stints with President Obama’s administration and with other political campaigns, Prentice has an impressive background in managing complex logistics and strategies in the operational and political sectors.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of South Carolina for 2024.
1. Willette Burnham-Williams
Chief Equity Officer, Medical University of South Carolina
Willette Burnham-Williams is the Chief Equity Officer of the Medical University of South Carolina. She is also a member of the President’s Council and the enterprise senior leadership team. Under Burnham-Williams’ leadership, the Office of Equity is charged with further elevating, empowering, and prioritizing innovative infrastructure, programs, and resources across the enterprise. Willette is an experienced senior leader in higher education administration and developing strategic diversity initiatives and multi-faceted programs in small and large, public and private organizations.
Before joining the MUSC family, Burnham-Williams held leadership positions at Williamsburg Technical College, The Citadel Military College of SC, and The College of Charleston. She is a spokesperson on matters related to creating, enhancing, and sustaining an inclusive organization and campus environment and is committed to partnering with leaders to build, foster, and integrate comprehensive and intentional professional practices of equity and inclusion.
Burnham-Williams holds an undergraduate degree from Trinity College and a Master of Education and Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration from the University of South Carolina. She completed two post-doctorate certificate programs, healthcare executive leadership in diversity and inclusion from Georgetown University and Harvard University’s Summer Institute for Educational Management. Additionally, she has participated in state and national women’s leadership development forums hosted by the American Council on Education and South Carolina Women in Higher Education.
2. Jess Abbott
Chief Executive Officer, Greenville Center for Creative Arts
Jess Abbott's journey in the world of nonprofit arts administration spans over 15 years of dedicated service, culminating in her appointment as Chief Executive Officer of the esteemed Greenville Center for Creative Arts (GCCA) in 2022. With a robust background in steering organizations from their nascent stages to thriving phases of growth, Abbott brings a wealth of expertise to her leadership role.
At GCCA, Abbott has orchestrated a series of transformative initiatives, each aimed at enhancing the center's impact and reach within the community. From pioneering a dynamic membership program to introducing GCCA's inaugural gift shop, she has consistently demonstrated a knack for innovation and forward-thinking strategy. Moreover, her commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is evident in the creation of new programs tailored to uplift underserved communities through the transformative power of art. Before her tenure at GCCA, Abbott served as the executive director of Dogtown Dance Theatre in Richmond, Virginia. During her tenure, she not only amplified the theater's revenue by an impressive 144% but also fostered an environment where cultural diversity thrived. Her visionary leadership earned accolades from the Virginia Commission for the Arts, underscoring her reputation as a tireless champion for the arts at every level.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Abbott is deeply invested in shaping the future landscape of arts education and philanthropy. She currently serves on the board of directors for Palmetto States Arts Education (PSAE), The Fine Arts Center Partners, and the Association of Fundraising Professionals Piedmont SC Chapter. Through her multifaceted roles, Abbott remains steadfast in her mission to cultivate lasting partnerships and secure financial stability, ensuring that the transformative power of art remains accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstance.
3. Beverley Francis-Gibson
Chief Executive Officer, Together Women Rise
Beverley Francis-Gibson is the Chief Executive Officer of Together Women Rise, a powerful community of women and allies dedicated to achieving global gender equality. They have hundreds of chapters across the US where members learn about and advocate for gender equality issues, provide grants to organizations that empower women and girls in low-income countries in the Global South, and build community to forge meaningful connections that increase the organization’s strength and collective impact.
Francis-Gibson is a seasoned nonprofit executive, philanthropic advisor, and grantmaker with extensive experience in fundraising and motivational speaking. She started at Together Women Rise in 2022. Before that, she served as the president and CEO of B. Francis Consulting, BFG Motivational Services, and Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Inc.
Earlier in her career, Francis-Gibson was the executive director of NAMI Howard County. She’s also held leadership roles at The Columbia Foundation, the Triangle Community Foundation, and Women-in-Action for the Prevention of Violence & Its Causes, Inc. Francis-Gibson earned an MA in public relations and an undergraduate degree in public relations from Eastern Kentucky University.
4. Jackie Draws
Chief Financial Officer, Palmetto Goodwill
Jackie Draws is the Chief Financial Officer of Palmetto Goodwill, where she handles all aspects of CFO responsibilities, including treasury management, risk management, debt financing, financial reporting, budget, and capital assets.
Draws has 25 years of experience leading finance/accounting/payroll, IT, human resources, facilities, warehouse, transportation, and retail operations in complex not-for-profit environments. She is responsible for the financial health and reporting of two not-for-profit organizations with a total of $60M million in combined revenues and reporting to the board of directors quarterly.
Draws first got her start in 1992 as a senior manager at Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP. From there, she went on to Integrated Community Services, before eventually rising to senior vice president of operations at Goodwill NCW, her most recent position before joining Palmetto Goodwill. Draws graduated from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh with an undergraduate degree in accounting and finance.
5. De Daltorio
Chief Education Officer, Charleston Animal Society
De Daltorio is the Chief Education Officer of Charleston Animal Society, one of the oldest Humane Societies in the United States established 149 years ago. They operate a 31,000-square-foot lifesaving shelter that houses over 8,000 animals a year.
Daltorio’s love of animals, children, and art blends together in all she does. She has transformed the once small humane education program at Charleston Animal Society into a far-reaching initiative that impacts more than 20,000 student lessons throughout the Charleston area. Her strategic leadership, development, and execution of educational experiences include in-class curriculum and classroom visits, creation of the high school Veterinary Science Initiative and conference, summer camp programs, learning-centered youth engagement, and community outreach.
Daltorio graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with an undergraduate degree in elementary education. She served as the president of the board of directors of the Association of Professional Humane Educators from 2018 to 2021 and is dedicated to advancing the field of humane education. She lives near the beach on Sullivan’s Island with her husband, three cats, and three rescue dogs.
6. Paige Rose
Chief Marketing Officer, Charter One Realty
Paige Rose is the Chief Marketing Officer of Charter One Realty. She first joined the company in 2015. Established over 30 years ago, Charter One Realty leverages its deep local roots to deliver an unrivaled quality of service. As the consistent market leader in sales volume and transactions, the firm pairs collective expertise with a boutique approach to offer worldwide reach and neighborhood-level market mastery.
Throughout her career, from SEO and PPC to social media and content marketing, and from responsive web design to algorithms and AI, Rose has navigated the ever-evolving marketing industry landscape to drive transformative change for the companies she’s served. Her focus on evolution has consistently driven positive growth for both the companies and her professional trajectory.
