2026 AJLI 40 Under 40 Recipients

Dr. Ashley Gibson Barnett is a distinguished community leader and scholar dedicated to advancing culture, education, and women’s leadership throughout Florida. She holds a Doctor of Juridical Sciences (S.J.D.) in Law and Religion from Emory University School of Law, where she also earned her Juris Doctor and Master of Laws degrees. Her academic background in human rights provides a strong foundation for her advocacy and strategic leadership across the state. 

A key part of Dr. Barnett’s civic identity is her dedication to the Junior League of Greater Lakeland, FL. As a Sustaining Member, she has been a driving force in promoting the League’s Mission to develop women’s leadership for community impact. Her financial stewardship and hands-on service have strengthened programs focused on early childhood education and family support, empowering members to create lasting change and develop the next generation of leaders in Polk County. 

Dr. Barnett’s leadership includes appointments from gubernatorial and legislative bodies. As an appointee to the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, she serves as a vital advocate for the creative economy, ensuring the arts remain central to Florida's identity. She also serves as a Florida Senate appointee to the Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking, underscoring her commitment to justice. 

As co-founder of the Nicholas and Ashley Barnett Foundation at GiveWell, she oversees philanthropic efforts impacting education, healthcare, conservation, and the arts. Her grantmaking reflects her personal commitment to ensuring cultural and educational opportunities are accessible to all. Her service is reflected in her board leadership, including the Board of Trustees for Florida Southern College and the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, where her endowment has expanded regional arts education. She also serves on the boards of the Florida Children’s Museum, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, the Miss America Organization, Friends of Bonnet Springs Park, the Advisory Council for the Barney Barnett School of Business and Free Enterprise, and committees for the United Way of Central Florida and Academy Prep of Lakeland.  

Recently, Dr. Barnett received the ATHENA International Young Professional Leadership Award, the Tampa Bay Lightning Community Hero Award, and the Dr. Anne B. Kerr Outstanding Woman in Leadership Award. She believes that true leadership is an ongoing act of service, measured by the strength of the communities we build together. 

Ashley Beaton is the Director of Financial Planning and Analysis at HighRes, a life sciences robotics company. Previously, she was a Senior Financial Analyst at Harvard Business Publishing and completed the Financial Management Program at General Electric. Ashley holds a BS in Business Management and a BA in Political Science from Boston College. Ashley manages her corporate schedule while running her own business, the Ashley Angel Noelle brand. The mission of Ashley Angel Noelle is to empower women through financial literacy and equip them with career and life skills to achieve their professional and personal dreams. Women work with Ashley on resume and LinkedIn polishing, interview prep, personal budgeting, and lifestyle design!  

From a philanthropic perspective, Ashley currently serves as the President-Elect for the Junior League of Boston, MA and will begin her two-year tenure as President in July of 2026. Her past roles with the League include Treasurer and community service Member for the League's STEM for Girls program at the Boys and Girls Club of Dorchester. In 2024, Ashley ran the Boston Marathon as a charity runner on behalf of the Boys and Girls Club, raising $7,500 in the process. Ashley also serves as a judge at the annual New England regional Future Cities competition, which is organized by the Boston Society of Civil Engineers, and a Junior League of Boston community partner. More recently, Ashley joined the Board of the Miss Pink organization, where she leads the Grants process for women currently undergoing breast cancer treatment.  

On nights and weekends, you can find Ashley out in her community with her crown and sash, representing the very special title of Mrs. Elemental USA Water, a national title with the Mrs. Elemental organization. Her proudest work as a titleholder remains her self-designed STEM for Girls program, called STEM Power! Ashley teaches her STEM Power curriculum at local Boys and Girls Clubs and Girl Scout troops throughout the New England region, with the mission of building the next generation of women leaders who love science and math and love our planet!  

Outside of her professional and volunteer commitments, Ashley enjoys training for races and traveling. Her recent travel experiences include trekking in Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia last winter and sailing on a catamaran in Sicily last summer. 

Kristin Bernhard, JD, is a purpose-driven leader guided by a simple principle: leave it better than you found it. A committed Member of the Junior League movement since 2014, she has served in several significant leadership roles across multiple Leagues, including Vice President of Advocacy and Initiatives for the Junior League of Atlanta, GA and President of the Junior League of Chicago, IL. Across both Leagues, Kristin has focused on strengthening Member engagement, elevating community partnerships, and advancing meaningful advocacy efforts that improve the lives of women, children, and families.  

In her professional life, Kristin serves as the Executive Director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Public Advocacy at Primrose Schools. In this role, she leads strategic efforts designed to deepen community impact, build strong public-private partnerships, and shape effective public policy in partnership with 560 Primrose schools across 36 states and Washington D.C. In this role she also leads the Primrose Schools Partnership for Children, a 501(c)(3) organization that advances opportunities for all children, with particular attention to those who face inequities or are underserved. Through this work, Kristin helps to guide philanthropic investments, strengthen nonprofit collaborations, and expand access to high-quality early learning environments.  

Kristin's work experience spans state government, national nonprofits, and education policy at the highest levels. Before joining Primrose Schools, she served as Chief Policy and Research Officer at Start Early, a Chicago-based national non-profit. Prior to that, she served as Deputy Commissioner at Georgia's Department of Early Care and Learning and as the Education Policy Advisory to Georgia Governor Nathan Deal. Her leadership, vision, and commitment to system-level change for children and families were recognized nationally when she was named a 2018 Aspen Institute Ascend Fellow.  

Kristin holds undergraduate degrees from the University of Georgia and earned her Juris Doctor from Georgia State University. She resides in Marietta, Georgia, where she and her husband, Patrick, are raising their two young sons. She currently serves on the board of directors of the Vote Mama Foundation, on the Executive Committee of the Nonprofit Law Section of the State Bar of Georgia, and as the Chair of the Junior League of Atlanta’s Community Advisory Board.  Whether leading within her profession, supporting communities through the Junior League, or influencing policy that shapes the lives of families nationwide, Kristin remains deeply committed to creating meaningful, lasting impact for future generations. 

Meghan C. Bradshaw, MPH, is a public health advocate and government affairs leader dedicated to advancing policies that improve outcomes for patients with Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. As Executive Director of the Center for Lyme Action, she leads national legislative strategy, mobilizes grassroots advocates in all 50 states, and has helped secure hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding to strengthen research, surveillance, and public health initiatives. Her work bridges patient experience, scientific priorities, and bipartisan policymaking to drive durable federal action. 

Meghan brings expertise in appropriations strategy, coalition building, and high-level stakeholder engagement. She serves as an Advisory Committee Member for the Columbia Lyme and Tick-Borne Diseases Research Center Clinical Trials Network, supporting efforts to expand rigorous, patient-centered clinical research. She also serves as a Consumer Reviewer for the Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs Tick-Borne Disease Research Program, where she helps evaluate federally funded research proposals and elevate the patient voice within the scientific review process. 

In North Carolina, Meghan is an active civic leader through the Junior League of Charlotte, NC. She currently serves as Fundraising and 100th Anniversary Events Chair, guiding strategy and Mission-aligned partnerships for the League’s centennial year. She previously served as Public Policy & Advocacy Chair and Vice Chair, strengthening statewide collaboration and organizing high-visibility civic engagement initiatives. Her leadership earned her the 2025 Spirit of the League Award. 

Meghan holds a Master of Public Health degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a frequent speaker and media commentator on public health policy, women’s leadership, and effective civic engagement. 

Lee Canup is a financial advisor, real estate developer, and community leader whose professional accomplishments and civic involvement have made her a driving force in the Huntington region. With more than nine years of experience in wealth management, Lee serves as a Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch. She manages more than 371 million dollars in client assets and provides comprehensive financial planning, investment management, retirement strategy, and wealth solutions for individuals and families across 19 states. Her excellence in client service and professional leadership earned her recognition on the 2025 and 2026 Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams, an honor reserved for the industry’s most trusted and effective advisors. 

In addition to her financial career, Lee contributes to regional economic development as the owner of BCF Properties, where she oversees the strategic planning and development of a 71-acre mixed use property. Her work includes land use management, infrastructure planning, and community focused initiatives, demonstrating her ability to connect economic opportunity with meaningful local engagement. 

Lee’s professional accomplishments are matched by her strong commitment to community service, particularly through her work with the Junior League of Huntington, WV. A dedicated Member since 2018, she has served as Event Chair for Hard Hats and Heroes for five consecutive years from 2022 through 2026. Drawing on her project management experience and partnership development skills, she has expanded the event to serve thousands of attendees each year while honoring first responders and providing an educational, family friendly experience. 

Lee’s commitment to service is reflected in her involvement with numerous nonprofit organizations spanning the arts, education, and community development. She has held board and leadership positions with organizations, including the Huntington Museum of Art, Dress for Success, the Boys and Girls Club, and the Cabell County Schools Foundation, among several others. As a former Huntington Regional Chamber Volunteer of the Year, Lee demonstrates that professional excellence and community commitment can go hand in hand. Her ability to lead with vision, achieve measurable results, and strengthen the organizations she serves continues to shape a positive future for West Virginia. 

