Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Florida for 2024. Known for its business-friendly environment, Florida offers a combination of low taxes, cost-saving regulations, available labor, and accessible land, making it a top choice for many corporations and large organizations. Industry leaders thrive in The Sunshine State across diverse sectors including real estate, tourism, financial services, manufacturing, technology, and clean energy.
Among these leaders is health and technology executive Lynn Oster, Vice President of Global Clinical Research and Medical Science for Medtronic. Oster leads Medtronic’s Peripheral Vascular Medical Science Team and is responsible for the company’s evidence pipeline strategy and multi-channel curriculum execution.
Next, we honor the accomplished career of Holly Ramsden, Vice President of Marketing of Tim Hortons, one of the largest restaurant chains in North America and the largest in Canada. With over two decades of experience, Ramsden has delivered brand and portfolio growth for over 30 leading brands within the consumer packaged goods and retail industry.
Lastly, we recognize real estate leader, Sue Silberbusch, President of Sarasota Luxury Homes, Inc. Before transitioning into the luxury real estate world, Silberbusch worked as a trial attorney for 15 years, holding five law licenses. She now has long-standing client relationships and has represented a wide range of respected community members.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Florida for 2024.
1. Vickie White
Chief Brand and Consumer Officer, AdventHealth
Vickie White is a Chief Brand and Consumer Officer at AdventHealth, a US faith-based healthcare provider. White has over 14 years of experience in the healthcare industry and has been with AdventHealth since November 2014.
White is responsible for AdventHealth’s national brand strategy, as well as digital marketing, reputation management, and creative design. In addition, she provides executive direction for the organization’s innovation strategy, the heart of, which is transforming the consumer’s healthcare experience. Her home base, the Design Center at AdventHealth, leads on innovation projects that have ripple effects not only system-wide but also industry-wide.
Before joining AdventHealth, White was an assistant vice president and system administrator at Florida Hospital for over 14 years. She has a passion for helping others and is dedicated to their work in the healthcare industry. White earned an undergraduate degree in marketing from UCF College of Business.
2. Orlena Yeung
Chief Brand Officer, Chewy
As Chief Brand Officer of Chewy, Orlena Yeung leads an organization of more than 200 pet lovers, marketers, creatives, and media planners at the largest pet retailer in the US. Yeung’s teams span brand, product, and retailer marketing, consumer insights, Chewy Health Marketing, Creative Studios, and mass media planning, all of whom deliver exceptional experiences for pet parents, partners, and of course, pets.
Yeung has more than 20 years of experience in driving growth, revenue, and consumer loyalty across diverse industries and iconic brands, including Xbox, CBS Interactive, and Capital One. She continues to apply her passion for building culturally relevant brands that are at the intersection of consumer technology, data, and design.
Before joining Chewy, Yeung was the head of the intelligent customer experiences group at Capital One. Before that, she was a chief product and marketing officer at MDx Medical (Vitals). Earlier in her career, she worked with Microsoft as an Xbox global brand manager. Yeung graduated from the University of Puget Sound with an undergraduate degree in English literature.
3. Jâlie Cohen
Chief Human Resources Officer, Radiology Partners
Today, Jâlie Cohen is the Chief Human Resources Officer of Radiology Partners (RP). RP is transforming radiology by leveraging technology, including AI, to enhance clinical capabilities and create capacity amid a growing shortage of physicians.
Cohen is a future-focused C-suite executive with over 20 years of leading global HR in dynamic matrix organizations. She is a business-savvy, collaborative, and inclusion-focused executive with an ability to coach and motivate others to achieve best-in-class results. She has extensive experience in leading through hyper-growth and business turnarounds. Cohen started her career in 2003 as a director of human resources at Newell Brands. From there, she went on to Centene Corporation, before eventually rising to head of global talent for The Adecco Group at The Adecco Group, her most recent position before joining Radiology Partners.
Cohen graduated from the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law with a JD in Law and from the University of South Carolina with an undergraduate degree in international studies and French.
4. Lynn Oster
Vice President, Global Clinical Research & Medical Science, Medtronic
Lynn Oster is the Vice President of Global Clinical Research and Medical Science for Medtronic. She first joined the company in 2011 as the director of global medical affairs, peripheral vascular. Medtronic plc is an American-Irish medical device company.
Oster currently leads Medtronic’s Peripheral Vascular Medical Science Team. She is committed to building medical science as a function and practice by structuring her team’s work into clear pillars that drive strategic and scientific collaboration. She is responsible for Medtronic’s evidence pipeline strategy, scientific advisory boards, key opinion leader (KOL) development, podium strategy, publications, congress management, curriculum development, multi-channel curriculum execution, and fellows' education. Oster is the co-chairman of the Medtronic Enterprise-wide Clinical Research & Medical Science Medical Education sub-council.
Previously, Oster was a manager of professional education at Cordis Corporation. Earlier in her career, she worked with the Cleveland Clinic Foundation as a nurse clinician/project manager for clinical trials. Oster earned an undergraduate degree in nursing from Bowling Green State University.
5. Eva Ovejero
Managing Director, Alex. Brown a Division of Raymond James
Eva Ovejero is a Managing Director for Alex. Brown, a Division of Raymond James. With over 24 years of experience in the global wealth management Industry, Ovejero’s primary areas of focus are portfolio management, lending solutions, and international trust and estate planning strategies. She is dedicated to high-net-worth individuals, mostly business owners and their families in Latin America.
Previously, Ovejero was the executive director of wealth management and an international client advisor with Morgan Stanley. Before that, she was an account executive at Lloyds TSB Bank, PLC, and she worked as an investment advisor at Banco Santander. Earlier in her career, she was a representative at the LDI Group of Dynamic Telecom.
Ovejero is a graduate of Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and completed her CPM®, a certification as Portfolio Manager by Columbia University, New York in 2019. She is fluent in Spanish, and she enjoys her profession and providing financial education to the next generation. She is happily married to Daniel Higueras and they have two fantastic adolescents. Eva Marina enjoys living in Miami and Madrid.
6. Holly Ramsden
Vice President of Marketing, Tim Hortons
Holly Ramsden is the Vice President of Marketing of Tim Hortons, one of the largest restaurant chains in North America and the largest in Canada. The company operates in the highly competitive quick-service restaurant sector, part of the broad multi-billion dollar food-service business.
Ramsden is a brand and business executive with 24 years of experience delivering brand and portfolio growth for over 30 leading brands within the consumer packaged goods and retail industry in the USA and Canada. She is an accomplished thought leader and team igniter with an impressive track record of success in brand and business management, integration and business transformation, acquisitions and divestitures, new business development and innovation, portfolio strategy, retail marketing, and retail sales. Ramsden is recognized for attracting, developing, and building award-winning teams and retaining high-potential diverse talent.
Previously, Ramsden was a head of integration and business development for Seattle's best coffee acquisition at Nestlé. Before that, she was a senior category and marketing leader at Starbucks. Earlier in her career, she worked with Kraft Food Group in progressive marketing and sales roles. Ramsden earned an undergraduate degree in marketing from Queen's University.