Previously, Rose was a director of marketing at The Richardson Group. Earlier in her career, she worked with Saks Fifth Avenue as an assistant general manager. Rose earned an undergraduate degree in marketing management from the University of South Carolina.
7. Kelly Larimer
Chief Technical Officer, Kleinschmidt Associates
Kelly Larimer is the Chief Technical Officer of Kleinschmidt Associates. She started as a senior consultant managing the Hydro Department's Environmental Science Team in 2014. She moved into the role of director of science in 2017 and was promoted to her current role in 2021.
Larimer is an experienced senior consultant team lead with a demonstrated history of working in the renewables and environment industry. She’s a strong community and social services professional skilled in natural resources, facility management, environmental awareness, natural resource management, and management.
Larimer first got her start in 2000 as a researcher at Central Washington University. From there, she went on to Yakima County Planning, before eventually rising to lands and recreation manager at Grant PUD, her most recent position before joining Kleinschmidt Associates. Larimer graduated from Central Washington University with an MS in resources and environmental management.
8. Emily Wilhoit
Chief Marketing Officer, Blue Acorn iCi
Emily Wilhoit is the Chief Marketing Officer of Blue Acorn iCi, the leading digital customer experience company pioneering what's possible through the convergence of analytics, digital commerce, customer experience, and experience-driven commerce offerings.
Wilhoit specialized in e-commerce, customer experience, Magento, Adobe, new business development, and channel/partnerships. In her current role, she leads Blue Acorn iCi's Marketing and Channel Teams with responsibility for planning, development, and execution of GTM strategies. She started at the company in 2013 as a sales executive and worked her way up to the C-suite by 2020 when she was promoted to VP of commerce growth.
Before joining Blue Acorn iCi, Wilhoit worked at CBS Interactive as an account representative and account manger. Wilhoit graduated from Washington and Lee University with an undergraduate degree in mass communication and Spanish.
9. Natalia Aresu
Regional President, Humana
With over 18 years of experience at Humana, Natalia Aresu has extensive knowledge in health plan operations, ranging from strategy and clinical care models to finance and member services. She most recently served as the Regional President for South Carolina Healthy Horizons, leading the implementation of Humana's South Carolina Medicaid program, which currently serves nearly 20,000 members.
Before her current roles, Aresu was a Florida long-term care leader, where she implemented two statewide contracts, driving operational excellence and significant membership growth. With over 22 years of progressive leadership experience, Aresu has a unique expertise in delivering care in the home and improving quality outcomes for vulnerable and underserved populations through innovative clinical models and strategic provider relationships. She is actively involved in industry associations and nonprofit organizations focused on improving the health and quality of senior populations.
Aresu holds an undergraduate degree in forensic psychology from the City University of New York and an MBA with a concentration in healthcare from Florida Atlantic University. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new places.
10. Vicki Peek
Executive Vice President, Find Great People
Vicki Peek is the Executive Vice President of Find Great People, providing leadership that has been a catalyst in the organization’s sustained growth. FGP’s culture is built on three G’s – great, growth, and gratitude. FGP has proven success in developing an organization focused on its greatest asset – great people. FGP is a nationally recognized talent acquisition and human resources consulting firm.
Peek utilizes her leadership capabilities within the organization and as leader of the Consulting Division, externally with clients. She leads various engagements to include executive leadership coaching and development, talent assessment and analysis, HR analytics, and organizational design. Peek partners with organizations of all sizes and industries in solving business problems through the recruitment, development, and retention of great talent.
Before joining FGP as COO, Peek taught business at the college level with a concentration on HR and management. Today, she continues to mentor young professionals in their career growth. She has a Master’s degree in Human Resource Development from Clemson University and an undergraduate degree in business education from Bob Jones University. Peek is committed to her local community, volunteering her time to help others, as well as serving on several nonprofit boards.
11. Claire Critchell
Vice President of Manufacturing, Thorne HealthTech
Claire Critchell began her professional career 20 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President of Manufacturing at Thorne HealthTech, a leader in developing the world's most innovative solutions for a personalized approach to health and well-being.
Critchell Started at Thorne HealthTech in 2020 as the executive director of operations. She was promoted to VP in 2022. Before joining the Thorne HealthTech team, she worked for Thorne Research, starting as a production operator and lead and working her way up to operations director.
Critchell first got her start in 2004 as a sales associate at Coldwater Creek, where she provided customer service and styling assistance. Critchell has an Associate’s degree in General Studies with a focus on engineering, leadership, and psychology from North Idaho College, and she studied organizational leadership at the University of Idaho.
12. Jennifer Martin
Vice President of Quality, Healthmap Solutions
Jennifer Martin is the Vice President of Quality of Healthmap Solutions, an NCQA-accredited industry-leading kidney population health management company. Martin leads the PHP accreditation efforts, and her team plays a pivotal role in all member and provider-facing staff quality reviews, ensuring the delivery of a seamless and improved experience for both.
With a profound dedication to advancing the quality of care, Martin is unwavering in her commitment to enhancing clinical outcomes and positively impacting patients' lives. Her professional journey is rooted in health administration, quality, and population health. Previously, her extensive experience encompassed consulting for healthcare systems, pharmaceutical companies, and the Consortium of South Eastern Hypertension Control, and Electronic Health Network (a health information exchange). She also contributed her expertise to her work with Palmetto Primary Care Physicians (a large ACO) and Regional Healthplus (a clinically integrated network affiliated with Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System), where her focus on NCQA PCMH accreditation, identification of improvement opportunities, and the implementation of continuous quality improvement projects elevated health outcomes.
Martin is a national speaker, having graced prestigious events such as ACHE's annual Congress in Chicago, NCQA, and a nationwide tour with Pfizer, where she delivered insights on healthcare transformation. Martin graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina with an MA in healthcare administration and management and from the College of Charleston with an undergraduate degree in biology.
13. Kearney Dewing
Vice President, Prosek Partners
Kearney Dewing is the Vice President of Prosek Partners, a certified woman-owned business and among the largest independent, integrated communications and marketing firms globally. Specializing in providing a full range of communications solutions to financial and professional services companies, Prosek delivers business impact through an unexpected level of passion, creativity, and marketing savvy.
At Prosek, Dewing works with clients in the investment management, health, insurance, fintech, banking, and wealth management sectors. She has developed strong relationships with reporters and has a successful track record of placing quality stories that are timely and impactful for her clients and their bottom line. She also has specific expertise in thought leadership, developing narratives on behalf of her clients to elevate their visibility.
