Michelle Deese Bain is an Anniston native who has never gotten around to leaving this corner of Alabama. An administrative associate for Auburn University-Alabama Cooperative Extension, she has been a member of Junior League Anniston-Calhoun for eight years and has filled multiple leadership roles since joining, including VP of Public Relations, VP Community Impact, President Elect and current President. She received the JL President's Award for the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 League years, and logged over 100 points last year for her volunteer efforts. Michelle is actively leading a new Gen X Lean-In Circle and continues to handle all of the JL Anniston-Calhoun's Social Media accounts.

A true believer of giving back to the community that raised her, Michelle participates in our community in various other ways as well. She has been a member of CAST Theatre for 20 years, serving as an actress and choreographer, taking part in some 35 productions. Additionally, she has performed with Actors' Community Playhouse (where she was nominated for a Broadway Birmingham Award) and Theatre of Gadsden. Michelle has coached multiple cheerleading programs throughout the area dating back to 1999. Most recently, she coached an all-star team at Cheaha Cheer and Tumble before officially retiring to raise her son (who she had at the age of 40!) She currently volunteers with Classroom in the Forest, Alzheimer’s Association, Moms Demand Action, Free Mom Hugs, and serves on the Altar Guild and in Children’s Chapel at St. Michael's Episcopal Church. Additionally, Michelle is a member of Alabama Master Gardeners, Alabama Master Naturalists, Daughters of the King, YMCA of Calhoun County, Alabama 4-H, runs a Pet Food Pantry program, and leads the Youth Leadership Cleburne County Class. Previously, she completed the Leadership Calhoun County and Leadership Cleburne County Programs, volunteered with the American Cancer Society, ARC of Calhoun County, US Parks Service at the Freedom Riders Monument, was a Girl Scout troop leader, served on the board of directors for 2nd Chance and CAST Theatre, and was awarded the US Freedom Corps Call to Service Award.

After a cancer diagnosis, Michelle began a grassroots campaign known as "Michelle's Melanoma Army", where she speaks with youth from all over the state about the dangers of too much tanning. She was blessed to give her testimony as part of the Cancer Action Team before state law makers in an effort to ban minors from tanning bed use.

Professionally, Michelle jokes about being a "jack of all trades" since she's had job titles everywhere from Veterinary Assistant to EKG Tech to Cheer Coach to Administrative Associate, but all of those experiences have made for a most interesting and HAPPY life, and a great story to tell someday!

Jeanne Berdik has spent her career in non-profit leadership, coalition building, program development and volunteer management. As President of the Junior League of Pittsburgh, Jeanne oversaw the 1983 National Figure Skating Championship, the League’s most ambitious fundraising event to date and was on the Founding Committee of the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. She chaired the AJLI’s Area II Council (1984-85) where she managed the training of regional Presidents-Elect and Presidents. As an AJLI Board member (1986-88), she chaired the Membership Diversification Committee and led the effort to help Leagues throughout the country address their diversity goals. She spearheaded the passage of an AJLI Bylaw that prohibited League meetings/functions at facilities which discriminated in their membership practices. 

In 2003, Jeanne founded the Pittsburgh Chapter of ARCS Foundation (Achievement Rewards for College Scientists) whose mission is to strengthen America’s leadership in scientific research. She currently serves as Chair of Development. She was a member of the ARCS National Board 2003-2016 and served as national president 2011-2013. 

Jeanne also serves on the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden Board where she is responsible for the implementation of a Master Plan for this 100-acre property. She is a Trustee of the Orleans Conservation Trust, Orleans MA. She is also immediate Past President of the Nauset Garden Club where she led the creation of a regional ecological restoration initiative - Pollinator Pathway Cape Cod. 

Jeanne has served on numerous local and national Boards including the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, FISA Foundation, YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh, and National Association of Partners in Education. 

In her professional life, she built regional partnerships between business and education across Southwestern Pennsylvania. In 1996, she secured a $1.5 million school-to-work partnership grant from the U.S. Department of Education to support a STW network across nine counties. She served on the Board of the National Association of Partners in Education, the Coalition Learning Team for the National Alliance of Business, the national advisory committee for the GE Foundation’s College Bound project, and the steering committee for the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) Manufacturing Industries Careers Alliance (MICA). She retired in 2001 as the Vice President of Workforce Education and Development for the Pittsburgh Technology Council. Jeanne has been married to her high-school sweetheart for 58 years and has three children and six grandchildren. She lives, sails and tends to her garden on Cape Cod. 

Tamara Correa Bohanon is an active Member of the Junior League of Fort Worth, with roots in Brooklyn, New York. She has dedicated her life to serving the community. As a former New York City Police Officer, during the time of 9/11, to now the Security Manager at Lockheed Martin, Tammy feels that her choices in life have molded her into the woman she is today and the story she has to share. 

Tamara's career is defined by exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to her community. At just 20 years old she fearlessly served the City of New York, as part of the elite City-wide Anti-Gang Enforcement. A decade later, after relocating to Fort Worth, Texas, Tamara expanded her impact in public service as a Felony Probation Officer for the City of Waxahachie and then as Security Manager at Lockheed Martin. Tamara is an expert in her field, with a strong knowledge of security regulations, attention to detail, cross-cultural communication skills, and the ability to tackle complex issues with precision. 

With a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, Tamara is committed to understanding and addressing societal challenges through an informed lens. She has served in various Junior League roles, making an impact through Girls on the Run and serving teachers and students in the Fort Worth Independent School District and Young Women's Leadership Academy. She has also held various leadership roles in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. as the Beta Rho chapter President at Shaw University to Graduate Advisor and Assistant Recording Secretary in the Beta Mu Omega chapter in Fort Worth. 

Today she serves on the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Committee of the Junior League of Fort Worth, is a devoted member of Destiny Church, and is active in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Beta Mu Omega chapter. Her unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact has shaped her into the accomplished professional and compassionate leader she is. 

Tanya Brown is a distinguished healthcare professional and advocate with over 20 years of experience in HIV services and prevention. An alumna of Florida A&M University, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management and furthered her education with a Master's degree in Non-Profit Administration from Louisiana State University Shreveport. Her dedication to public health and community empowerment is exemplified in her role as Vice President of Support Operations at Open Health Care Clinic, a position she has held for the past 14 years. Tanya was appointed to the Governor's Commission on HIV and Hepatitis C Education, Prevention, and Treatment by former Governor John Bel Edwards, serving a two-year term. She continues to shape health initiatives as Secretary of the Baton Rouge Ryan White Advisory Council. Her commitment to empowering the community is also evident through her board membership with Girls on the Run South Louisiana and her role as Vice President of the Florida A&M University National Alumni Association - Louisiana Chapter. She serves as a commissioner for the Lafayette Commission on the Needs of Women, advocating for policies and initiatives that address critical issues affecting women in the Lafayette community. She is a member of the National Association of University Women-St. Martin, where she supports programs focused on education, equity, and leadership development for women and girls. An active member of the Junior League of Lafayette since 2023, Tanya has contributed to the Opportunity Grants Committee and currently serves on the Administrative Liaison Committee and is the Spark Teen Board Step-Up. Her dedication to volunteerism, health advocacy, and community leadership underscores her lifelong commitment to making meaningful impacts in the lives of others. 

Junior League of Lansing 

 Leia Cooper-Rigg is an AVP/Treasury Management Officer with Dart Bank, spending 7 years on the Human Resources team. Leia's passion for serving others and building relationships made for a natural transition to the Treasury Management role in 2021. Leia has a passion for getting to know people, learning about their business and how to create unique solutions to meet their needs. Leia has served as Chair and Vice Chair of the Human Resources committee as well as the Rising Leaders committee with Michigan Bankers Association. She is a past recipient of the Rising Leaders scholarship as a Michigan Bankers Association delegate to the American Bankers Association, spending time in Washington DC speaking on behalf of the banking industry to lawmakers. Leia is a graduate of the Perry School of Banking class of 2023, serving as Class President. Leia serves in an advisory role to Wilson Talent Center's Business program as well as on the Board of Directors for the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce. She also serves the community through her involvement with the Junior League of Lansing, previously as Education VP and currently as President-Elect and Nominating Chair. Leia enjoys spending time with her 5 daughters and fiancé building their little hobby farm, trying new coffee shops, skiing, and exploring the beaches of Michigan! 

