Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Memphis for 2024. With a thriving economy and diverse population, Memphis is much more than the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll. From advanced manufacturing to information technology to healthcare and life science, the leaders of tomorrow and today are flocking to Bluff City to advance their careers and work for some of the top companies on the planet.
This year, we honor a top executive with FedEx Express, a major American cargo airline based in Memphis. As a Vice President with over three decades of experience, Crystal Oliver is paving the way for the world's largest express transportation company to find even greater success.
We also acknowledge the accomplishments of Mary Hopkins, the Senior Director of Finance for Memphis-based company, International Paper. In this role, Hopkins leads the global financial strategy for one of the world's largest recyclers.
Finally, with the State government serving as the largest employer in Tennessee, we celebrate the career of Muriel Malone Nolen, the Executive Director of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, an independent state agency. Nolen has tried over 100 jury trials, including high-profile criminal cases, and served for two decades as an assistant district attorney.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Memphis for 2024.
1). Tammy Henry
VP, Client Success, Data Facts
Tammy Henry is the Vice President of Client Success of Data Facts. Data Facts provides clients with national and international background screening solutions to make sound hiring decisions. They offer robust services across many industries just like the big box vendors, but with friendly, attentive support. They are privately owned, so they only report to their customers and employees.
With over 25 years of experience at the world’s largest retailer in operations, human resources, legal, and risk management leadership roles, Henry is a natural leader. She has been repeatedly tapped in the development and execution of strategic initiatives and has defined new paths forward to propel the business to new heights of success and growth.
Before joining Data Facts, Henry’s most recent role was leading the world’s largest background check program (1.75 million annually), developing a Sexual and Violent Offender program, and leading a Threat and Risk Research Analysis team. She also led the transformation of a new background check system; designed a new model for the Eligibility Matrix through extensive legal research and analysis of recidivism rate studies; and developed corporate programs, which will continue to provide the company's brand a strategic advantage with Federal and State governmental organizations. Henry graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay with an undergraduate degree in pre-law studies.
2). Crystal Oliver
VP, Memphis World Hub, FedEx Express
Crystal R. Oliver is a dynamic and highly respected visionary leader at FedEx Express, the world’s largest express transportation company. As Vice President at the FedEx World Hub in Memphis, Oliver is responsible for more than 6,000 employees and a powerful network that moves approximately one million packages daily. Her keys to success include expertise in connecting people with strategic business goals and providing them with training and support that will help ensure their success.
During her lengthy FedEx career, Oliver has served in numerous leadership roles including, Managing Director, Senior Manager, and Manager in Operations in Memphis, TN; Los Angeles, CA; Colorado Springs, CO and Orlando, FL. In addition, she has served as Managing Director, Human Resources with responsibility for recruitment, training, compliance, services, and diversity programs. As a result of Oliver’s innovative and results-oriented leadership, her stellar contributions have earned her many coveted honors including five FedEx Express “Five Star Awards,” the company’s most prestigious recognition presented to employees for exemplary performance. As a business trailblazer and insightful mentor, Oliver is also frequently invited to speak at global and national business and community forums.
Her unwavering commitment to community service includes service on the Board of Directors of the Rise Foundation and the Alumni Advisory Council of Christian Brothers University. She has also served on the Board of Directors of Girls, Incorporated and United Way of the Mid-South and Orange County. She is a graduate of Leadership Memphis, Leadership Orlando, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.
Oliver’s educational background includes an Executive Master’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Christian Brothers University.
3). Toya Hardison
Head of HR, Google Operations Center, US, Google
Toya Hardison is the Head of HR for the US Google Operations Center of Google. Google is a California-based multinational technology company that offers internet-related services, such as a search engine, online advertising, and cloud computing. Google’s mission is to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.
As a global senior-level human resources professional, Hardison brings over 20 years of extensive leadership experience in human capital management, organizational effectiveness, change management, executive coaching, talent acquisition, workforce planning, and employee relations. With a proven track record, she excels in creating organizational transformation by aligning strategies focused on people with business objectives.
Before joining Google, Hardison was a senior HR business partner at Citrix. Before that, she was a regional senior human resource generalist at Covidien. Earlier in her career, she worked with Knowledge Sharing Systems as an HR and network operations manager. Hardison graduated from Strayer University with an MBA in HR Management and from Shaw University with an undergraduate degree in pre-law studies.