Allyson Chapa is a community leader and Senior Program Manager in the Customer Success Project Management Office (PMO) at Salesforce. Known for her ability to bring clarity to complex challenges, she aligns teams, priorities, and execution across large-scale programs. Allyson leads a billion-dollar enterprise portfolio, helping organizations align around shared priorities and deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes. Her work supports executive decision-making, strengthens governance, and enables scalable impact for thousands of customer-facing employees. 

Beyond her core responsibilities, Allyson is deeply committed to fostering inclusive leadership and community engagement. She serves as President of Latinoforce Texas and leads the Salesforce Austin Site Council, where she oversees the local Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. Through these roles, she empowers employee-led Equality Groups to expand their reach, secure funding, and deepen community partnerships, managing a budget of nearly $30,000 while positioning Austin as a model for collaboration and engagement across Salesforce. 

Allyson’s dedication to service extends through her leadership within the Junior League of Austin. A passionate volunteer, she has played a significant role in A Christmas Affair, the League’s largest annual fundraiser. As Merchants’ Co-Chair for A Christmas Affair 2025, Allyson contributed nearly 500 hours of volunteer service, leading a team that supported 225 merchants and helped deliver a seamless market experience. Her leadership contributed to raising $1 million in support of cornerstone community programs such as Food in Tummies, Kids in Cool Shoes, and Coats for Kids. She is passionate about strengthening volunteer communities and creating opportunities for others to lead with purpose. 

In addition to her professional and volunteer work, Allyson actively supports initiatives such as the Latinoforce Blood Drive, Best Buddies events, and youth STEM education through Code2College. Allyson enjoys spending time with her husband, Tony, and their dog, Dumpling, cheering on the Texas Longhorns, exploring Austin’s vibrant food scene, and creating meaningful moments that bring people and community together. 

Oto Ekpo has devoted her career to advocating for victims of wrongdoing. She focuses her law practice on the representing people catastrophically injured or killed due to the negligence of others. Oto and her colleagues regularly work on high-stakes cases arising from medical malpractice, violent crimes, negligent security, premises liability, and vehicle accidents, among other issues. Oto considers it a privilege to walk with victims and loved ones as they pursue justice. 

Before entering private practice, Oto served as a prosecutor for 15 years in DeKalb and Fulton counties. She prosecuted the most serious crimes, including murder, rape, sexual assault, sex trafficking, drug trafficking, and vehicular homicide, among many others. During her career as a prosecutor, Oto tried more than 100 jury trials. 

Oto is active in the Atlanta community. She was elected in 2023 to be a member of the Board of Governors, which controls and administers the affairs of the State Bar. Moreover, she proudly serves on the Executive Boards of the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys and on the Community Engagement Board of the Women’s Resource Center.  

Oto is a proud former board Member of Junior League of DeKalb County, GA. Additionally, she is a member of the Georgia Association of Women Lawyers, Lawyers Club of Atlanta, and DeKalb Lawyers Association. 

Oto grew up in Texas and received her undergraduate degree from The University of Texas and her law degree from Emory University School of Law. 

Nicole Gabler brings contagious joy, warmth, and momentum into every space she enters. She believes communities grow stronger when women lift one another forward, and she lives that belief out loud. Raised in rural Texas and a proud first-generation graduate of Texas A&M University, Nicole understands how powerful opportunity can be. Today she mentors college students and young professionals, especially first-generation women, helping them navigate careers and leadership, and gain the confidence to claim their voices. She measures success by how many people she helps rise alongside her. 

Nicole serves as Director of Foundation Engagement for Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana, where she builds partnerships that grant life-changing wishes for children facing critical illnesses. She connects donors, volunteers, and families with energy and authenticity, turning compassion into action. Colleagues describe her as someone who makes the mission feel personal and joyful while keeping the work urgent and focused. Her leadership strengthens philanthropy and expands hope for families who need it most. 

As Immediate Past President of the Junior League of Galveston County, TX, Nicole championed leadership development, representation, and community visibility. She helped launch a Juneteenth education initiative that reached hundreds of local schoolchildren and created meaningful opportunities for youth to learn, celebrate history, and feel connected to their community. During her presidency, the League expanded partnerships, increased public engagement, and welcomed new voices into its work. Nicole mentors League Members with intention and enthusiasm, encouraging women to step into leadership before they feel ready and reminding them they belong there. 

Her volunteer leadership extends across Texas. Nicole supports inclusive youth programming through the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, serves with the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Houston and the Texas Women’s League, and champions first-generation college scholarship efforts that help students imagine bigger futures. She also serves on the board of The Bugle Boy (a nonprofit that brings music to rural Texas) and Our Daughter’s House (a nonprofit that serves foster youth on their journey to independence). 

Nicole leads with generosity, humor, and unstoppable optimism. She cheers loudly for other women, builds bridges wherever she goes, and rallies people around shared purpose. Her work proves a simple truth. When women invest in one another, communities shine brighter and possibilities multiply. 

Kyle Evans Gay serves as Delaware's 27th Lieutenant Governor. She seeks to help families thrive and to protect vulnerable populations by prioritizing early education, healthcare access, workforce growth, criminal justice reform and veteran support.  

Kyle joined the Junior League of Wilmington, DE, in 2015 and was its 2019-20 President, implementing the award-winning Stand Up. Period. menstrual equity initiative, and she remains an Active Member.  

She began her career as a Deputy Attorney General in the Delaware Department of Justice before clerking in Delaware Superior Court. Moving into private practice, she next represented clients in Delaware's business courts and provided pro bono services for children in foster care. Before she ran for public office, Kyle worked with a community coalition to pass Delaware's Equal Rights Amendment. Later, as a Delaware State Senator, Kyle chaired two Senate committees and co-chaired a joint oversight committee. She introduced and passed measures to create automatic voter registration at the Division of Motor Vehicles and to expand healthcare access on college campuses. She secured increased funding for early education and corrected funding disparities between counties.  

Informed and inspired by her Junior League service, she passed legislation to expand the availability of free menstrual products in schools. Now, as Lieutenant Governor, Kyle presides over the Delaware State Senate and chairs multiple state boards and commissions, including the Board of Pardons. She hosts monthly forums with community leaders to help shape policies reflecting the diverse experiences of Delawareans. For her collaborative, solutions-based approach, she was selected as a Hunt-Kean Leadership Fellow and as a Rodel Fellow.  

Kyle has served on the Public Integrity Commission, is President of the Delaware Bar Foundation, and co-founded a nonprofit to foster civic and entrepreneurial opportunities among young professionals. Kyle earned an undergraduate degree from Brown University and her juris doctor from Boston University School of Law. She and her husband live in Wilmington with their two young daughters. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, skiing, and traveling.  

Dr. Stephanie Gibson is a native of Savannah, GA. She completed her undergraduate and medical school degrees at Mercer University in Macon, GA. Stephinie moved to Columbia, SC, in 2013 for her Pediatric Residency and now works as the sole Newborn Hospitalist in Prisma Health Richland's Level 1/Level 2 Nurseries. She also serves as a Pediatric Medical Consultant in the SC Department of Public Health’s Newborn Screening department. 

Stephanie joined the Junior League of Columbia, SC, in 2016 as a way to stay involved in the community after residency. During her time in the League, she has developed a passion for League Membership, around which all her placements have focused. Her favorite (and truthfully, most exhausting) placement was when she served as Placement Chair. In this role, Stephanie enjoyed getting to learn the inner workings of the League and all the ways a Member can serve both it and the community through their placements. She has served in a leadership capacity on both the Junior League of Columbia Board and Executive Management Team and will continue to support her Columbia League Members as their VP of Membership for 2026-27. 

Stephanie also volunteers her time with Carolina Sunshine for Children, a Columbia-based nonprofit wish-granting organization for children with serious/life-threatening illnesses. In addition to granting wishes, Stephanie also currently serves as its Board President. As such, she has supervised both the hire of Carolina Sunshine's first paid employee and implementation of its revised strategic plan. Stephanie also works to increase the footprint of this organization in South Carolina through annual fundraisers. 

Even though she has moved to South Carolina, she has not forgotten her Georgia roots. Stephanie has volunteered for over 10 years at Camp Sunshine, held at Camp Twin Lakes in Rutledge, GA. Camp Twin Lakes is a facility that houses multiple camps for children and adults with medical/social needs. Camp Sunshine serves children with cancer and their families. As a childhood cancer survivor herself, Stephanie attended Camp Sunshine as a camper. Now, she gets to pay it forward as a volunteer during a week-long summer camp and weekend retreats throughout the year.  

Aside from her passion for volunteering, Stephanie enjoys reading, traveling, watching college football, and spending time with her husband Kyle and two large rescue dogs, Sam and Kanga. Her current bucket list item is to visit all 63 US National Parks.  

