Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Michigan for 2022. This year’s awardees are driving change, making considerable advances that will allow future generations of women leaders to reach beyond what is currently accessible. While some awardees are leading at well-known companies across the world, others are doing grassroots work to shift the inequalities faced by some of the most marginalized individuals in the community. These women all offer significant contributions and achievements in the industries they serve.
Among this year’s awardees are Anouchah Sanei, Chief Innovation and Science Officer for Amway, who oversees all global research and development including nearly 1,000 scientists, engineers and technicians throughout more than 100 countries and territories; Regine Beauboeuf, Senior Vice President and Director of Infrastructure and Mobility Equity at HNTB Corporation, who has 35 years of extensive experience on design build and public private partnership projects in the U.S. and Canada; and Tracy Fuerst, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Public Relations for Magna International, who leads a global team at the mobility technology company focusing on advancing mobility for everyone and everything.
We acknowledge these women for their strength, tenacity, and resilience. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Michigan for 2022.
1. Patrice Poynter
SVP of Digital Experience, The Walt Disney Company
Patrice Poynter began her professional career over 17 years ago. Today, she is the Senior Vice President of Digital Experience for The Walt Disney Company. She first joined the company in 201. Poynter is a strong change agent who has a history of success in transforming organizations, leading integrations, turning bad business into profitable business, driving performance improvements in areas where delivery performance is subpar, and in building and rebuilding trust with clients in order to preserve or grow the business.
Poynter first got her start in 2005 as an operation architect and transformation executive at Electronic Data System. From there, she went on to HP, before eventually rising to become a VP at MV Transportation, her most recent position prior to joining The Walt Disney Company. Poynter graduated from Michigan State University.
2. Annalisa Esposito Bluhm
Vice President, Northrop Grumman
Annalisa Esposito Bluhm is a Vice President with Northrop Grumman. Northrop Grumman is a global aerospace, defense, and security company. They are committed to advancing global security and human discovery in support of their customers' missions. They do so by providing leading technology and national security solutions and services to markets around the world. Bluhm is an award-winning global communications leader with nearly 20 years of experience across multiple sectors including technology, finance, automotive, not-for-profit, and public policy.
Before joining Northrop Grumman, Bluhm was a head of executive and strategic corporate communications at General Motors and before that, an instructor at Eastern Michigan University. Earlier in her career she worked with Royal Aluminum & Steel Inc. as a director of marketing and communications. Bluhm graduated from Eastern Michigan University with an MA in communication studies and an undergraduate degree in political science and international relations.
3. Michelle Andersen
VP of Strategy, General Motors
Michelle Andersen is the Vice President of Strategy for General Motors. She has worked in and around the auto, mobility, and transportation sectors for over 25 years. She has extensive expertise working with a range of companies in the mobility space to transform their businesses. Andersen is deep in new product development, operations, aftermarket sales and service as well as manufacturing and supply chain. She has worked in the electrification space as well as advanced ADAS leading to autonomy, looking at drivers of market penetration and growth.
Before joining General Motors, Andersen was a manager at A.T. Kearney and before that, a product engineer at Ford Motor Company. Andersen graduated from the University of Michigan with an MBA, a master’s in manufacturing engineering, and an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering.
4. Jennifer Cobb
Vice President of Operations, Ascension
Jennifer Cobb began her professional career over 21 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President of Operations of Ascension. Ascension is a faith-based healthcare organization dedicated to transformation through innovation across the continuum of care. As one of the leading non-profit and Catholic health systems in the U.S., they are committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care to all, with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable. Cobb served as administrative executive accountable for four hospitals employed medical groups in Mid-Michigan, representing almost 200 providers in a multitude of specialties. Her key accountabilities include practice operations, strategic planning and business development, provider relations and contracting, financial/revenue cycle management, and quality performance with a focus on population health management.
Cobb first got her start in 2001 as a director of primary care operation at Saint Joseph Mercy Health System. From there, she went on to IHA. Cobb graduated from the University of Michigan School of Public Health with an MHSA in health care administration and management, and with an undergraduate degree in psychology.
5. Tracy Fuerst
VP of Corporate Communications & Public Relations, Magna International
Tracy Fuerst is the Vice President of Corporate Communications and Public Relations of Magna International. In her roles, Fuerst leads a global team that is bringing the Magna story to life inside and outside of the company. Over the past 15+ years at Magna, she has launched a multi-channel approach to communications which includes the company’s first global-wide intranet, employee app, TV-communications system, and social media presence. Today, her global team works hard to telegraph the message that Magna is not only one of the world’s top automotive suppliers, but a mobility technology company that is advancing mobility for everyone and everything.
Previously, Fuerst was a communications manager at General Motors and before that, a marketing communications manager at Amerisure Insurance. Fuerst earned an undergraduate degree in communication and media studies from Saginaw Valley State University.
6. Anouchah Sanei
Chief Innovation & Science Officer, Amway
Anouchah Sanei is the Chief Innovation and Science officer of Amway. Amway is an entrepreneur-led health and wellness company based in Ada, Michigan. It is committed to helping people live better, healthier lives – across more than 100 markets worldwide. Sanei is responsible for innovation and leading Amway’s global R&D organization, which includes nearly 1,000 Amway scientists, engineers, and technicians throughout the more than 100 countries and territories where Amway operates.
Before joining Amway, Sanei was a global VP of science and technology, nutrition and regulatory at Campbell Soup Company and before that a VP of R&D for Europe and Sub Sahara food and beverages at PepsiCo Europe. Earlier in her career she worked with Nestle. Sanei graduated from the University of Technology of Compiegne in France with a PhD in chemical engineering-food processing and from the University of Caen and University of Paris France with an undergraduate degree in math and physics.
7. Alicia Davis
Chief Strategy Officer, Lear
Alicia Davis is the Chief Strategy Officer of Lear. She first joined the company in 2018 as VP of investor relations. Lear is a global automotive technology leader in seating and e-systems, enabling superior in-vehicle experiences for consumers around the world. Their diverse team of talented employees in 39 countries is driven by a commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability. Lear is making every drive better by providing the technology for safer, smarter, and more comfortable journeys.