Pamela Whitehead Cornforth is a mission-focused, energetic, and passionate organizational leader with more than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience. Pam is deeply committed to making a difference in the lives of families who have seriously ill children and her local community. Pam joined the Junior League of Wilmington in 1987, after moving to the area as a commercial loan officer turned stay-at-home mom and being solicited by JLW members to buy raffle tickets to support construction of a Ronald McDonald House. She went on to lead the League's Ronald McDonald Raffle Committee and eventually would be tapped to serve as both President of the JLW (1997-98) and as President/CEO of the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware (1999-present). Pam oversees all House and Ronald McDonald Family Room operations, which serve 5,000 families yearly, Pam has led two expansions that more than doubled capacity and amenities. She led a $5M capital campaign as well as a rebrand to reflect expanding mission and reach. Pam served on the Ronald McDonald House Charities Global Advisory Board, and on an ad hoc RMHC impact-study team. Pam has served the greater community as Delaware Association of Nonprofit Agencies Board Chair; Delaware State Chamber of Commerce Superstars in Business Committee Chair and Small Business Alliance Board of Managers Co-Chair; Delaware Fund for Women Founder, Secretary and Board Chair; Rotary Club of Wilmington President; and a Delaware Community Foundation Board member. As a JLW Sustainer, she has served as both Sustainer Advisor to the President and Sustainer Director on the Board. Pam's leadership has been recognized with her selection as a SmartCEO magazine Brava! Women Business Achievement Award winner and Brava! Hall of Fame member; a 2019 Delaware Today/Delaware Business Times Women in Business honoree and the 2023 Delaware State Chamber of Commerce Gilman Bowl recipient. In 2024 Pam was chosen as USA TODAY's Delaware Woman of the Year, which recognizes women across the United States who have had a significant impact on their communities. Pam spent eight years of her youth living in Caracas, Venezuela, and returned to the United States to earn a bachelor of arts degree in psychology with a minor in business from Skidmore College. She previously resided in New York and Connecticut and has lived in Landenberg, Pennsylvania, with her husband, Doug, with whom she has three adult children – including JLW member Anna Cornforth Jansen – and four grandchildren, for 32 years. 

Nicole Dixon is an accomplished and skilled professional who serves as the Accountant and Procurement Manager for the Williamsburg County School District. In her role, she demonstrates proficiency in managing various financial responsibilities, including maintaining financial reports, records, general ledgers, and performing general bookkeeping and procurement tasks. 

Beyond her professional commitments, Nicole is deeply committed to public service and holds leadership roles in several esteemed organizations, exemplifying her dedication to giving back to her community. Nicole has made significant contributions to various community programs and events, reflecting her passion for creating awareness and raising funds for important causes. 

She actively participates on Boards of Directors and Committees for organizations such as: The Naomi Project Women's Shelter, The Junior League of Florence, The Pee Dee National Pan-Hellenic Council, The Florence Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and Mingle of the Pee Dee. 

Some of  Nicole’s significant contributions in these organizations include: leading a school supply drive that helps over 200 rural families, being an integral part of organizing The Little Black Dress initiative for The Junior League of Florence, which is  aimed at supporting women living in poverty, also while spearheading a dynamic diaper drive fundraiser for Junior League and being a key pivotal organizer for the Denim and Pearls scholarship fundraiser for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. 

Nicole's commitment to leadership and community involvement extends to her participation in esteemed programs such as, The Greater Florence Chamber's Leadership Florence program, where she graduated as a cohort in 2015, The Florence Chambers Small and Minority Business Committee and The Leadership Florence Alumni Association. Nicole also serves as the host of Le Diner en’ Blanc and SororiTea in Florence, SC, which has made a significant impact to the area to help restore traction to the revitalization and flourishment of the City of Florence. 

Nicole Dixon earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from Francis Marion University and a Master of Business Administration from Strayer University. These qualifications accentuate her dedication to both professional development and public service endeavors. 

In lieu of her dedication, leadership, positive impacts, and commitment within her professional career and within her community, Nicole was recognized with the 2021 Humanitarian Award from the Issac Wilson Project, honored as the 2019 Black Expo Top 40 Under 40 and 2021 Community Times Pee Dee 40 under 40 Awardee. 

Dr. Del Rio Hoover joined Ascension St. Vincent Evansville (then St. Mary’s Hospital) after finishing a neonatology fellowship at the University of Miami, Florida, Jackson Memorial Hospital. She helped create the Center for Children in 2005, which provides outpatient pediatric specialty services for children and became its medical director in 2014 after spending more than 25 years in the practice of neonatology. She is currently the Medical Director of the Center for Children and the Pediatrics Service Line for Ascension St. Vincent Evansville. 

She is the co-chair of the Perinatal Substance Use Task Force for the Indiana Department of Health’s Perinatal Quality Improvement Collaborative and a member of the Vanderburgh County Board of Health. She currently serves on the Ascension St. Vincent Board of Directors, the Board of Directors of Volunteers of America Ohio and Indiana, and the Indiana State Medical Association’s Board of Trustees. In 2008, Maria won the top award given by the Junior League of Evansville, the Helen Klamer Phillp Award.  This award is given annually to a Sustaining Member who has made outstanding contributions to the community.  She has received numerous honors for her work with women and children including the Indiana Torchbearer Award, the Ascension Health Living the Mission and Values Award, the Steward of St. Vincent de Paul Award, the Rotary Club of Evansville Civic Award, and the Indiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics Community Service Award.  She was recently reappointed by Governor Holcomb to serve on the Healthy Hoosiers Foundation Board.  

Pleschette Fontenet has established herself as a dynamic and accomplished leader, both in her professional career and through her extensive nonprofit service. With over 25 years of experience in the technology sector, she currently serves as the Regional Sales Director for Lenovo, where she leads a high-performing team supporting some of the largest school districts on the West Coast. Her role involves managing complex client relationships, ensuring access to cutting-edge technology solutions, and collaborating with engineering teams to design future hardware iterations. Pleschette’s ability to navigate intricate supply chain logistics, forecast inventory needs, and drive sales growth underscores her strategic agility and commitment to excellence. Her leadership has not only resulted in consistent sales success but has also empowered her team to deliver impactful solutions that enhance educational outcomes for thousands of students. 

Beyond her professional achievements, Pleschette has made significant contributions to her community through her dedicated service on multiple nonprofit boards. As President-elect of the Junior League of Portland, OR, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, having previously served as Treasurer and Membership VP. Her ability to foster collaboration and drive initiatives that strengthen the community is further evidenced by her roles on the boards of Friends of the Columbia Gorge, Friends of the Children, Good Samaritan Foundation, and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon & SW Washington. Through these positions, Pleschette has championed causes ranging from environmental conservation to child welfare and healthcare access, leaving a lasting impact on the region. She is on the Advisory Panel for the Linfield University Online and Continuing Education Program Strategic AI Certificate Program. 

Pleschette’s commitment to servant leadership is a common thread that ties her professional and community endeavors together. Her ability to inspire teams, build meaningful relationships, and drive results has earned her a reputation as a trusted leader in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors. Whether she is guiding her sales team to exceed targets or spearheading initiatives to improve the lives of others, Pleschette’s passion for making a difference is evident. Her accomplishments reflect a deep dedication to creating a brighter future, both in the technology landscape and within the communities she serves. 

Pleschette is a 2025 Portland Business Journal Woman of Influence.  In her spare time she enjoys the outdoors, reading, wine tasting, and traveling abroad. She is the proud aunt to 5 nieces, and 2 nephews. 

Clover Frederick is an accomplished nonprofit consultant with nearly three decades of experience in strategic planning, fundraising, and marketing. Based in Lincoln, Nebraska, she has been instrumental in helping numerous nonprofit organizations achieve their goals through effective planning and execution. As a dedicated nonprofit sector professional, Clover facilitates strategic planning for boards, develops fundraising and marketing campaigns, and provides comprehensive training for staff and volunteers. Early in her career, she honed her skills in media relations, press release writing, and planning cause-marketing events, laying a strong foundation for her subsequent nonprofit roles. She holds a Master of Arts in Journalism from the University of Nebraska and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Concordia University, Seward, NE. Her tenure at the Lincoln Community Foundation allowed Clover to gain in-depth knowledge of the community foundation model. She played a pivotal role in significant community initiatives like Give to Lincoln Day, Prosper Lincoln, and Lincoln Littles, all of which have substantially impacted the citizens of Lincoln. Clover has managed several successful capital campaigns for small organizations that may not have had the resources for success without her guidance. 

Clover's commitment to her community is evidenced by her extensive volunteer work. She has served in various capacities within the Junior League of Lincoln (JLL), including President, Community and Membership Vice-Presidents, Chair of Project Research and Development, and Placement Chair. She attended AJLI Leadership and Annual Conferences, and since going Sustaining, remains engaged through events and hosting recruitment meetings. She most recently rejoined the JLL Board of Directors as Fundraising Director. Beyond JLL, Clover has served on the boards of numerous local nonprofits and professional associations. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the President's Award and Active Member Volunteer of the Year from JLL, the Prism Award for B2B Marketing/Nonprofit and Marketer of the Year by the Lincoln chapter of the American Marketing Association, and the Allies Award from the YWCA of Lincoln.  

Clover's career is distinguished by her passion for enhancing the impact of nonprofit organizations. She credits the Junior League for guiding her in her ambitious pursuit of making a lasting difference through nonprofit work. Just as Clover tirelessly advocates for the future of strong nonprofit organizations, she is equally dedicated to improving the community for her husband and two college-age children. 

Kellie Gaither is a Maryland native and President-Elect for the Junior League of Annapolis, MD. She joined in 2017 and has made significant contributions in various leadership roles. Kellie chaired both the Gala and Financial Strategies Committees and was active in the Community Impact and Communications Committees. She was a member of the inaugural DEIB Task Force, where she contributed to the creation of JLA's mission statement adoption. On the Board, she has served as At-Large Director, Secretary-Elect, and Financial Resources Director. Kellie received the JLA President's Award in 2022 for her outstanding contributions to JLA. In the 2024-25 league year, she is actively laying the foundation for Advocacy for 2025-26. 