7. Traci Clark
Vice President and Chief People Officer, Kane's Furniture
Traci Clark is the Vice President and Chief People Officer of Kane's Furniture, a furniture retailer headquartered in Pinellas Park, Florida. Kane's offers home furnishings for the living room, bedroom, dining room, mattresses, and home accessories, as well as wall units, chests, desks, and furniture for kids and young adults.
At Kane’s, Clark provides strategic HR delivery support in all facets of the talent lifecycle. She collaborates with executive-level leadership to establish recruitment strategies, workforce management plans, organization design efficiencies, succession planning, and career development opportunities for their teams.
Before joining Kane's Furniture, Clark was a VP of human resources and global details at Ashley HomeStore. Before that, she was the AVP of human resources at Justice. Earlier in her career, she worked with Dawson Personnel as a recruiter. Clark graduated from Ohio University with an undergraduate degree in business administration and management.
8. Noreen Hansen
SVP & DTS Cloud Services Leader, NTT DATA Services
Noreen Hansen is SVP of Hybrid Cloud and Infrastructure for NTT DATA INC. Hansen is responsible for the strategy, design, and execution of all professional services related to the modern hybrid cloud, infrastructure, application modernization, DevOps, database management, and related services, including advanced offerings for optimization, and continuous improvement through managed services. In addition to the advanced capabilities of cloud services, She is also responsible for mainframe modernization rehosting, and cyber security.
Hansen is a transformational and outcome-focused leader. Her entire career has required increased responsibilities to turn around, start-up, and pivot businesses, enabling market disruption and competition. Her successes demonstrate her leadership and passion to drive change while developing high-performance teams; maximizing individual achievement, knowledge development, and repeatable capabilities.
Previously, Hansen held executive roles with IBM, Accenture, Gartner, and HP. She has over 25 years of experience in IT Infrastructure and operations in all verticals. Her areas of expertise are cloud, I&O, FinOps, and value optimization. Over the years, she has gained experience in all areas of IT architecture, design, and delivery of complex transformational enterprise programs across applications and infrastructure with Fortune 100 organizations. She is an avid learner with numerous certifications across the scope of her roles and interests, including finance, project and program management, leading change, cloud, and executive coaching.
9. Mary Picerno
Chief Nursing Officer, Cigna
Mary Picerno is the Chief Nursing Officer of Cigna. Cigna is a health benefits provider that advocates for better health through every stage of life. Picerno first joined the company in 2014. Now, she leads more than 2,000 nurses, health educators, case managers, and behavioral coaches who help customers reach their optimal potential.
Picerno serves as a spokesperson and thought leader on health topics important to Cigna markets and communities. As a clinical leader, she advocates for Cigna's nurses and allied health professionals at key stakeholder meetings that influence and regulate issues of concern to healthcare professionals. Picerno leads Cigna's proactive, personalized, and integrated health support and coaching services that drive optimal effectiveness of care, customer/client value, and financial performance. She participates in the development and delivery of the Consumer Health Engagement strategy and pilots new products and services within personal health team operations.
Picerno is an RN licensed in the state of New York. She is a graduate of Maria College in Albany, NY, and holds a degree in business and nursing. She is also an alum of the University of Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business Executive Integral Leadership program.
10. Melissa Seixas
State President, Duke Energy
Melissa Seixas is Duke Energy’s State President in Florida, serving approximately 1.8 million electric retail customers in Central Florida, including metropolitan St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and the Greater Orlando area. Seixas is responsible for the financial performance of Duke Energy’s regulated utility in Florida and for managing state and local regulatory and government relations and community affairs. She also has responsibility for advancing the company’s rate and regulatory initiatives related to its electric operations.
Before her current position in February 2021, Seixas served as vice president of government and community relations in Florida. She directed efforts to strengthen relationships with local municipal, community, and civic organizations, as well as business leaders throughout the company’s 35-county service area. Her team worked closely with leaders to help communities achieve their energy, growth, and sustainability goals. Seixas has a strong tradition of supporting her community. She has served on numerous boards for nonprofit and business organizations, including the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, the Pinellas County Urban League, the St. Petersburg and Clearwater Chambers of Commerce, and the Pasco Economic Development Council, and she served as chair of the board of directors for the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership. She also has a long history of service to the University of South Florida. She currently serves on the Board of Trustees for the University of South Florida and as chair of the USF St. Petersburg Campus Board.
Seixas holds a Bachelor’s degree in American History from Eckerd College and a Master’s degree in American History from the University of South Florida. Her executive training includes a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) certification from Johns Hopkins University and programs with the Edison Electric Institute and Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business.
11. Monika Valentine
President, Discovery Medical Services, Discovery Behavioral Health
Monika Valentine is highly effective at conceptualizing and implementing processes and improvements to programs from the ground up to position firms for market growth. She is the President of Discovery Medical Services at Discovery Behavioral Health, which operates treatment centers across the United States. Before that, she served the company as the vice president of business operations for Discovery MD.
Valentine is a results-oriented senior executive with a proven track record of providing operations solutions for several corporations. She has successfully helped turn around and leveraged her experience to promote efficiency across business and healthcare operations. She was previously the director of regional and workers’ compensation consulting at The Redwoods Group/A Crum Forster Company in North Carolina; executive director and CEO of OccMed Colorado; executive director and CEO at OCCOLV, LLC, in Colorado; and director of occupational medicine and specialty practices at HealthOne Clinic Services, LLC, also in Colorado.
Valentine is a student of learning; she earned her undergraduate degree in business administration, MBA, and post-graduate certification in HR at Villanova and attended the Vanderbilt University Leadership Excellence Certificate program. When she isn't working, Valentine and her husband have a private nonprofit, The Valentine Foundation, Inc. Their philanthropy work supports various organizations like Mile High-RETAC, which provides placement of AEDs in underserved communities and makes CPR training available in places where resources are limited.
12. Kellyn Muller
General Counsel, International Materials
Kellyn J.W. Muller is the General Counsel at International Materials (IMI), where she leads the company’s internal legal and risk management functions related to contract, claim, compliance management, international growth opportunities, business partnerships, and joint ventures. IMI, founded in 1987, is one of the leading independent bulk raw material trading companies in the world with $2 billion in revenue.
Before joining IMI, Muller was with Cozen O’Connor for 13 years in several capacities, including member and non-equity partner and office managing partner vice chair in West Palm Beach, Fla. In addition to stellar career accomplishments throughout more than two decades, Muller continues to make her mark in professional roles as well. She is currently president of the International Materials Foundation and a founding member of CHIEF, a private network designed to drive more women into positions of power and keep them there. Her professional achievements include being named a “Pennsylvania Super Lawyer Rising Star” for three years and a Florida Super Lawyer Rising Star,” both distinctions in insurance coverage.
Muller earned an undergraduate degree, cum laude, from Rowan University and a JD with honors from Rutgers University School of Law. While at Rutgers, she received several honors and distinctions, including the 2001 Atlantic Region Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition oral advocacy and appellate brief award, and she was selected as an extern for a senior judge in the US District Court for the District of New Jersey.