Previously, Davis was an associate at Kirkland and Ellis LLP and before that a VP at Raymond James and Associates. Earlier in her career she worked with Goldman Sachs as an analyst. Davis earned a JD from Yale Law School, an MBA from Harvard Business School, and an undergraduate degree in business administration from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.
8. Anita Klopfenstein
Chief Information Officer, Little Caesars Pizza
Anita Klopfenstein is the Chief Information Officer of Little Caesars Pizza. Headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, Little Caesars was founded by Mike and Marian Ilitch in 1959 as a single, family-owned restaurant. Today, it is the third largest pizza chain in the world with stores in each of the 50 U.S. states and 27 countries and territories. Klopfenstein has over 41 years of experience. She began her career in 1981.
Before joining Little Caesars Pizza, Klopfenstein was a VP of eCommerce and consumer systems at Panera Bread and before that, a senior director of solutions architecture at Express Scripts. Earlier in her career she worked with WTHI-TV as a news producer. Klopfenstein graduated from Liberty University with an MBA in organizational design and from Indiana State University with an undergraduate degree in computer science.
9. Regine Beauboeuf
SVP & Director of Infrastructure & Mobility Equity, HNTB
Regine Beauboeuf is a Senior Vice President and Director of Infrastructure and Mobility Equity at HNTB Corporation, an employee-owned infrastructure solutions firm. Beauboeuf has 35 years of regional transportation and infrastructure experience specializing in the management of large, complex transportation projects. She has extensive experience on design build and public private partnership projects in the U.S. and Canada. She has managed and supervised the engineering program for the Detroit River International Crossing project for the localization of the new border crossing between the cities of Detroit and Windsor in Michigan, USA, and Ontario, Canada. She has also served as the project manager for the Turcot Interchange Design/Build, the A-25 PublicPrivate-Partnership in Montreal, Quebec and the Innovate Mound Project in Macomb County where the county is looking to reconstruct and modernize nine miles of Mound Road through the cities of Warren and Sterling Heights. In her current role as director of Infrastructure and Mobility Equity, she is charged with providing technical expertise and leadership on HNTB’s ongoing efforts advancing equity through the organization’s existing work, enhancing our Partners Program, increasing opportunities for historically underutilized businesses and collaboration with industry associations.
Prior to her experience in the private sector, Beauboeuf was the supervising engineer for the Project Development Section of the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). In that capacity, she was responsible for the development and delivery of all capacity improvements and new road projects for the State of Michigan and managed a delivery budget of $3 billion. Beauboeuf earned an undergraduate degree in architectural engineering from the University of Haiti and an MBA in strategic management and leadership from Davenport University.
10. Kristin Zompa
Managing VP, Gartner
Kristin Zompa is a Managing Vice President of Gartner. She first joined the company in 1989. Gartner delivers actionable, objective insight to executives and their teams. Their expert guidance and tools enable faster, smarter decisions, and stronger performance on an organization's mission-critical priorities. Their unmatched combination of expert-led, practitioner-sourced, and data-driven research steers clients toward the right decisions on the issues that matter most. They are a trusted advisor and an objective resource for more than 14,000 enterprises in more than 100 countries across all major functions, in every industry and enterprise size.
Previously, Zompa was a corporate recruiter, contract specialist, and financial analyst at Electronic Data Systems. She earned an undergraduate degree in finance and international business from the University of Colorado Boulder.
11. Kathy Herig
Chief Credit Officer, Homepoint
Kathy Herig began her professional career over 29 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Credit Officer of Homepoint. At Homepoint, their mission is to create financially happy, healthy homeowners. Herig is known as a focused, results-oriented leader. She has extensive industry experience and has shown the ability to significantly contribute to the top line of the organization while creating process efficiencies and improvements to keep costs in line. Herig utilizes her motivational style of leadership to inspire employees while she works very closely with customers in the markets she serves. She credits her ability to find and develop management talent as one of the keys to her success. Herig also possesses a diverse background including strategic roles in operations, sales, and information technology.
Throughout her tenure, Herig has consistently built a reputation as a top performer with a track record of meeting and exceeding organizational and personal goals. She possesses a team centered style of leadership and has successfully worked with all levels of management within an organization. Herig is a strategic thinker who is data and metrics driven. Herig was credited with the unprecedented expansion of InterFirst Operations to serve its clients. Under her leadership, the national business with over 800 employees reached record profitability while closing a record 99 billion in mortgage loans, launching the organization to the top of the Wholesale Mortgage industry. Prior to her role as First Vice President and Assistant Operations Manager, Herig served in many leadership roles at InterFirst, including Call Center Manager, Credit Process Manager and Quality Control Manager. She graduated from Michigan State University with an undergraduate degree in English.
12. Kelli Cavasin
VP of People & Culture, New Holland Brewing Company
Kelli Cavasin began her professional career over 31 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President of People & Culture of New Holland Brewing Company. Established in 1996, New Holland Brewing Company has grown from a scrappy two-man start-up to a thriving regional microbrewery, recognized for its creativity and artistry. Cavasin is a strategic HR professional and trusted advisor with deep knowledge of business operations in fast-paced environments. She has been highly regarded for her ability to build high-performing, inspired teams to assess critical business issues and deliver results.
Cavasin first got her start in 1991 as a store executive team leader at Target. From there, she went on to The Michaels Companies, Inc as a VP of HR. Cavasin graduated from Northern Michigan University with an undergraduate degree in criminal justice and political science.
13. Mindy Earley
Chief Learning Officer, Family Office Exchange
Mindy Earley is the Chief Learning Officer of Family Office Exchange. Family Office Exchange is the premier global member network for enterprise families, family office executives, and their trusted advisors who are pursuing best practices for managing their family enterprise and growing their family wealth. The community includes over 8,000 family leaders and sophisticated advisors from 500 organizations in 27 countries who utilize the company’s resources each year for peer exchange, objective advice, and continuous learning. Earley has over 21 years of experience. She began her career in 2001.
Before joining Family Office Exchange, Earley was a lifelong learning specialist at RDV Corporation and before that an assistant director of alumni relations at Grand Valley State University. Earley graduated from Grand Valley State University with an MEd in higher education administration and an undergraduate degree in hospitality and tourism management.