Kelsey Habermehl has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in advancing the health and well-being of children and families across Western New York. As the first-ever Medical Director for her local school district and the youngest administrator on the leadership team, Kelsey has made a significant impact since joining in May 2025. She has launched new policies, overhauled existing procedures, and implemented cohesive protocols across district schools, improving efficiency, compliance, and student health outcomes. Her leadership has enhanced morale and collaboration within the nursing department, establishing a culture of innovation and support that benefits both staff and students. 

Prior to this groundbreaking role, Kelsey served as a pediatric nurse practitioner in private practice, providing compassionate, evidence-based care to children and families. She mentored numerous nurse practitioner students, supporting the next generation of providers while fostering excellence in clinical practice. Her advocacy for underserved populations helped improve health outcomes, expand parent education, and support families navigating complex medical and social needs. 

Kelsey's professional leadership includes serving as President of the Western New York Chapter of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, where she received the Presidential Commendation during both of her terms for outstanding contributions. In these roles, she supported the development of pediatric providers, advanced professional standards, and elevated the voice of advanced practice nursing within the region. 

Her commitment to strengthening the community extends beyond her professional work. As an active member of the Junior League of Buffalo, NY since 2019, Kelsey has held leadership roles spanning membership, fundraising, and governance. She has served on the Membership Council, contributed to the signature fundraiser Decorator's Show House, chaired the Show House Proceeds Committee, and currently serves as Nominating Director on the Board of Directors. In this role, she has improved the nominating process and guided strategic leadership development. Her contributions were recognized with the President's Award from the Junior League of Buffalo. 

Kelsey is committed to continuous growth and is currently pursuing a master's degree in Leadership and Innovation at Daemen University to expand her ability to drive system-level improvements in healthcare and community organizations. She holds a BS in Nursing from the University at Buffalo and an MS as a Family Nurse Practitioner from D'Youville University. She lives in Buffalo with her husband and young daughter. 

Dr. Bethany Forseth Hanson is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Behaviors for Family Health Lab at the University of Kansas Medical Center. In this role, Bethany conducts research, teaches, mentors, and is involved in professional activities at the national level. The mission of Dr. Forseth’s work is to leverage individual health behaviors to help children and their families live healthier lives for longer. Through her work, Dr. Forseth develops programs that empower community members and organizations to help provide health behavior programming to support children, women, and their families as they strive to lead healthier lives.  

Dr. Forseth’s leadership and excellence in her work is demonstrated by her track record in receiving grants from her institution and from the National Institutes of Health, totaling more than $3.5 million for her direct work and an additional $4.9 million for groups she partners with – all  aimed at improving mental and physical health within communities. Additionally, Dr. Forseth has published over 40 peer-reviewed manuscripts and led 52 national/international scientific presentations along with countless presentations to local community partners. With her expertise, Dr. Forseth serves on the US Report Card on Physical Activity in Children and Youth and was selected for the prestigious position as Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine. 

Bethany is active in the nonprofit community, volunteering with multiple organizations including HappyBottoms (the local Kansas City diaper bank) and Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Bethany is in her 8th active year in The Junior League of Kansas City, MO. Her League career has spanned three Leagues Milwaukee, Omaha and Kansas City ("JLKC"), allowing her to lead through roles on Finance, Community, Fundraising, and Nominating. She currently serves as JLKC's Board Assistant. In 2022, Bethany received the "Above and Beyond" award for her role co-leading the JLKC Book Club, and in 2023 received a Legacy Training Fund Grant Award from JLKC to provide a "library" of Book Club selections for League Members.  

Dr. Forseth holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, the University of Tennessee, and the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Kansas Medical Center.  

Throughout her League and professional experiences, Bethany's work has had broad-reaching impacts for communities across the U.S. 

HannaLore Hein holds a bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and received a master’s degree in Applied Historical Research from Boise State University in 2015, where she was also an inaugural member of Venture College, an entrepreneurial incubator. After graduation, she joined a historical consulting firm as a research historian and Director of Business Development. HannaLore retained these two roles until 2019, when she became the Idaho State Historian with the Idaho State Historical Society. As Idaho State Historian, she serves on the agency's leadership team, drives strategic decision-making, serves as a content-matter expert in Idaho history for the governor’s office, conducts interpretive analysis, devises programs and collateral, and authors articles for myriad communications channels and publications. In 2020, she co-led the agency's efforts for Idaho Women 100, a year-long initiative celebrating the history of women's suffrage. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, she connected the health crisis to historic public health emergencies, writing policy papers informing government decisions.  

Since 2022, she has served as Vice Chair of the America250 in Idaho Task Force, organizing Idaho's plans to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, as part of a national effort. 

To complement her academic and professional achievements, HannaLore has been involved with several organizations, including Preservation Idaho, Tango Boise, Inc., the Boise State University Alumni Association, the Center of the American West, and the Junior League of Boise, ID.  

Over the last decade, she has held a variety of roles within the League, including Nominations Chair, Advancement Chair, President-Elect, and President. She has also led the League’s 90th Celebration Committee, organizing a historic archiving project and developing a “history-walk” for Members. As President during Boise’s 95th League year, she continued the work to preserve the League’s history and shared the League’s historic impact with both internal and external stakeholders.  

In addition, she continued the legacy of women's empowerment and leadership established by former Presidents, while launching the organization on a new strategic plan that further focused its service work. She is currently leading efforts to conduct oral histories with Past Presidents, emeritus Members, and key partners.   

Brianna Hickman is committed to cultivating leaders and strengthening communities across West Virginia. From her hometown of Moundsville to communities throughout the Upper Ohio Valley, Brianna works to empower individuals and organizations to create lasting, community-driven change. 

Brianna serves as a Project Director at the West Virginia Community Development Hub, where she partners with communities to build local capacity, cultivate leadership, and support grassroots economic development. She works alongside residents who are passionate about their hometowns, helping them identify opportunities for revitalization and mobilizing volunteers, emerging leaders, and community members to create transformational impact. With a focus on rural communities that are often overlooked, Brianna is dedicated to amplifying local voices and ensuring everyone has a seat at the table. 

Her commitment to public service is also reflected in her local leadership. Brianna served on Moundsville City Council from 2020 and again from 2022–2024, where she chaired the Policy Subcommittee, served on the Planning Commission, and helped draft the city’s comprehensive plan update. She also serves as Vice Chair and Treasurer of the Arts & Culture Commission, coordinating free and low-cost community events so that cost is never a barrier for families. In addition, Brianna chairs the ONTRAC Economic Vitality Committee, where she focuses on downtown redevelopment and strengthening Moundsville’s local economy. 

Brianna joined the Junior League of Wheeling, WV in 2019 and has served in numerous leadership roles, including Vice President, Girl on Fire Co-Chair, President, Member Engagement Co-Chair, and Placement Advisor. She also served as an At-Large Member of the AJLI Governance Committee from 2023–2025. During her League service, Brianna helped develop the Girl on Fire program, which empowers young women and girls through mindfulness and professional development. As President (2022–2023), she focused on highlighting women leaders in the community and supporting women-owned businesses. Under her leadership, the League also launched a period products pantry that collected more than 6,000 items in two years. 

Brianna earned both her Master of Public Administration and Juris Doctor from West Virginia University, where she also received her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. In her free time, she enjoys kayaking on the Ohio River and spending time outdoors with her partner, Adam, and their golden retriever, Atlas. 

Lydia attended and graduated from The College of William & Mary with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She taught chemistry, biology, and AP biology at Jamestown High School in Williamsburg for three years. She then attended graduate school at Arcadia University, where she earned a Master of Science degree in Genetic Counseling, with distinction, then earned Board Certification in genetic counseling.  

Lydia developed a set of visual aids that are now used nationally to explain multi-gene hereditary breast cancer to patients and delivered a professional poster presentation to the National Society of Genetic Counselors. In her work as an oncology genetic counselor for Carilion Clinic, she meets many clients at very difficult times in their lives. She strives to learn what their unique concerns are and ensures that she addresses those questions. Lydia often says that every day in her job is unique because she gets to do her job differently for each client. Lydia's professional goal is to provide personalized care for every client and ongoing support for those who need it. Lydia's work has been recognized by her peers and she currently serves as the Chair of the Virginia Department of Health Advisory Board for Genetic Counseling, is a past-President of the Virginia Association of Genetic Counselors, has served in various volunteer roles for the National Society of Genetic Counselors including currently serving as Chair of the Annual Education Conference.  

In addition to her professional endeavors, Lydia is very involved with the Junior League of Roanoke Valley, VA, currently serving as chair of the Road to 100 Committee and being an involved Sustainer and immediate Past President. She is the type of Junior Leaguer who, if needed, will always rise to the occasion. Lydia makes a point to prioritize the League and its Members.  She lives the JL Mission through her volunteer engagement, dedicating her professional expertise to the community she serves, and developing those that she meets along the way. Lydia values The Junior League for all the ways that it has molded and shaped her into a leader outside of the League. From being tapped to chair a Board because of her understanding of Robert’s Rules of Order, to helping another organization develop a strategic plan, to championing business-related change in her professional healthcare role, Lydia continues to use the League’s experiences and lessons in all she pursues.  

