Tallahassee Tennis Challenger

Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them? 

My mother and grandmother were very independent and assertive women for their times. My grandmother was a postmaster (not a postmistress!) for most of her life as well as a business owner. She was a strong presence in her community and remained so until her death. My mother worked at a time when many women did not. She enjoyed her work and ended up managing the largest real estate company in Tampa for over 25 years until it was sold in 1998. I have always enjoyed working, and I think that passion came from both of them. As a critical care nurse, I looked forward to every day. It was an extremely rewarding and challenging career. I have been a small-business owner as well, which has proved to be enjoyable for many years.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way. 

People don’t always want honesty! Most of the time they just want you to agree with them.

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

I’d like to grow the Tallahassee Tennis Challenger into a larger event that would bring more to our community. Currently, we are at capacity, so we’re trying to figure out where to go next.

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be? 

Northwest Florida needs to hold on to its own particular charm. We aren’t Miami or Tampa or Orlando, thank goodness — we are so much more. The best places to visit are always the ones who have maintained their unique charm even while growing.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their specific careers?  Be flexible! You never know what curves life is going to throw at you, so you always need to be ready for anything. Keep your mind open and your feet moving.

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Ascension Sacred Heart

Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them?  

My high school principal and my mother are both important role models. My high school principal was brave and bold, and she always pursued what she believed was the right thing to do. I appreciated that even if she created controversy by doing the right thing, she still followed through. My mother taught us to always believe in ourselves. She made us truly feel as though we could achieve anything. Her unconditional love and example of motherhood have been my greatest sources of strength.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way. 

Do not make crucial decisions based on feelings.

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

Teaching others all I have learned is most important to me. I have experienced and learned a lot in my career, and I want to be able to pass that onto others and help them in their careers. With my special medical interest in treating cerebral and spinal vascular lesions, I hope that I can lead others to further assist in healing head, spinal and neck traumas and issues.

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be?

I believe Northwest Florida has the potential to be the main socioeconomic center in this region of the country.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their careers? 

Always give your best in all that you do in every aspect of your life. Life will come with challenges and setbacks, but if you just keep working on you and your passions, you will grow from them and improve yourself even further. Life has so many different areas to manage, so be easy on yourself and just do your best without being so hard on yourself.

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President, Proffitt PR

Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them?

Kay Phelan was the first mentor that I had the honor to learn from when I entered the marketing and public relations industry back in 2006 as a young intern at Destin Commons. Kay is the matriarch of PR on the Emerald Coast, and I have been blessed to learn the ins and outs of traditional PR and the importance of relationships from her throughout the years. Another role model and mentor that I have looked up to for over a decade is McKenzie Burleigh, the associate publisher of Rowland Publishing. Kenzie is the epitome of hustle with grace. She so humbly takes on so many different leadership roles both personally and professionally and gives them her very all, succeeding in everything she does. Most importantly, Kenzie does each of these things with humility, steadiness, positivity and passion. Kenzie has taught me over the years that I can do anything I set my mind to.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way. 

Persistence removes resistance. This is an idea that my dad has instilled in me since I was a young girl. Folks don’t always love the reminders, but persistence in business and life is key.

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

The continuation of Proffitt PR’s Girls’ Night Out. I created this event in 2011 that gathered local ladies for camaraderie, and it grew over five years into hundreds of women coming together to raise thousands of dollars for local charities. I shifted my focus to my clients and have always wanted to resurrect Girls’ Night Out on the Emerald Coast. Stay tuned, ladies!

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be? 

A happy place thriving with health and wealth that visitors and locals can both enjoy.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their careers? 

Do it with your whole heart. Find what you’re passionate about, and never look back. Work hard, find a mentor and don’t lose the human connection. This digital age has many people relying so heavily on virtual communication. There is nothing more important and impactful than a conversation looking someone in the eyes finished with a nice, firm handshake!

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Senior Consultant, VisionFirst Advisors

Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them? 