4). Denise Jack
Senior Director, Operations, Renew Solutions, HP
Denise Jack is the Senior Director of Operations of Renew Solutions at HP. The Hewlett-Packard Company, commonly shortened to Hewlett-Packard or HP, is an American multinational information technology company headquartered in Palo Alto, California. Jack manages the global partners that support HP Renew with end-to-end refurbishment and repair solutions.
With extensive executive-level experience in e-commerce, distribution, manufacturing, and strategy, Jack is a proven leader in delivering customer-focused operational excellence. Her core competencies include supply chain management, process improvement, e-commerce, negotiations, and reverse logistics. She has successfully managed and developed major functional areas, teams, and projects across various industries and markets, achieving and maintaining profitability targets, exceeding customer expectations, and aligning with strategic goals. She is also skillful in developing and maintaining customer relationships, with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and key performance indicators. Her mission is to enable and empower her organization to deliver operational excellence and customer satisfaction in a fast-growing and competitive industry.
Before joining HP, Jack was a director of operations at PFSweb, Inc. Before that, she was an associate director of materials and operations at Carrier HVAC. Earlier in her career, she worked with Flextronics as a senior materials manager. Jack graduated from Christian Brothers University with an undergraduate degree in business administration, management, and operations.
8). Kaitlyn Grant
VP - VAS, CBRE
Kaitlyn Grant serves as Vice President of Valuation & Advisory Services (VAS) for CBRE’s Memphis office. Joining CBRE in 2021, she spearheaded the establishment of the first CBRE VAS team in Memphis and is a licensed Certified General appraiser in the states of Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
Since 2016, Kaitlyn has been actively engaged in real estate appraisals and consulting. Her expertise has been concentrated in the Southeast Region with a primary focus in the Memphis Metropolitan Area. Kaitlyn's professional journey is characterized by extensive valuation experience across a diverse array of institutional properties, including industrial, office, retail, multifamily residential, mixed-use developments, self-storage facilities, auto dealerships, special-use properties, and vacant land designated for various purposes. She serves a various set of clients, including commercial and investment banks, accounting firms, law firms, developers, and REITs.
Kaitlyn's interest in real estate developed early, leading her to study real estate in school. A graduate of the University of Memphis with a major in finance and a concentration in Real Estate, Kaitlyn's academic achievements include being selected as a Lambda Alpha International scholarship recipient for two consecutive years. Passionate about advocating for women in commercial real estate, Kaitlyn currently serves as Vice President for CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) Network – Memphis Chapter (affiliation pending). She has also recently been appointed as an Advisory Board Member for the Memphis Branch Chapter of the Appraisal Institute.
Since joining CBRE, Kaitlyn's accolades include being named Rookie of the Year by CBRE Valuation and Advisory Services in 2021 and receiving the Rise Award for the South Division of CBRE Valuation and Advisory Services in Q2 of 2023, as a result of nominations by her peers. Continuously advancing her knowledge, Kaitlyn pursues ongoing education through courses offered by the Appraisal Institute, actively working towards her MAI (Member, Appraisal Institute) designation.
9). Lashell Vaughn
VP & CIO, Memphis Light, Gas and Water
Lashell Vaughn is the Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Memphis Light, Gas, and Water (MLGW). She first joined the company in 2018. MLGW is the largest three-service public power utility in the nation, serving more than 444,000 customers in Memphis and Shelby County. Lashell is responsible for managing information technology services, data security, client services, and enterprise resources support.
Vaughn is an expert in information technology and holds over 35 years of experience in client management, application development, data center operation, network/telecommunication services, and security and compliance operations. Prior to joining Memphis Light, Gas, and Water in 2011, she served as VP of information technology for Hilton Worldwide. She received a master’s degree in computer science from Christian Brothers University and an undergraduate degree in computer science from Mississippi State University.
Vaughn holds membership in a number of business leadership organizations. She serves on the dean's advisory council for the Mississippi State University Bagley College of Engineering, is a member of the Mississippi State University Computer Science Department Advisory Board, and is chairman of the board for the Greater Memphis IT Council. She is also a member of the Institute of Electronics Engineers, Inc. and the American Society for Engineering Education.