Previously, Dewing was a server and hostess at Marriott Hotels. Before that, she was a tutor, customer service, and marketing assistant at Kumon North America, Inc. Earlier in her career, she worked with North Hampton Recreation as a summer camp counselor. Dewing earned an undergraduate degree in public relations & legal studies from Quinnipiac University.
14. Jennifer Bilcze
VP & Head of Talent Strategy, Coastal Community Bank
Jennifer Bilcze is the Vice President and Head of Talent Strategy at Coastal Community Bank. Bilcze has over 17 years of experience in talent acquisition, people and culture, and leadership. She has recruited and led talent efforts in the tech, healthcare, legal, banking, finance, manufacturing, and professional services industries. She has managed teams ranging from one to 35 employees and has established a niche in building out business functions from the ground up. A few of her key descriptors include connector, influencer, relationship builder, adviser, coach, empathizer, and stimulator.
Before joining Coastal Community Bank, Bilcze was a senior manager of talent acquisition at CareRev. Before that, she was a director of people and culture at The Ziegenfelder Company. Earlier in her career, she worked with Start County Family Court as a juvenile probation officer.
Bilcze is a graduate of Kent State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and has a JD from the University of Akron School of Law. She has received several certifications to include HCI’s Talent Acquisition Strategist and Strategic Workforce Planning Certifications and is also a Predictive Index Certified Practitioner. She is a proud member of SHRM and prides herself on being a lifelong learner.
15. Kristin Lewis
Vice President of Product Partnerships, Aura
Kristin Lewis is the Vice President of Product Partnerships at Aura. She first joined the company in 2021 as a strategy and product management leader. Aura is a mission-driven technology company dedicated to creating a safer internet for everyone. They believe that people should be able to live with the peace of mind that their identity, online accounts, and devices will remain safe, private, and protected, no matter where they go. W
Lewis is a results-oriented leader with demonstrated success in creating, launching, marketing, and selling new products that customers love to use. Previously, Lewis was a VP of products at Student Transportation Inc. Before that, she was a VP of product and customer success at ENGAGE. Earlier in her career, she worked with Blackbaud as an account development representative.
Lewis earned an undergraduate degree in political science from Denison University. She was involved in the Pi Beta Phi Sorority, Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honor Society, and Senior Fellows of Political Science.
16. Stephanie Levan
President of Global Charleston, Charleston Southern University
Stephanie Levan is the President of Global Charleston for Charleston Southern University, the Low Country’s only Christian university. The university’s learning community is a dynamic one where students come from all over the country and from many faith backgrounds.
In her role, LeVan oversees faculty and student exchanges, study abroad opportunities, expansion of global university partnerships, the development of curricula and majors that attract international students, and the development of an internationally friendly culture on campus with faculty training opportunities. Early in her career, Levan was a missionary at Free Methodist World Missions. From there, she eventually rose to educator at Oklahoma Wesleyan University, John Wesley Theological College, and Public and Private Secondary Schools, her most recent position before joining Charleston Southern University.
Levan graduated from Roberts Wesleyan University with an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction and from American College of Switzerland with an undergraduate degree in international politics and law.
17. Denise Croden
Vice President of Integrated Production, George P Johnson Experience Marketing
Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, Denise Croden lived in multiple cities across Canada, Germany, and the United States and is a US and Canadian citizen. She currently serves as the Vice President of Integrated Production for George P Johnson Experience Marketing, the world's leading strategic experiential marketing agency. As the world’s leading experiential marketing agency, they have both the obligation and the ability to create lasting industry change through the fabric of diverse, equitable, inclusive, and sustainable live, digital, and hybrid experiences.
Croden held event production, marketing, and sales roles at Edible Arrangements, Jack Morton, and several pharmaceutical companies in Canada. In 2023 Croden became the chair of the board of directors, after serving as vice chair and a director since June 2021, for the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Foundation, a nonprofit organization. Croden is a Certified Meeting Professional and holds an undergraduate degree from McMaster University and a marketing certificate from Ryerson University.
18. Angela Gallo
Dean of the McCall School of Visual and Performing Arts & Professor of Dance, Coker University
Angela M Gallo is Dean of the McCall School of Visual and Performing Arts and Professor of Dance at Coker University. She is also the Artistic Director of Sapphire Moon Dance Company.
Angela, with her company, has performed at numerous festivals and events such as the White Wave Dance Festival, the Dancenow Downtown Festival, Dance Theatre Workshop, Williamsburg Arts Nexus (WAX), Atrium Theatre and others in New York City, as well as across the southeast U.S. On the international scene Gallo has participated in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland and in Canada at the Fringe Festival of Independent Dance Artists (fFIDA). Her performances include the works of Jose Limon, Doug Varone, Dan Wagoner and Christian Von Howard. She has danced with AmDAT: Dance Art Technology (NY), Eisenhower Dance Ensemble (MI), the Power Company (SC) and worked on smaller projects with Ballet Preljocaj (France) and Anou Skan (France). She has also been a guest choreographer for Dance Now! Miami, Columbia City Ballet, Columbia Repertory Dance Company, Columbia Classical Ballet, Vibrations Dance Company, the Power Company, Converse College and others.
Angela is often a sought-after guest artist in both the k-12 schools and higher education. She is an instructor in the Joffrey Ballet Summer Intensive in Miami, and has taught at Peridance Center, New York Dance Center, the Hartford Ballet School, Greater Hartford Academy for the Arts, the University of Michigan and Southeastern School of Ballet.
Angela’s dance for film work has been shown in the Optica Film Festival (Bolivia, Spain and France), Braga International Film Festival (Portugal) and IMARP- Mostra Internacional de Danca- Imagens em Movimento-Video Danca, Brazil. Angela has been awarded the South Carolina Dance Association’s Advocacy Award and Honor Award. She has been the recipient of grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, South Carolina Arts Commission, Cultural Council of Richland and Lexington Counties, South Arts, the Kyle Foundation and Black Creek Arts Council.
Angela received an MFA in Dance Performance and Choreography from the University of Michigan and a BFA in Theatre and Dance from Central Connecticut State University. Angela is also a Pilates instructor certified through the Pilates Method Alliance; trained at the Kane School of Core Integration in NYC and the Core Grace Studios in Ann Arbor, MI.
19. Barbara Connors
Vice President of Strategy & Acceleration, 84.51˚
Barbara Connors is the Vice President of Strategy and Acceleration of 84.51˚, a retail data science, insights, and media company. The company helps the Kroger company, consumer packaged goods companies, agencies, publishers, and affiliated partners create more personalized and valuable experiences for shoppers across the path to purchase.
Connors first joined the company in 2015 as director of retail media capabilities. She is passionate about building high-performing teams and delivering scaled value. She’s a board member of SIMA (Shopper Insights Management Association) and was a Top Women in Grocery – Senior Executive Recipient in 2022.