Professionally, Kellie serves as COO for the City of Refuge Baltimore, a non-profit Resilience Hub that helps individuals and families transition out of crisis. They primarily serve neighborhoods impacted by industrial pollution, aligning with Kellie’s passion for environmental justice. As a facilitator for a special initiative with the Global Peace Foundation, Kellie delivers instruction to cadets at the Baltimore City Police Academy focused on humanity and sensitivity. 

As a dedicated community leader and organizer, Kellie worked on several Environmental Justice workgroups and task forces, which led to her appointment to the Commission on Environmental Justice and Sustainable Communities (CEJSC) by the Maryland Senate President. The Commission analyzes the impact of state laws, regulations, and policies on the equitable treatment and protection of communities threatened by environmental hazards, identifying areas in need of immediate attention. 

Kellie is also highly engaged in community development and service through her nonprofit board service, serving as Vice President of the Greater Baybrook Alliance, dedicated to neighborhood revitalization and Treasurer of the Baybrook Revitalization Fund, which helps foster economic growth by providing financial and community development services to underserved businesses, organizations, and residents. Additionally, Kellie serves as Secretary of the Community of Curtis Bay Association, an organization committed to building a healthy, stable, and resilient community. 

She supports women's empowerment through volunteering with Drink At The Well, helping women recognize their value while learning to build and sustain themselves. She is also a member of Maryland Legislative Agenda for Women (MLAW) and the League of Women Voters of Anne Arundel County (LWV), furthering her commitment to advocacy and empowerment for women. 

Kellie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Masters of Business Administration. 

Laura Monn Ginsburg's greatest asset is time management. Laura is a partner and principal at Apparatus, a women-owned, women-run public affairs business she co-founded in 2016 after spending a decade in corporate marketing at software companies ranging from $0 start-ups to $3 billion multi-national outfits. Her company's mission-level commitment is to help advance a cleaner environment, a fairer economy, and a more just society by offering services exclusively to clients and projects that seek to serve the common good. When not running her company, Laura's running and sitting on various nonprofit boards. She is currently the board chair of National Council of Jewish Women, Inc., a Trustee of The Blake School Board of Trustees, and an executive committee member of the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce. Past nonprofit roles include National Council of Jewish Women MN (2018-2020 chair), the Citizens League (2021 board chair and 2020 interim executive director), and the Junior League of Minneapolis, MN. She is an advisory board member of Love Takes Root (education in Haiti) and Move Minneapolis (transportation equity). Laura joined the Junior League of Minneapolis in 2008, serving consecutive positions of VP Marketing, VP Fundraising, President Elect, and President in 2014-2015. The JLM was the first board on which Laura ever served, she credits the Junior League with her interest in board leadership as well as training to be an effective board member. Outside the board room and office, Laura lives in Minneapolis with her husband, Elliot, whom she met in her first year at Carleton College. They have a son, Harold, who has a great sense of humor and an indisputable grasp of sarcasm, and two somewhat-behaved dogs, Zoe and Arby G. 

Evelyn Johnson is a practicing attorney with over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry and currently serves as Assistant General Counsel at The Hartford. From 2022 to 2023, she co-chaired The Hartford’s Black Insurance Professional Network. In that role, Evelyn had the opportunity to interview a U.S. Representative, a Hartford Board member and a senior executive at American Express. Evelyn received the company’s highest honor, the 2023 Chairman’s Award, for her leadership and community service. She is a former board member of the Aurora Foundation for Women and Girls, where she served as board chair from 2000 to 2022.  She is a member of the Power of Grace planning committee, a fundraiser supporting Grace Academy, a tuition free middle school for girls in grades 5-8. Evelyn is a 2024 100 Women of Color honoree and was the class valedictorian. She is a member of the National African American Insurance Association and participates on the Programming Committee.  Evelyn recently joined the Board of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford and she is also a youth leader at Faith Church – Wolcott.  Evelyn joined the Junior League of Hartford, CT in 2005 and served as Membership Council Director, a co-Chair of the Diversity & Inclusion Task Force and was honored as the 2021 Sustainer of the Year. Evelyn is a graduate of Spelman College and Northeastern University School of Law.  She is a lifelong resident of Connecticut. She currently resides in Farmington with her husband Brian. 

Barbara Kakiris is President of the Junior League of Cleveland, OH (JLC). She served in leadership including Nominating Director and Sustainer Board Representative and received the League's Frances Payne Bolton and Ruth T. Lucas Awards. Her presidency advanced JLC by setting a tone of excellence—under her leadership, they rightsized organizational structure, reinstated requirements, entered into a new community investment, and updated bylaws.  Professionally, Barbara was most recently Chief of Staff (COS) at The MetroHealth System. In this capacity, she supported leadership in the super safety net healthcare system's strategy and operations. Prior to her foray into the healthcare arena, she spent a decade in higher education (as Deputy COS at Cleveland State University (CSU) and Director of Summer Programs at Kenyon College) and 20 years in the federal government at NASA's Glenn Research Center (GRC). At GRC, she helped execute Vice President (VP) Gore's visit and received a Congressional Achievement Award. She was appointed to the Agency's Women’s Outreach Initiative and supported the launch of first female Mission Commander, Eileen Collins. Barbara also assisted the STS-107 crew (tragically lost during the Columbia accident).  She earned various honors for PR, protocol, and event management, most notably a NASA Public Service Medal, OneNASA Peer Award, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Equality Award. At Kenyon, Barbara created a $1.3 million enterprise leveraging months in between schoolyears by making the campus a desired event destination, enabling economic development for Knox County by providing year-round jobs and tourism. She created an admissions pipeline and netted new donors/supporters. She was board chair for the Convention and Visitors Bureau and New Directions (domestic abuse shelter/rape crisis center), making lasting impact on the larger community. Barbara was lead for First Lady Michelle Obama’s last stop on the campaign trail before her husband’s re-election and for VP candidate Tim Kaine when he toured during Hillary Clinton’s campaign. Her proudest accomplishment was being elected a councilwoman responsible for managing the Village of Gambier. Barbara earned the Association of Collegiate Conference and Events Directors International’s Outstanding Individual Achievement Award and several of Kenyon’s highest awards. As CSU’s Deputy COS, Barbara executed a wide range of complex and highly sensitive initiatives including the first Black Homeownership Event to be hosted in Cleveland, which involved Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, and U.S. Representative Tim Ryan. A lifelong learner, she completed certifications from CSU, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, The Brookings Institution, and The Protocol School of Washington. 

Lesa Kastler's career and community involvement reflect a profound dedication to education and service. A graduate of Trinity University, she began her professional journey as a teacher. Her passion for education led her to pursue advanced degrees, earning both a master's and a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Texas at Austin. Her commitment to academic excellence was evident as an Assistant Professor at Trinity University for a brief time prior to relocation to Greenville. Once in Greenville, Kastler's community engagement flourished. She joined the Junior League of Greenville (JLG), an organization that became a significant platform for her leadership. During her years as an active she served in many fundraising, planning and educational placements. Kastler served as the President of JLG during the 1998–1999 term, guiding the organization in its mission to support local causes and develop the potential of women.

Upon sustaining Lesa has continued to serve in a large capacity as a sustainer representative many times over for various committees and boards. Kastler's service extended beyond JLG to a variety of non-profit organizations. She served as both a Board member and Chair of The Community Foundation of Greenville, demonstrating her commitment to enhancing the city’s philanthropic efforts. Her leadership also benefited organizations such as The Speech, Hearing and Learning Center (now Clarity), the Center for Developmental Services, and A Child’s Haven, where she championed initiatives that support children and families in need.

As her two sons grew up, Kastler became actively involved in Parent-Teacher Associations (PTA) at various levels, underscoring her continued dedication to education and youth development. Today, her involvement persists through roles that reflect her ongoing commitment to service. She serves as a member of the Advisory Council for A Child’s Haven and as a Trustee for Columbia Theological Seminary, where her insights contribute to shaping future leaders and addressing societal challenges.

Kastler and her husband take pride in their family, which includes their two sons and daughters-in-law, who now reside in Richmond, Virginia, and Seattle, Washington. Her enduring contributions to education and community service highlight a life devoted to making a difference, both locally and beyond. Through her leadership and dedication, Lesa Kastler has left a lasting impact on the communities she has served. An asset to all those who know and serve with her, she was an immediate first choice for the 40 over 40 nomination without hesitation! 

Katie Kruse is a dynamic leader and advocate in the Siouxland community. As a past President of the Junior League of Sioux City (JLSC), she held key roles as Vice President of Community, Placement, Fundraising, Archives, and Project Development Chair. Katie influenced major projects such as the Children’s Museum "Animal Sounds" Exhibit, Camp High Hopes Sensory Garden, the JLSC Bus Shelter, and the Siouxland Coalition Against Human Trafficking, leaving a lasting impact on the community. 

In her professional role as Senior Process Operations Specialist at SAP Concur, Katie streamlines operations and drives results. She is also dedicated to supporting non-profits through TAGG (Together A Greater Good), which connects donors with local organizations that strengthen community ties. 