12). Julie Henderson
Chief Revenue Officer, Data Facts
Julie Henderson, boasting nearly two decades of experience across sales, customer service, and management, is a dynamic leader and a driving force behind the success of Data Facts, Inc., a prominent consumer reporting agency specializing in background screening. As the Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) at Data Facts, Julie holds a pivotal role in the company's strategic direction, overseeing both the sales and client success teams. Her story is not just one of leadership but also of ownership, as she stands as one of the company's owners, steering it towards continuous growth and excellence. Julie's journey in the world of consumer reporting and background screening is marked by a passion for delivering trusted, accurate, and reliable information to clients. With a deep understanding of the industry's complexities and the critical importance of data accuracy, she has emerged as a respected authority in her field.
In her current role as CRO, Julie not only leads the sales team but also takes charge of the client success teams, exemplifying her dedication to not just acquiring new business but also ensuring the satisfaction and success of existing clients. Her client-centric approach and industry expertise have cemented Data Facts, Inc.'s reputation as a trusted partner in background screening. Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, Julie is known for her industry advocacy, staying at the forefront of evolving regulations and compliance standards to ensure Data Facts, Inc. continues to provide clients with the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Julie Henderson's journey to becoming the Chief Revenue Officer and an owner at Data Facts, Inc. is a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of consumer reporting and background screening. Her leadership, ownership, and commitment to delivering unparalleled service continue to drive Data Facts, Inc.'s growth and success, making her a revered figure in the industry.
View the complete list of awardees.
13). Cici Ebersole
Chief Talent Officer, Ducks Unlimited
Cici leads the Human Resources function at Ducks Unlimited and is a member of DU's Executive Leadership Team. Before joining DU, she held senior HR leadership roles at several top organizations including Smith & Nephew, Express Scripts (now part of Cigna), and Jackson Hewitt. Cici began her career in Human Resources as an employment law attorney and has since had an extensive and successful history of working in the non-profit, supply chain, medical device, healthcare, financial services, and retail. She is skilled in proactive employee relations and engagement, culture building, organizational planning, recruiting, and leadership development. Cici has a passion for helping leaders in their professional development journey and finding strengths in their organizations. With over 20 years of experience in employment law and human resources, Cici brings credibility to the human resources function as a true organizational partner.
She is a member of the Society of Human Resources Executive Network, the SHRM Voice of Work panel, the Chief HR Officer Council at the Conference Board, as well as an Advisory Board Member of the Women in Leadership Program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She holds an MBA from the University of Central Arkansas as well as a JD, and an undergraduate degree in economics from the University of the Philippines. In Cici's spare time, she enjoys traveling with her family, reading, yoga, and enjoying the outdoors. She manages a busy household, made up of two young children, two huge dogs, and a cat, with her husband of 18 years.
19). Esha Iupe
VP, Client Relations, HUB International
Esha Iupe is the Vice President of Client Relations for HUB International. HUB International advises businesses and individuals on how to reach their insurance goals. When clients partner with HUB, they're at the center of a vast network of risk management, employee benefits, retirement, and wealth management specialists that bring clarity to a changing world with tailored solutions and unrelenting advocacy.
With a decade of experience, Iupe started at HUB International as the co-director of client services in 2018 and was promoted to the C-suite role in 2023. Before that, she was a co-director at The Barnett Group. Esha is an ambassador for HUB’s Women Network which promotes diversity and inclusion within the workplace and received HUB’s regional award for entrepreneurship in 2019. She serves on the board of the Greater Memphis Employee Benefits Council that consists of HR & Benefits professionals here in Memphis and continually works to grow her professional skills in the employee benefits industry.
Iupe graduated from Mississippi State University with an undergraduate degree. During her college years, she participated in a variety of activities and societies, including making the Dean's Scholar List, being a member of the Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED) – Mississippi Gamma chapter, contributing to the American Medical Student Association (AMSA), volunteering with the Starkville Volunteer Organization and joining the Kappa Delta Sorority. She previously served on the board of directors for Le Bonheur Club.
20). Michelle Sanderford
Future Enterprise Director - Global Lease Management Lead, Accenture
Michelle Sanderford is the Future Enterprise Director and Global Lease Management Lead for Accenture, a leading global professional services company that helps the world’s leading businesses, governments, and other organizations build their digital core, optimize their operations, accelerate revenue growth, and enhance citizen services. Sanderford oversees all aspects of portfolio management, lease administration technology, and operating model reorganization. She also manages lease administration.