Previously, Connors was a director of media capabilities at dunnhumby. Before that, she was a research analyst at The Myers Group. Connors earned an MA in marketing research and a BBA in marketing and Spanish from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business.
20. Marie Prentice
Chief Executive Officer, Powerhouse Operatives
Marie Prentice is the Chief Executive Officer of Powerhouse Operatives. She has nearly two decades of experience with high-level and heavy logistics planning and brings a wide network of knowledge and contacts together to form award-winning operational and event strategies. Prentice was previously the chief operating officer of WAM Academy and its sister 501 (c)3 organization, WAM Impact Partners, together known as “WAM.”
Her impressive background in managing complex logistics and strategies in the operational and political sectors, along with her expertise in fundraising, budgets, and systems management, has made her an industry heavyweight. Prentice has a wealth of experience leading multiple companies, nonprofits, and government agencies through growth transitions in various settings, including roles at The Obama White House and senior leadership roles in dozens of political campaigns, MoveOn, senior director positions at top management companies, and executive coaching for Fortune 50 and 500 C-suite leadership. She's been widely sought after for her impact, which includes impressive strategic thought partnerships, innovative solutions, and operational expertise in managing multi-hundred million dollar budgets and thousands of staff.
Prentice is a graduate of SUNY at Albany focusing on politics, public policy communication, and rhetoric. She then attended The University of Akron’s Masters in Applied Politics program. Prentice is also a graduate of the Campaign School at Yale and has mentored over 200 women personally and professionally in her career and has been recognized for her leadership and commitment to empowering women in various industries.
21. Erin Kaylor
Chief Financial Officer, Biggby Coffee
Erin Kaylor is the Chief Financial Officer of Biggby Coffee, a rapidly expanding franchise organization. Kaylor is a critical member of the Executive Leadership Team. She directly oversees long-term financial planning/modeling and leads the accounting, technology, and internal warehousing functions. She actively partners with the president on organizational structure/development, strategic growth initiatives, and cost containment.
Kaylor is a strategic and results-driven executive leader with over 20 years of experience and a demonstrated track record of achievement. She is a proven and recognized top performer with a history of successfully implementing processes to gain efficiencies and deliver measurable results. Throughout her career, she has had significant experience in financial planning and analysis, financial modeling, acquisitions and divestitures, budget administration, and forecasting.
She holds her CPA (South Carolina) and her Master’s in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance from the University of Pittsburgh Katz Graduate School of Business.
22. Mary Gabriel
Regional Vice President, nCino
Mary Ellis Gabriel is a Regional Vice President at nCino, a leading provider of cloud-based banking solutions that enable increased profitability, productivity, compliance, and transparency for financial institutions. She has over 25 years of experience in banking and financial management.
At nCino, Gabriel helps clients leverage the Bank Operating System, a comprehensive and fully integrated platform that integrates with the bank's core and offers nCommercial, nRetail, nMortgage, and nCompliance products. She applies her expertise in commercial lending, sales, and marketing to deliver value and ROI to nCino's clients, as well as to support the company's vision of transforming the financial services landscape with innovative technology. Gabriel is passionate about helping community banks overcome challenges and seize opportunities in the dynamic banking industry. Gabriel holds a MBA from the University of South Carolina and a BS in Marketing from Clemson University.
23. Teri Callen
VP & Strategic Operations Director, Chicago Title Insurance Company
Teri Callen began her professional career 18 years ago. Today, she is the VP and Strategic Operations Director of Chicago Title Insurance Company, a trusted partner in residential and commercial real estate transactions throughout the country. As a member of the Fidelity National Financial family of companies and the nation's largest title insurance group, Chicago Title employs some of the brightest talents in the industry in title and escrow officers, underwriters, closers, and legal counsels.
Callen first got her start in 2006 as a state counsel at Investors Title. From there, she went on to Rogers Townsend & Thomas, PC, before eventually rising to senior underwriting counsel at First American Title, her most recent position before joining Chicago Title Insurance Company.
Callen graduated from the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law with a JD in law and from the University of South Carolina with an undergraduate degree in philosophy.
24. Missy Ryan Penland
Senior Associate Vice President for Development, Clemson University
Missy Ryan Penland is currently the Associate Vice President for Development at Clemson University. She is a nationally recognized philanthropic leader within higher education and community-based organizations.
Penland is known for motivating staff and volunteers to reach ambitious philanthropic goals with passion and commitment to the mission. A seasoned strategist with executive-level experience in major gifts, prospect management, talent, financial management, and board governance, she excels in operations of all sizes.
She was named one of six Fundraising Stars nationally in 2010 by Fundraising Success Magazine, as well as named AFP's Fundraising Executive of the Year for the Upstate of South Carolina. She has been nationally recognized for her work and success in gift officer productivity through her D.A.D. fundraising program by such groups as the Education Advisory Board and the Major Gifts Report.
25. Cristi Moore
Chief Communications Officer, SC Department of Health & Environmental Control
Cristi Moore is the Chief Communications Officer of SC Department of Health & Environmental Control (DHEC), the state government agency charged with protecting public health, coastal resources, and the state's land, air, and water quality as authorized under multiple state and federal laws.
In her role, Moore serves as a member of the agency's Executive Leadership Team and keeps executives informed about and advised on emerging hot topics. She leads the communications team, which is comprised of five divisions – Creative Services, Constituent Services, Internal Communications, Media Relations, and Public Outreach. She ensures the smooth operation of the comms team, including budget planning and monitoring, procuring goods and services, and hiring, retaining, and developing highly skilled staff. Moore guides the team in developing, executing, and measuring the effectiveness of internal and external campaigns/plans that connect to the agency's strategic plan and advance the top priorities set by the agency director and the directors of Environmental Affairs, Health Regulation, and Public Health.
She previously served the agency as the art director and the creative services director. Before that, she was a graphic designer for the SC Department of Health & Environmental Control. Moore graduated from Columbia College with an undergraduate degree in graphic design.
26. Heidi Nielsen
Vice President of Asset Management and Investments, Meyer Jabara Hotels
Heidi Nielsen is the VP of Asset Management and Investments of Meyer Jabara Hotels. She first joined the company in 2022 as VP of asset management and investments. Meyer Jabara Hotels is a multi-branded hotel management company that owns and manages hotels ranging from 16 key luxury boutiques to 508 rooms in a full-service convention hotel setting.
Previously, Nielsen was a managing director at HVS. Before that, she was a managing director at US Hotel Appraisals. Earlier in her career, she worked with The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort as a club concierge.