There have been many women throughout the years who have served as role models and mentors. Most of them do not even realize the small ways they have shaped my life, especially professionally. One of the most impactful pieces of advice I have ever received was from a women’s economic development luncheon about five or six years ago. One of the speakers stated that women needed to “own our seat at the table.” I use these words of advice today to help encourage other women leaders. As women, we often overlook the fact that we worked hard to earn that seat at the leadership table. We must remember that we are there because of the skill sets and insights we bring to the leadership team.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way.

Honestly, I struggle with body image issues. I remember standing in my closet this summer and thinking, “How can I still be grappling with the same body image issues as I did when I was in my 20s?” I have to remember that it is not my physical appearance that makes me who I am, but my confidence in myself as a woman, both in personal and professional settings. This is an issue that many women struggle with, regardless of our age, and it can be hard to ask for help or advice. But we need to remember to reach out and ask for help.

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

One of my personal goals this year was to run a half-marathon. I have been training since mid-June and will finally run the race in October — it was postponed due to Hurricane Ian. Training for it has been both a mental and physical challenge. But, I have grown to love those early morning runs where it is 100% my decision on how fast, how far and how long I run. And when I travel, it is a great way to get out and explore the community, right at dawn, just as the city is beginning to wake up.

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be? 

From the coastline to the rural communities, the 850 region is primed to seize on the investment of new and existing industry growth that will produce new jobs in health care, manufacturing, technology and agriculture. I often say that economic development is a team sport. Our region needs to work together to cultivate these opportunities and the workforce needed to support industry growth in Northwest Florida.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their specific careers? 

Remember to take the time to listen to your clients/customers and your team. Approach each one of your projects with positive energy and a collaborative leadership style. And remember to smile. A smile can help build rapport and put people at ease. It goes a long way in networking and building relationships.

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State University System Board of Governors

Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them? 

I have been truly fortunate to have the influence, guidance and strong friendships of wonderfully talented women of strong character. Though perhaps each woman was different in personality, age or vocation, they all shared a common trait — resiliency. Their responses in the face of a challenge or adversity have been a great motivator and example for me. There is an unmistakable link between our behavior, attitude and success. Two of these influencers joined me at the award celebration, Claire Duchemin and Debbie Huey.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way. 

It may sound cliche, but it is true: Life is not fair. It is common to find, especially in the workplace, a lack of honesty or interest in being a team player. When I began my career, which started in college, I quickly learned not all colleagues are people of integrity. As I have gotten older and more experienced, it has become a little easier to distinguish the motives of others, and with strong leadership, to overcome obstructive personalities.

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

I seek to be a lifelong learner. Currently, I’m enrolling in courses that I didn’t have the time for previously, allowing me to pursue new interests. Although temporarily sidelined during the pandemic, I plan to complete my required flight hours for my helicopter pilot license.

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be? 

A vibrant, healthy community is built on resources. Accessible, quality health care is vital, but so are the social and economic resources, including housing, transportation, safety, arts, education and culture. When families and individuals can live in safe communities with secure, stable employment and compete in the workplace, the entire region thrives.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their careers? 

Seize opportunities. Find ways to take advantage of your skills, interests and values. Be open to learning all you can, whether technology skills, leadership skills or volunteer experiences. Don’t hesitate to ask for counsel from a successful professional. Advice from experienced talent can help steer your career plan. A golden rule is that you can always change your goals if you’re not finding satisfaction in your work — don’t stay stuck in a negative situation. You deserve to pivot and find pleasure in your work life.

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Riedel & Associates

Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them? 

When I started my career in television, our wonderful office manager at WCTV in Thomasville showed a tremendous amount of empathy to a young, divorced mother with four children. She took me under her wing and helped me learn all aspects of the business and mentored me as I was building the foundation of what would turn out to be a successful career.

Throughout my 35 years, I made it a point to surround myself not only with women in the broadcasting business but also with women in the community who would later become important and valuable to my career. To choose only three women would be impossible for me to do because these women are still, to this day, a very important part of my life and continue to inspire me to be the person I am today.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way. 