Sanderford directs and supports leaders within Accenture in understanding the importance of managing their real estate portfolio. This involves helping them comprehend their current real estate needs, and financial statements, and continuously evaluating, strategizing, and developing their current and future needs related to data management, technology requirements, and portfolio position. She enjoys delving into the details and contributing to Accenture's success.
With more than 25 years of experience in commercial and corporate real estate, Sanderford has worked with and consulted for corporations in various industries, including healthcare, finance, technology, and education. She has played a key role in assisting clients with their real estate needs, including lease administration, lease accounting, portfolio strategy, and technology selection. Sanderford graduated from Christian Brothers University with an MBA in Business Management and from Crichton College with an undergraduate degree in business management.
23). Ashley Pollock
Senior Director, Learning Solutions, Cracker Barrel
Ashley Pollock is the Senior Director of Learning Solutions with Cracker Barrel Old Country Store (CBRL), a trusted restaurant & retail company that starts with quality food served with care. It takes a dedication to pleasing people and treating our guests and staff like family. Maybe that’s why, for more than 50 years, millions of folks have trusted Cracker Barrel as a home-away-from-home where they can get a warm, comforting meal.
Pollock is a results-driven Learning & Development professional with over 20 years of experience leading and supporting Learning & Development teams including learning design & development, system, facilitation, project management, and analysis. Pollock believes a big aspect of her success is using operational metrics to show the value of Learning & Development. Pollock excels at root-cause analysis or peeling back each layer of the onion as part of each Learning & Development project.
Pollock began her career in Learning & Development in 2001 and found her home. She discovered her passion for creating learning solutions that meet the learner where they are. Pollock earned her Bachelor of Arts in Technical & Professional Writing at the University of Memphis.
26). Staci Jackson
Managing Partner, LPL Financial
Staci Jackson is the Managing Partner of LPL Financial, a leader in the retail financial advice market and the nation's largest independent broker/dealer. She brings over 24 years of experience to Wealth Management. During that time, Staci has developed a multigenerational practice that includes working with extended family units and individuals. She believes leading clients in transition is one of the most valuable services a wealth advisor can provide. During transitions such as the loss of a spouse, divorce, retirement, and financial reset, clients are looking for leadership, empathy, guidance, and patience from someone they can trust.
Staci’s mission is to provide essential coaching and guidance to her clients to accomplish the things in life that are truly important to them. She does this with the highest level of integrity, honesty, and above all else, great personal care for her clients’ personal needs, giving them the confidence to pursue their personal, professional, and financial goals.
Before joining LPL Financial, Jackson was a managing partner and wealth advisor at Paragon Wealth Solutions and before that a VP of investments at Raymond James. Earlier in her career she worked with Lambuth University as an alumni director. Jackson graduated from Lambuth University with an undergraduate degree.
27). Michelle Garcia
Region VP, Merchandising - Tennessee, Sysco
Michelle Garcia is the Region Vice President of Merchandising for Tennessee at Sysco, the global leader in selling, marketing, and distributing food products to restaurants, healthcare, educational facilities, lodging establishments, and other customers who prepare meals away from home. As an accomplished and result-driven leader, Garcia has demonstrated remarkable success in overseeing more than $100 million in inventory. Her expertise lies in maintaining adequate inventory levels to achieve acceptable service levels, forecasting demand spikes and downturns in product movement, and introducing new ideas and innovative items to grow sales.
Garcia possesses an innate ability to build, train, and mentor cross-functional teams for the execution of business-critical tasks and improving performance. Throughout her career, she has established herself as an expert negotiator and business person with exceptional communication and organizational skills. She is adept at forging relationships with key stakeholders, suppliers, and vendors while building consensus across multiple organizational levels.
Garcia first got her start in 2010 as a senior buyer at Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. From there, she eventually rose to commissary manager at Delaware North Companies, her most recent position before joining Sysco. Garcia graduated from the University of Florida with an undergraduate degree in recreation, tourism, and travel services management.
28). Amanda Babin
Director of Finance, Rentokil Terminix
Amanda Babin is the Director of Finance at Rentokil Terminix. The Rentokil and Terminix family of brands have come together to form the world's leading pest control company. With their shared vision, they'll be expanding their products, services, and technology. And with their combined resources, they'll do more to power innovation and develop sustainable solutions for the planet.
Babin began her professional career 13 years ago. She started her career in risk assurance at PwC. From there, she went on to Viacom as an assistant manager. She worked in management roles at Global Payments Inc. and The Home Depot, before eventually rising to a global lease accounting role at AutoZone, her most recent position before joining Rentokil Terminix.