14. Sandy Kaminski
VP of Client Development, Vensure Employer Services
Sandy Kaminski is the Vice President of Client Development for Vensure Employer Services. She first joined the company in 2021 as an associate VP of client development. Founded in 2004, Vensure Employer Services provides PEO solutions and human resource outsourcing to small and mid-market businesses. Through its subsidiaries, including VensureHR, the company processes more than $19 Billion in payroll and supports more than 526,000 worksite employees. Their services include payroll, medical and voluntary benefits, workers' compensation, risk management, and HR administration.
Prior to joining Vensure Employer Services, Kaminski was the owner and HR consultant for HR Maxim, a full-service human resource consulting organization. She previously served as the director of HR and operations for Macomb Benefit Consultants. Kaminski graduated from Walsh College with an undergraduate degree in marketing and an MBA.
15. Laura Lawson
EVP & Chief People Officer, United Wholesale Mortgage
Laura Lawson began her professional career over 22 years ago. Today, she is an Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer for United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM). UWM is a wholesale lender that works with independent mortgage brokers to provide good loan rates and technology to make the application efficient. At UWM, Lawson exercises her unique creativity in overseeing HR, training, leadership development, security and building operations. As the innovative architect behind UWM’s unique and celebrated workplace culture, Lawson spearheads the company’s initiatives aimed at creating a fun, energetic and family-oriented environment and ensuring that team members have the best possible tools, perks, and benefits to love their jobs.
Lawson first got her start in 2000 as an associate producer at Fox Television. From there, she went on to The Ellen DeGeneres show before eventually rising to become a director of marketing and communication at the American Lung Association, her most recent position prior to joining United Wholesale Mortgage. Lawson graduated from Michigan State University with an undergraduate degree in advertising.
16. Vicki Harris
SVP of Global HR & Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Our Daily Bread Ministries
Vicki Harris is the Senior Vice President of Global Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Our Daily Bread Ministries. Our Daily Bread Ministries is a global ministry with 38 offices around the world. They are a non-denominational, non-profit organization focused on helping millions of people around the world connect with God each day. For more than 80 years, their purpose has remained the same: to reach people with the life-changing wisdom of the Bible. Harris joined the organization in 2013.
As a global human resource professional, Harris travels around the world sharing her passion to help and training staff members in various topics such as team effectiveness, human resource disciplines, diversity equity and inclusion, as well as other organizational and leadership development programs. Before joining Our Daily Bread Ministries, Harris served in human resources for over 20 years with another Christian publishing house and Legal Search Firm. She is also the leader of Global Women Who Lead, a program designed to train and inspire female leaders to pursue their God given gifts and talents to the world. She holds a dual master’s degree in human resources and business administration. She received two honorary doctorate degrees in humanities.
17. Wendy Zelond
SVP of Finance for Utilities Segment, AltaGas
Wendy Zelond is a finance executive with over 20 years of experience in the energy, airline, and public accounting sectors. She is currently the Senior Vice President of Finance for the Utilities Segment of AltaGas, which includes Washington Gas, Semco Energy and Enstar located in Washington DC, Michigan, and Alaska, respectively. She is a Certified Public Accountant and holds an MBA from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas.
Zelond’s passion is people, with a love of developing teams and creating a space that allows all team members to flourish. She engages broadly throughout the organization by sponsoring employee resource groups and mentoring individuals to help them achieve their aspirations. Her approach to leadership has been shaped by years of working in various industries, really listening to her team, continuous self-improvement and seeking opportunities outside of her comfort zone. As Zelond continued to grow in her career, her passion for building teams coupled with a desire to reach more people led her to publish her first book, We Talk, We Lead: A Reflection of One Women’s Stories to Inspire and Empower Others.
18. Sue Franz
VP of Chemical Technologies, Gentex
Sue Franz is the Vice President of Chemical Technologies of Gentex. Gentex is a global, high-technology electronics company that is managed by engineers and others who understand the freedom and discipline that are required to run an entrepreneurial company. They are a unique, profitable company that is vertically integrated into highly automated electronics, CMOS camera development and manufacturing, vacuum coatings, and glass bending and fabrication. They specialize in a broad spectrum of technologies and processes to deliver high-quality products to the automotive, aerospace, and fire protection industries. Franz has over 34 years of experience. She began her career in 1988.
Before joining Gentex, Franz was an applications lab manager at SPECTRO Analytical Instruments GmbH. She graduated from Villanova University with a PhD in chemistry and from Jilin University with master’s and undergraduate degrees in chemistry.
19. Chelsea Mirkin
SVP & Head of Global Analysis, Cision
Chelsea Mirkin is the Senior Vice President and Head of Global Analysis of Cision. CIsion is a leading global provider of earned media software and services to public relations and marketing communications professionals. Cision’s software allows users to identify key influencers, craft and distribute strategic content, and measure meaningful impact. Cision has over 4,800 employees with offices in 24 countries throughout the Americas, EMEA, and APAC. Mirkin has over 17 years of experience. She began her career in 2005.
Before joining Cision, Mirkin was a VP at PRIME Research. She graduated from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree in communication and media studies.
20. Cathy Griffin
Senior Vice President, Brown & Riding Insurance Services
Cathy Griffin began her wholesale broker insurance career in 1985. She has been specializing in the placement of Environmental Insurance since then, starting with the emergence of asbestos removal contractor’s insurance. Today, she serves as the Senior Vice President for Brown & Riding Insurance Services. Based in the Midwest but placing business throughout the country, she was a leader in the development of mold insurance in the early 2000’s when there were large multi-million-dollar lawsuits being paid and few insurance companies willing to write the exposure. She has developed several environmental insurance programs and her expertise in evaluating forms, coverages and exposures in this field have given her a strong insurance agency following and solid reputation amongst the top environmental insurance carriers.
Before Brown & Riding Insurance Services, Griffin was a VP at Partners Specialty Group and before that a VP at Stewart Smith Group.