Nielsen earned an undergraduate degree in business administration, hospitality, and tourism from the College of Charleston. She is a Certified General Appraiser from the Appraisal Institute.
27. Kelly Kay Boerner
Vice President, MAXIMUS
Kelly Kay Boerner is a Vice President with MAXIMUS. As the Vice President in charge of Sales Strategy and Growth Operations, she leads the team that oversees the company’s five-year market expansion strategy and development. She also reviews annual sales processes in order to identify bottlenecks and implement improvement measures; develop and implement sales organization objectives according to the company’s business direction; and supervise a team that is located both on-site and remotely. Additionally, Boerner supports all stages of the sale process. This includes designing, implementing and managing sales forecasting, sales territory planning and budgeting processes. She also manage partner negotiations; conduct territory analysis; and mentor and coach senior executives on oral and presentation skills.
Prior to her current role, Boerner served as a senior manager with Truven Health Analytics, and before that she served with CGI in a variety of roles with business development and operations. She graduated from Lander University with an undergraduate degree in business administration.
28. Melyssa Banda
Vice President Seagate Storage Solutions and Lyve Services, Seagate Technology
Melyssa Banda is the Vice President of Seagate Storage Solutions and Lyve Services of Seagate Technology. Seagate stores, protects, and activates the world's data as explosive growth in cloud, AI, and machine learning drives the demand for breakthrough technology and mass-capacity storage solutions.
In her current role, Banda is responsible for a portfolio of products and services that are helping customers rethink their entire data ecosystem. As a skilled leader and experienced executive with a demonstrated history working in the information technology and services industries, she has managed diverse teams across the globe and spearheaded transformational initiatives, new growth business to market, and product development.
Banda was previously CEO of Pactech Consulting. From there, she went on to Western Digital, before eventually rising to chief operating officer at Global IaaS and Cloud Company, her most recent position before joining Seagate Technology. Banda graduated from the University of San Diego with an MS in executive leadership and from California State University San Marcos with an undergraduate degree in international business.
29. Kate Landherr
Head of MA&D Data Disposition, GSK
Kate Landherr began her professional career 30 years ago. Today, she is the Head of MA&D Data Disposition at GSK, a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. GSK prioritizes innovation in vaccines and specialty medicines to prevent and treat disease.
Landherr first got her start in 1994 as a systems engineer team lead at Electronic Data Systems. From there, she went on to Consultec, before eventually rising to global testing director at GMAC Financial Svc, her most recent position before joining GSK.
Landherr graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with an MS in organizational dynamics and from Providence College with an undergraduate degree in management.
30. Jeannette Andrews
Professor & Dean of the College of Nursing, University of South Carolina
Jeannette Andrews, recognized nationally and globally for her work in community-engaged research and tobacco control interventions with underserved women, is the 7th Dean and Helen Gurley Wolford Professor of Nursing at the University of South Carolina College of Nursing. With a combined 35 years in nursing practice and education, Andrews has led transformational innovations that have impacted the health of communities and education and support for future nurses, including advanced practice registered nurses and nurse scientists. Andrews is a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, a Robert Wood Johnson Nurse Executive Fellow, and an AACN-Wharton Executive Fellow.
Andrews achieved success as a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded investigator for multiple community trials utilizing innovative community engagement approaches to address tobacco prevention and cessation with disparate communities. She has authored over 200 publications and abstracts and has served as an international and national consultant, along with contributing to multiple task groups related to health and nursing. Selected awards include the SNRS Researcher in Minority Health, South Carolina Health Care Hero Award, Palmetto Gold Award, NPACE National Nurse Practitioner Award, Veterans Administration National Professional Nurse Award, and Georgia Nurses Association-Nurse of the Year. Before arriving at the university, she served as the associate dean for research and director of the Center for Community Health Partnerships at the Medical University of South Carolina. Clinically, she is a family nurse practitioner and has a robust history in practice working in medical-surgical units, intensive care units, and primary care.
Since arriving at the university, Andrews has led significant growth, quality outcomes, and diverse partnerships, all of which propelled the college as a nationally recognized premiere College of Nursing. Andrews received her PhD in Nursing Science from the University of South Carolina, a master’s in nursing with a family nurse practitioner specialty from Georgia Southern University, and her undergraduate degree in nursing science from the Medical College of Georgia.
31. Susan Kammeraad-Campbell
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, Joggling Board Press
Susan Kammeraad-Campbell is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Joggling Board Press (JBP), an independent press dedicated to the publication of books in the spirit of the South. Under her leadership, JBP has become a critically acclaimed publisher of books of history, photography, nature, and memoirs, including titles that consistently earn top national awards.
Kammeraad-Campbell has mentored more than 40 interns and apprentices in the literary arts and taught hundreds through workshops and master classes in writing and creative thinking, using innovative methods that bypass the usual approaches to teaching writing. Her work as a medical journalist at the Medical University of South Carolina sparked her interest in neurology, a pursuit that gave her insight into how the brain works, specifically how we tap the most creative thoughts and what triggers memory and gives us pause to recalibrate a memory through the portal of reflection.
Kammeraad-Campbell has been a community organizer, Main Street manager, and a researcher and analyst working with the US Department of Justice, US Department of Housing and Urban Development, US Department of Homeland Security, Oakridge National Lab, the Riley Center for Livable Communities, the Community and Regional Resilience Institute, and local and county governments. She was a key player in the case study evaluating the resilience of Charleston, SC, and a member of the core writing team developing a national framework for community resilience. She worked as a newspaper reporter for United Press International and for newspapers in the Midwest, New England, and the South. Her book, Doc: Dennis Littky's Fight for a Better School, became an NBC movie called A Town Torn Apart. Kammeraad-Campbell is the co-author of Edisto River: Black Water Crown Jewel, winner of seven national awards, including the best nonfiction book of the year by Foreword Reviews.
32. Elizabeth Regan
Department Chair of Integrated Information Technology & Professor of Health Information Technology, University of South Carolina
Elizabeth Regan is Chair of the Department of Integrated Information Technology and Associate Professor of Health Information Technology at the University of South Carolina. She is also an adjunct professor at the Arnold School of Public Health.
Before joining USC in 2011, Regan served as chair of the Department of Information Systems, College of Business, at Morehead State University, Kentucky, for 11 years, and as the Elmer and Donna Smith Endowed Chair in Health Systems Management for two years. She serves on the board of directors for the Northeast Kentucky Regional Health Information Organization (RHIO) of which she is a founding member and first board chair. The RHIO also serves as the Regional Extension Center for Eastern Kentucky. Regan served five years on the coordinating council for the Kentucky State Health Information Exchange and the faculty of the University of Kentucky Medical School Rural Physician Leadership program. She was recently appointed to the national HIMSS Innovation Committee.