Mary-Katherine Hooper, PMP, is a dedicated civic leader whose career and community service reflect her deep commitment to expanding opportunity, equity, and access for women, students, and families. A proud graduate of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where she earned her degree in Economics, she has spent her career and volunteer leadership building pathways to opportunity across her community.  

Mary-Katherine's heart for service found a home in the Junior League of Lafayette, LA. Over her years in the League, she has served on the Endowment Research and Development committee, the Membership Development and Engagement Committee, and the SMILES Committee. Through the League, she also serves on the Board of Directors for Miles Perret Cancer Services, where she supports restorative programming for families navigating cancer and strengthens community partnerships that advance the organization's mission.  

Beyond the League, Mary-Katherine serves as Treasurer of the Lafayette Commission on the Needs of Women, where she oversees public financial stewardship and serves as chairman for the Annual Women of Excellence Awards, an event uplifting transformative women across Acadiana. She also serves as Vice Chair of the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA) Advisory Board, helping shape statewide policy, expand higher education access, and support workforce development initiatives for thousands of residents. 

Professionally, Mary-Katherine is the Corporate Director of Compliance for Unitech Training Academy, where she leads multi-state regulatory operations and builds institutional systems that protect student access and strengthen organizational accountability. She is known for spearheading a landmark multi-campus funding initiative that resulted in the highest number of funded students in the institution's history, expanding financial access for low-income and first-generation learners.  

Mary-Katherine's passion for service extends deeply into the community. She is a proud graduate of the Leadership Institute of Acadiana's Leadership Lafayette Class 38, where she strengthened her relationships with local nonprofits and contributed to service efforts touching families throughout Acadiana. Her volunteer work includes supporting Catholic Charities, providing hands-on assistance for families through Miles Perret Cancer Services, and contributing to community events, women's initiatives, and youth-centered programs.  

In 2025, she was named a Top 20 Under 40 recipient. Her volunteerism spans numerous organizations and reflects her belief in meeting community needs with compassion, presence, and action. Rooted in service and driven by purpose, Mary-Katherine is committed to building stronger, more equitable systems and creating pathways that allow women and young people to thrive. 

Ansley Howze is a mission-driven leader with over a decade of experience advancing strategic partnerships and large-scale community impact initiatives. She currently serves as National Senior Director for Family Reach, an organization supporting urgent financial needs for families fighting cancer, further driving the organization's brand visibility, donor engagement and 30th anniversary celebration. Before joining the Family Reach team this year, Ansley served as Executive Director for the American Heart Association, where she led multi-state markets in fundraising, corporate engagement, and hands-on community health initiatives addressing nutrition security, tobacco prevention, CPR education, and health equity. The American Heart Association funded over $11 million in groundbreaking cardiovascular research in 2025 alone within the CSRA fueling the next life-saving discoveries against heart disease and stroke- the nation's No. 1 and No. 5 killers.  

Earlier in her career, Ansley worked for Kappa Alpha Theta headquarters, where she drove recruitment and membership strategy across North America, welcoming over 7,200 new members annually for the collegiate women's organization, and for the Academy of Country Music in brand integration and strategic partnerships building high-value brand experiences for companies and fans.   

A committed volunteer leader, Ansley has enjoyed serving the Junior League of Savannah, GA in several roles, including Fundraising Vice President, New Member recruitment chair, annual fund chair, and 2024-2025 President, leading up to the organization's centennial. She has served AJLI as a Volunteer Services Specialist and Growth, Engagement & Marketing Specialist, supporting new League establishment and recruitment strategy.  

She currently chairs the Main Street Tybee Board of Directors, promoting economic development, and serves on alumni leadership boards for Belmont University and the University of Georgia. She continues her involvement with Theta as a National Panhellenic Conference Area Advisor supporting collegiate leaders and university partners across the Southeast, and most recently as Fraternity Vice President in her appointment to Theta's international governing board, Grand Council. She has been recognized as a Kappa Alpha Theta 35 Under 35 honoree and was a member of Leadership Savannah Class of 2024. Ansley is grateful for the many key experiences the League has provided and is honored to be recognized among AJLI’s 2026 40 under 40 class! 

Mary-Neil Jackson, CTSM, is an accomplished leader known for driving impact, both professionally and within her community. As the Senior Manager, Contractor Engagement at Gordian, she has a proven record of success, notably increasing year-over-year construction volume by 49% and leading teams to generate millions in pipeline revenue through relationship development and continuous improvement. However, her commitment to impact truly shines through her extensive work with the Junior League of Greenville, SC (JLG). 

She joined the JLG in 2017 as a means to learn more and give back to her new home. She is the 2025-2026 President, actively establishing three new fundraising events, doubling grant funding back into the community and creating intentional partnerships for long-term sustainment. Her dedication has been recognized through her previous roles as President-Elect and Membership Vice President, and she was honored as the 2022 Helen Horton Hunt Active Member of the Year Recipient. She holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. 

Laura Johnston is President and Founder of The Buzz Effect, a marketing and advertising agency she launched in 2020 to help nonprofits and purpose-driven businesses grow with clarity and confidence. Recognized for her holistic, mission-first approach, Laura supports nonprofit teams with marketing systems that are clear, accessible, and sustainable for overwhelmed teams and nonlinear brains. She leads strategic initiatives that align storytelling, brand positioning, and growth planning to turn vision into measurable community impact. 

Laura's leadership in the Junior League of High Point, NC  has been significant. As President (2022–2024), she strengthened Member engagement, increased community visibility, and advanced partnerships through a plan lovingly referred to by members as NASCAR to right-size the League and expand local presence. In earlier roles as Fund Development Chair and Board Member, she helped build sustainable leadership pipelines that continue to benefit the organization. 

A committed advocate for women and girls, Laura served as President of YWCA High Point in 2021 and continues to support its mission through various board committees. Her volunteer work with Girls Who Code and Girls on the Run demonstrates her dedication to building the next generation's confidence and leadership skills. 

In 2025, Laura joined the Board of Directors for High Point Discovered, where she guides storytelling and engagement strategies that foster civic pride and celebrate those advancing High Point. 

Laura has received the YWCA High Point Emerging Leader Award and the Junior League of High Point Spirit of the League Award. She holds a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications from West Virginia University and a certificate in Leading with Equity in the Nonprofit Sector from Northwestern University.

Guided by the belief that strong stories build strong communities, Laura brings unapologetic, collaborative leadership to every role. 

Kara Kunkleman is a dynamic civic leader, a past recipient of Flint Michigan’s 40 Under 40 recognition, and the 2024–2026 President of the Junior League of Flint, where she has played a transformative role in elevating the League’s visibility, strengthening community partnerships, and positioning JLF as a driving force in Genesee County. Since joining the League, Kara has expanded member engagement, deepened collaboration with local organizations, and reinforced the League’s reputation as a trusted partner for women’s leadership and community impact. 

Kara led the creation of the Junior League of Flint’s first Menstrual Product Bank, a permanent program dedicated to addressing period poverty in Genesee County. Under her leadership, the initiative quickly scaled and now supplies essential menstrual products to community partners and nonprofits. The program provides vital resources to girls and women who might otherwise miss school, work, and daily life due to lack of access, and it is rapidly becoming a cornerstone League initiative. 

She also guided the launch of the League’s signature fundraising event, Festival of Trees, now in its fourth year. Replacing the former holiday greens sale, which generated minimal returns, Festival of Trees has increased fundraising revenue more than eightfold and now stands as one of JLF’s most visible and impactful legacy events. 

Professionally, Kara works in partnership with her mother, owner of Blondie’s Food & Spirits, Trio Tavern & Grill, and Blondie’s Best Cheesecake. She has helped shape each business from its earliest stages, overseeing hiring, training, team culture, and operational systems. Her leadership contributed to the growth of Blondie’s Cheesecake from a small in-house product to a multi-state offering distributed through Van Eerden Food Service and available in seven states. The businesses have earned multiple awards and remain committed to supporting nonprofits, youth programs, and community initiatives. 

Kara currently serves on the Flint & Genesee Young Professionals Board and Hurley Hospital’s Community Health Action Collaboration Board, and has contributed to numerous organizations and women’s leadership initiatives across the community. Known for her ability to build relationships and mobilize volunteers, Kara continues to strengthen the Flint community while inspiring the next generation of women leaders. 

Rebecca Mellos is a visionary philanthropic leader whose career and community engagement reflect empowerment, leadership, and lasting impact. As Senior Vice Chancellor for Development at Pepperdine University, she leads innovative fundraising initiatives that advance scholarships, capital projects, and mission-driven programs across the university. With more than a decade of experience and over $50 million raised, Rebecca is known for empowering teams and donors to realize transformative goals while building relationships that inspire generosity and strengthen communities. 