Two individuals in a young marriage can eventually grow apart. At the time, it seemed like the right thing to do, but one day I finally realized my marriage was not going to work. This change in my life showed me that I could no longer depend on others for the welfare of my children and me. I also discovered how strong, independent and self-sufficient I am. 

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

I have an interest in writing a book about all the incredible and talented people I have interviewed over the years — there are so many memories filled with inspiration and impact.

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be? 

To continue to drive innovative solutions for social, economic and area tourism. Northwest Florida already offers a vibrant foundation for these solutions, and my hope is that the area continues to build upon them.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their careers? 

If you know what you want to do in life, get your foot in the door, be aggressive, ask questions, always strive to do more than what is asked of you, work hard, trust your intuition and above all, trust in God. The old saying is so true, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work another day in your life.” 

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President/CEO, LifeView Group

Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them? 

By far, my most influential female mentor was my grandmother, June Thornberry Raine. She was widowed at a young age and raised a family independently. She was the first female lector at her town’s Catholic Church and the first female vice president at the local bank. She introduced credit cards to the community before they were customary. I have a big family, and she always told us we didn’t have to like each other, but we had to love each other. She applied that lesson to everybody and treated all with kindness. We lost her in May of 2021. She was three months shy of her 95th birthday. At her viewing, a gentleman told me my Granny helped him open his first bank account. He remembers depositing the first dollar he ever made because of her encouragement. To this day, I hear her advice in my head. That’s the type of impact I hope to have on others one day, and she lived it every day.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way. 

The best lesson I’ve learned is that it’s okay not to get everything you want. Hearing “no” is sometimes painful, but things work out like they’re supposed to. “No” doesn’t always mean “never.” Sometimes it means “not right now.”

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

That list is long! The organization I’ve had the privilege of leading exited a 25-year affiliation with a larger health care system last year. The separation was collegial and the best decision for both organizations. We are now an independent nonprofit, and the future opportunities are limitless. In many ways, we now get to make decisions that start-up businesses make — and that’s exciting and terrifying at the same time. Fortunately, I work with the most talented group of individuals who make a difference in the lives of people daily.

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be? 

Northwest Florida should continue to focus on creating communities that attract and retain talent. I have lived in Pensacola most of my life. I met my husband and raised my family here. We’ve been blessed with so many opportunities. Education, personal safety, arts and entertainment, plus the natural beauty of this area are all reasons why we stay. I want both of my children to desire to return to Pensacola because they see the same opportunities that their dad and I had.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their specific careers? 

Say “yes!” to all the things that are scary, to all the things that make you stretch yourself, to all the things that take you out of your comfort zone. You may not excel at all those things, but you will learn valuable life lessons. You will grow in understanding who you are as a person and be better prepared for the future opportunities that will present themselves when the time is right.

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Gulf County Tourist Development Council

Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them? 

My mother, Sharon, is my number one. My father passed away when my brother, Jacob, and I were young, and I learned so much from watching her raise us. She made multi-tasking look effortless. My mother showed me you could have both a successful career and a flourishing family life. She taught me about hard work and to keep my relationship with God at the forefront of all my decisions. Another woman who helped shape me professionally is my previous boss, Jennifer. She is a go-getter and a fantastic example of success in the tourism and marketing industries. I’m elated that I still get to work alongside her on regional initiatives.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way. 

Being a leader isn’t easy or glamorous; it’s challenging and exhausting. Each day, you’re required to make executive decisions that affect others. There’s a lot of responsibility and weight in that. Going through multiple crises in my current role made me understand that an essential part of being a leader is showing up every day — even after those days you want to quit. 

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

Enjoying my family is most important to me. My husband, Matt, and I have a 5-year-old son and an 18-month-old daughter. We want to be very intentional in every moment we have with them. Soon, before we know it, they’ll be grown and living on their own. We try to soak it all in and enjoy the best years of our lives while we live them!

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be? 