13. Sue Silberbusch
President, Sarasota Luxury Homes, Inc.
Sue Silberbusch is the President of Sarasota Luxury Homes, Inc., a real estate agent affiliated with real estate broker Compass. Silberbusch brings a unique skill set to the Compass family, boasting five law licenses and 15 years of work as a trial attorney before transitioning into the luxury real estate world. A 1992 Syracuse University College of Law grad, she and her family made Florida their home back in 2000. Before relocating to the Sunshine Coast of Sarasota, Silberbusch and her physician husband raised three wonderful children and became integral members of the Central Florida community, where she set records for sales in luxury real estate for over 20 years
Silberbusch puts her years of experience in the luxury market to work every day to the benefit of her loyal clients. Silberbusch is passionate about her work and highly dedicated to her profession. Renowned and respected in the Florida luxury real estate arena, she has long-standing client relationships and has represented a wide range of respected community members, doctors, lawyers, and professional athletes. Her clients will attest to how integral her legal background is to the added value she brings to each transaction.
An acclaimed expert in selling luxury real estate in Florida, Silberbusch has garnered a reputation as one of the leading residential realtors in the US. She consistently achieves record-breaking sales for her clients. She is honored to have been named to the illustrious Institute of Luxury Home Marketing and Million Dollar Guild for sales exceeding $700 million. She is also a member of Moving Medicine Partners, a national network of professional agents who are the spouses of physicians and refer clients within this network nationally.
14. Luciana Lotze
SVP of Marketing - Latin America and the Caribbean, Visa
Luciana Lotze is the Senior Vice President of Marketing for Latin America and the Caribbean at Visa. She first joined the company in 2017. Visa is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories.
As SVP, Lotze leads the team responsible for delivering strategies, in-market efforts, and outcomes by country, product, and channel, including performance marketing, digital marketing, brand preference, client marketing, and consumer-driven efforts. In this role, she also directs Visa's marketing efforts for two of the world's biggest sporting events: the World Cup and the Olympics.
Previously, Lotze was a commercial VP of Latin America at Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. Before that, she was a VP in global marketing at Millicom International Cellular (Tigo). Earlier in her career, she worked with Procter & Gamble as an assistant brand manager of fabric care. Lotze earned an undergraduate degree in engineering from Universidade Estadual de Campinas.
15. Jennifer Dixon
Senior Vice President, Nielsen
Jennifer Dixon is the Senior Vice President of Nielsen, a global leader in audience insights, data, and analytics. Dixon supports ongoing operational efficiency and lays the groundwork for future technological advancements and product innovations at Nielsen.
Dixon is a seasoned technology executive, currently serving as the senior vice president at Nielsen. Her career is marked by a deep commitment to leveraging technology for business growth, specializing in strategic IT planning, digital transformation, and operational excellence. She excels in developing and implementing comprehensive technology strategies, aligning them with corporate objectives to drive innovation, efficiency, and significant cost savings.
Before joining Nielsen, Dixon worked with Verizon as a principal software development engineer. She graduated from Quantic School of Business and Technology with an EMBA and graduated from Boston University with an MSC in computer and information systems.
16. Stephanie Green
President, Fifth Third Bank
Stephanie Green is the President of Fifth Third Bank. Since its founding in 1858, Fifth Third Bank has been committed to creating a better financial experience by empowering its customers and clients to achieve what matters most.
Green is responsible for leading the Wealth and Asset Management Division in Central Ohio. She oversees the Investment Advisors group while leading a team that provides services to high-net-worth private bank and institutional clients for Fifth Third Bank in Central Ohio. She develops and implements a strategic plan and annual budget for the Regional Private Bank Department, and she provides support to key business initiatives within IA. Green graduated from The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business with an EMBA and Hampton University with an undergraduate degree in business management.
17. Rebecca Radosevich
Chief Human Resources Officer, Stanadyne
Rebecca Radosevich is the Chief Human Resources Officer of Stanadyne. Stanadyne is a global automotive technology leader in engine-based fuel and air management systems. They specialize in pioneering technologies in gasoline and diesel fuel injection systems for the engines that make their world move, and in aftermarket and remanufactured components that help keep those engines on the road.
Radosevich is an HR executive and employment attorney. She is adept at driving operational excellence, fostering legal compliance, and optimizing human capital. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated expertise in crafting innovative HR strategies, implementing legal frameworks, and fostering cross-functional collaborations with a proven track record of enhancing corporate performance through hands-on leadership and strategic legal counsel. She is experienced in managing complex HR initiatives, mitigating risks, and championing employee engagement.
Before joining Stanadyne, Radosevich was an SVP and chief human resources officer at Off Lease Only. Before that, she was a junior partner of the employment law division at The Ticktin Law Group, P.A. Earlier in her career, she worked with Compass Corporation for Recovery Services as a human resources director. Radosevich graduated from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law with a JD. She has a Master's in Human Resources from Clemson University and an undergraduate degree in business administration from Bowling Green State University.
18. Faye Ashby
Senior Vice President & Chief Accounting Officer, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings
Faye Ashby is the Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, a leading global cruise company that operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. Ashby first joined the company in 2015 as vice president and controller.
Ashby is an accounting leader and strategic business partner with over 26 years of experience in public accounting and the hospitality/cruise industry. Skilled in technical accounting, SEC reporting, and controllership functions, she possesses strong financial, leadership, and interpersonal skills with a history of driving integration, transformation, and managing global teams. She has extensive experience in capital raises and initial public offerings from her roles in public accounting and the cruise industry. Previously, Ashby was a senior vice president and controller at Prestige Cruise Holdings. Before that, she was a senior manager at Deloitte & Touche LLP. Earlier in her career, she worked with Watson Rice LLP as a supervisor.
Ashby has an MBA and BBA with concentrations in Accounting from the University of Miami and is a Certified Public Accountant in Florida.
19. Lisa Van Ever
Chief Customer Officer, Coursedog
Lisa Van Ever is the Chief Customer Officer at Coursedog, the academic operations platform, that unifies how higher ed manages scheduling, curriculum, catalogs, and assessment to drive student success.
Van Ever’s extensive knowledge and expertise over the past decade have translated into first-rate customer experiences that align with Coursedog’s core values. She is a visionary leader who has redefined customer engagement, driving Coursedog to achieve unparalleled customer satisfaction and loyalty. Her strategic initiatives have significantly improved the company’s product offerings, resulting in seamless, integrated solutions that benefit students, educators, and administrators alike.
Van Ever is a strong advocate for women in leadership within the tech industry. She actively sponsors women in leadership programs, mentors young female professionals, promotes gender equality, and fosters diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Her efforts have inspired many and helped pave the way for future generations of women to step into leadership roles. Van Ever completed her MBA from DeVos Graduate School of Management at Northwood University and her BBA with a focus on Global Management from Saginaw Valley State University.