Before assuming her current role, Rebecca served as Vice Chancellor for Development, guiding fundraising strategy across Pepperdine’s five schools. She joined the university in 2019 as Assistant Vice Chancellor and Senior Director of Development for the Caruso School of Law, where she launched a comprehensive fundraising program and engaged more than 50 first-time donors through the 50 for 50 Scholarship Initiative. Prior to Pepperdine, she helped build Baylor University’s California philanthropy program, connecting alumni and parents to Baylor’s mission as a Christian research institution. 

A proud Baylor University graduate, Rebecca earned her degree in Journalism, Public Relations, and New Media before serving as Special Assistant to Baylor President and former U.S. Solicitor General Ken Starr. She later became Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, gaining formative leadership experience in higher education administration that shaped her commitment to principled leadership and service. 

Beyond her professional achievements, Rebecca’s leadership extends deeply into the community. As a member of the Junior League of Los Angeles, she serves as Chair of the Centennial Gala Committee, leading a once-in-a-century celebration honoring 100 years of women’s leadership and service. She previously served on the Board of Directors and as Nominating Director, championing inclusive leadership development and helping elevate future League leaders. 

Guided by her faith, Rebecca serves as a Deacon at Calvary Church of Pacific Palisades, where she chairs the Fundraising Committee to rebuild the church sanctuary following the Palisades Fire. She also mentors women as Area Director for the Santa Monica class of Community Bible Study. Inspired by her mother’s recovery from breast cancer, Rebecca also supports the Power of Pink Luncheon Committee, advancing breast cancer research and surgical training at Providence Saint John’s Health Center. 

Rebecca lives in Pacific Palisades with her husband, Tyler, and their Westie, Watson. 

Dr. Mary “MJ” McConner is a nationally recognized leadership development expert and Founder & CEO of Inclusive Excellence Consulting, a Memphis-based boutique management firm specializing in leadership development, team effectiveness, and workplace culture transformation. A former higher education executive who advanced quickly into senior leadership, she has built a distinguished career at the intersection of leadership, workforce engagement, and human-centered strategy. Through customized professional development initiatives, she has supported professionals in more than 150 countries, equipping leaders and teams to collaborate with clarity and courage. 

Her work is deeply informed by lived experience. As a neurodivergent, hard-of-hearing leader who once felt pressure to conceal parts of her identity, Dr. McConner now champions a leadership philosophy rooted in Empathic Leadership, an approach that centers belonging, accessibility, and authenticity as strategic advantages. 

Since joining the Junior League of Memphis, TN in 2021, MJ has demonstrated sustained leadership and impact. She currently serves on the Board of Directors as Community Outreach Director (2024–2026), where she has helped place members in meaningful civic leadership roles across Memphis, including nonprofit boards and citywide engagement programs. Her prior League service includes APEX Committee Chair (2022–2023), APEX Co-Chair (2021–2022), and Innovative Teaching Grant Committee Member (2023–2024). She is also the 2024–2025 recipient of the T. LaShaun Wallace Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. Continuing her commitment to leadership development within the League, she has been appointed Training Manager for the 2026–2028 term. 

Beyond the League, Dr. McConner serves on several Memphis-area boards, including Crosstown High School, STS Enterprise Corporation, the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis GiVE 365 Advisory Team, and RISE Memphis. 

Her excellence has been widely recognized, including being named a 2025 Memphis Business Journal 40 Under 40 Honoree, 2025 CXO 2.0 Business Leadership Excellence Award recipient, and 2023 American Heart Association Mid-South Woman of Impact. In every space she enters, MJ builds leaders, strengthens institutions, and creates pathways for others to rise. 

Shakea Miller is a visionary entrepreneur, educator, and community advocate whose leadership has expanded access to education, workforce development, and economic mobility across Alabama and the Chattahoochee Valley. Shakea is the Founder, CEO, and Dean of 1 on 1 Technical College, 1 on 1 Technical & Theological College, and 1 on 1 Technical High School, institutions dedicated to creating accessible, career-focused pathways for students and adult learners. Since founding the college in 2019, she has led its growth to graduate more than 3,500 students, expand to multiple locations, and reach learners nationwide through a robust online platform. 

Driven by her belief that opportunity should never be limited by circumstance, Shakea has built a network of mission-driven organizations focused on empowerment and sustainability. Through the 1 on 1 Staffing Agency, she has helped place more than 5,000 individuals into meaningful employment, supporting economic stability and creating second-chance opportunities for community members. She also founded the 1 on 1 Wellness Clinic, which provides affordable healthcare services—including urgent care, physicals, drug testing, and wellness support—while serving as a clinical training site for students pursuing healthcare careers. In addition, Shakea is the Founder and CEO of Fight for Our Children, a nonprofit organization that provides meals, resources, and essential support to families in need. 

Raised by a single mother, Shakea’s journey from Prattville High School to earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix, and her recent acceptance into law school, reflects her resilience and commitment to lifelong learning. Professionally, she is recognized for her strategic vision, operational leadership, and dedication to uplifting underserved communities. 

Shakea is also an active civic leader. Within the Junior League of Columbus, GA, she has been elected Recording Secretary and currently serves as Elect Chair for Partners in Education, helping build partnerships with schools and support initiatives for students and educators. She also serves as Second Vice President of her local NAACP chapter, Vice Chair of Women in the NAACP (WIN), and Vice President of the Urban League of the River Valley Young Professionals. 

Her work has earned numerous honors, including proclamations from seven Alabama mayors, Minority Women-Owned Business Certification, recognition from Governor Kay Ivey, and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.  

Alexis Murray is a public policy professional with more than 15 years of experience advancing health insurance and health care policy. Alexis currently serves as Senior Health Policy Advisor at AHIP, the national trade association whose members provide health coverage, services, and solutions to hundreds of millions of Americans. In this role, she leads policy development related to the Affordable Care Act’s Exchange regulations, guiding member organizations toward consensus positions through workgroup facilitation and representing those priorities through regulatory, legislative, and stakeholder engagement processes. 

Before joining AHIP, Alexis served as a Professional Staff Member for the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education and the Workforce, where she led committee activities related to employer-sponsored health coverage. One of her proudest accomplishments during her time in government was collaborating with a bipartisan group of House and Senate staff on the No Surprises Act, which was passed in December 2020 to protect consumers from unexpected medical bills. 

Alexis has also demonstrated significant leadership through her service with the Junior League. She completed her provisional year with the Junior League of Washington in 2015, where she served on the N Street Village, Kids in the Kitchen, and Community Training Committees, supporting programs that provide healthy meals and life skills training. She also completed the Get on Board Leadership Program, earning a Certificate of Nonprofit Leadership in 2019. 

After transferring to the Junior League of Lansing, MI in 2022, Alexis quickly assumed leadership roles. She chaired the Advocacy Committee, where she helped continue the League’s strong record of state advocacy, including support for appropriations to implement Michigan’s Address Confidentiality Program. Alexis also served on the Nominating Committee and currently serves as Executive Vice President for 2024–2026, with plans to serve as President-Elect for 2027–2029. In recognition of her leadership, she received the League’s Leadership Award in both 2023 and 2025. 

Beyond the League, Alexis has served on several nonprofit and civic boards, including the City of East Lansing Historic District Commission, ELFCO, and The Madison of DC. Originally from Central Pennsylvania, Alexis lives in East Lansing, Michigan, with her husband, Marc Rehmann, and their miniature dachshund, Wienifer. 

Marilyn Nevy Cruz is a distinguished investigator, civic leader, and advocate for community empowerment whose career spans federal justice, nonprofit leadership, and community service. Marilyn currently serves as a Lead Capital Trial Investigator and Mitigation Specialist in the inaugural national Federal Death Penalty Unit in the District of Nevada, where she supports defense teams representing clients in complex federal capital cases. Her federal career also includes a two-year assignment with the Defender Services Office at the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, as well as extensive service with the Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Columbia. In these roles, Marilyn investigated cases ranging from white-collar crime to international trafficking and espionage, contributing critical investigative insight to high-stakes federal proceedings. 

Marilyn’s commitment to service extends well beyond her professional work. Within the Junior League of Washington, D.C., she serves as Vice Chair of the Community Training Committee, helping design and deliver personal-skills training for women in transitional housing and individuals living with mental health conditions. She previously served on the Grants Stewardship Committee, where she evaluated community grant applications and helped ensure that League resources were strategically aligned with the organization’s mission and priorities. Her professional expertise in justice, advocacy, and community protection strengthens the League’s partnerships and impact across the Washington region. 

Beyond the Junior League, Marilyn is a respected leader across several civic organizations. She serves as Assistant Governor for Rotary International District 7620, Deputy State Director for the District of Columbia League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), and Vice Chair of the Alexandria City Gang Prevention Community Task Force. A past President of the Rotary Club of Washington, D.C., she continues to serve on multiple nonprofit boards and advisory councils focused on youth empowerment, equity, and public service. 

Marilyn’s leadership and dedication to community advancement have earned her numerous recognitions, including being named a Northern Virginia 40 Under 40 Honoree. Through her work in the justice system and her extensive civic engagement, Marilyn remains committed to protecting communities, empowering future leaders, and advancing meaningful social change. 