Regan holds a PhD from the University of Connecticut and previously held appointments as an adjunct professor at New York University and the University of Connecticut School of Business. She brings to the classroom 16 years of IT management experience to the industry, where she was responsible for many projects involving system design and implementation, end-user computing, knowledge management, and organizational transformation. Her current research interests are primarily in the areas of health information technology and exchange and in information technology, innovation, and organizational change. Her projects have been supported by major grants from HRSA, The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Innovation Grant, and the US Department of Education. She is the lead author of two college texts on end-user information systems and has published and presented her research in numerous national and international forums.
33. Christine Greenleaf
Director of Underwriting Analytics, Brighthouse Financial
Christine Greenleaf leads the underwriting data analytics function at Brighthouse Financial. Her team is committed to advancing data-driven digital underwriting, enhancing the customer experience, and refining mortality and risk insights.
Beyond underwriting analytics, Greenleaf is passionate about shifting business culture and mindset to be data-driven and considers herself to be a “data evangelist.” Throughout her insurance career, Greenleaf has served numerous roles of increasing responsibility related to analytics and product management, previously with MassMutual and Guardian Life.
Greenleaf earned her MBA from Duke University and her undergraduate degree in mathematics and economics from Smith College. She also holds an executive certificate in Embedding Strategic Excellence from Columbia University. She is an active volunteer with Heart Math Tutoring.
34. Kate Buckholz
Director of Digital Operations, WEX
Kate Buckholz is the Director of Digital Operations, WEX, where she leads the product operations function for WEX Digital in the office of the CDO. WEX is a global commerce platform with specialized expertise in simplifying benefits and payments for companies.
Before WEX, Buckholz was the director of program management for BillGO, an award-winning bill management and payments platform. Buckholz is a strategic, compassionate leader with skills in programs, products, operations, data analysis, team development, and people management. She’s a passionate change agent with experience in big tech, startups, non-profits, and higher education institutions.
Previously, Buckholz was a senior manager of payment services at Blackbaud. Before that, she was, a VP of advancement at Carolina Youth Development Center. Earlier in her career, she worked with New York University as an assistant director of recruiting and employer services. Buckholz earned an MA in international education from New York University and an undergraduate degree in psychology and philosophy from Seattle University.
35. Laurie Haughey
Executive Director of Operational Communications, Marketing and Communications, Clemson University
Laurie Haughey brings leadership experiences from two preeminent SC employers to direct operational communications at Clemson University, collaborating with leaders to establish communication priorities and change management communications tied to the University's strategic plan. Previously, Haughey directed communications for all of Clemson’s HR and payroll functions and served as director of operations for HR during its national CHRO search.
Previously, Haughey served as director of education services and marketing for Performance Solutions by Milliken, where she led the launch of multiple lead-generating safety and operational Excellence conferences. These conferences extended the company’s brand in the market and contributed directly to double-digit growth in clients. Performance Solutions by Milliken is a consulting business within Milliken & Company’s portfolio of businesses working in more than 30 countries around the world.
Haughey penned the preface to Marlene Caroselli’s The Business Ethics Activity Book, published by the American Management Association, and Steadily Breaking Through Barriers: How Milliken Improves Performance and Innovation for Industry Week magazine. She serves on the board of the Community Foundation of Greater Clemson as chair of its Grants Committee and is past president of South Carolina’s chapter of the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources.
36. Joni Louque
Director of Employee Relations & Industrial Relations, Meta
Joni Louque is the Director of Employee Relations (EMEA + NORAM Core Biz) and Industrial Relations at Meta. Ranking among the largest American information technology companies, Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses.
Louque has over 20 years of experience in the human resources and employee relations profession working for a variety of organizations spanning higher education, consulting, and tech organizations. Before joining Meta, Louque was a senior manager of ethics and business conduct/employee relations at PwC. Before that, she was a director of human resources at Dermatology Medical Partners. Earlier in her career, she worked with Martha Jefferson Hospital as an employee relations manager. Louque graduated from the University of Mary Washington with an undergraduate degree in business administration.
37. Alyssa Coughenour
Director of Patient Engagement, DaVita Kidney Care
Alyssa Coughenour is the Director of Patient Engagement at DaVita Kidney Care. Davita is a Colorado-based healthcare firm that provides dialysis treatment, emergency support, and related services for chronic kidney failure and end-stage renal diseases. Today, the company’s mission is to minimize the devastating impacts of kidney disease across the full spectrum of kidney healthcare.
Coughenour first joined DaVita in 2021 as a facility administrator. In this role, she led a team of clinicians to provide high-quality, safe, and compassionate dialysis treatment to patients six days per week. She had financial responsibility for a $2.8 million business unit, along with hiring and performance management for over 10 teammates. She kept a consistent focus on process improvement to deliver on key priorities and improve quality metrics.
Previously, Coughenour was a senior associate at Hamilton Place Strategies. Earlier in her career, she worked with Duke Chronicle as a student advertising manager. Coughenour earned an undergraduate degree in Spanish Language and Literature from Universidad Carlos III de Madrid.
38. Mary Alexander
Assistant Provost for Academic Administration, University of South Carolina
Mary Alexander is the Assistant Provost for Academic Administration at the University of South Carolina. She manages the division’s $47 million budget and is responsible for the HR functions for the division, the university’s calendaring office, Military Affairs, which includes ROTC, and the Community Engagement office. She has budgetary oversight over all of the USC Columbia academic units and guides on operational issues that are elevated to the Office of Academic Affairs.
Before working at USC, she was employed by the Budget and Control Board as director of revenue management and Department of Health and Human Services as manager of institutional research and statistics. Before her state service, she enjoyed ten years working in private industry, including Wachovia Bank, Columbia Farms, and Yon-Drake and Associates investment consulting firm. Alexander has served as the chair of USC's Women’s Leadership Institute (WLI) since 2010. Recently the WLI was recognized with the National Leadership Award for the Advancement of Women in Higher Education from the American Council on Education. Further, she developed and led the Executive Leadership Academy at USC. This program prepares highly talented individuals to obtain executive-level leadership positions in higher education institutions. She is committed to building a pathway for underrepresented leaders within the academy and volunteers her time and expertise to help others develop their leadership acumen.
Alexander attended the University of South Carolina and received undergraduate degrees in both finance and management science, a Master's in Public Administration, and a Doctorate in Education Administration with a concentration in higher education. She enjoys teaching administrative leadership and governmental HR in the MPA program at USC. She is most proud of her family; her husband and two daughters.