A passionate advocate for families affected by pregnancy and infant loss, Katie’s journey began after her own experience with pregnancy loss. She became an active supporter of No Foot Too Small, helping to launch a local moms’ group to raise awareness and provide resources. She co-launched the My Angel Prints program with UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s Hospital, alongside her husband, gifting a personalized memorial charm to grieving families. This work led to her invitation to join the UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Foundation board. 

Katie is also working on her first children’s book, which touches on grief and loss, and plans to deliver a TEDx talk to share her insights with a wider audience. As an advocate for wellness, she promotes ingredient transparency in personal care products through Beautycounter and Shaklee, pushing for stronger regulations in the industry. 

Balancing her community-focused work with life as a mother of three boys (four, if you count her husband), Katie’s commitment to community betterment, maternal health, and wellness advocacy makes her an inspiring leader in Siouxland. Through her service and advocacy, she continues to make a meaningful difference and serves as a role model to many. 

Jennifer Leal serves as Founder and CEO of her education consulting business, Field of Tribal Courts. She is a descendant of the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California and Mono Lake Paiute tribal communities in Northern California. In 2018, she started her consulting business providing an in-person presentation on general tribal court education to a state court personnel association. This teaching opportunity evolved in 2020 to provide online tribal court education training to tribal court personnel across the country. Since then, she expanded her online education to educate tribal leaders, state attorneys, the public and has created partnerships with state universities and a tribal college. Jennifer travels to tribal communities across the country to conduct in-person training and works on court administration development projects. She also serves as a national conference speaker in tribal court administration, court administration development and general tribal court education. Since 2007, Jennifer has worked for tribal governments, nonprofits, and colleges in roles that help advocate for tribal sovereignty and strengthen tribal court systems through education. This path ultimately prepared Jennifer with the skills and knowledge to start her own consulting business. She received both her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in American Indian Studies from UCLA. 

In 2021, Jennifer transferred to the Junior League of San Francisco and enjoys volunteering at the Annual Tea, participating in Sustainer events, and Done-In-A-Day opportunities. She started her League career with the Junior League of Reno in 2007, where she developed her leadership skills serving as Vice President and Chair for several committees over seven years. As she moved locations for her career, she became a Sustainer and continued to gain valuable professional skills while she was a member at the Junior League of Riverside and the Junior League of Sacramento. Jennifer values the incredible friendships she has made across two states and contributes part of her professional career success to being part of the Junior League. 

In addition to Jennifer’s commitment to volunteerism with the Junior League, she also volunteers at San Francisco’s Botanical Garden Flower Piano annual event and volunteers with San Francisco City Guides. Outside of work, Jennifer loves sailing on the San Francisco Bay, listening to the Founders podcast and traveling to tribal cultural festivals with her family and friends. 

Karen M. Lerner is a distinguished attorney with a successful career in litigating complex class actions, recovering billions for institutional and individual plaintiffs. Renowned for her expertise, Ms. Lerner's civil trial work encompasses professional liability cases on the defense side, as well as serving in groundbreaking leadership positions prosecuting global financial institutions for price-fixing conspiracies, seeking to combat monopolies in big tech, and rooting out institutional fraud. She recently played pivotal roles in several landmark antitrust cases and is one of the few women ever appointed as Interim Co-Lead Class Counsel in a Commodity Exchange Act case alleging manipulation by a Wall Street bank. Notably, Ms. Lerner has been named twice to the Elite Women of the Plaintiffs Bar by The National Law Journal for repeated success in cutting-edge legal work. 

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ms. Lerner is passionate about mentoring the next generation. She has guided three women from paralegal roles into competitive law schools and her associate, a first-generation college graduate, was promoted to partner. Her commitment to mentorship extends to promoting volunteerism and advocating for diversity and inclusion within the legal community. Ms. Lerner is a member of the Women Antitrust Plaintiffs' Attorneys and the Women of The Anti-Fraud Coalition, both dedicated to empowering women attorneys in underrepresented fields. To inspire future litigators, she judges the University of Albany Annual Moot Court Competition. 

For over twenty years, Ms. Lerner has been a member of the Junior League of Bergen County, serving multiple terms on the Board of Directors. She has received the Sustainer Award for her dedication and the Janet Van Alstyne Award for her impactful leadership in the community. Through the League, she mentored the winning 2024 Youth of the Year for the NJ Boys and Girls Club and served on the Advisory Council for the Woodlea/PATH I Home, a group home for at-risk youths. Additionally, Ms. Lerner mentors high performing underserved students through Path to College and received the Lodi School District Golden Apple Award for her fundraising efforts supporting the arts. As Program Development Director for the non-profit Kula for Karma, she initiated complementary therapeutic yoga programs and has served on her town's Educational Foundation and Parent Teacher Organization Executive Board. In her personal life Ms. Lerner enjoys hiking and recently summited Mt. Kilimanjaro. She is a black belt in mixed-martial arts, completed four marathons, and is a yoga and aerobics instructor. 

Theodora Hayes Long has dedicated over three decades to conservation, education, and community engagement, leaving a profound impact on Miami-Dade County. As the Executive Director of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center since 1992, Theodora has raised over $16 million to support the Center's construction, operations, and educational programming. She has been instrumental in providing underserved children with free access to environmental education and summer camp programs, fostering a lifelong respect for the natural world among Miami-Dade's youth.

Theodora's journey was shaped by her involvement with the Junior League of Miami, which she joined in 1985. It was through the League that she first encountered the vision of Marjory Stoneman Douglas, who sought support for building a nature center by the sea. Inspired, Theodora took on the Biscayne Nature Center as her League placement, serving as a committee member, project chair, and eventually the Center's Executive Director. The Biscayne Nature Center, under her direction, established important partnerships with Miami-Dade County Public Schools and Parks & Recreation to provide educational programs and interactive exhibits for the community. Her efforts have ensured the Center's sustainability, making it a cornerstone of environmental education in South Florida.

Beyond her work at the Nature Center, Theodora has contributed significantly to Miami's broader community. She revitalized the Community Service Organization at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, serving as President from 2014 to 2021, where she introduced the annual Full Moon Gala fundraiser and helped bring families back to the park through free community events. Her initiative during the pandemic to produce a short film, Who Was Bill Baggs?, earned a 2022 Suncoast Emmy Award and ensured that the park's history remains accessible to all.

Her commitment to conservation extends into her personal life, from planting 100 trees in her Miami neighborhood in 1984 to serving as a board member of local environmental organizations. Her leadership has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2007 Miami-Dade County In the Company of Women Award, the 2022 Defender of the Everglades Award, and the 2023 Citizen for a Better South Florida Award.

Throughout her career, Theodora credits her foundation in leadership to the Junior League of Miami. She reflects, "The League gave me the confidence, skills, and empowerment to lead with purpose and make a meaningful impact." Theodora Hayes Long continues to inspire her community through her unwavering dedication to conservation, education, and public service. 

Priscilla Luna, a third-generation entrepreneur and first-generation Mexican American, is a purpose-driven leader who has made a positive and meaningful impact in the communities she serves. As the President of Today's Business Solutions, a family-owned company specializing in office and facility solutions across the United States, Priscilla's leadership has led TBS to record-breaking sales as they celebrate over 20 years in business. Her ability to navigate complex challenges—economic downturns, succession transitions, natural disasters, and COVID—has made TBS a resilient, trusted partner for clients from hospitals to Fortune 100s.

In alignment with TBS's mission to mentor future leaders, Priscilla also leads the TBS Street Team, a paid internship program for high school seniors. This initiative equips young women with hands-on business experience, preparing them to excel in their future careers. Priscilla is deeply committed to empowering others, particularly women and marginalized communities. As an ambassador for the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council, she actively champions for diversity in business, advocating for the crucial contributions of minority- and women-owned enterprises to the economy.

This commitment extends to her role as Director of Some Wishes Do Come True, a nonprofit operating in Virginia and Texas where she empowers women and girls through mentorship. By supporting individuals during significant life milestones, Priscilla fosters self-worth and resilience, values she holds close to her heart. Her community involvement is further exemplified by her leadership in the Junior League of Charlottesville, where she organizes networking events to ensure all members feel welcomed and valued. Priscilla takes pride in cultivating a strong, interconnected community of women leaders. In honor of her late father, she has raised over $20,000 for MD Anderson Cancer Center and Texas Children’s Hospital, supporting cancer research—a cause of profound personal significance.

Priscilla attended the University of Oklahoma and Stanford University for the Latino Business Scaling Program, furthering her expertise and commitment to business excellence. Her contributions have earned her recognition, including the 2023 Supplier of the Year award from MD Anderson Cancer Center and the 2024 HMSDC President's Award for advocating for minority-owned businesses. She is married to Adam Wood, and they have two children, Lauren and Marshall. She is dedicated to supporting the communities where she lives and works and inspires the same commitment in her children. 

Viola (Vi) Lyles is the mayor of Charlotte, NC and a Sustaining Member of the Junior League of Charlotte. Vi served two terms on city council as an at-large representative from 2013-2017, before becoming mayor. Lyles worked for the City of Charlotte for almost 30 years, starting off as an analyst in the city's budget department before becoming budget director.