21. Lisa Liepold
VP of Customer Success, CareerBuilder
Lisa Liepold is the Vice President of Customer Success at CareerBuilder. She first joined the company in 2019 as director of customer success. CareerBuilder is a global, end-to-end human capital solutions company focused on helping employers find, hire, and manage great talent. Combining advertising, software and services, CareerBuilder leads the industry in recruiting solutions, employment screening and human capital management. CareerBuilder is majority-owned by funds managed by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, LLC and operates in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia.
Previously, Liepold was a senior director of client relationship management at Exela Technologies and before that a director of service delivery and healthcare at Novitex Enterprise Solutions. Earlier in her career she worked with Image Masters as an account executive. Liepold earned an undergraduate in healthcare administration from the University of Phoenix.
22. Megan Ahee
Chief of Staff, Autobooks
Megan Ahee is the Chief of Staff for Autobooks. She first joined the company in 2022. Autobooks works with financial institutions to deliver what small businesses need including cash flow management, payment services, and financial reporting integrated directly into current banking channels. They provide a simple, yet automated approach to small business banking. Their solutions make accounting and payments easy to understand, which helps small businesses in their day-to-day, giving them more time to do what they do best. Autobooks creates opportunities for established business owners, as well as emerging micro, lifestyle, and gig economy entrepreneurs.
In addition to her role with Autobooks, Ahee is the co-founder of Sunday’s Best, a Metro-Detroit breakfast catering business, and the founder of Philotimo Co. She previously served as a development manager and senior manager of mission delivery for the American Diabetes Association. Ahee graduated from Wayne State University with an undergraduate degree in business administration with an emphasis in marketing.
23. Shelley Fiore
President & Chief Operating Officer, MassMutual Great Lakes
Shelley Fiore is the President and Chief Operating Officer of MassMutual Great Lakes LLC. She chose to build a career in the financial services industry over three decades ago after realizing it gave her the ability to help thousands of Michigan men and women realize their financial dreams. Fiore made the decision to accept the leadership role at MassMutual in Michigan in 2010 and is one of a select few females in the industry to hold a similar position. She believes her experience as an advisor for more than a quarter century gives her the understanding and credibility to teach new financial professionals as well as help veteran financial professionals launch to a higher level.
Considering her vast knowledge of business continuity planning, tax reduction strategies, investment planning and estate planning, Fiore has also become an internationally sought-after speaker with audiences that have ranged from 50 to over 10,000. She has spoken for various insurance companies as well as The American College and The Million Dollar Round Table Main Platform. She is a Licensed Insurance Counselor, Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Financial Consultant, multiple time recipient of the Southeast Michigan GAMA Agent of the Year Award, the first woman to hold the presidency of MassMutual Agent’s Association and the third woman to qualify for MassMutual’s Exceptional Level of In-Force. A lifelong Michigan resident, she graduated from Michigan State University in 1982 after studying business and accounting.
24. Julie Denworth
Vice President, Carahsoft Technology
Julie Denworth began her professional career over 18 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President of Carahsoft Technology. Carahsoft Technology is an IT solutions provider delivering best-of-breed hardware, software, and support solutions. Carahsoft has built its reputation as a customer-centric organization dedicated to serving the needs of its technology manufacturers, government end users, and reseller ecosystem with solutions for government. They have a proven history of helping government agencies find the best possible technology solution at the best possible value. Each customer works directly with a dedicated account representative to determine a solution tailored specifically to meet his or her needs. They combine their extensive knowledge of the technologies they provide, with a thorough understanding of the government procurement process, to analyze needs, provide configuration support, simplify the ordering process, and offer special government pricing. Denworth graduated from Monmouth University.
25. Rose Bellanca
President & CEO, Washtenaw Community College
Rose Bellanca is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Washtenaw Community College (WCC). WCC’s is a premier comprehensive community college located in Ann Arbor, Michigan offering programs and services to nearly 20,000 students in the areas of quality degree credit courses and programs, industry certifications, training and in business and industry contracted services. The college offers associate degrees, certificates, university transfer programs, apprenticeships, economic development programs, K-12 alliances, non-profit collaborations, and enrichment classes.
Previously, Bellanca was a president and CEO at St. Clair County Community College and before that a provost and chief academic officer at Macomb Community College. Bellanca earned an EdD and an undergraduate degree in family life education from Wayne State University.
26. Sandra Brooks Henriquez
Chief Executive Officer, Detroit Housing Commission
Sandra Brooks Henriquez began her professional career over 39 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Executive Officer of Detroit Housing Commission. In 1933, the City of Detroit established the Detroit Housing Commission (DHC) under the Michigan Housing Facilities Act. Throughout the DHC’s 75-year history, their mission has been to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing for the low and moderate-income people that they serve. DHC is the largest owner of rental housing in Detroit, providing approximately 4,000 housing units for seniors and families.
Previously, Henriquez was appointed by President Barack Obama as Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the first African American woman to hold that position. Prior to that, she was proud to serve as the longest-tenured CEO of the Boston Housing Authority, appointed by Mayor Thomas Menino. Henriquez is a lifelong fair housing activist, is a nationally renowned Philanthropic Sponsor and Mentor, and has served as a director on several boards. She graduated from Boston University with an undergraduate degree in psychology.
27. Lauren Lawrence
Vice President, Karmanos Cancer Institute
Lauren Lawrence is the Vice President of Karmanos Cancer Institute. Karmanos Cancer Institute is the largest cancer research and provider network in Michigan with 16 treatment locations across Michigan and Ohio. They are also the only National Cancer Institute designated comprehensive cancer center in Metro-Detroit and one of only 51 centers of its kind in the United States. They are considered among the nation's best cancer centers and the only center in Michigan solely dedicated to fighting cancer. Lawrence has over 41 years of experience. She began her career in 1980.
Before joining Karmanos Cancer Institute, Lawrence was an executive director at Lake Health University Hospital Seidman Cancer Center, and before that an administrative director of support services and materials management at Cleveland Clinic Health System. Earlier in her career she worked with Marymount Hospital as a director of health information management. Lawrence graduated from Case Western Reserve University with an MBA and from The Ohio State University with an undergraduate degree in health information management.