Rebecca Noell is a higher education professional and leadership development practitioner dedicated to advancing student success, organizational leadership, and community engagement. Rebecca serves as the Community Standards Education and Leadership Program Manager for Fraternity and Sorority Life at the University of Michigan, where she leads strategic initiatives designed to cultivate leadership, accountability, and belonging across the university’s diverse fraternity and sorority community. 

Rebecca’s professional experience spans student affairs, alumni engagement, and wellness education. She has held roles with the University of Michigan Alumni Association, the University of Michigan Dean of Students Office, and Eastern Michigan University, where her work focused on leadership education, critical incident response, and holistic student development. Throughout her career, Rebecca has maintained a strong commitment to women’s leadership development and values-based community building, helping students develop the skills and confidence needed to lead with purpose. 

In addition to her work in higher education, Rebecca is an active civic leader. She currently serves as President of the Junior League of Ann Arbor, MI, guiding the organization’s strategy, membership engagement, and community partnerships. Her leadership within the League has included serving as Fund Development Vice President (2022–2023), Internal Vice President (2023–2024), President-Elect (2023–2024), and President (2024–present). Rebecca also contributes her expertise to several professional and volunteer organizations, including the National Panhellenic Conference, the National Association of Student Affairs Professionals (NASPA), the Grand Valley State University Alumni Association, Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan, and Alpha Sigma Alpha. 

Rebecca’s leadership and service have earned significant recognition, including the Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan Woman of Distinction Award (2024) and the Panhellenic Woman of the Year Award (2025) from the Detroit Alumnae Panhellenic Association. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership at Pepperdine University, where her research explores women in leadership, imposter syndrome, burnout, and the role of connection and networking in professional growth. 

Rebecca earned her bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University, as well as a master’s degree and graduate certification from Eastern Michigan University. She lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with her American Staffordshire terrier, Wilbur, and enjoys reading, writing leadership curriculum, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. 

Dr. Megan Pate is an assistant professor at the Clemson University School of Nursing whose work centers on cardiovascular research in rural communities, nursing education, and community service in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Megan is a Certified Nurse Educator through the National League for Nursing and was recently recognized as a Faculty Scholar for the Clemson University School of Health Research. At Clemson, she also serves as a Senator in the Clemson University Faculty Senate and as the Collaborative Clinical and Research Liaison for the Center for Research on Health Disparities, where she helps advance interdisciplinary research aimed at improving health outcomes in underserved populations. 

Megan is a proud Clemson alumna, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2013) and Master of Science in Nursing (2018) from Clemson University. She later completed both a Master of Science (2023) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (2024) at the James T. Laney School of Graduate Studies at Emory University. During her doctoral studies, Megan was awarded the prestigious National Institutes of Health T32 Nurse Scientist Training Grant and served as President of the Laney Graduate Student Council from 2022–2023. She has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and presented her research at both domestic and international conferences. 

Megan is actively engaged in professional and civic leadership. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, the National League for Nursing, and the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, and currently serves as President of the Gamma Mu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau. She also contributes to community initiatives through the Clemson Nursing Alumni Council and the Cancer Association of Spartanburg and Cherokee Counties’ Dancing with the Spartanburg Stars Committee. 

Since joining the Junior League of Spartanburg in 2022, Megan has demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to the League’s mission. She has served as a Community Council Member, Membership Council Member, New Member Vice Chair, and currently serves as New Member Chair, helping guide and mentor incoming members. 

Outside of her professional and volunteer roles, Megan enjoys traveling, cooking, cheering on her Clemson Tigers, and spending time with friends, family, and her beloved dog, Cooper Theodore.  

Rebecca Perrera is a recognized policy expert and strategic leader dedicated to translating nonpartisan public administration principles into measurable community impact. Rebecca currently serves as Deputy Assistant Director for the School Facilities Division at the Arizona Department of Administration, where she helps guide statewide policy, strategic planning, and resource management for Arizona’s school infrastructure. A Flinn-Brown Civic Leadership Fellow (2020), Rebecca has spent more than a decade advancing thoughtful policy analysis and fiscal stewardship in Arizona state government. 

Prior to her current role, Rebecca held several key positions focused on accountability and public-sector performance. She served in progressive roles with the Arizona Joint Legislative Budget Committee, where she contributed to fiscal analysis and legislative decision-making, and previously worked as a Performance Auditor for the Arizona Auditor General, evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of public programs. Rebecca’s academic background reflects her strong foundation in public service and data-driven policy. She earned a Master of Public Administration from the University of Arizona and graduated with honors from the University of Georgia with a bachelor's degree in political science and Sociology, along with a minor in Statistics. 

Rebecca’s commitment to service extends to the Junior League of Phoenix, AZ, where she contributes her financial expertise as a member of the Finance Committee. She is also known for her hands-on involvement in League initiatives, from driving a U-Haul for the annual Rummage Sale collection efforts to volunteering for early-morning service shifts. 

In her local community, Rebecca is an engaged civic leader. She previously served on the Laveen Village Planning Committee and led a grassroots campaign that secured critical funding for the Laveen Area Conveyance Channel during the City of Phoenix’s General Obligation Bond process. She has also successfully secured grants to support neighborhood improvements, including launching three Little Free Libraries, installing a community bike repair station, and organizing a Block Watch program. 

Rebecca lives in Laveen with her husband, Nick, and their two children, Caroline and Zachary. She contributes more than 100 volunteer service hours annually, including serving as a Den Leader for Cub Scout Pack 787. In her free time, Rebecca enjoys gardening, crafting, cooking, reading, and taking adult tap dance classes in her ongoing quest to find grace and coordination. 

Leah Pezzetti is a meteorologist, storyteller, author, and advocate for women in STEM whose work blends science communication, education, and community engagement. Leah serves as a meteorologist at KING 5, the NBC affiliate in Seattle, where she delivers daily forecasts and produces environmental storytelling that helps viewers better understand the world around them. 

At KING 5, Leah helped launch Environment Northwest, a storytelling franchise focused on how climate change impacts local communities. Through this initiative, she works to make complex environmental issues more personal, relevant, and accessible for viewers. She also created and hosts The Sky Above, a monthly astronomy program highlighting upcoming celestial events, space discoveries, and the wonder of the night sky. 

Leah is passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists, especially young girls, to explore careers in STEM. She regularly visits classrooms to share her experiences in meteorology and encourage students to pursue their curiosity about science and the environment. While Leah was fortunate to grow up surrounded by role models in STEM—including her mother and grandmother, a two-time Jeopardy! Champion, she recognizes that many students lack those examples and strives to help fill that gap. 

In 2025, Leah published her first children’s book, Emily: the Meteorologist, part of the She Dreamed, So She Did series, which highlights real women working in male-dominated fields to inspire young readers. Her second book, Brenna: the Firefighter, based on a wildland firefighter in Northern California, is scheduled for release in spring 2026, with a third book already in development. 

Throughout her career across the West Coast, Leah has found community through the Junior League. She joined the Junior League of Bakersfield at age 22 and later transferred to Las Vegas, San Diego, and ultimately Seattle. Today, Leah serves on the Board of Directors for the Junior League of Seattle as Director of Community Projects, where she oversees the Done in a Day volunteer committee and NW Art, a legacy program celebrating more than 65 years of bringing professional art into classrooms. 

Camisha Boyd Powell is a respected civic leader and equity advocate in Lexington, Kentucky. She serves as Chair of the Fayette County Public Schools Equity Council Committee, where she provides strategic oversight on matters related to educational access, inclusion, and districtwide equity initiatives. In this role, she advises the Board of Education and senior district leadership on policies and practices that advance fair outcomes for all students. 

A passionate volunteer, Camisha has spent years with CASA of Lexington, speaking up for abused and neglected children in her community. For her service, she received the President's Volunteer Award for more than 100 hours of advocacy each year.  

Her commitment to social justice and equity also extends to her role as an executive administrator at Community Action Council, where she works to eliminate barriers to economic security and self-sufficiency for families in need. Camisha's leadership has been recognized in both grassroots community movements and formal civic arenas. She strives to leverage her influence to build bridges between institutions and the people she serves. 

Within the Junior League, Camisha exemplifies the Mission of the Association of Junior Leagues International through dedicated volunteerism, leadership development, and community partnership. Her work within the Junior League of Lexington, KY reinforces her broader commitment to service, capacity building, and strengthening the pipeline of women leaders who contribute meaningfully to civic life. 

Her leadership approach is grounded in integrity, collaboration, and a strong belief in equitable systems. She is recognized for her analytical perspective, her ability to build consensus, and her consistent follow-through on organizational objectives. Whether engaging with policymakers, supporting families, or representing children in court proceedings, she remains focused on measurable impact and long-term community advancement. 

Camisha's service demonstrates her commitment to creating pathways that allow children, families, and communities to thrive. She is honored to represent the values of the Junior League and is dedicated to advancing its Mission through purposeful leadership and sustained civic engagement. 