20. Francesca Ottoni
VP of Commercial, Operating Plant Services Americas, Westinghouse Electric Company
Francesca Ottoni is an experienced engineer and business professional with a diverse work history. She currently holds the position of Vice President of Commercial and Operating Plant Services for the Americas at Westinghouse Electric Company. At Westinghouse, they are focused on nuclear energy technology.
Ottoni has an extensive background in engineering, business development, and management across a range of industries and companies. Before this role, she worked as a regional head for Hydropower & Dams at Hatch from September 2020 to December 2021. She has also held various positions at SNC-Lavalin, starting in 2008. She served as the senior vice president of marketing and business development for Candu Energy from January 2017 to September 2020 and previously held the role of vice president of business development for Candu Energy from December 2014 to January 2017. Additionally, she worked as the director of business development for SNC-Lavalin Nuclear from September 2008 to December 2014. Before joining SNC-Lavalin, Ottoni worked as the director of business development at Alberici Constructors from August 2002 to August 2008. She began her career as a project engineer at GEM Engineering.
Ottoni completed her Bachelor's degree in Engineering at Concordia University in 1997. She then pursued an MBA at Queen's University from 2001 to 2002. In addition, she obtained a Professional Engineer (PE) certification from the State of California in 2000.
21. Tanya McNally
Chief People Officer, Centene Corporation
Tanya McNally serves as Chief People Officer at Centene, a leading healthcare enterprise committed to helping people live healthier lives. In her role, McNally leads the HR function and drives strategies to optimize employee and business success. She continues to grow best-in-class talent management programs focused on developing and retaining Centene's more than 74,000 purpose-driven employees.
McNally brings a wealth of experience to the leadership team and believes in the profound impact purpose-driven employees have on driving the company’s mission. Before joining Centene through an acquisition of WellCare, she served as vice president of human resources for WellCare for nearly a decade. She also held senior HR roles at Citigroup and Lehman Brothers. McNally earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University and a Master of Arts in Organizational Psychology from Columbia University.
22. Derieth Sutton
VP of Economic Development & Government Relations, Niagara Bottling
Derieth Sutton is the Vice President of Economic Development and Government Relations for Niagara Bottling, LLC. Sutton brings over 30 years of public and private sector experience to that position. At Niagara, she is responsible for guiding a team of economic development and governmental affairs professionals through the process for both new and existing domestic and international plant expansions; maintaining cooperative relationships with governmental partners; legislative advocacy; building strategic alliances; incentive negotiation, and community engagement. She has been a part of the Niagara family for more than 16 years and has helped lead the company’s growth from five manufacturing plants to over 50.
Sutton earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Journalism from the University of Oklahoma and completed a second Master’s in Environmental Policy and Management with honors from American Public University. She is a certified economic development professional through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC); and is an Economic Development Finance Professional certified through the National Development Council (NDC). In 2022, Sutton was recognized as an Honorary Life Member through IEDC for her years of service to the profession. Before joining Niagara, she worked in economic development roles in Kansas, Florida, and Maryland.
Sutton is a mentor to those starting in the profession of economic development and is the proud namesake for the University of Oklahoma’s Sutton Scholarship in Economic Development since 2015. She is active in policy advocacy through IEDC; the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA), where she serves as a special advisor to the board; co-chair of the Government Relations Committee; the PAC Board; the State Affairs Task Force; the Plant Siting Sub-Committee; and the Healthy Hydration Task Force. She is a member of the Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation Board of Directors; the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Southeastern Region Representative; and Secretary to the International 501(c)(4) Board known as Zetas in Action. She is Zeta’s Southeastern Regional Representative to the International Sponsorships & Partnerships Committee and is a member of the Juanita M. Smalley Center for Wholeness & Wellness Board of Directors. She also serves as the third vice president of the Tri-City Branch of the NAACP.
23. Courtney Burt
Vice President Community Impact, American Heart Association
Courtney Burt is the Vice President of Community Impact of the American Heart Association, the nation's oldest and largest voluntary health organization. She first joined the team in 2022 as the community impact director.
Burt has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 24 years, primarily in public health and community development. Through the American Heart Association in Tampa Bay, she convenes and collaborates with trusted community-based organizations and health systems to develop health strategies aimed at addressing the social determinants of health in Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties. Her focus areas include eliminating tobacco and vaping utilization, addressing women's health priorities, improving community readiness for cardiac emergencies and other critical health issues, enhancing nutrition security and food access, and preventing and reducing chronic diseases, particularly high blood pressure. In addition to these focus areas, health education and advocacy are fundamental parts of her work.
Previously, Burt was a community outreach coordinator for government and community relations at BayCare Health System. Earlier in her career, she worked with Oregon Health & Science University as a PAS coordinator. Burt earned a Master of Jurisprudence in Healthcare Compliance from Stetson University College of Law and an undergraduate degree in public health from Jurisprudence in Healthcare Compliance.
24. Gina De Caro Sprenger
Chief Strategic Retail Officer, Fanatics, Inc.
Gina De Caro Sprenger is the Chief Strategic Retail Officer of Fanatics, Inc. Fanatics is building a leading global digital sports platform. They ignite the passions of global sports fans and maximize the presence and reach of their hundreds of sports partners globally by offering products and services across Fanatics Commerce, Fanatics Collectibles, and Fanatics Betting & Gaming, allowing sports fans to Buy, Collect, and Bet.
Sprenger has earned a reputation for taking on complex business challenges, defining strategic advantages, and developing a keen understanding of the customer and the business. The breadth and depth of her expertise include business start-ups, expansion strategies, merchandising, operations, marketing, and product development. Sprenger led a multi-billion home pyramid business unit with over 1,700 stores. She was responsible for the overall strategic direction, operations, and financial performance of soft home (domestics), housewares, decorative home accessories, furniture, lawn and garden, stationery, office and school supplies, and all seasonal products and events. She also led a merchandising team of over 300 team members and cross-functional teams, including sourcing, product development, marketing, and merchandise presentation.
Before joining Fanatics, Inc., Sprenger was an EVP of merchandising at Bluestem Brands, Inc. Before that, she was an independent consultant at Sprenger Consulting. Earlier in her career, she worked with Target as a senior buyer and merchandise planner. Sprenger graduated from the College of Saint Scholastica.
25. Jocelyn Carter
President, MedStar Health
Jocelyn Carter, President of MedStar Family Choice, epitomizes strategic leadership and innovation in healthcare. MedStar Health is a not-for-profit health system dedicated to caring for people in Maryland and the Washington DC region while advancing the practice of medicine through education, innovation, and research.