39. Chantel Greenfield
Chief Talent Officer, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System
Chantel Greenfield is the Chief Talent Officer at Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System. She’s a Green Belt and a leader in healthcare talent acquisition with proven recruitment strategies that accelerate hiring processes for large healthcare systems with regional and nationwide footprints.
After obtaining an undergraduate degree in communication and political science from Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, VA, Greenfield started her career in sales and communications but recruitment has been a part of her job for 20 years. By 2008, she was established on an elite recruiting team training teams and training-the-trainers on the best practices of elite recruiting strategies. Starting in 2012, she held various HR/recruiting leadership positions for nationwide healthcare companies across various markets until she was hired in 2019 as the system director of talent acquisition for Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, reporting to the Senior VP of HR.
She currently directs a team of 28 healthcare recruiting professionals that have increased hires and overall productivity by 200% under her leadership. Her strategic vision not only includes predictive hiring/analytics across the organization but has led to the creation of scalable processes that will position the nonprofit healthcare system to be regionally competitive in the market. Greenfield changed the face of how her organization approached recruitment, increasing their out-of-state hires by more than 100%. While Greenfield is known for her influence and thoughtful leadership, she will not hesitate to roll up her sleeves and work alongside her teams to get the job done.
40. Maranda Williams
Director of Marketing and Communications, American Heart Association
Maranda Williams is the Director of Marketing and Communications of the American Heart Association, an organization dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, they fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health, and share lifesaving resources.
Williams is a proven sales, marketing, and public relations professional with more than 12 years of experience in account management, recruiting, career coaching, and building strategic partnerships. She is also experienced with social media strategy and launching advertising campaigns, special events, and motivational speaking.
Before joining the American Heart Association, Williams was a director of strategic communications at the State of South Carolina. Before that, she was a marketing and communications manager at Darla Moore School of Business. Earlier in her career, she worked with The State Newspaper/Jolie Magazine as an account executive and marketing consultant. Williams graduated from the University of Phoenix with an MBA in marketing and from the University of South Carolina with an undergraduate degree in public relations and African American studies.
41. Molly Beck
Director of Care Coordination, Roper St. Francis Orthopaedics
Molly Beck is an experienced healthcare leader with more than 22 years of experience in utilization management and case management. She is passionate about producing mission-critical results in case management, and is adept at building alliances with leaders across the continuum of care in order to obtain organizational goals. A collaborative director, Beck prides herself on building and retaining high-performance teams that promote safe, efficient, high-quality transitional care. She brings a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to many areas of case management including: utilization management, discharge planning, length-of-stay management, readmissions reduction, clinical documentation improvement, ACO management and safe transitions of care.
Previously, Beck served as the Director of Care Management for eight years at Mercy Health Systems in Portland, ME. Here, she developed and implemented multiple programs that delivered significant results, such as decreasing the average length of stay from 4.9 to 3.4 and developing a readmissions program that led Mercy to be ranked number one in the nation in readmissions reduction among hospitals of its size. Before joining Mercy, Beck worked at Coffee Health Group, where she served in a variety of roles, from Manager of Case Management to Pediatrics and Labor and Delivery R.N. A gifted teacher, Beck also served as a classroom coordinator and clinical LPN instructor for Tennessee Technology Center in Hohenwald. She received her BS in nursing from the University of North Alabama, and maintains clinical case management certification with CCMC.
42. Koshina Legette
Managed Services Director, PwC Columbia, SC
Koshina Legette is a Managed Services Director for PwC’s Columbia, SC, office, where she leads several professional revenue cycle teams in providing operational support functions for hospitals and medical groups. Her teams operate virtually as an Extended Business Office delivering optimal results and meeting the financial and operational goals of each of their clients. Legette remains dedicated to achieving results that drive overall efficiencies and operational success for her clients. She consistently sharpens her expertise and has a knack for connecting the smallest details to business objectives as she applies her diverse healthcare knowledge. She promotes and facilitates a culture of learning and progression even during the most demanding fast-paced periods supported by her business acumen and strategic leadership.
Legette is recognized as a highly motivated and results-oriented healthcare business professional with a successful track record. Because she thrives on learning and development, she continues to advance her skillset allowing for continued success. She stays abreast of the ever-changing healthcare industry, maintains current knowledge of industry best practices, and is an active member of the Healthcare Financial Management Association. Legette served the SC Chapter as CRCA Program Chair for a period of her membership. Her talent for mastering technology has enabled her to perform at optimal levels.
Legette gives back to her community through the mentorship of professionals as they progress through their career journey, and she serves as a resource to her peers and other professionals in the healthcare industry. Her relationships are grounded in trust, transparency, and knowledge sharing. Legette inspires others to present their best selves every day as they develop their personal and professional brand. She has a BBA from Strayer University.
43. Kate Konopasek
Director of Manufacturing, Toray Composite Materials America
Kate Konopasek is currently the Director of Manufacturing and Plant Manager for Toray Composite Materials America, the leading producer of advanced composite materials. She joined Toray Composites 12 years ago in Tacoma, Washington.
Konopasek began her career in aerospace working for Raytheon Aircraft and Hawker Beechcraft. She held various roles in quality and production during her eight years, including the T6 Texan military trainer, King Air, and Hawker 4000 platforms. She has held various positions focusing on Production Management roles. Konopasek transitioned to the Upstate in 2021 to start the newest facility in Spartanburg.
Konopasek grew up in Wichita, Kansas, and graduated from Wichita State University in 2001 with a BBA in Management and an MBA from Baker University in 2010. She is married to the director of sales operations for Toray Composites. They have two cats and love hiking and traveling. They have summited some of the tallest mountains in the world, including Mt. Rainier (14K), Mt. Baker (10K), Mt. Whitney (14K), and most recently Mt. Kilimanjaro (19K).
44. Ellen Hart
Regulatory and Business Controls Director, 1st Franklin Financial
Ellen Hart is the Regulatory and Business Controls Director with the Compliance Department at 1st Franklin Financial Corporation and specializes in regulatory compliance in the subprime/near prime lending space. 1FFC is known as the Friendly Franklin Folks among its community of branches throughout the Southeast. As a family-owned company for over 80 years, 1FFC has worked with generations of families to provide them with the funds they need when they need them the most.
At 1FFC, Hart oversees regulatory licensing, examinations, complaints, and vendor management programs and is also skilled in change management, risk mitigation and remediation, customer service, and leadership. One of Hart’s favorite professional interests is studying complex regulations and translating them into plain language to educate line-of-business partners and branch staff members to better operationalize regulatory requirements.