28. Sara Moylan
Founder & Chief Creative Officer, SHEFIT
Sara Moylan is the inventor and Co-Owner of SHEFIT, a company on a mission to empower women and girls to regain control over their bodies and their lives. A collegiate athlete, fitness model, Arnold Classic, and top International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness professional competitor, Moylan had tried all of the sports bras on the market. Despite their promises of delivering leading-edge support, she was still resorting to wearing two or three bras at a time just to get the control and fit she desired. She decided it was time for a change. Armed with an old maternity bra and a glue gun, Moylan created the prototype for SHEFIT Ultimate Sports Bra. A bra that would disrupt a 40-year-old industry, delivering next level control lift and fit with patented Zip. Cinch. Lift. technology.
The Ultimate Sports Bra quickly took the sports bra industry by storm. Awarded the best high-impact sports bra by SELF Magazine’s 2018 Fitness Awards and a Runner’s World top pick sports bra several years in a row, SHEFIT has gone on to transform millions of lives. Empowering them to be in control of the fit, lift, and their confidence. In addition, the Grand Rapids-based company has donated $500,000 in bras to date to over 40 schools, helping girls stay active and confident at a critical age. Moylan graduated from Central Michigan University with an undergraduate degree in integrated public relations and communications.
29. Brenda Arbeláez
Founder & President, PALS INTERNATIONAL
Brenda Arbeláez is the Founder and President of PALS INTERNATIONAL. She built PALS INTERNATIONAL from a one-person home-based business to a global business that specializes in language instruction, cross-cultural training programs, accent reduction, global relocation support services, business consulting, language translation and interpretation. With a teaching degree earned in Bogotá, Colombia, Arbeláez spent ten years teaching in bilingual schools. Upon arrival in the United States in 1975, she soon became known as a particularly effective Spanish language instructor, teaching to private students in her home. As an immigrant who lived first-hand the experience of transplanting her family to another country, one whose language and culture were unfamiliar to her, Arbeláez brought a keen insight into the challenges and rewards of mastering a second language. She soon added instruction to groups of executives en route to assignments in Spanish-speaking countries, and by 1983, formed PALS INTERNATIONAL. Arbeláez is a graduate of Colegio Maria Auxiliadora with an undergraduate degree in education.
30. Marla Sanford
Chief Marketing Officer, Spring Arbor University
Marla Sanford is the Chief Marketing Officer of Spring Arbor University. For 140 years, Spring Arbor University has distinguished itself as the place where faith and learning meet. What began as a small elementary and secondary school in the late 1800s has evolved into a top-tier, liberal arts, Christian university with over 4,000 enrolled students. Offering over 60 undergraduate majors and programs, seven-degree completion programs, two associate programs, and eight graduate programs, presented in both face-to-face and online formats at 12 locations throughout Michigan and in Ohio, the university continues to meet the growing needs of its students. Sanford has over 16 years of experience. She began her career in 2006.
Before joining Spring Arbor University, Sanford was a VP of marketing and communications at American 1 Credit Union and before that, a public relations coordinator at LifeWays Community Mental Health. Earlier in her career she worked with Home.fm as a morning show co-host. Sanford graduated from Michigan State University with an MA in strategic communication and from Spring Arbor University with an undergraduate degree in communication.
31. Christina Frank
VP of External Affairs, Cornerstone Alliance
As a senior leader on the executive management team and as one of the primary touchpoints for Cornerstone Alliance, Christina Frank is responsible for development, implementation, and performance tracking of comprehensive communications and public relations strategies that enhance the organization's image and appropriately position the community within the economic development marketplace. She has spent her career helping Berrien County residents build better relationships, find better jobs, and improve their quality of life. She holds a professional certification of economic development from the University of Oklahoma, a certificate in non-profit leadership from the University of Notre Dame and a bachelor’s degree from Sienna Heights.
Frank is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, a lifetime member of the International Society of Female Professionals, a member of the Michigan Economic Development Association, and a member of the International Economic Development Council.
Most recently, she earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) by the International Economic Development Council, only the 45th person in the state of MI ever to do so, and one of only 17 women in the state to hold this certification. Frank has also been named as a Top 50 Economic Developer in North America of 2022.
32. April Clobes
Chief Executive Officer, Reseda Group
April Clobes began her professional career over 27 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Executive Officer of Reseda Group. Reseda Group helps credit unions remain relevant and competitive by delivering the best products and services to their employees and member-owners. Driven by their shared goal of building better for members, Reseda Group invests in strategic partners that will bring new technology, digital resources, and credit union industry solutions to market. In addition to her roles with Reseda Group, Cloves is also the President and Chief Executive Officer of MSU Federal Credit Union.
Clobes first got her start in 1995 in marketing at Lighting Supply Company. She graduated from Western Michigan University - Haworth College of Business with an MBA and from Michigan State University with a master's in advertising and public relations and an undergraduate degree in marketing. She recently earned a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University.
33. Shelby Armstrong
Associate Vice President, FINN
Shelby Armstrong currently serves as an Associate Vice President with Finn Partners in Detroit where she serves as an account lead for a variety of B2B technology clients spanning industries such as marketing and ecommerce. In addition to leading the day-to-day activities and media relations initiatives for these clients, she supports executive visibility and thought leadership programs, as well as strategic planning, content development and event management activities. She also helps support the office's networking, industry event and professional development initiatives, and supports recruiting efforts for the Detroit office.
Armstrong is a graduate of Michigan State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communication with a specialization in public relations. Prior to joining Finn Partners, she worked as an associate at Lambert, Edwards & Associates in Lansing, Michigan.
34. Sanya Weston
Partner & CEO, Your Premier Travel Service
Sanya Weston is a Partner and Chief Executive Officer of Your Premier Travel Service, the oldest African American owned travel agency in Detroit. An award-winning luxury travel expert, Weston has more than 35 years of experience in the tourism industry, including state-wide curriculum development and training new travel agencies, in addition to planning and organizing travel for clients. She is a third-generation business owner and has been an entrepreneur and community leader in her beloved Detroit for most of her life. A recognized international authority in her industry, Weston has appeared as a travel expert on local news stations and in leading publications like the Michigan Chronicle, Crain Detroit, American Black Journal, BLAC Magazine, Detroit Free Press, ABC's Detroit WXYZ News, FOX 2 News, WDIV Live in the D and 910AM.