At MedStar Family Choice, Carter leads the strategic direction and oversees program administration for Medicaid health plans in Maryland and the District of Columbia. Her role extends to building MedStar Family Choice's reputation as an innovative thought leader dedicated to serving vulnerable populations. Carter's expertise shines through her track record of managing plan implementations and operations for Fortune 5 companies. She notably served as the regional president for Humana Healthy Horizons and chief executive officer for UnitedHealthcare's Medicaid plans, where she achieved significant growth and community impact through a focus on health equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Her leadership style is characterized by strategic hands-on leadership and the development of award-winning programs and policies. Carter's ability to build dynamic, high-performing teams has earned her recognition for creating diverse, collegial, and collaborative atmospheres. Her commitment to empowering employees is reflected in consistently high employee empowerment ratings. Beyond her professional achievements, she is actively involved in community organizations, such as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and the enCourage Kids Foundation. She has a Bachelor's degree in Communication and a JD and holds an Executive Development Certificate from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
26. Cara Chiaramonte
VP of Community & Strategic Initiatives, Her Campus Media
As Vice President of Community and Strategic Initiatives at Her Campus Media, the number one media and marketing ecosystem for college women, Cara Chiaramonte has spent the last near-decade scaling, developing, and managing HCM's campus and influencer communities and supporting its over 50,000 members plus tens of thousands of alumni launch their careers, find their confidence, and build their brands.
Chiaramonte has produced award-winning, large-scale event programming both in-person and virtually, has secured and worked directly with A-list talent, and has partnered with major consumer brands to create one-of-a-kind brand ambassadorship and campus/influencer marketing campaigns. Chiaramonte is passionate about growing communities and businesses with impactful missions that strive to help push women's leadership forward and make the next generation more successful, safer, and smarter than the generations before them.
In addition to her work at Her Campus Media and among other ventures, Chiaramonte serves as business manager for Wives of the Armed Forces, a community of military spouses, such as herself, bonded by their experience with the chaotic military lifestyle and their support of their spouses, one another, and the mission. Chiaramonte received her undergraduate degree in journalism from the University of Florida with minors in Women's Studies and Leadership.
27. Angela Mendolaro
AVP of Major Gifts and Planned Giving, Valencia College
Angela Mendolaro is the AVP of Major Gifts and Planned Giving, of Valencia College, a public college in Orlando, Florida. The college is part of the Florida College System with several campus locations in Orlando with additional campus locations in Winter Park and Kissimmee.
Mendolaro joined the team at Valencia College in 2017 as the chief philanthropy officer. She accepted her current role in July 2024. Before joining Valencia College, she was the vice president of development at Orlando Science Center. Her contributions as a member of the philanthropy team were honored with the 2013 and 2014 Educational Fundraising Award for Overall Performance Among Public Comprehensive Institutions by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). She previously worked at Baruch College as a development officer.
Mendolaro graduated from Baruch College with an MPA and from Goucher College with an undergraduate degree in mathematics and women's studies. She has served as a mentor for the Baruch College Executives on Campus Program, where she provided advice and guidance to MPA students regarding academics and careers.
28. Adela Gonzalez
CEO, Future Force Personnel
Adela Gonzalez is the CEO of Future Force Personnel. Future Force Personnel, founded in 1992, is a full-service staffing firm that has focused on building lasting relationships with companies, organizations, and job candidates throughout the region they serve. Their clients range from small businesses to large corporations, and their candidates range from entry-level temporaries to highly experienced, full-time professionals.
Gonzalez has 42 years in the staffing and recruiting industry. She is a top professional in recruitment and staffing, ensuring quality service, cost reduction, and benefits to clients. She specializes in the training and selection of qualified personnel. Her specialties include negotiation, client development, and organizational leadership. Before joining Future Force Personnel, Gonzalez was a regional vice president at Personnel One. Gonzalez graduated from Florida State University with an undergraduate degree in clinical psychology.
29. Terri Balliet
Chief Executive Officer, Children's Network of Hillsborough County, LLC
Terri Balliet is the Chief Executive Officer of the Children's Network of Hillsborough County (CNHC). Children’s Network of Hillsborough, LLC was formed in 2022 to serve as the lead agency charged with administering the child welfare system in Hillsborough County (Circuit 13). Balliet brings a wealth of local experience to the position, including nearly two decades of service at Gulf Coast Jewish & Family Community Services. Her key objectives at CNHC include strengthening at-risk families, finding adoptive parents for children who need them, and working closely with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and other community partners.
Balliet previously served Gulf Coast Jewish & Family Community Services (Gulf Coast JFCS), working her way up the ranks in child welfare from case management supervisor to chief operating officer. At Gulf Coast JFCS, she oversaw a multimillion-dollar budget and over 20 child welfare, behavioral health, and elder and disabled services programs. She also served as assistant director of operations at the Sarasota Family YMCA Safe Children Coalition.
A previous Community Champions Award recipient for her efforts to safely reduce the number of children in foster care in Pinellas County, Balliet serves as chair of the board of directors for the Florida Coalition for Children. She is an alumna of Leadership Tampa Bay and a Board-Certified Child Protective Professional in Florida. Balliet holds an MS in Guidance Counseling and a BS in Criminology from the University of South Florida.
30. Kristen Sanderson
Chief Diversity Officer & Vice President of Customer Advocacy, GE Digital
Kristen Sanderson is the Chief Diversity Officer and Vice President of Customer Advocacy for GE Digital. As CDO, Sanderson owns the operational goals and priorities related to inclusion and diversity and provides leadership to achieve those goals in partnership with HR and the rest of the senior leadership team at GE Digital and with the other CDOs across GE. As VP, Sanderson is responsible for establishing customer connections into the business, leading the initiative to improve business processes to eliminate defects from their business processes and to drive customer sentiment across Grid Software.
In her 31 years of experience at GE, Sanderson has held many technical and business-focused roles across Engineering, Quality, and Services. She brings a wealth of global experience and knowledge to the energy transition. Most recently, she has led a global team delivering software solutions across asset management, transmission, and distribution that are central to their energy transition strategy.
As an engineer, Sanderson has been a powerful voice representing GE at many international conferences in support of advancements for women in engineering. She’s an active member of the GE Women’s Network and supports many other Employee Resource Groups. Sanderson currently lives in Melbourne, Florida, and holds a BS in Computer Science and Mathematics from Auburn University.
31. Shawnee De Anda
Chief People Officer, Thriveworks
Shawnee Irmen-De Anda serves as the Chief People Officer for Thriveworks. Thriveworks is a company whose mission is to help people live happy and successful lives by connecting people in need with exceptional counselors or psychiatrists who help their clients manage challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, major life transitions, and others.
For nearly two decades, De Anda has made positive strides in multiple roles and industries, such as a human resources strategic business partner and in talent acquisition for burgeoning and well-established organizations in the healthcare, finance, and industrial industries. She exhibits an ardent desire to provide her customers, teams, and working partners with the highest level of professionalism and support to not only meet but exceed both individual and organizational goals.
De Anda started her career in 2005 as a health manager at Hawkins Personnel Group. From there, she went on to Harden Healthcare, LLC, before eventually rising to chief human resources officer at Signature HealthCARE, her most recent position before joining Thriveworks. De Anda graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in human resources management and services and communications.
32. Jackie Bushway
SVP & Director of Contracts, Cole Engineering Services
Bushway joined CESI in 2017 as a senior contracts manager and now serves as the Senior Vice President and Director of Contracts. With both private industry and government experience across a breadth of functional areas, she provides in-depth knowledge and a wide range of skill sets and know-how. Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, founded in 2004 in Orlando, FL, has grown into a full-fledged leader in the modeling, simulation, and training industry.