Amanda Sandoval is a civic leader, public servant, and advocate dedicated to strengthening communities through inclusive leadership, service, and civic engagement. Amanda serves as Mayor of Bethany, Oklahoma, making history in 2025 as the first Latina elected mayor in the state. Prior to her election, she also made history as the youngest and first person of color elected to the Bethany City Council, where she championed youth initiatives, accessibility efforts, and collaborative community partnerships. She is also the founder of the Bethany Youth Council, an initiative designed to empower students and encourage civic participation among the next generation of leaders. 

Amanda’s commitment to service extends deeply into her leadership with the Junior League of Oklahoma City, OK. She currently serves as Chair of the Culture and Belonging Committee and as a member of the Recruitment Committee, where she works to foster an environment in which members feel valued, supported, and empowered to lead. Through this work, Amanda helps strengthen League culture, elevate member voices, and recruit diverse leaders committed to meaningful community impact. Her leadership reflects a core belief that when women experience a true sense of belonging, they are better positioned to lead transformational change. 

A proud first-generation daughter of immigrants, Amanda’s educational journey reflects her commitment to civic participation and community leadership. She earned an associate's degree from Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City, a bachelor's degree in political science from Oklahoma State University, and a master's degree from the University of Central Oklahoma, where her graduate research focused on increasing Latino voter participation in Oklahoma City. She also completed Leadership Oklahoma’s Linking Oklahoma’s Young Adult Leaders (LOYAL) Class 16, further strengthening her civic leadership network. 

Professionally, Amanda is a bilingual Realtor who supports first-time and Spanish-speaking homebuyers in achieving homeownership. She also serves on several boards and leadership initiatives, including the Second Century Board of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, the Oklahoma Municipal League, the Oklahoma Metropolitan Association of Realtors Government Affairs Committee as Vice Chair, and Neighborhood Alliance. She also participates in the Oklahoma City Chamber Signature Program Class 43 and NWOKC Chamber Leadership Class 32. 

Kelsey Snyder is the Executive Director of Lead, a Michigan-based nonprofit that equips youth and families with the everyday skills needed to build confidence, strengthen communication, support wellbeing, and plan for the future. Kelsey brings a unique blend of nonprofit leadership and private-sector experience to her role. Before transitioning to the nonprofit sector, she spent more than a decade in the technology industry leading large global teams and specializing in the launch and scale of complex projects and initiatives. 

Kelsey’s eight years with the Junior League of the Great Lakes Bay Region, MI played a pivotal role in shaping her leadership path. Through her involvement with the League, she saw firsthand how developing confidence and leadership skills in others can transform both individuals and organizations. As a mentor to new members and a supporter of committee chairs, Kelsey has helped women strengthen their leadership abilities, prioritize initiatives for meaningful impact, and delegate effectively to create opportunities for others to grow. 

Within the Junior League, Kelsey has served in several significant leadership roles. She chaired the Fund Development Committee for five years, helping guide fundraising strategy and support the League’s mission-driven work in the community. She also served for two years as Executive Vice President, helping oversee operations, support board leadership, and ensure the organization remained focused on sustainable impact and strong member engagement. 

That same commitment to empowerment drives Kelsey’s work at Lead. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its programs and outreach, providing thousands of students, including foster youth and students in alternative education programs, with tools to build confidence and pursue brighter futures. By focusing on practical life skills and personal development, Kelsey and her team help young people believe in their potential and chart paths that extend beyond their circumstances. 

Whether leading a nonprofit organization, mentoring women in the Junior League, or collaborating with community partners, Kelsey remains grounded in one core belief: when people are empowered to lead with confidence, entire communities thrive.  

Dorothea Staursky serves as Director of Oncology Navigation and Support Services at UAB Medicine in Birmingham, Alabama, where she leads a team focused on improving cancer outcomes through patient navigation, psychosocial support, and community outreach. In this role, she advances strategic initiatives that reduce barriers to care and enhance the patient experience. 

In 2021, Dorothea received the UAB Medicine Excellence Award, the organization’s highest staff honor, for exemplifying UAB Medicine’s core values and for her leadership managing COVID-19 Testing Site Operations during the pandemic. 

Dorothea holds a Doctorate in Health Administration from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where she was recognized with the Outstanding Doctoral Student Award for academic excellence and community service. She also earned a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Millsaps College and was named the college’s 2025 Outstanding Young Alumna. 

A passionate healthcare advocate, Dorothea volunteers with the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) and is a two-time bone marrow donor. In 2023, she testified before Congress in support of federal funding for the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program, which has facilitated more than 120,000 lifesaving transplants for patients with blood cancers and disorders. She continues to support NMDP’s advocacy efforts and has hosted donor registry drives across Alabama, Mississippi, and New York. 

Dorothea is deeply committed to serving both her church and community. She serves on her parish council and was recognized as a “Woman to Watch” by the Birmingham Business Journal. 

A member of the Junior League of Birmingham, AL since 2020, Dorothea currently serves on the Executive Board as Member Liaison. She previously served as Fund Development Vice President and Assistant Fund Development Vice President and has held several leadership roles including Chair of the Birmingham AMTRYKE Project, Go the Extra Mile Assistant Chair, and Little Black Dress Committee member. She will serve as the Provisional Director next year. 

Dorothea is a dedicated Junior League leader who brings professionalism, compassion, and humility to every role she serves. 

Grace Steranko is an active-duty U.S. Air Force Noncommissioned Officer, community advocate, and dedicated volunteer whose leadership bridges the military and civilian communities of San Angelo, Texas. Grace currently serves as Course Chief at Goodfellow Air Force Base, where she leads a team of enlisted instructors responsible for training the next generation of Russian Cryptologic Language Analysts. In this role, she mentors service members, oversees instruction, and ensures the highest standards of readiness and excellence for a critical national security mission. 

Grace’s commitment to service extends far beyond her military role. She is an active member of the Junior League of San Angelo, TX, where she has held several key leadership positions supporting the League’s mission and community programs. As 2024–2025 Funds-in-a-Day Co-Chair, Grace helps lead focused fundraising efforts that provide direct resources for local initiatives. She also served as 2024–2025 Children’s Literacy Project Co-Chair, helping expand access to books and literacy resources for children throughout the community. Previously, Grace co-chaired the 2023–2024 Touch-a-Truck Committee, a signature family-focused event that brings the San Angelo community together while raising funds for League programs. Her dedication and enthusiasm were recognized early in her League career when she was named Provisional of the Year for 2022–2023. 

Beyond the Junior League, Grace serves as Chapter President for Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) San Angelo, where she leads volunteers in building and delivering beds for children who do not have a safe place to sleep. Through this work, she has personally helped build more than 500 beds for children across Texas. Grace also serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children in the foster care system, ensuring their voices are heard and their best interests are represented in court. Additionally, she serves as Military Liaison for a local nonprofit run club, helping connect military families with the broader community through fitness and shared activities. 

Grace and her husband, Adam, are raising two children, Theo and Cleo. An avid runner, Grace is currently training for her first ultramarathon, continuing her pursuit of resilience, discipline, and service both on and off the trail. 

Megan R. Storie is an associate attorney at Ward Law LLC in Wichita, Kansas, where she practices exclusively in family law at one of the state’s premier boutique domestic relations firms. Megan represents clients in high-conflict divorce, custody, parenting time, and protection order matters across multiple Kansas counties, managing every stage of litigation with precision and purpose. Her work includes complex discovery, motion practice, statutory best-interests analysis, settlement negotiations, and trial preparation.  In recognition of her legal excellence, she was selected as a 2025 Super Lawyers Rising Star for Kansas and Missouri, a distinction awarded to only a small percentage of attorneys statewide. 

Megan is an active leader within the Kansas legal community. She served on the Executive Board of the Kansas Bar Association Young Lawyers Section as Pro Bono Chair, where she helped develop statewide access-to-justice initiatives in partnership with Kansas Legal Services. Megan is a graduate of the 2024 Kansas Bar Association Leadership Institute, served as a Kansas Delegate to the American Bar Association’s Annual and Midyear Meetings, and contributes to the KBA’s Diversity Committee, Membership Committee, and Kansas Bar Foundation Scholarship Committee. She also serves on the Wichita Women Attorneys Association Programming Committee and the Wesley E. Brown Inn of Court Executive Committee, and is a co-author of the 2024 Kansas Bar Association Family Law Survey. 

Megan’s commitment to service extends deeply into the Wichita community. She previously served on the Board of Directors for The Women’s Network, volunteered as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and graduated from the Young Professionals of Wichita Leadership Academy. In 2024, she was selected as a Catholic Charities Queen Bee, helping lead major fundraising efforts for Harbor House and St. Anthony Family Shelter. That same year, Megan held the title of Miss Sedgwick County, placing in the Top 10 at Miss Kansas and launching the P3 for DV donation initiative benefiting domestic violence survivors. 