As a Goldman Sachs 10K Small Business alumna, Weston is dedicated to educating other
entrepreneurs on international business development and continues to participate as a Capitol
Hill Day leader. She recently expanded her passion for travel and founded the nonprofit, Young People Travel Global Edge, an international mentoring program that partners with local organizations. Weston is a native Detroiter, born and raised on the city’s westside. She is a graduate of St. Martin DePorres High School and holds an undergraduate degree in business communication from Siena Heights University. In addition to the tourism industry, her work experience include the aerospace industry and strategic digital marketing.
35. Nada Sitto
CEO, MWHS Design
Nada Sitto moved to the United States as a young child. She earned an MBA from Lawrence Tech University while launching her company in 2019. Having worked her way up from front desk associate in undergrad to director of operations for new developments, she found her passion for construction and design, leading to the origin of MWHS Design. Despite just launching before the pandemic, Sitto has grown her company from just her and one other team member into a full team of high-level professionals now in a 13,000 square foot office building in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
MWHS Design main clients are hotel franchises working hand in hand with brands such as Marriott, Hilton, IHG and Wyndham. Sitto was featured in Crain’s Detroit Business 2022 notable women in construction, design & architecture, recognizing her work on multiple large hotel projects, new build, and renovations in the Metro Detroit area.
36. Melissa Hughes
Founder & President, Live Rich. Spread Wealth
A self-made millionaire by 31, Melissa Hughes is the Founder and President of the Live Rich. Spread Wealth. Global Movement, which is changing the lives of businesspeople worldwide. She is a master business coach, best-selling author, international speaker, and consultant. Her mission is to help entrepreneurs and individuals at large companies to accomplish their business goals (including massive profits) while staying connected to their authentic self, transforming the world, and creating lives of limitless abundance.
Known as The Guru of Implementation®, Hughes’ success, and that of her clients, is a result of her practical, proven systems for business and life success. Her clients include companies like Microsoft, Motorola, ESPN, and globally recognized speaker Lisa Nichols, star of the hit film, The Secret, as well as small start-ups and individuals. Large corporations around the world hire Hughes to advise them on projects and initiatives to the tune of $20 million, and she specializes in helping to ensure culture, communication, project scope, and implementation are successful across divisions, departments, and business units. Hughes is a dynamic, transformative speaker who has presented to companies and at entrepreneurial events, conferences, universities, and associations throughout the U.S. and in Ukraine, Dubai, Costa Rica, Canada, Bali, Tokyo, and Amsterdam, to name a few.
37. Lisa Pidun
VP of Global Project Management, Urban Science
Lisa Pidun is the Vice President of Global Project Management of Urban Science. As an established leader, Pidun has performed a variety of leadership roles in the areas of program and project management, IT operations, as well as sales and marketing. With over 20 years of experience in the IT industry, she is recognized for being results oriented, having a passion for excellence and having a strong track record for influencing change on a broad basis.
Pidun's career began in 1988 as a software implementation consultant. She progressed to development team leader of COTS accounting applications and joined Perot Systems in 1995 as a project manager. She later advanced into a leadership position in IT operations where she developed new business that resulted in significant incremental revenue for the division. In 2001, she transitioned to the sales office where she was responsible for sales and marketing activities for a new industry segment. In 2003, Pidun returned to project management and in 2005 back into IT operations. During this time, she also led corporate quality initiatives for the business unit. In 2006, Pidun accepted a full-time business unit PMO director role responsible for project and quality management. She graduated from Central Michigan University with an undergraduate degree in MIS and mathematics.
38. Shatica D. McDonald
Managing Director & Client Account Lead, Accenture
Shatica McDonald is a Managing Director and Client Account Lead managing an entire business and P&L for one of Accenture’s major health clients in the Midwest. In this role, she has the responsibility of bringing the best global talent and professional services inclusive of strategy, consulting, technology, operations, and Accenture SONG (formerly Accenture Interactive) to her clients. During her 17-year tenure at Accenture she has led large customer experience transformations within North America’ Health Payer industry. She has done so by delivering 360° Value across a vast range of healthcare clients with a primary focus on digital experience, customer relationship management, sustainability, and contact center transformations. She brings innovative leadership and AI powered solutions while driving on Accenture’s purpose “To deliver on the promise of technology and human ingenuity.” Known as a trusted C-Suite relevant thought leader and sales originator, McDonald has sold and delivered multiple complex transformation programs for some of Accenture’s most important accounts.
McDonald is equally passionate about ensuring Inclusion & Diversity is not just a “thing, an event or something nice to say,” but rather a core change in mindsets and lifestyle. As such, she has been appointed as the North America Inclusion & Diversity Lead for Health, serves as the Executive Sponsor for the African American Employee Resource Group (AAERG) in Michigan and is an active community advocate for the youth including STEM, talent, and technology skills development. She currently sits on the board for a local High School within the Detroit Public School Community District. McDonald was named an “Accenture Global Health Expert” for Customer Relationship Management & Experience in 2018/2019, awarded Crain’s Detroit Business 40 Under 40 Top Executives in 2020, and recently appointed as the AHA Go Red For Women Chair for the 2023 Campaign.
39. Sherisse Butler
Senior Director of Government Affairs, Detroit Public Schools Community District
Sherisse Butler is a change-catalyst, community activist, and child and education advocate. She currently serves as the Senior Director of Government Affairs for Detroit Public Schools Community District where she develops the district's legislative priorities in consultation with senior leaders and provides strategic direction and messaging for advancing priorities. She is a proud graduate of Martin Luther King, Jr. Sr. High School. Having pursued undergraduate and graduate degrees at Barnard College, Teachers College, Union Theological Seminary, Columbia University in NYC, Butler has worked in the K-12 and post-secondary education communities for over 15 years. She strongly believes that education is the pathway to freedom.
