Siam Fisaha
Founder, Luxe Charcuterie
Like an artist turning finger painting into fine art, Siam Fisaha has reimagined finger food with her company, Luxe Charcuterie. Blending her love of travel with a flair for luxury, Fisaha draws inspiration from her global adventures, crafting charcuterie boards that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. “Every board tells a story,” says Fisaha, reflecting her passion for creating experiences that bring people together in connection and celebration. What started as a desire to share the joy of indulgent bites has evolved into a brand known for its sophistication and style. Her dedication to excellence has led Luxe Charcuterie to collaborate with top-tier brands and cater exclusive events. Building a unique identity in a crowded market wasn’t easy, but Fisaha’s perseverance set her apart. To aspiring businesswomen, she offers this advice: “Embrace your uniqueness and pursue your passions relentlessly. Every setback is a learning opportunity.” With a touch of elegance and a dash of wanderlust, Fisaha’s charcuterie boards turn every gathering into a moment worth savoring.
Laura Brittingham
Owner, Brittingham Farms, Lavender & Lambs
With a vision as vibrant as her lavender fields, Laura Brittingham has turned her family’s 85-year-old Mumford/Brittingham Farm into a picturesque agritourism destination. Renamed Brittingham Farms, this Delaware treasure now boasts over 3,200 lavender plants, making it the largest lavender farm in the state. After a successful career in medical devices and a stint as an NFL cheerleader for the Washington Commanders, Brittingham returned to her roots in Millsboro, creating an English countryside-inspired lavender paradise. Her creative flair has led to innovative collaborations including lavender ice cream with The Frozen Farmer and lavender vodka with Forgotten 50 distillery, and her passion for farming shines through her flock of heritage breed Leicester Longwool sheep, a lineage once owned by George Washington. Brittingham’s dedication to agritourism has brought new life to the farm, blending elegance and rustic charm. “I want to show that agriculture can be feminine, classy, and beautiful,” she says. With her signature Dubarry boots and a vision for creating lasting experiences, she’s a true force in Delaware’s farming scene.
Kelley Gable
Owner and Principal Designer, Gable Interiors
Gable Interiors is a high-end residential interior design firm specializing in large-scale renovations, new builds, and full-home furnishing and décor services. With a background in merchandising and design, owner and principal designer Kelley Gable brings her ability to marry function and style in each space she designs, and prides herself on her firm’s distinct aesthetic, which she describes as “classic and refined.” Growing up, Gable found joy in “finding little treasures” with her grandmother, who shared her love of antique shopping with Gable. Those fond memories, the designer says, later inspired her love of interior design, sourcing unique items, and personalizing spaces for clients. Years before starting her own firm, Gable recalled a close family member sharing that she had missed her own calling by not pursuing interior design as a career—a sentiment Gable decided she wouldn’t stand for. “Everything happens at the right time,” she says. In 2020, she opened her firm, which has since appeared in “Architectural Digest,” “Interior Designer,” and other glossy publications.
Sabrina DeVito
Chief Strategy Officer, Best Egg
When Sabrina DeVito was a college student, a career in financial services seemed far-fetched and incredibly dull. But then she took a job with First USA, an early-stage challenger bank with smart people who liked pushing boundaries. DeVito was on the partnership team that launched the company’s first points-based co-branded credit card program, now an essential part of Chase’s portfolio. DeVito joined three other early-stage companies: Juniper, CareerMinds, and Best Egg, a fintech company. In her current position, she helps build and launch the co-branded partnership business. She works on branding and design, customer insights and experience, financial health, and the digital experience. Throughout her career, DeVito has held her own in a male-dominated industry. “Until recently, I was the only woman on the executive team at Best Egg, which at times was lonely,” she acknowledges. She advises women to identify sources of energy. “If your role doesn’t fill you up, change it or find other projects or initiatives that will,” she says. “Seek mentors and sponsors who can help you gain clarity and identify opportunities.” Then, help others. “The reward you get back will far outweigh your expectations,” she notes.