During her time with the city, she led and presented the community safety plan and helped develop the city's affordable housing plan and Mecklenburg County's Minority and Women's Business Enterprise Program for small businesses. Lyles also joined the Lee Institute and Flynn Heath Holt Leadership as a consulting director, assisting non-for-profit governmental organizations in strategic planning and project implementation. She worked with the Charlotte Housing Authority Moving Forward initiative, the Committee of 21 transportation initiative and the Charlotte Mecklenburg African American Agenda and Achieve Together community-based advocacy education initiative. She also provided consulting services, leadership development for rising executives and reviews of work processes leading to mergers and efficiencies for nonprofit organizations.

Lyles holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Queens University in Charlotte, NC and a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is a trained facilitator and executive coach, completing programs at the Institute of Government, North Carolina State University and the Lee Institute's American Leadership Forum. 

Pamela Lynch believes there is a solution to any problem you just have to assemble the right team and figure it out. She was Aclarity's Chief Operating Officer from 2022 to 2024, who's mission is to destroy harmful PFAS chemicals forever. Prior to that, Pamela served in many roles spanning engineering, operations, supply chain and quality leadership. Pamela is a passionate changemaker setting vision and commercializing new technologies. She has launched new electric vehicle batteries, automotive components, wind turbines, and wind turbine blades.

A sought-after speaker, Pamela excels at translating big-picture visions into actionable strategies, as demonstrated by her work across Boston startups. She has climbed to the top of wind turbines and built batteries for Formula 1 race cars. Pamela also presented to Her Royal Highness Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand on Balancing Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Development. Throughout her career she has managed and empowered 100's of people.

Pamela, a 2024 Top Product Engineering Voice on LinkedIn, has a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Certificate of Management Excellence from Harvard Business School, a Diversity and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University, and is a graduate from General Electric's Operations Management Leadership Program. Philanthropically, she is the President and Board Chair of Worcester Polytechnic Institute's (WPI) Alumni Association, a STEM, business, and global research university. She was a John Boynton Young Alumni Award recipient.

Pamela also serves on Youth Villages New England Board, which is a national nonprofit with evidence-based programs supporting youth aging out of foster care and families. In Junior League of Boston, Pamela served as Co-Chair of Germaine Lawrence program, then Director of Community Service. Pamela was President in 2016-2017. She strengthened governance and revitalized issue based advocacy. In 2022, she received the JL Boston Sarah Lawrence Award. Pamela chaired Advocacy 2020-2022, working with The CROWN Coalition, Boston Food Access Council, Mass Commission on the Status of Women, and Mass Civics Learning Week.

Alongside JL Boston advocates, Pamela gave testimony for The Massachusetts CROWN Act. The law went into effect on October 24, 2022 and it prohibits discrimination based on natural and protective hairstyles in schools and workplaces. Pamela is an investor at Portfolia, designed for women investing in the change we want in the world. Additionally, she is advising and consulting on water contaminants, sustainability, and manufacturing scale up. In her free time, Pamela enjoys time with her kids and husband.  

Dr. Tya R. Mathis-Coleman, a native of Las Vegas, exemplifies a lifelong commitment to education, leadership, and community service. A proud alumna of the Clark County School District and the Nevada System of Higher Education, Dr. Mathis-Coleman earned her bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Nevada, Reno, followed by a Master of Public Administration and a Doctor of Public Policy from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Inspired by her parents, both educators, she has dedicated her career to creating opportunities and empowering others

As Deputy Treasurer, overseeing the College Savings Division for the Nevada State Treasurer's Office, Dr. Mathis-Coleman supports Nevadans in planning, saving, and paying for post-secondary education. Her belief in the transformative power of education drives her passion for helping young people achieve their dreams. She extends this mission through her involvement with numerous organizations and boards, serving as an active leader and mentor. Dr. Mathis-Coleman has an extraordinary decade-long history with the Junior League of Las Vegas (JLLV), which is marked by her exceptional leadership and impact. From her first year as an active member, she stepped into leadership roles, chairing initiatives such as the JLLV Scholarship Committee, the Night at the Museum fundraiser, and the Education Grants Committee, where she facilitated the awarding of over $50,000 to educators. Her leadership journey includes roles as Community Council Vice President, President-Elect-Elect, Executive Vice President, President-Elect, and now President of JLLV. Under her presidency, she spearheaded the league's membership in POLLS and hosted their inaugural women's leadership development training, EmpowHER. Dr. Mathis-Coleman has centered her leadership on member training and development, ensuring a strong pipeline of empowered women leaders.

Her achievements extend beyond JLLV. Dr. Mathis-Coleman serves as Vice President of the UNLV Alumni Board and as an adjunct professor at UNLV, where she inspires the next generation of changemakers. She has been honored with prestigious awards, including Vegas Inc.'s "40 Under 40" (2017), the Farwest Soror of the Year by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (2019), the Education Award from the NBA Summer League (2023), and the University Service Award from the University of Nevada, Reno (2022). Above all, Dr. Mathis-Coleman cherishes her role as mother to six-year-old Hunter Grace, her greatest joy and inspiration. Dr. Mathis-Coleman's dedication to fostering community, advancing education, and developing leaders reflects her unwavering belief in the power of service to transform lives.

Tiffani C. Moore is employed with the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), the prudential and mission regulator for the government-sponsored enterprises: Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the eleven Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBanks), as the Manager of the FHLBank Affordable Programs Branch and provides expert analysis and guidance on regulatory policy and legal matters involving the FHLBanks and national housing markets with an emphasis on affordable housing and community investment. 

Prior to joining FHFA, Tiffani supported the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development, Harris County, TX, and the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee with her expertise in affordable housing finance, homelessness assistance/prevention policy development, and neighborhood revitalization. 

Tiffani is a director on the following boards: Good Shepherd Housing & Family Services, Women in Housing & Finance, Insight Memory Care Center, and the Darden School Foundation Alumni Association. She is a member of the Jubilee Housing Leadership Council. Tiffani is the President of the Dillard University National Alumni Association and a member of the Dillard University Board of Trustees. She is a 14-year volunteer and past Nominating Committee Chair/Director-at-Large of the Junior League of Washington, DC. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and is a 2021 graduate of Leadership Fairfax. 

Tiffani was recognized by Women in Housing & Finance, Incorporated; the Leadership Center for Excellence, and her alma mater, Dillard University, as a 40 Under 40 Honoree demonstrating excellence in her personal, professional, and philanthropic endeavors. 

A Houston, Texas native, Tiffani has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Dillard University, the oldest historically Black university in the state of Louisiana, a Master of Urban Planning from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Virginia where she was awarded the C. Stewart Sheppard Distinguished Service Award. 

Born and raised with a passion for justice, District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni embarked on her legal journey at Northern Arizona University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree. Her pursuit of justice then led her to the University of San Diego, School of Law, where she obtained her Juris Doctorate Degree in 1990, becoming licensed to practice law in both California and Arizona. Jeannine’s career in law began as a Deputy District Attorney for the Kern County District Attorney's Office in 1990, where she honed her skills and commitment to serving justice. In 1992, she transitioned to the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office, further solidifying her dedication to upholding the law and advocating for victims of crime. 

In 1998, Jeannine launched a county wide Sexual Assault Response Team to provide additional support for victims and increased collection of forensic evidence. After a distinguished tenure, Jeannine took an eight-year sabbatical, during which she continued her community service as a Grand Juror of the Monterey County Civil Grand Jury and as President of the Junior League of Monterey County. Her unwavering commitment to her community led her to join the National Charity League of Monterey Bay in 2012, where she served on the Board of Directors and as President. Returning to the legal arena in 2009, Jeannine resumed her role as a prosecutor, handling a diverse array of criminal cases with tenacity and compassion. Over her 26-year career, she has tackled high-profile cases ranging from murder and gang crimes to child molestation and elder abuse, always prioritizing the needs of victims. 

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Jeannine was honored with the 2019 Lady Justice Lifetime Achievement Award for Legal Advocacy and Community Service by the Monterey County Women Lawyers Association. Her dedication to justice was further affirmed when she was elected as the first female District Attorney in Monterey County in 2018, subsequently reelected in 2022 to a six-year term. Continuing her mission to expand access to justice, Jeannine opened the first family justice center in the county of Monterey in King City, named Holding on to Hope, in April 2024. With a vision for further outreach, she aims to establish two additional family justice centers in the cities of Salinas and Seaside, ensuring that all communities have access to vital resources and support. 

Joy Powell is the Chief Health Equity Officer at Baptist Health Care in Pensacola, FL. She is committed to eliminating systemic disparities and ensuring marginalized communities receive high-quality care. With a data-driven and community-centered approach, Joy has led transformative initiatives, including a comprehensive community needs assessment to identify and address barriers such as transportation, language access, and cultural competency.  

Under her leadership, the Faith Health Network was launched, bridging the gap between healthcare providers and faith-based organizations to offer culturally responsive support and resources to underserved communities. Recognizing the importance of partnerships beyond traditional healthcare systems, she has collaborated with non-traditional health programs, such as community-based organizations, housing initiatives, and food security programs, to address the broader social determinants of health.  