Babin graduated from Louisiana State University with an undergraduate degree in accounting. She was part of the LSU Center for Internal Auditing, the National Honors Society, and Phi Eta Sigma.
View the complete list of awardees.
30). Natalie Capocaccia McCulley
Senior VP, McGriff
Natalie McCulley is the Senior Vice President for McGriff, where she also serves as a risk management and insurance advisor. Founded in 1886, McGriff has provided highly customized insurance, risk management, and employee benefit solutions for organizations of all sizes for more than a century.
McCulley specializes in managing complex risk management and insurance programs, cultivating numerous client relationships, and guiding clients through the implementation of intricate risk management initiatives. Her expertise encompasses the establishment of captive insurance companies, global property and casualty programs, professional and executive liability programs, alternative risk financing solutions, and addressing diverse safety and training concerns.
A Memphis native, McCulley earned a BBA in Finance and Risk from The University of Memphis. She is also a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) and a Certified Risk Manager (CRM) through The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research. She is married with three adult children and resides in Memphis.
31). Moira House
Senior Director, Strategic Operations, CBIZ
Moira House is a Senior Director of Strategic Operations at CBIZ MHM, LLC ("CBIZ"). In this role, she partners with key practice leaders within the CBIZ Southeast Region to execute business strategic plans and increase growth, profitability, efficiency, and effectiveness. Further, she adds strength to the risk management arena ensuring effective plans are in place to mitigate all areas of possible risk to our employees, business information, physical assets, and finances. House leads all operational functions, including HR, IT, and marketing, and she directs the workflow of administrative services for internal and external clients.
She joined CBIZ (and the predecessor firm Thompson Dunavant PLC) in 2005 with her efforts focused on recruiting top talent for the Memphis office. Before being promoted to her current role, House assumed increasing levels of leadership and responsibility and served as a human resources manager, human resources director, and director of operations.
Upon graduating from Ole Miss with a Bachelor of Accountancy, House started her professional career in 1985 at a large, international public accounting firm, where she focused her efforts on auditing Fortune 100 publicly traded companies in the financial services and logistics industries. She also worked at the National Headquarters for Perkins Family Restaurants, initially in corporate accounting as a senior manager before transitioning to senior manager of franchise development. House spent some time as a recruiting manager for a local agency.
33). Brandi Gardner
Director of Pricing and Promotion, AutoZone
Brandi Gardner began her professional career 22 years ago. Today, she is the Director of Pricing and Promotion at AutoZone, an auto parts retailer that distributes automotive replacement parts and accessories. AutoZone, headquartered in Memphis, TN, is a growing Fortune 300 company with a deep commitment to serving its customers, communities, and fellow AutoZoners.
As an innovative thought leader, Gardner has proven results in building high-functioning teams that embrace diverse thought and constant curiosity. She excels at building long-term vendor partnerships on a foundation of transparency and integrity and is an expert at cross-functional collaboration, finding profitable solutions for complex challenges. With a drive to understand and improve consumer experience, she is a strategic visionary, passionate influencer, and motivator.
She is an experienced merchandise director with a demonstrated history of working in the automotive industry. Skilled in negotiation, budgeting, market planning, operations management, and sales, Gardner brings a strong marketing background with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing from Southeast Missouri State University’s Harrison College of Business.
34). Jocquell Rodgers
Executive Director, Green Dot Public Schools Tennessee
Jocquell Rodgers is the Executive Director for Green Dot Public Schools Tennessee (GDPST). At Green Dot, they believe in working towards something bigger. Their mission is to help transform public education so all students graduate prepared for college, leadership, and life. They make this possible by hiring passionate teachers, administrators, and staff who believe in our students' potential.
A Memphian with a history entrenched in the academic landscape of Memphis, Rodgers is a product of Memphis City Schools K-12, a classroom teacher for nine years, and an instructional leader for over 15 years. Rodgers has a BA in English from the University of Memphis and an MEd from Freed–Hardeman University for Curriculum and Instruction.
Before her current role, Rodgers wore many hats with GDPST. She has been with Green Dot Public Schools TN since 2014, serving as a literacy instructional coach, the director of community engagement and communications, and the chief of external affairs. She continues shaping partnerships in education that offer equitable access and opportunities for Memphis communities, while also building sustainable pathways to economic stability.