Audrey Mason
Owner, Pottery Mason
A former marketing copywriter in New York and San Francisco, Audrey Mason discovered her passion for clay after taking a beginners throwing class in 2017. Her dreams of making a living with her art came to fruition over several years of growing the Pottery Mason brand and business. Through her small-batch pottery studio in downtown Rehoboth, Mason sells functional, modern, beach-inspired ceramics, alongside select artisan goods. Visitors can watch her at work on the wheel in the on-site studio, where she also hosts introductory workshops—an ode to the way she fell in love with the craft. In addition to growing her business, Mason’s mission is to give back—whether it’s by supporting other makers or fundraising for nonprofits close to her heart, like the Parkinson’s Education and Support Group of Sussex County. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Mason passes on the same advice that her wife, Lindsay Olson, gave her when she doubted herself: “You can do anything you set your mind to; just make sure you have the numbers to back it up.” She also reminds those thinking about a career change that not every path is a direct one, and that’s OK. “I was once a self-taught potter with no business experience,” she says. “Keep trusting your gut—and running the numbers.”
Amanda Bowie
Vice President, Marketing, Communications, and Community Outreach, Bayhealth
Leading with a vision that blends strategy and compassion, Amanda Bowie has become a catalyst for community well-being in Delaware. As vice president of marketing, communications, and community outreach at Bayhealth, she has transformed her passion for making a difference into tangible results. Under her direction, Bayhealth’s community outreach efforts expanded from serving 5,587 people to more than 21,000 within just six months. “I have been fortunate to find myself in a field that enables me to educate and support health care teams dedicated to serving our communities,” she says, highlighting her dedication to improving lives across the state. With a background in English and a master’s in management, Bowie’s career path initially leaned toward education, but her drive to inspire led her to the health care sector. She has spearheaded innovative projects like the 302 Food Rescue initiative, connecting food-insecure Delawareans with fresh, healthy meals. Her guiding advice? “Don’t be the dinosaur in the room. …Always pursue professional development opportunities and learn from others.”
Helana Rodriguez
Director of The Partnership Inc., Delaware State Chamber of Commerce President, Project Comfort
An empathetic and strategic leader, Helana Rodriguez is passionate about people and partnerships. She thrives in environments where she can identify gaps and bring people together to collaborate on ways to break down barriers and move forward toward a common goal. As director of The Partnership, the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s workforce development affiliate, Rodriguez is driven by a commitment to building and retaining talent. She oversees five flagship programs—Intern Delaware, Navigating Delaware Pathways, Superstars in Education and Training, Principal for a Day, and the Delaware Young Professionals Network—designed to foster growth, provide opportunities, and cultivate a skilled workforce. In addition to her work at the state chamber, Rodriguez serves the community by leading a give-back initiative since 2017, focused on reducing isolation among seniors in nursing homes, including Project Comfort. She received the 2024 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award. “The greatest lesson I learned as a woman in business is kindness is my superpower,” she says. Rodriguez is a 2023 Leadership Delaware graduate and received a bachelor’s degree in political science from West Virginia University.
Claire van den Broek
Co-Owner, Huxley & Hiro
As an avid reader and educator who grew up in a family retail business, Claire van den Broek’s Huxley & Hiro bookstore is the natural culmination of her life’s passions. She and business partner Ryan Eanes felt inspired to open the store when a neighborhood favorite, Ninth Street Bookstore, shuttered. “Wilmington is a blooming city that is enjoying a renaissance. …We knew this would be an ideal space, and as professors, we both felt ready to immerse ourselves in the community through a more practical project that would help us bring more art, literature, and music to Market Street,” she says. Growing up in the Netherlands and working for her family’s business early on, van den Broek knew—although her parents had great faith in her—that her broader family favored male heirs for the business. So, she pursued a different path, earning a Ph.D. in both German and comparative literature and a master’s in organizational leadership. She taught at various universities and worked as a linguist, mainly doing contract work for the Department of Defense. “As I approached 40, though, I felt the need to move to something more practical and community oriented,” she says. Reflecting on her path, she credits her humanities degree for fostering her understanding of community that would lead to great partnerships, opportunities, and profits.
We both felt ready to immerse ourselves in the community through a more practical project that would help us bring more art, literature, and music to Market Street.
Katie Kutler
Owner, Kaffé Karma
As the owner of Kaffé Karma in Wilmington, Katie Kutler is changing Delaware’s approach to wellness, one cup of coffee at a time. Kutler has curated more than just a place to grab a latte—her shop has become a community hub for mindfulness, fitness, and authentic connection. Through complimentary health events and workshops, she aims to make wellness accessible to all, fostering a space where people can connect over sips, eats, and a shared commitment to healthier living. Beyond the café, Kutler’s passion for making a difference extends to her nonprofit, the Spread Good Karma Foundation, which focuses on bringing preventive mental health care to those who serve the community. “Do good without expectation,” she advises, a philosophy that guides both her business and personal life. Her dedication to authenticity and community is evident, from teaching meditation in women’s prisons to speaking at events like the Delaware Restaurant Association’s Women of Hospitality conference. Kutler is not just leading a business—she’s leading a movement. Through initiatives like paid service hours and mental health days for her team, she’s setting a new standard in the industry. And, she’s “just getting started,” she says.