Within the Junior League of Wichita, KS, Megan has served as Training Committee Chair-Elect, supported the Holiday Galleria Merchants Committee, and contributed to pro bono and community impact initiatives. Megan currently serves as the 2025–2026 Training Chair, sits on Membership Council, and leads the development of League-wide education initiatives, including the EmpowerHER Conference and member development programming. 

Emily Suñez is a disability advocate, educator, and artist based in Pasadena, California, whose work is rooted in community-building, literacy education, and supporting individuals with chronic and invisible illnesses. Emily began her career in education after earning a BA in Psychology from the College of William and Mary and a Master’s in Teaching English from New York University, working as a classroom ESL teacher before a personal health journey reshaped her professional path. 

After being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease and an autonomic nervous system disorder, Emily stepped away from the classroom to focus on managing her health and supporting others facing similar challenges. In 2018, she founded the Pasadena POTS Support Group, a grassroots effort to foster community among individuals living with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and other forms of dysautonomia. The growth of the support group led to Emily co-founding the nonprofit organization Los Angeles Dysautonomia Network (LADN). As Co-Executive Director, Emily helped expand LADN’s reach to include adult, teen, and caregiver support groups, patient education initiatives, community-building events, and a grant program that assists low-income patients with medical expenses. In recognition of her advocacy, Emily received the Robert Gorski Access Award from the City of Pasadena in 2024 for her contributions to improving accessibility and quality of life for people with disabilities. 

Emily now serves as Outreach Director for LADN and has returned to education as a K–8 literacy teacher and certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist, supporting students with dyslexia and other reading disabilities. She is also an accomplished artist and author whose oil paintings have been featured in magazines and galleries, including a solo exhibition at Crowell Public Library in San Marino. In 2022, Emily wrote and illustrated The Healing Journal: Guided Prompts & Inspiration for Life with Illness, a reflective resource for individuals navigating chronic illness. 

Emily’s volunteer service includes nearly a decade as a literacy tutor with Reading Partners at Pasadena’s Longfellow Elementary School and active membership in the Junior League of Pasadena, CA, where she serves on the operations and DEIB committees. Through advocacy, education, and creative expression, Emily remains committed to building inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities can thrive. 

Samantha Taylor-Kaai has dedicated her career and civic leadership to advancing equity, dignity, and opportunity for women and families experiencing poverty. A mission-driven nonprofit executive, she leads with both strategic vision and deep compassion, working to create systems-level change that strengthens communities and expands access to critical resources. 

Since joining the Junior League of Owensboro, KY, Samantha has distinguished herself as a collaborative and action-oriented leader. Recognized as Provisional Member of the Year in 2023, she went on to serve as Membership Chair, where she strengthened recruitment, mentorship, and leadership pipelines for women. She now serves as President-Elect, helping guide the League’s long-term strategy, expand its community impact, and advance its commitment to advocacy and sustainable change. 

Beyond the League, Samantha serves as Vice Chair of Crossroads Emergency Shelter for Women and Children, where her leadership helped stabilize the organization during a critical period and secure transformative funding to enhance safety and food access for women and families fleeing crisis. She also serves as a Board Member of Girls Inc. of Owensboro-Daviess County, supporting programs that empower girls through confidence-building, wellness education, and leadership development. 

Professionally, Samantha is the Chief Operations Officer of Audubon Area Community Services, a multi-program community action agency serving 39 counties in Kentucky. She provides executive oversight for enterprise-wide operations, compliance, and modernization efforts for a workforce of more than 750 employees. Previously, as Project Director of the Audubon Area Community Care Clinic, she led the expansion of one clinic into three standalone sites, ten school-based health centers, and two mobile units—dramatically increasing healthcare access for women and children in underserved communities. 

Samantha holds an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in accounting and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration. Her leadership has been recognized with honors including Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40, Kentucky Colonel, a 2025 ATHENA Award nomination, and selection for the Leadership Owensboro Class of 2026. 

Maxine Walters is an accomplished attorney, nonprofit founder, and civic leader whose dedication to justice and service has made her one of Mobile, Alabama’s most impactful young professionals. Her connection to the Junior League began pursuing her law degree at Georgetown University Law Center, where she joined the Junior League of Washington, D.C. as a provisional member during her final year. While at Georgetown, Walters demonstrated exceptional leadership as president of the Black Law Students Association and earned both the Dean’s Achievement Award and the 200-Hour Pro Bono Recognition Award for her academic excellence and commitment to public service. 

After graduating, Walters returned to her hometown of Mobile, where she established a respected criminal defense practice. She also serves as a Criminal Justice Act panel attorney for the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Alabama, providing legal representation to indigent defendants. Within the Mobile legal community, she has served as Secretary of the Mobile Bar Association and chaired the 2025 Women Lawyers Trailblazer Tea, an annual event honoring women in the legal profession. Walters is also a past president of the Vernon Z. Crawford Bay Area Bar Association and a member of the Paul W. Brock Chapter of the American Inns of Court. 

Walters transferred to the Junior League of Mobile, AL after returning home and currently serves on the Board of Directors as Fund Development Director, helping strengthen the League’s philanthropic impact. She previously held leadership roles supporting Christmas Jubilee, the League’s signature fundraiser. 

Her leadership extends across numerous civic and nonprofit organizations. She was recently appointed by the Mayor of Mobile to the Mobile Housing Authority Board of Commissioners and serves on the Board of Directors for the Alabama Contemporary Art Center. Walters is also the founder and director of Reaching the Bar, a nonprofit increasing diversity in the legal profession that has introduced hundreds of Mobile high school students to legal careers through mentorship, guest speakers, and an annual mock trial competition. 

Her accomplishments have earned numerous honors, including Mobile Bay Magazine’s “40 Under 40” Class of 2024, a partnership award from Williamson High School, and a National Bar Institute Fellowship Award. 

Kylie Wang is an accomplished editor, entrepreneur, and emerging civic leader in Coral Gables and Miami, Florida. She currently serves as Managing Editor of Coral Gables Magazine, a role she has held for the past four years after first contributing to the publication as a freelance writer more than six years ago. In 2024, Wang was also promoted to Editor-in-Chief of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce’s annual publication and membership directory, overseeing the editorial vision and production of the award-winning publication. The past two editions have been produced entirely under her leadership, further demonstrating her editorial expertise, strategic vision, and commitment to storytelling that elevates the local business community. 

In addition to her editorial career, Wang is the co-founder of Little Local, a technology startup designed to support small businesses and independent vendors. Launched just over a year ago, the platform provides a local alternative to major online retailers by featuring exclusively small, independent businesses and their products. Built to mirror the convenience of large e-commerce marketplaces while remaining entirely free for vendors, Little Local promotes ethical, accessible shopping while strengthening local economies. Through farmers’ market-style events, workshops, and direct community engagement, Wang and her team have already built a network of nearly 100 local vendors. With roots in Coral Gables and Miami, she aims to expand the platform nationwide, creating broader opportunities for small businesses while giving back to the community that shaped her upbringing and early career. 

Wang’s commitment to service extends into her volunteer leadership. In 2023, she joined the Young Associates of the Coral Gables Museum, where she serves as Secretary of the Board, helping lead meetings, plan events, and support fundraising initiatives that have fully funded several museum capital improvement projects. In 2024, she further expanded her impact by joining Junior League of Miami, FL, where she quickly stepped into leadership as Chair of Vendor Engagement, successfully leading the planning and execution of the League’s annual Holiday Bazaar.  

Katelyn Yarbrough is a dynamic entrepreneur, community leader, and advocate for civic engagement in Johnson City, Tennessee. As the owner and operator of Side Hustle Custom Bakery, she has transformed a pandemic-era side project into a thriving local business that has become a staple at community events and celebrations. Her commitment to quality and customer connection has earned widespread recognition, including being named 3rd Best Bakery in Johnson City in the Johnson City Press Readers’ Choice Awards in 2025, a community-driven honor that reflects both her entrepreneurial success and her impact on the local economy. 

Beyond her business achievements, Kat is deeply committed to community service through her leadership in the Junior League of Johnson City, TN. Since becoming an active member in 2020, she has played a key role in strengthening the organization’s impact and member engagement. She currently serves as Membership Director, where she leads efforts to welcome, connect, and retain members. Previously, as Community Impact Director, she spearheaded a successful initiative that resulted in the City of Johnson City officially proclaiming September 19, 2024, as “Find the Good Day,” a recognition that celebrated community service and positive action across the region. 

Her leadership and dedication have been recognized with some of the Junior League’s highest honors. Kat is a three-time award recipient, earning the Spirit of the League Award (2024), the Rosalie Jennings Brandt King Award (2021), and Provisional of the Year (2020) for exemplifying the organization’s mission through service, leadership, and impact. 

In addition to her League service, Kat contributes to youth development and civic engagement as a Gold Star Award Committee Member for the Girl Scouts of Johnson City and as a Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Member. Through her business, volunteer leadership, and community advocacy, she continues to inspire others to get involved and make a difference