Bushway started her career in 2005 as a contracting officer in the US Army Contracting Command. Her experience spans all phases of the acquisition process, including proposal preparation, negotiations, contract management, project control, and successful program execution. Bushway is responsible for key areas of corporate execution while leading strategic projects for the implementation and management of numerous policies, procedures, and internal systems, including government property and export compliance.
Bushway has a Bachelor of Science from Florida State University and a Master's in Business Administration from the University of Central Florida. She is an NCMA-Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM) and a former civilian member of the US Army Acquisition Corps supporting the Army Contracting Command as a Contracting Officer.
33. Traci Sihle
Vice President, Sihle Insurance Group
Traci Sihle is the Vice President of Sihle Insurance Group. Sihle, who is a graduate of the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering, works closely with the Personal and Commercial Lines Division and has been in the insurance industry for the past 15 years. Sihle has been successful in building business relationships and strengthening existing ones. Her leadership and creative capabilities have proven valuable in branding Sihle Insurance Group as a premier insurance agency in the state of Florida.
Sihle joined Sihle Insurance Group as a full-time employee after graduating from the University of Florida in Environmental Engineering. Since focusing her full-time efforts there, she has helped Sihle achieve success, leading it to become the 28th largest independent personal lines agency and the top 100 P & C agency in the country. She also serves as the liaison for Sihle’s charitable efforts ensuring Sihle continually gives back to the community. She has served on the board of directors for Ronald McDonald House, raised over $100,000 for Sihle’s first “Hearts Under the Stars” charity for Kids Beating Cancer in 2022, and is involved in many more nonprofit organizations throughout Florida.
Sihle is a licensed 220 general lines property and casualty insurance agent, and she looks forward to carrying the agency’s reputation of trust and integrity to future generations of Sihle Insurance Group customers.
34. Melissa Spann
Chief Clinical Officer, Monte Nido
Melissa Spann is the Chief Clinical Officer of Monte Nido. She first joined the company in 2016 as vice president of admissions. Monte Nido is a leading provider of eating disorder treatment, offering inpatient, residential, and day and virtual treatment programs. Delivering clinically comprehensive, research-backed treatment to adults and adolescents of all genders within a healing and affirming environment, they believe recovery is possible for everybody.
Spann specializes in working with women, couples, and families in attaining healing and recovery. She has presented nationally on topics related to girls, women, adolescent development, and body image issues. Her clinical interests include experiential therapies and the treatment of trauma, healthy body image development, and women’s issues across the lifespan. Earlier in her career, she worked with The Renfrew Center as a primary therapist.
Spann earned a PhD in Couple and Family Therapy from Drexel University and earned an MS in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Miami and an undergraduate degree in sociology from the University of Florida.
35. Sara Nichols
Chief Financial Officer, Appspace
Today, Sara Nichols is the Chief Financial Officer of Appspace. Appspace is the workplace experience platform that includes all the solutions you need for communications and workplace management. It's the first to combine a modern intranet, space reservation, and digital signage.
Nichols is a C-suite executive with over 10 years of success driving organizational transformation through dynamic thought leadership and the delivery of organic strategic plans. Nichols started her career in 1994 as a manager of audit and business advisory services at Arthur Andersen LLP. From there, she went on to Monster Worldwide, Inc., before eventually rising to COO at The Planet Group, her most recent position before joining Appspace. Nichols graduated from Florida State University’s College of Business with an undergraduate degree in accounting and finance.
36. Jamie Merrill
President & CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida
Jamie Merrill is the President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, steering one of the largest Boys & Girls Club organizations in the nation. Under Merrill’s leadership, more than 12,000 youth are served annually across 41 Clubs in six counties. The organization provides a safe and nurturing environment for children from underserved neighborhoods during non-school hours throughout the year. By providing extracurricular enrichment, academic support, and positive adult role models, the organization aims to close the “opportunity gap” for those who need support the most.
A strategic and transformational leader, Merrill brings with her more than 18 years of executive experience serving in both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Before assuming this role, she spent 17 years as a state and national expert in the senior living and healthcare industries. Most recently, she served as chief operating officer at Sonata Senior Living and previously held the position of senior vice president of operations at Brookdale Senior Living, where she managed the operations of 72 senior living communities across Florida.
Merrill is an active contributor to her community, serving on several local and national boards. Her achievements have been recognized with the prestigious 2022 McKnight’s Woman of Distinction award, as well as many sought-after speaking engagements. She currently serves as an Advisory Board Member for the Greater Orlando Sports Commission and Nemours Children’s Health Ginsberg Institute. She has devoted her career to helping and serving others, as evidenced by her ability to formulate and mentor high-performing teams, as well as developing and leading highly functional leadership development courses. Merrill holds a bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University. She and her husband are proud parents of two children. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, boating, and spending quality time with her family.
37. Angela Long
Chief Engagement Officer, Tallahassee Community College
Angela Long currently serves as Chief Engagement Officer within the Office of the President at Tallahassee Community College, where she helped lead the faculty and staff through the development of the College’s CARE Model. Formerly, Long served under the Chancellor of the Florida College System as the director of learning, innovation, and success at the Florida Department of Education. She is co-editor of the Innovative Ideas for Community Colleges national book series, published through Stylus Publishing, where she is working on a new publication focused on the future of work and learning.
In 2019, Long helped oversee the publishing process for the recently released Community Colleges as Incubators of Innovation, edited by Rebecca Corbin and Ron Thomas. In the fall of 2016, Long published a first-of-its-kind book involving higher education’s top researchers, practitioners, and community college leaders to address the educational disparities that exist among students of color. She is the author of the Six Factors theory for increasing nontraditional student retention and formerly served as the Innovation Ambassador for the National Association of Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE). She has participated in three White House summit meetings on educational excellence for Hispanics and has shared her findings across the country. In 2023, she was appointed as commissioner to the AACC Commission on Research and Community College Trends and Issues, as well as appointed as an advisory board member for the Myers-Briggs Company.
Long holds a Doctor of Education in Community College Leadership from Oregon State University; a Master of Arts in School Counseling and Consultation from Northwest Christian University (NCU); and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from NCU.
38. Mallory Tai Taylor
EVP of Digital Innovation, Abacode Cybersecurity & Compliance
Mallory Tai Taylor serves as President of Abacode, a leading provider of award-winning cybersecurity and continuous compliance across the entire threat landscape. In her previous role, Taylor oversaw the development and ongoing business operations of Abacode’s proprietary digital platform, SCOUT, ensuring the digitization of application solutions to support the Abacode team’s needs.
Formerly serving as Bravado Health’s president and CEO, Taylor restructured the business’s legal and financial structures, positioning both products for acquisition within 15 months. Before Bravado Health, she founded and led MTT Innovations, consulting government entities, nonprofits, healthcare, and technology companies on strategic initiatives for growth. She co-founded and served as CEO of Assess Health, a mental and behavioral health software company delivering instant, mission-critical data reporting on assessments in multiple languages. Taylor’s expertise extends to her tenure at a multi-billion-dollar global conglomerate, where she ran the company’s most profitable M&A strike team, generating over $1.5 billion in new revenue. She engages with political and industry experts, including HHS, and was formerly a member of the White House Business Council.