Upon returning to Detroit in 2015, Butler became involved in the local community. Volunteering for local education initiatives, school board campaigns, voter registrations initiatives, and becoming a precinct delegate are just a few ways that Butler gives back to Detroit. Most proudly, she utilizes her strengths and talents to advocate for the needs of children in Detroit. She is a youth pastor of St. Paul AME Church and serves on the Board of Directors for Teen HYPE Youth Development. Her personal mission is to give voice to the most vulnerable children in the community, kick in the doors of opportunity, and to build a table, bring a chair and/or microphone to the spaces where decisions are made about young people. Most recently, Butler founded the AJ Butler Northeast Detroit Community Action Coalition in honor of her late grandmother, Annie J. Butler. The organization's mission is to promote a healthy living environment and to fight for an improved and equitable quality of living for Northeast Detroit residents.
40. Michelle Napier-Dunnings
Chief Communications Officer, Michigan Public Health Institute
Michelle Napier-Dunnings is currently both the Chief Communications Officer of Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI) and the Senior Advisor to Michigan Food & Farming Systems (MIFFS). This joint position, established in April of 2016, is directly connected to the missions of both organizations. MPHI is a non-profit institute advancing population health through public health innovation and collaboration. MIFFS is also a non-profit organization connecting beginning and historically underserved farmers to each other and to resource opportunities.
Before taking on her current roles, Napier-Dunnings was a senior facilitator and minority owner at Project Innovations and before that, a director of education at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts at Michigan State University. Earlier in her career she worked with Virginia Commonwealth University as a communications instructor. Napier-Dunnings graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a master’s degree in theater performance and from Earlham College with an undergraduate degree in psychology and biology.
41. Kellie Penzien
Managing Director, Accenture
Kellie Penzien is the Managing Director of Accenture. Accenture is a global professional services company with leading capabilities in digital, cloud, and security. Penzien enjoys technology and solving client business challenges. She has achieved significant growth with Fortune 100 clients across various industries and has a diversified software and network infrastructure background. She has held technology leadership roles across various domains including service delivery, consulting, and sales. Throughout that time, she has driven successful client and academia engagements leveraging application development, cloud, networking, IoT, AI, virtual reality, and autonomous vehicles.
Before joining Accenture, Penzien was an AVP of advisory consulting at Cognizant and before that, she founded Design and Ship where she served as the CEO. Earlier in her career she worked with General Motors as a software development lead. Penzien graduated from Central Michigan University with a master’s degree in computer software engineering and from Cleary University with an undergraduate degree in business administration, management, and operations. She has earned executive education certificates from The Wharton School, Dartmouth College, Cornell University, and New York University.
42. Jeanette Pierce
Founder & President, City Institute
Jeanette Pierce is a social entrepreneur and lifelong Detroit resident who grew up on the city's Eastside. She is a data nerd as well as an engaging storyteller with a passion for providing context around complex issues. She founded the City Institute to provide a deeper understanding of Detroit to better equip residents and stakeholders to build an equitable and thriving city. Since 2005, Jeanette has used experiential learning and non-traditional tours to help more than 150,000 locals and visitors learn about Detroit’s assets, small businesses, historic neighborhoods, city planning & development policies and innovative solutions to the challenges the city faces.
Jeanette and her team combine observations of current conditions, historical facts and recent statistics with powerful anecdotes and individual stories of Detroiters to help clients understand the complexity and dynamism of the city of Detroit. City Institute offers learning journeys, speaking engagements and tours, and helps other cities create experiences that tell the story of their communities. Jeanette believes that when more people are informed and engaged in shaping a place’s future, there is a much better chance of that city becoming an equitable and thriving place for all. She has presented at more than 100 events including Atlantic Magazine’s CityLab Conference, Governor’s Economic Summit, Downtown Las Vegas Annual Meeting and the Oregon Heritage Conference. She was honored by Crain’s Detroit Business as one of the Top Forty under 40, by DBusiness Magazine as a Thirty in their 30’s, was awarded the Shining Light Future Leader Award from the Detroit Free Press as well as receiving many other recognitions and awards. She serves on the Boards of the Michigan Municipal League Foundation and Detroit Historical Society. She has an undergraduate degree in communication from Aquinas College, and lives with her husband and toddler triplets on Detroit’s Eastside.
43. Melissa Collar
Chief Counsel & VP of Strategic Partnerships, Rockford Construction
Melissa Collar is the Chief Counsel and Vice President of Strategic Partnerships of Rockford Construction. In her roles, Collar leads the legal department providing counsel for the company’s real estate development, architecture, construction, brokerage, and property management companies. Her responsibilities include establishing and maintaining strategic relationships and assisting with the One Rockford strategic plan. She leads the women's initiative to develop and retain talented women in the construction industry and serves on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion leadership team. Collar is also serving as the licensed supervising associate broker for the company's brokerage companies.
Collar first got her start in 1994 as a partner at Warner Norcross & Judd LLP. She is listed in The Best Lawyers in America, Michigan Super Lawyers and named multiple years as Grand Rapids Construction Lawyer of the Year and Grand Rapids Real Estate Lawyer of the Year. She is a frequent speaker on real estate and construction topics. Collar graduated from Wayne State University Law School with a JD and from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree.
44. Wendy Taylor
Executive Director, ATC Healthcare
Wendy Taylor is an independent owner of ATC Healthcare Services of MidMichigan. ATC is a pioneer in the healthcare staffing industry and has staffed wherever healthcare is provided since 1982. As an independent owner of ATC, Taylor provides every type of medical staffing solution including per diem coverage, long term assignments, permanent placements, and locum tenens coverage. In addition, she provides Medicaid Waiver and Private Pay home care services such as assistance with homemaking, companionship, overnight care, live-in care, respite care, meal preparation, medication reminders, and accompaniment to appointments.