36). August White
Executive Director, West, Mental Health Cooperative
As the Executive Director of the newest location of Mental Health Cooperative’s West division, August White is thrilled to lead her team in providing compassionate care and support to their community. Mental Health Cooperative offers innovative, trauma-informed, and person-centered behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and adults. All TennCare plans are welcomed and grants are available for those who are uninsured. With over 20 years of clinical and leadership experience in the mental health field, she is dedicated to advancing the mission of promoting mental wellness and resilience.
Prior to joining Mental Health Cooperative, White held various clinical and leadership roles in reputable mental health organizations, where she honed her skills in program development, team management, and community outreach. Her commitment to excellence in mental health care is fueled by a deep-rooted passion for making a positive impact in the lives of individuals and families facing mental health challenges.
In addition to her professional endeavors, she is proud to be a member of Delta Sigma Theta, a distinguished organization dedicated to service and sisterhood. White holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling from the University of Mississippi and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in TN. She continues to pursue opportunities for professional growth and development to stay at the forefront of advancements in the mental health field.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the vibrant cultural scene of Memphis, and engaging in activities that promote holistic well-being. She is excited about the opportunity to contribute to the thriving mental health community in Memphis and looks forward to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves.
38). Suman Kharbanda
VP, Advanced Technology & Innovation, FedEx
Suman Kharbanda is Vice President of Advanced Technology & Innovation at FedEx Corporation, an $88B global transportation service provider. Recognized for her leadership, strategic vision, and crisp execution, Suman is responsible for accelerating operational efficiencies and customer experience through advanced technology innovations including business applications in the robotics and automation space.
Suman is a dynamic results-driven leader with 23 years of FedEx experience leading large corporate initiatives, accelerating business performance, and building high-performing teams. She is a thought leader with advanced capability to develop integrated strategies and drive implementation through cross-functional collaborations. Her notable accomplishments include leading advanced technology strategic partnerships and onboarding technology solutions to address pressing business challenges for the enterprise. Suman also oversees key robotics and automation initiatives at the enterprise level, evaluating emerging technologies to improve operational efficiency, safety, and customer experience. Additionally, she was instrumental in the strategic planning and execution of the integration of Sales & Marketing functions of acquired companies at FedEx.
Prior to joining FedEx, Suman worked as an Economist at the New York State Division of the Budget where she developed models and analyses for forecasting NY state revenue and business plans. Suman has also taught business courses at the University of Louisville, Vanderbilt University, and Austin Peay State University.
Suman holds an M.S. in business from the University of Delhi and a Ph.D. in economics from Vanderbilt University.
She is a board member of Mid-South Food Bank and TennSMART, a consortium of automotive and trucking industries, municipalities, and research institutions to accelerate the development and deployment of new intelligent mobility innovations in Tennessee.
39). Dr. LaDonna Young
Senior Director, Strategic Partnerships & Equity Initiatives, University of Virginia – Motivate Lab
LaDonna Young is a champion for educational equity and racial justice, with over twenty-five years of higher education teaching and leadership experience. LaDonna supports Motivate Lab by providing strategic leadership for new partner relationships and equity-centered initiatives. Before joining Motivate Lab, LaDonna served as the founding Dean of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Mathematics at Southwest Tennessee Community College (Memphis, TN), which led to the creation of The Office of High Impact Practices and Innovation and the Gatekeeper Faculty Fellowship. This work partly helped the college attain Achieving the Dream’s Leader College Status and the prestigious 2021 Bellwether Award.
As an Equity Coach with the Achieving the Dream, a network of 300+ community colleges committed to whole college transformation, LaDonna enjoys coaching colleges with integrated, tailored support to mitigate policies, practices, pedagogy, and systems that perpetuate opportunity gaps for historically underserved students, particularly Black and Brown students. LaDonna believes education is at its best when all of humanity is centered on educational practice. We all do better when we all do better.
LaDonna holds a Bachelor’s degree from Christian Brothers University, a Master’s of Arts in Teaching, and a Doctorate of Education in Higher and Adult Education from the University of Memphis.