Before joining the 1FFC family, Hart utilized her decade-long experience working in the financial services industry at other organizations, such as World Finance, Heights Finance, and Genesis Financial Solutions. Hart is committed to using her cheerful demeanor and servant's heart to encourage and help others succeed in all aspects of life. Hailing from the Upstate of South Carolina, Hart is a two-time Clemson University graduate, receiving her undergraduate degree in Spanish and MBA from the esteemed University.
45. Linda J. Walder
Co-Founder & Executive Director, The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation
Linda J. Walder is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation for Adult Autism, which was established in 2002 as a continuing legacy and honor in the name of her son, Daniel Jordan Fiddle who passed away at the age of nine. It was her vision that started a movement to embrace the fact that Autism is lifelong and that the diverse population of adults should be valued as individuals as a matter of human rights. Walder’s unique hands-on approach to developing, advocating for, and funding programs, creating resources, and most recently designing the first adult Autism-focused endowment funds at leading United States universities, has blazed a trail that will guarantee innovation concentrating on adult Autism now, and for generations to come.
Walder has received over 20 honors of recognition for her visionary and inspiring efforts that opened doors for Autistic adults to have opportunities to work, live, and recreate in their communities. Walder works tirelessly with legislators in Washington DC and on the statewide level to develop public policy that supports the needs of individuals and families affected by Autism. Collaboratively, Walder has spearheaded the creation of much-needed resources, such as a pocket transportation troubleshooting guide that promotes independent use of buses and trains to a guide on the prevalent co-morbid condition of Autism and Epilepsy, to name a few.
Walder is a writer and motivator using her blog Autism for a Lifetime: Finding Joy in the Journey, her numerous published articles, and her appearances on television and other media as a means of fostering awareness about adult Autism and promoting thoughtful discourse on prevalent issues. In 2016, Walder joined the editorial board of Autism Spectrum News. That same year, The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation Leader in Adult Autism Award was established in partnership with the Autism Society of America as an enduring source of inspiration to the Autism community and beyond recognizing the strengths and talents of adults with Autism, and those who exemplify leadership through their supportive endeavors.
46. Christina Tran
Director of Finance & Project Management, Contender Development
Christina Tran is a Greenville native currently serving as Contender Development’s Director of Finance and Project Management. Before joining Contender, Tran spent seven years in wealth management and finance, where she provided holistic relationship management using portfolio analysis, financial forecasting, and a goals-based approach to ensure clients’ financial success.
Tran attended Arizona State University, where she earned her undergraduate degree in international business and finance. Outside of the office, you can catch her hiking with her dog, reading a good history book, or at a cycle class.
47. Brittany Riley
Human Resources Director, Veris
Driven by a passion for fostering organizational success through people-centric strategies, Brittany Riley is a seasoned human resources leader with a proven track record of developing and executing transformative initiatives that align culture, vision, and organizational goals. Riley is recognized for her expertise in aligning business objectives with HR practices to optimize performance, compliance, and employee engagement.
As the Human Resources Director at Veris CPA, Riley leads the development and execution of comprehensive HR strategies that align with the firm's strategic vision and goals. Leveraging her business acumen, she ensures that HR procedures are compliant with legal regulations and industry best practices while fostering high employee engagement and cohesive organizational culture. Riley specializes in crafting and implementing comprehensive HR strategies that propel businesses forward by leveraging the understanding of the integral role that business culture plays in driving performance and engagement. She applies her expertise in organizational development, talent management, and employee engagement, and has consistently facilitated sustainable growth and operational excellence across diverse industries.
As a forward-thinking HR leader, Riley remains at the forefront of industry trends and best practices, continuously refining her approach to meet evolving business needs. Throughout her career, Riley has demonstrated a commitment to never-ending improvement and professional development. She holds a Master of Business Administration with a focus on human resources management and maintains certifications as a SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP). Additionally, she actively contributes to her community through volunteer work, including her role as a dedicated dog foster for various rescue organizations.
48. Cathryn Stevens
Senior Associate, The Riley Institute at Furman
Cathy Stevens is a Senior Associate with the Riley Institute. In this role, she serves as an advisor to and representative of the Riley Institute with particular emphasis on the work of the Center for Education Policy and Leadership. She offers counsel to the directors of the Riley Institute’s after-school and summer and facilitates connections among them and state and national individuals and organizations involved in after-school and summer learning.
Before her current role, Stevens served as the director of after-school and summer learning initiatives at the Institute and was the director of the White-Riley-Peterson Afterschool Policy Fellowship for eleven years. She has also served as a member of the selection committee for the Diversity Leaders Initiative.
Stevens is a member of the board of directors for Family Connection of South Carolina and is passionate about disability advocacy and policy in support of individuals with disabilities. She holds an undergraduate degree in English from Furman University and a Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from Clemson University.
49. Lynn Fehnel
Director of Clinical Data Management, Signant Health
Lynn Fehnel is the Director of Clinical Data Management at Signant Health. She first joined the company in 2023. Signant Health is an evidence-generation company focused on leveraging software, deep therapeutic and scientific knowledge, and operational expertise to consistently capture, aggregate, and reveal quality evidence for clinical studies across traditional, virtual, and hybrid trial models.
Fehnel is an analytical, innovative, end-user-focused, and results-producing professional with over 20 years of experience in clinical software applications and services for the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceuticals, clinical research (CRO), medical device, and life sciences industries. She excels in managing and collaborating with global internal teams and customers/vendors to deliver end-to-end product solutions for clinical trial implementations. She is adaptable to a variety of work environments with a high tolerance for risk and stress associated with tight deadlines from concept through production.
Previously, Fehnel was a director of data management at DSG Inc. Before that, she was a senior director of client operations at PAREXEL. Fehnel earned an undergraduate degree in business administration and management from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania.
50. Mollie Gore
Director of Corporate Communications & External Affairs, Santee Cooper
Mollie Gore is the Director of Corporate Communications and External Affairs of Santee Cooper, South Carolina’s largest power producer, the largest Green Power generator, and the ultimate source of electricity for two million people across the state.
Gore is a results-oriented corporate communications manager experienced in energy and education issues. She enjoys media relations and is effective in public relations, crisis communications, executive communications, event management, advertising, writing, and editing.
Before joining Santee Cooper, Gore was a director of marketing and development at Pinewood Preparatory School. Before that, she was a director of university relations at Charleston Southern University. Earlier in her career, she worked with the Potomac News as a staff reporter. Gore graduated from Emory & Henry College with an undergraduate degree in English.