Taylor is also the independent owner and executive director of CareBuilders at Home - a skilled nursing and private duty home care agency providing non-medical care to elderly and others who require assistance with their daily living needs. They help individuals with independence and dignity by providing non-medical and private duty home care services in the familiar surroundings of home 24/7. In addition, Taylor has a strong background in medical staffing and in-home care and has worked in the HR field for over 24 years in hospital, higher education, and local government environments. She is currently a State of Michigan contract holder providing medical personnel to several state-wide facilities through MDHHS, MDVA and MDOC. She also provides contract and PRN medical staff to Hospitals, LTC/SNF, and Juvenile Detention Centers throughout the state. Taylor holds accreditation through CARF International, providing premier in-home services in the Great Lakes Bay Region. She currently serves as a member of the Michigan Brain Injury Provider Council and is a Great Lakes Bay Regional Leadership Ambassador. She previously served as the Vice Chairperson for the State Advisory Council on Aging for the State of Michigan, holding this seat for four years. Taylor has an undergraduate degree in organizational administration, a master’s degree in administration with a major in HR, both from Central Michigan University.
45. Teri Grieb
Senior Director for Research & Associate Dean for Research Strategy, University of Michigan Medical School
Teri Grieb is the Associate Dean for Research Strategy and Senior Director for Research at the University of Michigan Medical School. As the chief business and administrative officer for the research mission, Dr. Grieb is responsible for the operational and fiscal management of the Medical School Office of Research and its reporting units. In partnership with the Executive Vice Dean for Research and Chief Scientific Officer, she develops and implements strategic initiatives, leads enterprise change management, facilitates research with Michigan Medicine affiliate hospitals and health systems, and advises on infrastructure, policy, operational, and fiscal issues for the research enterprise. Dr. Grieb serves as the lead administrative liaison between the Medical School research enterprise and the university.
Dr. Grieb holds a PhD from the Genetics Program at George Washington University. After receiving her doctorate, she joined an early-stage, life sciences company, where she was the Director of Tissue Biologics and lead scientist responsible for developing the company’s licensed technology for sterilizing allograft tissues. Dr. Grieb then joined MedImmune, Inc., as a R&D project manager. She oversaw commercial and university in-licensed technologies. Prior to her current roles at the University of Michigan, Dr. Grieb was a managing director for the Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research, the home of the University of Michigan’s NIH-funded Clinical Translational Science Award, and an Industry Research Liaison responsible for nurturing technology transfer, developing partnerships with industry, and fostering entrepreneurship.
46. Khadija Walker-Fobbs
Chief Strategy Officer, Judson Center
Khadija Walker-Fobbs began her professional career over 23 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Strategy Officer of Judson Center. Judson Center is a non-profit human service agency that provides compassionate, comprehensive services to children and families throughout southeast Michigan. Since opening their doors in 1924, they have grown to provide services to over 10,000 children, adults, and families each year. They have been changing fates and restoring childhoods for children who have been abused and neglected, and others who are challenged by developmental disabilities, severe emotional impairments, and autism spectrum disorder.
Fobbs first got her start in 1999 as a marketing coordinator at Valassis. From there, she went on to Healthy Patterns before eventually moving on to co-found Mission 1:17 where she served as the president. Fobbs graduated from Central Michigan University with an MS in administration and from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree in political science.
47. Sarah Stanley
VP of Marketing, Sandata
Sarah Stanley is the Vice President of Marketing for Sandata. She first joined the company in 2020. Sandata Technologies is a leading U.S. provider of home care solutions that enable government agencies, managed care organizations, and home care providers to manage and optimize the delivery of services. For over 40 years, they have been a company that truly focuses on all stakeholders, participants, home care providers, and state governments who administer their solutions. The Sandata solutions deliver transparency, efficiency, and cost savings to clients who utilize their technology and have been implemented by over 3,500 agencies nationwide.
Previously, Stanley was a CEO and co-founder at Hoyden Creative Group and before that, the owner and marketing communications specialist at Segue Media. Earlier in her career she worked with Portage Health System as a marketing communications specialist. Stanley earned an MBA from Florida Atlantic University and an undergraduate degree in scientific and technical communications from Michigan Technological University.
48. Jennifer Disla
Co-Executive Director, Detroit Action
Jennifer Disla began her professional career over a decade ago. Today, she is the Co-Executive Director of Detroit Action, a grassroots community-based organization building power for Black and Brown Detroiters throughout their metro region. A consistent and deliberate attack on their institutions has made Detroit one of the most politically and economically marginalized communities in the country. Detroit Action builds power and transforms the community and fights back against the policies that affect the most vulnerable individuals.
Disla started organizing in 2008 with the Healthcare for America Now Campaign in Missouri. She continued her career in organizing afterwards as a Labor Organizer. She has since worked on contract campaigns in Ohio, Michigan, Missouri, and Indiana. She believes in building collective power to effectively change society. She is a member of the Organization for Black Struggle, and Missouri Jobs with Justice as well Co-Chair to Defend Black Voters Campaign. Disla graduated from Seton Hall University with an MA in English literature and an undergraduate degree in English literature and criminal justice.
49. Lisa Vallee-Smith
CEO & Founder, Airfoil Group
Lisa Vallee-Smith is the CEO and Founder of Airfoil Group. She founded the company in 2000. As the parent company of Airfoil Communications and Airfoil Digital, Airfoil Group is an independent integrated marketing communications group serving both emerging and leading technology companies. Airfoil drives technology communications for a growing client roster across consumer, enterprise, healthcare, and automotive segments. The agency provides services to measure, inform, and accelerate clients’ marketing communications, digital, social media and brand strategy programs.
Previously, Vallee-Smith was a president at Franco and before that, an account supervisor at Creamer Dickson Basford. Earlier in her career she worked with Detroit Renaissance (now Business Leaders of Michigan) as a director of public relations. Vallee-Smith earned an undergraduate degree in communications, journalism, and PR from Wayne State University.
50. Katherine Ephlin
Chief Operating Officer, Gongos
Katherine Ephlin is the Chief Operating Officer of Gongos. She first joined the company in 2006 as an account director. Gongos is a consultative agency that places customers at the heart of business strategy. Partnering with insights, analytics, marketing, strategy, and customer experience groups, Gongos operationalizes customer centricity by helping companies understand and activate on customer needs. Gongos works alongside B2C and B2B companies in guiding strategy, insights, innovation, and transformation initiatives. From product development to customer experience, to marketing optimization, Gongos helps organizations enhance customer retention and acquisition.
Previously, Ephlin was a marketing manager at General Motors. Ephlin earned an MBA in marketing from Michigan State University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Vermont.