Taylor has been honored in numerous publications and awards, including being a finalist for EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2019, TBBW Businesswoman of the Year Honoree – Healthcare in 2023, and Apogee Award – COO finalist in 2022. She has been named a TBBJ Up & Comer under 30 & under 40 honorees and received the Businesswoman of the Year Honoree award in 2015, 2016, and 2017. She has also been listed on Business Observer’s 40 Under 40 list. Taylor graduated summa cum laude from LSU with a BA in Political Science and is currently pursuing her Master’s in International Business and Policy from Georgetown University. Her dedication to innovation and excellence continues to drive her success in the healthcare and technology sectors.
40. Peggy Vo
Director of Global Marketing, iFIT Commercial, iFIT
Peggy Vo is a dynamic force in the global marketing arena whose unwavering energy, tenacity, and commitment to innovation have not only catapulted her to the zenith of success but have also reshaped the landscape of major global fitness organizations. With a stellar career spanning over two decades, Vo has been the driving force behind groundbreaking initiatives, from spearheading territory launches and scale-ups to pioneering first-to-market strategies, integrated marketing campaigns, and elevating customer experiences. She currently serves as the Director of Global Marketing for iFit Commercial.
Beyond the boardroom, Vo’s passion extends far into the realm of philanthropy and community service. Recognizing the importance of giving back, she dedicates a substantial amount of her free time to support charities and not-for-profit organizations. Two causes that lie particularly close to her heart are Building Beds and Sleep in Heavenly Peace. In her Florida community, Vo has played a pivotal role in ensuring that every child has a bed to call their own at night. Over the past six years, her efforts have resulted in the delivery of nearly 4,000 beds to families and children in need.
Vo’s remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with prestigious awards, including the 2020 Women Who Inspire by IHRSA and recognition among the Good Soul's Top 50 Souls. Her accolades are a testament to her exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to making a positive impact both in the business world and the communities she serves. Vo is not just a global marketing leader; she is a visionary whose influence transcends industries, leaving an indelible mark on the world of health, fitness, and philanthropy.
41. Brooke Adams
Vice President of Digital, Markets, iHeartMedia
Brooke Adams is the Vice President of Digital Markets of iHeartMedia. iHeartRadio, iHeartMedia’s digital radio platform, is the fastest-growing digital audio service in the US, available on over 260 platforms and over 2,000 devices.
Adams is a driven digital leader, with years of media experience, including ad tech, programmatic (OTT, display, preroll), radio, and newspaper. She works with media sellers across the nation to drive local, national, and agency sales and increase revenue through expanded digital media strategy adoption. Adams is an engaging speaker requested not only on key sales calls but also digital client seminars and speaking at media events, and she is accustomed to performing in deadline-driven environments within budget requirements while maximizing revenue dollars and opportunities.
Before joining iHeartMedia, Adams was a digital sales manager at ZypMedia, Inc. Earlier in her career, she worked with Orlando Sentinel as an electronic ad compositor and graphic designer. Adams graduated from Augustana College with an undergraduate degree in marketing communications and finance.
42. Michelle Strenth
Assistant Vice President Government Affairs & Public Policy, Orlando Health
Michelle Strenth is the Assistant Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy of Orlando Health. Orlando Health is a not-for-profit healthcare organization with $7.6 billion of assets under management that serves the southeastern United States.
Strenth is an experienced public affairs professional who assists companies in leveraging their brand and relationships to drive revenue, expand membership, and produce positive results. Her strengths include coalition building, policy and regulatory strategy, project management, reputation management, and membership recruitment. She has a bias for action and the ability to interpret complex materials into understandable and convincing messages to influence the desired impact.
Before joining Orlando Health, Strenth was a public affairs representative at CNL Financial Group, Inc. Earlier in her career, she worked with CRM as a director of expansion and project manager. Strenth graduated from the University of Central Florida with an MBA and from East Tennessee State University with an undergraduate degree in finance.
43. Lana Bell
Executive Director of Luxury Sales, Douglas Elliman Real Estate
Having worked in sales prior to real estate, Lana Bell always loved the profession and found it to be a natural fit. Due to her go-getter spirit, she recently earned her firm’s Pinnacle Award for the third year in a row, ranking in the top 3% of her company’s agents.
With nearly 30 years of real estate and personal experience in all the Miami area has to offer, Bell has watched the city grow into the metropolis it is today. Specializing in luxury condominiums and single-family residences, she is known by her clients for providing a seamless, five-star experience. She now works with higher-price point properties and can devote valuable time and attention to each client. “I have an incredible daily follow-up protocol,” Bell says. She educates her clients throughout the process and acts as their advocate throughout each transaction.
Bell successfully navigated the pandemic by staying in touch with her network, focusing on digital marketing, and maintaining a positive mindset. She leverages her website and social media to grow her business, and her relentless work ethic has allowed her to triple her productivity over the last year. In addition to her own extensive knowledge of market trends, she credits her unofficial team of management professionals with facilitating growth, an expanded digital footprint, and repeat business.
A member of her national Realtor association and the Institute of Luxury Home Marketing, Bell also works with the Heart Gallery of Broward County, which helps promote the adoption and enrichment of the area’s foster children. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, quality time with family, fitness, and living the South Florida lifestyle.
44. Priscilla Messir
Chief People Officer, Brightline Trains
Priscilla Messir began her professional career 19 years ago. Today, she is the Chief People Officer of Brightline Trains. Brightline is the only privately owned and operated intercity passenger railroad in the United States.
Messir’s strategic leadership is best exemplified by her 20 years of progressive experience in human resources in various industries. She is highly regarded for her ability to be a strategic business partner who can listen to issues and translate them into initiatives that drive business results and her leadership in cultivating a diverse and inclusive environment. Messier has the keen ability to think big-picture strategy while having a solid sense of what it takes to make it a reality. She has a demonstrated ability to lead, influence, inspire, and manage a diverse, multigenerational workforce.
Messir started her career in 2005 as a human resources coordinator at Burger King Corporation. From there, she went on to Nielsen, before eventually rising to chief people officer at Help at Home, LLC, her most recent position before joining Brightline Trains. Messir graduated from the University of Florida with an MBA in Business Administration and Management and from Florida International University with an undergraduate degree in management and marketing.
45. Donna Skees
Deputy Chief Financial Officer, ChildNet
Donna Skees is the Deputy Chief Financial Officer of ChildNet. ChildNet is a private, not-for-profit organization selected by the state through a competitive process to serve as the local community-based care lead agency. Their mission is to protect abused, abandoned and neglected children in the communities they serve.
Previously, Skees worked as the ASO director at Family Central managing the accounting department for ChildNet. She was instrumental in the development of the infrastructure of ChildNet’s Finance department. She assisted with the creation of the strong fiscal policies that govern the organization’s accounting and purchasing practices. At ChildNet, Skees also served as the director of finance, ensuring that ChildNet remained fiscally strong and was proactive in developing strategies that matched the economic climate. In this position, she served as the primary contact for the Department of Children and Families (DCF), ChildNet’s contractor, on the management of State and Federal funds.