She is also dedicated to empowering the next generation of public health professionals, mentoring junior staff and community leaders through training and workshops. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and sustainable health equity practices, she has helped cultivate a pipeline of leaders committed to advancing health justice. 

 In addition to her professional achievements, Joy is deeply involved in volunteer work with various organizations. She contributes to Ready Kidz, Gulf Coast Freedom Schools, and Waterfront Rescue Mission, where she helps mentor youth and supports community development programs. As an active member of the NAHSE Florida Chapter and ACHE North Florida Chapter, she is committed to improving healthcare leadership and equity within the healthcare system.  

Her involvement extends to advocacy through the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Lambda Tau Upsilon Christian Sorority, Inc., and The Equity Project Alliance, where she focuses on promoting social justice, leadership, and empowerment within her community. Furthermore, she volunteers with the National Coalition of Negro Women, advocating for the health and well-being of African American women and families. Joy’s work has not only improved health outcomes but has also strengthened trust within the communities she serves, reinforcing her commitment to lasting change. She continues to be a tireless advocate for health equity and social justice, using her leadership, mentorship, and volunteer efforts to drive systemic transformation both within and outside the healthcare system. 

Jessica Rogers is the Vice President of Philanthropy at Children First, where she leads efforts to secure support for early childhood education, family strengthening, and poverty reduction. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, she represents the agency at local, state, and national levels. Jessica is dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities and enhancing the work of early childhood educators through resource development and salary improvement. Under her leadership, Children First has seen significant advancements in fundraising and outreach, including the largest expansion of family strengthening services in the agency's history. This includes the Parent Training Program, which helps parents develop careers within the agency and local partners, empowering them to improve their families' lives and financial stability. Jessica also spearheaded the expansion of mental health programs following COVID-19, helping to build resilience for children, families, and employees. These initiatives have strengthened Children First's national reputation for excellence within the National Head Start Association.

Over the past seven years, Jessica’s leadership has garnered numerous awards for Children First, including recognition by The Nonprofit Times as one of the Top 50 Best Nonprofits to work for, WEDU PBS Nonprofit of the Year, and as a Top Workplace in Sarasota-Manatee for six consecutive years. In 2020, she was nominated for the National Head Start Association’s BOLD Leadership Award for her outstanding leadership during the pandemic. Jessica is deeply involved in community service. She has been an active member of the Junior League of Sarasota for nearly 20 years, holding leadership roles including Chair of the Legacy Luncheon and Recording Secretary on the Board of Directors. She received the League’s 2019 Sustainer Community Service Award for her contributions to the community.

Additionally, Jessica serves on the Sarasota County NAACP’s Freedom Awards Banquet committee and is a past chair of the NCJW Sarasota-Manatee’s scholarship program. Earlier this year, she was honored with the NCJW’s Woman in Power Award. A graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi with an MS in Speech Communication, Jessica is certified in Nonprofit Leadership & Management. She is also a graduate of the Leadership Academy and the Leadership Program at the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce.

Dolly is deeply passionate about expanding Africa’s entrepreneurial leadership pipeline to empower a continent with an average age of 19. She is especially focused on promoting self-leadership and financial education, with a particular emphasis on emerging adults and women. Over the past 15 years, Dolly has worked with three generations of Africans in their 20s—Gen X, Gen Y, and now Gen Z.   

Currently the Finance Director of Oracle Africa, Dolly has built a distinguished 25-year career spanning Procter & Gamble, Hewlett Packard, General Electric, and Oracle, covering Africa and the Middle East earning her recognition as one of East Africa’s Top 25 Women in Finance, one of Kenya’s 50 Most Influential Women, and a Top 40 Under 40 honoree. 

Dolly is a Women Leaders of the World Fellow, a fellowship for Executive Social Impact Leaders. Dolly is a Certified Executive Coach and John Maxwell Certified Coach. She has served on both for-profit and nonprofit boards. 

Believing that traditional education should integrate real-world exposure, Dolly founded LifeSMART in 2013, a program that equips teens and college-ready youth with financial literacy, self-leadership, and critical life skills through immersive industry experiences. LifeSMART has empowered over 3,000 young Africans to navigate their futures with confidence. 

A champion for financial education, Dolly co-founded Prosper Path, a company focused on financial well-being. In 2024, Prosper Path launched Kenya’s first nationwide financial literacy awareness campaign, reaching hundreds of thousands on social media in its first month and uniting educators, industry leaders, and institutions to promote lifelong financial education. 

Dolly is a founding member and the first Treasurer of the Junior League of Nairobi (JLN). She played a pivotal role in securing its historic 2022 affiliation as the first-ever Junior League in Africa. Since then, JLN has provided over 100 newborns with TotoCare packs—critical care kits that ensure a healthier start in life. 

A strong advocate for women in leadership, Dolly leads the Oracle Women Leadership ERG, and has served on the boards of Women Leaders of the World Alumni Council, and Women Corporate Directors (WCD) Kenya. Recently, she spearheaded InspireHER, a 9-month leadership program for mid-career women at Oracle Kenya and Safaricom, equipping them with the tools to advance in leadership. 

Dolly’s work continues to shape Africa’s next generation of leaders, ensuring financial literacy and self-leadership become lifelong skills for all. 

Kristi Saucerman is a visionary entrepreneur and a trailblazer in nonprofit fundraising innovation, with roots in the Junior League of Boise. As a league member for over 25 years, Kristi exemplifies its mission, applying the leadership skills she gained through volunteerism to build a business that revolutionized nonprofit fundraising. 

As the Founder and CEO of Auction Frogs, Kristi transformed the way nonprofits raise funds through online auctions, golf tournaments and fundraising galas. By integrating technology into event management, she pioneered intuitive online bidding solutions that streamlined fundraising efforts and amplified nonprofit impact. Under her leadership, Auction Frogs has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for organizations nationwide, reshaping charitable giving on a grand scale. 

Beyond Auction Frogs, Kristi's passion for philanthropy extends to her role as the Executive Producer of Nonprofit MVP, a television program that highlights fundraising challenges, successes, and innovative strategies for nonprofits. Through compelling storytelling and community engagement, she has created a platform that educates, inspires action, and strengthens support for nonprofit missions. 

A sought-after speaker, mentor, industry expert and author, Kristi has dedicated her career to empowering fundraising organizations to simplify their fundraisers. She has led training boot camps, educational webinars, and coaching sessions for nonprofits across North America, including the Junior League of Boise. Her commitment to mentorship reflects her belief in fostering collaboration and creating strategic ecosystems that maximize fundraising potential. 

Kristi’s contributions to the Junior League of Boise have earned her the Community Partner Award for six consecutive years, recognizing her support, mentorship, and fundraising expertise. Through her business and personal dedication, she continues to provide opportunities for nonprofits to thrive. 

With a passion for philanthropy and an innovative approach to fundraising, Kristi Saucerman remains a driving force in the nonprofit sector. Her leadership, service, and commitment to meaningful change exemplify the spirit of the Junior League and leave a lasting impact on the world of fundraising and beyond. 

Paula Settoon is a visionary leader and seasoned library professional with over three decades of experience in academic and public libraries. Currently serving as the Dean of Libraries and Knowledge Management at Tulsa Community College (TCC), Paula oversees libraries across four campuses, while fostering innovation in knowledge systems, strategic planning, and student engagement. Paula is also the Accreditation Liaison Officer for the College as well as the coordinator of a $3.7 million Post Secondary Success Grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Under Paula’s leadership the TCC Library was named the 2021 recipient of the Excellence in Libraries Award from the Association of College and Research Libraries. 

Paula's career spans a broad range of leadership roles, including Interim Executive Director at Northeastern State University (NSU) Libraries. In her public library career, Paula led 19 branches at Tulsa City-County Library, establishing the Youth Services Department and overseeing numerous system-wide innovations. 

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Paula has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to community service through the Junior League of Tulsa. As an active member, she held leadership roles as the Vice President of Communications and Chair of Strategic Planning, where she enhanced public relations efforts and helped chart the organization's future. Her tenure also included chairing the Gilcrease Museum Task Force and Holiday Market, where she excelled in partnership development, event planning, and fundraising. Her work helped strengthen community engagement and provided vital support to Tulsa's cultural and nonprofit sectors. 

Beyond her professional and JLT achievements, Paula is a passionate advocate for other nonprofit work. She is currently in her second term as president at the Community Action Project (CAP) Tulsa, the largest Head Start provider in the region. Paula has also volunteered for the Tulsa Area United Way serving as the employee campaign coordinator and co-chairing community investment panels for nearly a decade. 

Paula chairs the Board of Directors for the Amigos Library Services, a not-for-profit membership-based organization dedicated to serving libraries through the sharing of collections, services, and training. Additionally, she is the president of Tulsa Chautauqua, a living history program run entirely by volunteers. Paula's legacy is defined by her ability to inspire innovation, build collaborative networks, and champion equitable access to education and resources, all of which underscore her enduring impact on both the education sector and the broader community. 