Northwest Florida’s natural beauty and diversity are extraordinary. I hope that Northwest Florida has the vision to develop new, exciting opportunities that allow it to be a leader on many fronts. Most importantly, it will enable its young talent to remain in the area and call it their forever home. 

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their careers? 

The best advice I’ve received is, “The world is run by those who show up and speak up.” This advice came to me when I was transitioning into my current role as director and struggling with imposter syndrome. I knew I had the skills and capabilities, but I was still unsure. That piece of advice gave me the confidence to own my voice.

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Costa Enterprises

Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them? 

My mother, Helen, displayed the amazing qualities of patience, kindness and love. These were her special gifts that she shared with everyone she encountered. I loved the fact that she could balance all these attributes and yet be so strong raising five children during the Great Depression. I am honored to be named after her. The other woman that was a role model to me was Queen Elizabeth II. Through her 70 years as the queen, she showed love, guidance, dignity and respect. She balanced her marriage of 74 years and her throne, and she always showed compassion and strength.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way. 

I have allowed God and the Holy Spirit to lead my life through prayer. This has helped me not to make quick decisions in life, which has been my strength through His guidance. So, my lesson is one that I have learned “His way,” not the “hard way.”

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

To always maintain a special relationship with my grandchildren, foster their relationship in a Godly manner and touch their hearts by just listening to them.

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be? 

Northwest Florida should aspire to be the geographic area that is known for opportunity, growth and prosperity with a touch of hospitality. It should be known as a place with giving people that help each other in a unique way that attracts more good people.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their careers?

Never give up as you run across obstacles in life. Let your passion drive your desires for success, and always balance God, family and career — in that order.

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Describe two or three women who served you as important role models and mentors. What did you learn from them? 

Women in my family are the strongest role models I’ve had in my life. Starting with my mother, aunts and grandmother — they were my first role models. And now, my three daughters, Irelyn (18), Ella (17) and Bryre (16), are a constant inspiration to me as I see them navigating life’s challenges and opportunities. As for my professional life, I am surrounded by a team of women in my firm that encourages, inspires and holds me accountable.

Cara, Meredith, Dianne, Meagan, Hannah and Julie embody the epitome of a woman in all facets of life and are my bumper stops and encouragers daily. I have also benefited from the mentorship of Carol Carlan (IHMC) and Virginia Buchanan (Levin Papantonio); both women have passed along their secrets to success and have been there every step of the way to guide me.

Tell us about a lesson you learned the hard way. 

Always put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others. Practicing marital and family law can be particularly taxing on the emotions of the attorney because of the stressful nature of the cases you’re charged with navigating. Often, clients require the “counselor” more than they need the “attorney” part of you. It is easy to lose yourself and give more than you have when clients are experiencing such intense grief and loss.

When my children were younger, I came home at the end of the day with little mommy juice left for them — much less myself. I was burned out and needed more oxygen for myself. My solution was to carve out Mondays for my own projects, business development and self-care so that I’d be able to approach my clients and family with the grace and energy they deserve. 

What unfinished business, personal or professional, is uppermost in your mind? 

This is a hard one! I am constantly moving the bar for myself, so while I’m content, I always feel like there’s a next step to take. Business growth, travel and family continue to be the topics most forefront in my mind.

As it contemplates its future, what should Northwest Florida aspire to be?  A place where our children want to live that is vibrant with activity and full of job opportunities. Our community has it all, but we must retain our talent. As I see kids going out of state for college, I just cringe because I think of all the talent we could be exporting. For them to want to move here, we need to build community and expand job opportunities so that all this exported talent is only temporary.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their specific careers? 

Let personal excellence be your goal post, and don’t worry about what others are doing or saying. Do not give people who are not your biggest fans a front-row seat to your life. I also think that when you are young and have fewer demands on your personal life, you should seize the opportunity to build a career as early as possible. If you prove to be a valuable employee or professional when you are young, when the time comes that your family may need more attention, you have the resume to support flexibility. Embrace how fun it is to work. Hard work and career development are not bad words; don’t let Instagram tell you otherwise!

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