Skees earned her Master of Business Administration from Florida International University. She is also an expert in Lean Six Sigma, project management, risk management, and solution-based management. She has employed her skills to build a cohesive administrative network that actively supports the client services division. She is a firm believer in working in teams and believes in creating diverse teams to encompass as many points of view as possible to attain the best solution.
46. Christina Villar
Head Clinical Affairs, the Medical Office, Philips
Christina Villar joined Philips as Head of Global Clinical Operations in April 2016. In her role, Christina is responsible for overseeing all human and animal research conducted globally across Philips. Every day Christina engages leadership across Philips functional areas and entities to drive change to increase efficiency while ensuring compliance.
Christina is recognized as a Medtech and Pharmaceutical executive and consultant with more than 25 years of experience overseeing public health, policy, preclinical, and clinical research conducted by industry, contract research organizations, academia, and non-governmental organizations. Christina has partnered with international regulatory authorities, including the US FDA, the UK DFID, China NMPA, Japan PDMA, and Netherlands RIVM in designing clinical strategy and for the development and implementation of training initiatives for the industry in the areas of GMP, GLP, vaccine manufacturing, product release and testing, and GCP. Christina also has experience collaborating with CBER, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, BARDA, USAID, World Bank, and other donor/NGO/govt. organizations to establish and fund research and training efforts.
Christina has led the conduct and oversight of anti-infective, surgical, ophthalmology, cardiovascular, immunology, biologics, and oncology device, drug, and combination product studies both nationally and internationally. At Johnson and Johnson Christina led the Vision Care clinical affairs team to conduct more than 400 clinical trials in five years through lean, process-led management. Christina was formerly with Stealth Peptides, Inc. where she conducted preclinical and clinical research in cardiovascular and ophthalmology indications for new chemical entities manufactured in China. Christina has expertise in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs), and Good Clinical Practices (GCPs) as they apply to research and manufacturing of drug and biological products in Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Prior to her role with Stealth Peptides, Inc. Christina was Director, of Clinical Research with IOMAI Corporation (currently Intercell Vaccines) where she was instrumental in the development, evaluation and submission of novel vaccine delivery systems combining biologics with a device.
Christina derives her best energy from daily interaction with our employees, customers, and vendors. Christina enjoys meeting and interacting with new business partners every day. Christina focuses on continuous quality improvement and optimization of how they develop and market their products, especially given the focus on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and Software as a Service.
Christina received a Master's in Public Health degree in International Health Policy from George Washington University, Washington DC, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations/Spanish from the American University, Washington DC.
47. Lania Rittenhouse
VP of Guest Experience & Brand, Spirit Airlines
Lania Rittenhouse is the Vice President of Guest Experience and Brand of Spirit Airlines. She first joined the company in 2015. Spirit Airlines' goal is for their guests to venture further and discover more than ever before.
Rittenhouse is an accomplished and trusted senior executive with diverse experience in aviation, cruising, luxury yachting, hospitality, travel, and tourism. Her successful career has focused on building and leading high-performance teams through change, elevating the guest experience, and operating in high-growth environments. Rittenhouse has a proven ability to drive innovation, lead strategic initiatives, and achieve remarkable results. With outstanding leadership and communication skills, she is committed to service excellence, demonstrating strong organizational and people-first consensus-building skills. As an intentional, purpose-driven, and empathetic leader, she focuses on building team member engagement and culture. Having lived, worked, and traveled in over 65 countries, she is proficient in French and German.
Previously, Rittenhouse was a president at LMR Global Consulting, LLC. Before that, she was a VP of product development at Carnival Cruise Lines. Earlier in her career, she worked with Renaissance Cruises as a vice president of cruise operations. Rittenhouse earned an MBA in International Management from Thunderbird School of Global Management and an undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Florida.
48. Mildred Munjanganja
Chief Business Development Officer, Allivet
Mildred Munjanganja has a strong background in business development and strategy. She has held executive roles in various companies, including currently as the Chief Business Development Officer at Allivet, a leading online pet pharmacy dedicated to partnering with veterinarians to enhance the quality of care for pets.
Before this role, Munjanganja was the president of Milleah.com, where she utilized her expertise to drive growth in the e-commerce industry. She has also served as a vice president at ATI Electrical Supply and as the EVP of business development at PureFormulas.com. Munjanganja’s experience in executive positions extends back to 2004 when she held the title of executive vice president of strategy at CableOrganizer.com. Throughout her career, she has worked with both start-ups and large online retailers, performing audits and implementing strategies to contribute to their success.
Munjanganja holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Administration and Management from Rhodes University. In addition to her degree, she has obtained several certifications throughout her career. These certifications include Negotiation Mastery from Harvard Business School Online in March 2021, Supply Chain Management from Florida Atlantic University in May 2015, Fundamentals of Strategy from Harvard University in August 2014, Project Management Professional from Florida Atlantic University in March 2014, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt from Nova Southeastern University in September 2012, and Sales Management from Sandler Training in January 2010.
49. Madison Erhardt
Director of Marketing, Cipher
Madison Erhardt is the Director of Marketing at Cipher, a managed security organization and the cybersecurity division of Prosegur. Cipher’s model is to think globally but act locally, offering solutions and services that empower teams and businesses. In her role, Erhardt is responsible for creating impactful marketing strategies to generate revenue and build processes within the organization, in addition to creating content and successful events for Cipher’s brand.
Erhardt graduated from the University of Tampa with a degree in English and Communications. She began her career in the nonprofit sector and later discovered a passion for marketing, particularly with MSSPs, focusing on customer and product campaigns. She has a strong background in demand generation, helping to transform the way enterprises view, approach, and deliver security solutions.
Outside of work, Erhardt is dedicated to mentoring graduate students at the University of South Florida. She enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and tripod pitbull rescue. She loves kayaking and fishing in the Tampa Bay area, and she and her boyfriend travel as often as they can.
50. Christal Mickle
Chief Product Development Officer, Zevra Therapeutics
Christal Mickle co-founded KemPharm Inc. (now Zevra Therapeutics) in 2006 and has held a variety of positions at the company, including her current position as Chief Development Officer. Zevra Therapeutics is a rare disease therapeutics company leading with science to make life-changing therapeutics available to patients with significant unmet needs.
Since its inception, Mickle has played an integral part in the start-up and ongoing growth and operations of Zevra. In addition to her role in operations, Mickle also oversees the development of each of Zevra’s products through strategic collaboration across the various drug development disciplines, including clinical, regulatory, non-clinical, and manufacturing enabling efficient use of funds and the ability to meet timelines and milestones. Most recently, she served as interim CEO and president of Zevra while the company went through a transition period to find its current CEO.
Mickle started her career in 2002 as a research associate at New River Pharmaceuticals. She received her MA from the University of Virginia and her BA and BS degrees from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.