Brandi Shelton is the founder and co-owner of Just Add Honey Tea Company, a thriving business she has nurtured for over 18 years. A mother of three, Brandi seamlessly balances family and her growing enterprise, which includes a successful retail café and production facility located on the Atlanta BeltLine. Her passion for community engagement is evident through her roles beyond entrepreneurship. Brandi is a member of Junior League of Atlanta, Les Dames d'Escoffier, and serves as a board member for the Community Farmers Market. Additionally, she holds the position of Vice President for the Buckhead Atlanta chapter of Jack and Jill of America, where she contributes to community leadership and service. Committed to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs, Brandi volunteers her time as an entrepreneur coach with Junior Achievement. She has also taught entrepreneurship classes at the Atlanta Girls' School and through The Village MicroFund, sharing her extensive knowledge and experience in the world of small business development. Brandi's dedication to her craft, community, and education makes her a dynamic leader and a beloved figure in both the business and local community. 

Adalene “Nene” Spivy is a dedicated champion for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education, driven to ensure all youth have access and opportunities to succeed in a world that is rapidly requiring STEM skills and literacy in every job. Nene started her career in the telecommunications industry in systems engineering and marketing, developing new products and launching new markets during a period of rapid growth and deregulation. Called to greater community service, she pivoted into the nonprofit sector by combining her technology and business expertise with the nonprofit management skills and opportunities she gained through the Junior League. 

For the past 15 years, Nene has been the chief executive of the Northern Virginia Science Center Foundation, a nonprofit started 20 years ago as a signature project of the Junior League of Northern Virginia (JLNV) to create a hands-on, interactive STEM-focused museum. Under Nene’s leadership, the organization experienced exponential growth, serving over a half million children and families at the Children’s Science Center Lab, which opened in 2015, and via mobile STEM programs delivered to regional schools, libraries and community spaces. Nene oversees current operations and the project to build the new 70,000 sq. ft. Northern Virginia Science Center, now under construction. Over $110M in public and private funds have been secured for the project through a public private partnership with the Commonwealth of Virginia, Loudoun County, and private supporters. 

Nene is a proud sustaining member of the JLNV. Her active leadership roles included serving as President, President Elect, Leadership Development Chair, Kate Hanley Family Shelter Project Chair, Fundraising Council Director, and The Enchanted Forest Event Chair for two years. 

Nene currently serves on the Board of Directors and as the Treasurer for the Association of Science and Technology Centers, an international association with 600 science museum and industry allied members. She also serves on the boards of the Northern Virginia Technology Council, the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce, and the Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation. 

Nene is a graduate of Leadership Fairfax, past Chair of Fairfax County’s Community Action Advisory Board, and held multiple board leadership roles with Discovery Creek Children’s Museum. Nene holds a BS in Industrial Engineering from Virginia Tech and an MBA from University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business and currently serves as Class Secretary. Nene enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and three adult children hiking, paddling and skiing. 

Tewabech Genet Stewart has dedicated over two decades to Florida's child welfare system. She is deeply committed to transforming its structure into one that prioritizes support over separation; therefore, enabling children to thrive within their own families and communities. Her experience has taught her that the best way to support children is by strengthening and uplifting their parents. 

In her current role as Director of Strategic Initiatives with the Children's Board of Hillsborough County, Genet leads the ONEhillsborough Initiative, leveraging the Social Determinants of Health to address systemic challenges facing underserved communities. 

Genet’s work has earned widespread recognition, including the Distinguished Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) Leadership Award at the 2024 National Staff Development and Training Association (NSDTA) Annual Education Conference. For her contributions to public service, she received the Mark of Excellence Award from the Tampa Bay Chapter of the National Forum of Black Public Administrators. 

Genet was introduced to the Junior League by former President Ashley Link during their participation in Leadership Lakeland. She subsequently joined the Junior League of Lakeland before transferring to the Junior League of Tampa in 2017. 

Within the Junior League of Tampa, Genet has been instrumental in child welfare initiatives, particularly through her work with the Kids Connect committee, which facilitates events to match foster children with their forever families. As a mentor, she continues to inspire and guide Junior League of Tampa members. In 2024, after years of dedicated service in the child welfare system and supporting the Junior League of Tampa’s efforts, she embarked on the most profound journey of her life—motherhood. During the 2024 National Adoption Day, hosted by the Junior League of Tampa, she adopted her son, who had been in foster care for four years. 

Her expertise and dedication extend to serving on numerous boards, committees, and coalitions, including Parent Advocates for Transformation and Healing (PATH), which envisions a society where family separation is no longer a reality. She is also a member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Florida Department of Health -Hillsborough Health Equity Coalition, Hillsborough County Health Care Advisory Board, BayCare Board Clinical Excellence Committee & Health Equity Council, and the American Public Human Services Association EDIB Peer Community. Through these roles, she advocates for equity and works to eliminate racial disparities, striving to ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive within their own families. 

Danielle Turnipseed, a Junior League of Prince George’s County charter member since 2021, seamlessly engages her passions of health, law, and social justice leading her to become one of today's top thought leaders on important health topics.  She is the Chief Public Policy Officer of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), leading public policy and legislative advocacy efforts on behalf of the 160 medical schools and the almost 500 academic health systems and teaching hospitals which collectively comprise the AAMC’s membership. In her role, Danielle works with policymakers and other leaders to advance policy priorities that strengthen the health and well-being of the United States, including policies that affect health care delivery, research, medical education, and health equity. 

While in law school, Danielle worked on human rights and legal issues related to HIV/AIDS in Geneva, Switzerland as an intern for UNAIDS. After law school, she served as a legislative assistant and policy advisor handling the healthcare portfolios of two Senators. Danielle is the former Associate Director, Division of Federal Affairs at the American Medical Association, where she advocated for critical issues impacting physicians and the U.S. health care system.  She also is the former Vice President at America's Health Insurance Plans. Her experience and professional network span government agencies and the political spectrum, enabling her to foster change on health policy and prevention efforts with an emphasis on health disparities, social determinants of health, chronic conditions, and federal programs.  

Danielle has made a lasting impact in JLPGC as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, a role she has held twice, Danielle led JLPGC's collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to secure the Healthy People 2030 partnership, a distinction unique to JLPGC at the time. A passionate advocate of the "Find the Good" initiative, Danielle has contributed financially to support this event and chaired the first initiative for JLPGC. She served as the Chair of the 2025 JLPGC Women’s Empowerment Luncheon, a first of its kind fundraiser that featured women leaders, education, and engagement. Her dedication to advocacy continues to elevate JLPGC's impact. 

Danielle received her undergraduate degree from Duke University; her law degree from the University of Maryland School of Law, Baltimore; and her public policy and public health dual degrees from the University of Michigan. She currently resides in Silver Spring, Maryland with her toy poodle, Brodie. 

As the founder & managing partner of Peerless Partners, a boutique consulting firm working with Fortune clients across three continents, Janel immerses herself in her clients' organizations to drive cultural transformation by shifting mindsets at every level. She empowers teams to make small but meaningful adjustments in their ways of working, resulting in improvements in their ability to meet customer needs and deliver measurable business value. 

Her work is fueled by a passion for helping people become more effective and engaged in their roles—whether at the individual, team, or organizational level. By facilitating changes that nurture talent and reshape organizational culture, Janel creates environments where individuals and teams can thrive and achieve their greatest impact as they leverage technology to improve their customer and associate experiences. 

Janel is also a professor at UC Berkeley, specializing in product management, negotiation, and leadership.  She is dedicated to equipping aspiring engineering leaders with the skills needed to excel, beyond their technical expertise. Known for her engaging teaching style and practical approach, Janel combines academic rigor with real-world applications, inspiring them to collaborate and influence within their chosen fields. 

As the CEO of Try This First, Janel is leading efforts to bring ClearPop—a groundbreaking, medicine-free solution for children's earache relief—to market. Stretching herself in a new industry (biomedical/public health), she's learning quickly as she tackles challenges like FDA reclassification and grassroots marketing. 

Beyond her professional achievements, she is incredibly involved in her community. Janel has been engaged with the Junior League of Oakland-East Bay (JLOEB) since 2011, and when she was an active member, she served on the board and management team – leading fund development, special events, placement, and new member teams. While she is currently a sustainer, she remains active serving as special events chair for the Touch a Truck events. Janel’s passion for community service extends beyond her involvement in the Junior League. As a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), she advocates for foster youth, while her 12-year leadership in Girl Scouts and tenure serving as President of the Board for nonprofit athletic organizations like the Berkeley Athletic Fund reflects her dedication to youth development. 

Committed to lifelong learning, Janel is currently pursuing a PhD in Industrial & Organizational Psychology at Harvard, exemplifying her belief in continuous growth. By investing in her own development, she models the values of curiosity and self-improvement that she encourages in her students, clients, and volunteer organizations. 

Jennifer Whittington is a seasoned professional and community leader with nearly two decades of experience in financial research and system analysis. As a Senior Research Systems Analyst for Franklin Templeton Investments, she provides critical support to global portfolio managers and analysts by delivering timely, accurate market data, managing proprietary databases, and optimizing research systems. Her work supports the management of multibillion-dollar portfolios, combining technical expertise with strategic insights. Over the years, Jennifer has advanced through multiple roles at Franklin Templeton, including Research Systems Analyst and Portfolio Assistant, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to excellence.   