40). Stephanie Drouillard
Director - Global Sales, Inventory Locator Service
Stephanie Drouillard is the Director of Global Sales at Inventory Locator Service. Since 1979, Inventory Locator Service has provided information via its global online marketplace to enable members in the aviation, marine, and defense industries to buy and sell parts, equipment, and services. She possesses a dynamic track record of sales & business development accomplishments, supported by years of professional experience in IT-related fields and more recently, Aviation. She has the ability to effectively address and engage a wide variety of audiences from Sales Representatives to C-level Executives and decision-makers, promoting overall organizational goals and ambitions.
Drouillard has 26 years of experience. Before joining Inventory Locator Service, she was a sales and recruiting at Robert Half Technology. Earlier in her career, she worked with FedEx as a business analyst.
Stephanie received her undergraduate degree in Information Technology Management from Christian Brothers University and her MBA from the University of Illinois with a concentration in Accounting. Chicago-born & raised, she now resides in Memphis, TN with her husband of 24 years and her 2 boys, Johnny & Joey. When she’s not training, negotiating, or making sales presentations, she can be found on the tennis court.
View the complete list of awardees.
41). Julie Sanon
Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer, Agape Child & Family Services
Julie Sanon serves as Chief Operating Officer for Agape Child & Family Services and is responsible for the day-to-day leadership and management of the organization. In her 13 years with Agape, Sanon and her team have helped position the agency as a recognized community collaborator in support of youth and families. Under her leadership, Agape has consistently achieved year-over-year success, culminating in significant growth and expansion, including a recent move to the nonprofit’s new facility, which was needed to house its growing staff.
Sanon is passionate about serving from a two-generation paradigm – whole child and whole family. By supporting both the parents and the children through a poverty-reduction model, she and her team aim to provide healing for the full family unit and their community so that permanency and sustainability are possible for all. Sanon seeks to be a strong voice advocating for the physical, psychological, and spiritual needs of children and families and maintains a special commitment to serving under-resourced and/or disenfranchised populations and communities.
Before joining Agape, Sanon served for 30 years in workforce development for various organizations in the labor, employment, and training industry throughout Florida, where she held various executive and management positions. In 2004, Sanon was honored with the official flag of the State of Florida, flown over the State Capitol for 21 years of dedicated service, and has received numerous awards and recognitions in her 43-year career. In 2020, she was selected as an honoree for the Memphis Business Journal’s Super Women in Business class of 2020. She studied psychology at the Oklahoma Christian University and received her Public Manager Certification from the Florida State University Center for Professional Development. In 2023, she received certification from the University of Pennsylvania, The Wharton School, and the Aresty Institute of Executive Education.
42). Johanna Perez
VP, Client Development, Supreme Staffing
Johanna Perez is the Vice President of Client Development for Supreme Staffing. Every staff member at Supreme Staffing consistently demonstrates “going the extra mile” with the candidate selection process, solutions delivery, client satisfaction, account management, and back office support.
Perez is passionate about her work and prides herself on her high level of responsibility and reliability. With extensive experience in operations, she possesses a deep understanding of business processes, which enhances her effectiveness in working with clients. She enjoys engaging with clients and assisting them in achieving their goals.
Perez’s areas of expertise include relationship building, business development, client relations, recruiting, and customer service.
50). Muriel Malone Nolen
Executive Director, State of Tennessee
Muriel Malone Nolen is the Executive Director of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC). State government is the largest employer in Tennessee, with approximately 43,500 employees in the three branches of government. Since her appointment in July 2022, Nolen has led the commission in its mission to safeguard individuals from discrimination through education and enforcement. She oversees the agency’s operations which include enforcement and administration, policy and procedure development, case management, mediation, litigation, budget, human resources, education, and community outreach. She is also responsible for the supervision, training, and development of staff members.
Nolen joined THRC in 2021 as deputy director and was appointed as the agency’s interim executive director in 2022. Before joining THRC, she served for nearly two decades as an assistant district attorney in Shelby County. Nolen is a trial lawyer by trade and has tried over one hundred jury trials that include several high-profile criminal cases. She has held various other government and nonprofit positions throughout Tennessee, including posts with the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office, the Hamilton County District Attorney General’s Office, Memphis Area Legal Services, and Southwest Tennessee Community College.
Nolen holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a JD from the University of Memphis. She is a Rule 31 Civil Mediator and a college instructor. In addition to instructing law enforcement officers around the nation, Nolen has also had the chance to instruct judges and attorneys in West Africa as part of the Attorney General Alliance-Africa Program. She currently serves on the Board of Crime Stoppers of Memphis and Shelby County.
View the complete list of awardees.