A passionate advocate for community service, Jennifer has been an active member of the Junior League of Greater Fort Lauderdale since 2006, having served in a variety of roles, including New Member Education Chair, Marketing VP, Community VP, Membership VP, Finance VP, President in 2015-2016 and is currently serving as Executive Vice President on the Board of Directors. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the New Member of the Year Award (2007), the President's Award (2010), and the Virginia R. Gamble Award (2024). Through her roles on the Board of Directors and various leadership positions, Jennifer has contributed significantly to the League's mission of advancing women's leadership and creating meaningful community impact. Jennifer's volunteerism extends beyond the Junior League. Serving on the Board of Directors since 2009, she is currently Treasurer for the FLITE Center, an organization supporting vulnerable youth transitioning from foster care to independence. Additionally, she is a graduate of the Leadership Broward Class 33, where she has chaired multiple programs for 10 years now, focusing on urban development, the environment, culture, arts & history, further showcasing her commitment to building a stronger community. Jennifer will be recognized for her efforts as an honoree at Leadership Broward's signature fundraiser in April 2025. 

Jennifer earned her Master of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University and holds dual Bachelor's degrees in Economics and Spanish from Southern Methodist University. Fluent in Spanish and skilled in platforms like FactSet, Bloomberg, and Microstrategy, she combines technical acumen with a global perspective. Her career and volunteer efforts reflect a dedication to leadership, collaboration, and creating lasting, positive change. 

Terri Broussard Williams has built a distinguished career as an authentic, courageous, and impactful change agent. As an award-winning corporate lobbyist, nonprofit executive, and public speaker, she has transformed public and community service into a professional art form. 

With over two decades of experience as a lobbyist, Terri has led groundbreaking, community-shifting initiatives. At just 27, she was part of an all-female lobbying team that successfully passed The Louisiana Smoke-Free Air Act, a landmark public health policy. Her dedication to driving systemic change earned her recognition as one of Austin Business Journal’s Most Influential Women in Central Texas. 

Terri has worked with some of the world’s most recognized Fortune 300 companies and organizations, including Amazon and the American Heart Association, where she has driven high-impact advocacy initiatives for positive social change. She continues to shape the future through advisory board leadership, serving on the  University of Texas Annette Strauss Institute for Civic Engagement, Louisiana State University Manship School of Mass Communications Advisory Board, and the LBJ School of Public Policy – Women's Campaign School Advisory Board. 

As the founder of Movement Maker, Terri has created a platform that inspires and empowers women to turn moments into movements, fostering leadership and changemaking worldwide. Her thought leadership extends into academia—she was the inaugural instructor for the Social Justice Graduate Certificate Program at Texas A&M’s Bush School and Center for Nonprofits and Philanthropy. 

Terri’s dedication to leadership development is rooted in her academic excellence. She holds a Master’s in Nonprofit Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the student commencement speaker and received the Excellence in Social Impact Award. She is also a graduate of Penn’s Social Impact Strategy Executive Education Program and holds a Graduate Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. She continues to shape the next generation of changemakers through the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice Dean’s Alumni Advisory Board. 

Terri’s work with The Junior League has left a lasting impact on women’s leadership, advocacy, and civic engagement. Through board service at the Association of Junior Leagues International, she played a key role in advancing diversity and inclusion. Her contributions to the Junior League of Lafayette and the Junior League of Austin have empowered women to become bold community leaders. 

Through every initiative, Terri champions the power of women to create lasting, transformative change. 

Phoebe Wood is a distinguished leader whose career spans significant achievements in the corporate world and community service. Phoebe spent her Junior League provisional years in LA and Dallas and continued her involvement as she navigated her career in finance across the globe, including notable involvement with the Junior League of London. 

Professionally, Phoebe has been a trailblazer in the oil and gas industry, serving nearly 24 years at Atlantic Richfield. She was the first female Business Manager in a production office and the first female CFO for Europe, and later for Alaska, the largest division. Her sharp commercial acumen and exceptional interpersonal skills propelled her career and established her as a role model and advocate for women and the differently-abled. Phoebe's commitment led her to advocating for and achieving diversity in corporate boardrooms, co-founding "Women of Color and White Women Against Racism" and chairing the Board of Trustees for The American Printing House for the Blind. 

After her tenure in the global oil and gas sector, Phoebe was appointed CFO at Brown-Forman, a NYSE-listed consumer products company. During her time there, she remained actively involved with the Junior League and received the Founders Award in 2008. Her dedication to philanthropy extends to her roles as a Trustee and Chair-Elect for The Gheens Foundation and a Trustee emerita for Smith College, her alma mater. Recognized as one of the 100 Inspirational Leaders by UCLA Anderson School of Management, from which she earned her MBA, Phoebe's leadership has been acknowledged widely, including an appointment by the Governor of Kentucky to the Board of Trustees of the University of Louisville. 

After retiring from corporate life, Phoebe embarked on a "portfolio" career, serving as a director on publicly traded corporate boards as well as advising and investing in start-up companies. She is a member of the North America Advisory Council of Chatham House, a British think tank, and Treasurer for the Chatham House Foundation. She is actively engaged as chair of the Board of The American Printing House for the Blind which is creating The Dot Experience, intended to be the world's most accessible museum, including the Helen Keller Archives. 

Phoebe and a colleague just launched KirtleyWood, a corporate governance advisory firm to use their decades of knowledge on boards to improve their effectiveness. Read more about her new venture at www.kirtleywood.com. 

Janis Worley is an accomplished finance, marketing, and nonprofit professional with diverse experience across corporate and nonprofit sectors. Her expertise spans financial management, marketing, community engagement, public relations, and event planning. Janis currently serves as Finance and Communications Manager at First Congregational Church of Akron, Ohio, where she oversees all business and financial operations. Her role includes grant writing, marketing, advertising, social media, and building operations. 

Janis has made significant contributions to nonprofit organizations, most notably during her tenure as Ronald McDonald House of Akron Board President. She led a $12 million campaign to build a 42-room expansion, doubling current house capacity. From 2016-2020, while President, she co-led efforts to merge four regional Ronald McDonald House entities, forming Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeast Ohio, now a $11 million organization serving 23 counties. 

A highlight of Janis' career is her involvement with the Junior League of Akron. As President of the Junior League, Janis demonstrated exceptional leadership, overseeing strategic planning and community outreach efforts. She was instrumental in organizing the League's signature fundraising event, Designer ShowHouse, which raised significant funds for the League and its community initiatives. Her role as Chair of the Focus Project Search Committee helped identify key community needs and select impactful projects for League involvement. Janis was recognized with the inaugural Rookie of the Year award by the Junior League of Akron for her outstanding performance as a new member. 

In the corporate sector, Janis held leadership roles at Sherwin Williams, where she managed multiple private label brands and spearheaded strategic marketing initiatives. As Director of New Product Development, she created and launched the nationally broadcast home improvement show "Room by Room" on HGTV, which became a hallmark of her ability to blend marketing with media production and public relations. 

Janis' outstanding contributions to both her professional and volunteer work have earned her numerous awards, including a local Emmy nomination and a National Gracie Allen Award. She has been recognized with the Servant Leader award by Wittenberg University, and the Woman of the Year award for Integrity by the Summit County Historical Society Women’s History Project. Her commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by her ongoing involvement in community organizations, such as the Gay Community Endowment Fund. With an MBA from Pennsylvania State University and advanced certifications in nonprofit leadership, Janis Worley remains committed to driving positive change through strategic leadership, financial acumen, and community service. 

Alex Zucco is the State & Federal Policy Manager for the State of California. She works to protect over $3 billion in need-based grant aid for Californians who want to access college. She earned her B.S. in Criminology from the University of La Verne and attended the Women's Campaign School at Yale for candidate training, advocacy and campaign management.  Alex originally joined the Junior League of Pasadena in 2004 and served in a number of leadership positions including Provisional Chair, Cookbook Chair, and Fundraising Director. In 2016, she and her husband moved to Sacramento, where she transferred to the Junior League of Sacramento. She was selected to serve as President for three years during the pandemic, Touch-A-Truck Chair and is currently serving as the State Public Affairs, Junior Delegate. 

In addition to the Junior League, she served as a member of her local school board from 2009-2016, being elected to two terms and serving as President. She led a Girl Scout troop, with all the Scouts earning their Gold Award and walking in the Tournament of Roses Parade. She was also awarded the Honorary Service Award and Golden Oak Service Award from her local PTA for her service over 12 years. As a child, Alex probably would have benefited from one of the many types of programs Junior Leagues focus on in their communities; programs like the food insecurity which is a program that the Sacramento League currently has. She would have also benefited from a school backpack program for children in need living below the poverty line in need as they head back-to-school. While attending elementary school, she and her sister were the only two students who participated in the Free & Reduced Lunch program. But, while she learned there would be people and organizations who would help, there was also an incredible amount of shame and bullying that they encountered during that time. That is an important reason why, when looking for ways to give back as an adult, and with her family, she focuses on ways to bring resources to the most vulnerable without judgment or shame but with compassion.   

Alex lives with her husband of 30 years, Joe, in Sacramento, CA and has two grown children, Zoe and Bonnie, who are also Junior League members.