Jill Abbott
Associate Director of Events and Point-to-Point Race Director, Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
Jill Abbott is living her dream. Soon after coming to the University of Delaware as a Division I tennis recruit, she discovered the Winterthur Point-to-Point Steeplechase. “I loved everything about it,” she says. In fact, Abbott told her mother she wanted to run it. First, came a detour into politics. Abbott was the staff assistant to Gov. Michael Castle and U.S. Sen. William Roth Jr. and New Castle County’s chief deputy. She also worked at a public relations firm in Delaware and New York. Then she joined Winterthur, where she’s handled large-scale events for more than 25 years. The high-profile job has landed Abbott in “New York Times” articles and appearances on the “Today” show. Admittedly, event planning is a high-anxiety profession. Abbott, who doesn’t “sweat the small stuff,” encourages her staff to acknowledge mistakes so the team can fix them. Always have a plan B—and C, Abbott maintains. “It will make you think through many different options and potential issues,” she explains. “Your decisions are only as good as the information you have in front of you.”
Caitlin Spieker Gee
Co-Owner and Operator, Lavender Fields
From the picturesque shores of Red Mill Pond to the lush landscapes of Lavender Fields, Caitlin Spieker Gee has woven her love for community and nature into a thriving sanctuary. A Delaware native and former litigator in New Orleans, Spieker Gee returned home to raise her children, embracing her role as a mother and co-owner of Lavender Fields alongside her mother, Kerry Spieker. Together, they have created a welcoming haven where visitors can find “peace and magic among the grounds,” she says. At Lavender Fields, the magic extends beyond its gardens. The mother-daughter duo collaborates with fellow mother-daughter team Heather and Claire Sullivan to handcraft Soap Fairy products, sold at nearby farmers markets. The farm features a meditative labyrinth, The Cottage Store, and The Wildflower Café, inviting locals and tourists to unwind and connect with nature. Spieker Gee and her mother are working to finalize their nonprofit status to preserve historic farmland and promote pollinator-friendly vegetation. As they nurture both their community and the land, they remain steadfast in their commitment to creating a beautiful legacy for future generations.
Erica Kirlin
Owner, Beachin Bash & Beach Baes Catering
Erica Kirlin has shaken up celebrations by the shore. In 2018, she and her husband Jim traded Baltimore’s city lights for Rehoboth Beach’s ocean breeze, bringing with them a wealth of experience in hospitality and events. In 2020, they launched Beachin Bash, now the go-to name for luxury beachside festivities along the Delaware coastline. Under Kirlin’s visionary leadership, Beachin Bash has quickly risen to the top, snagging titles like Best Event Planner for Sussex County in both 2023 and 2024 from “Coastal Style” magazine. This year, they also earned the prestigious Delaware Small Business EDGE Grant, allowing them to expand their operations with a brand-new transit van for large-scale events. From elegant beach picnics to unforgettable bonfires and VIP bachelorette parties, Kirlin’s knack for crafting magical moments is evident in every event. “Our goal is to turn visions into reality,” she says, and with each celebration, Beachin Bash is doing just that.
Karen Feeley
President/Owner, Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home
Karen Feeley hasn’t strayed too far from her roots. The Delaware native attended St. Mark’s High School and earned a degree in physical therapy from the University of Delaware, after which she worked for Alfred I. DuPont Institute/Nemours Children’s Hospital and other sports medicine and orthopedic clinics. Her familiarity with the state and its residents is one reason why Feeley is an asset at Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home, founded in 1997 by Vincent Strano Sr. and Joseph Feeley Jr. and their families. The Delaware Small Business Chamber of Commerce must agree. It named the funeral home Best Family-Owned Business in 2019 and 2022 and Best Woman-Owned Business in 2023 and 2024. In 2016, the licensed funeral director and Penny Rogers co-founded Face the Facts Delaware, which offers education, support, harm reduction, and Narcan training to those affected by addiction. There are monthly education and outreach meetings, and Face the Facts DE hosts the state’s largest overdose awareness event with 100-plus resource tables. In 2023, the nonprofit received the Lt. Governor’s Delaware Health Leader Award. Feeley applies the same dedication and care to her business, which serves more than 600 families a year and consistently receives five-star ratings. Feeley says it is a privilege to walk beside hurting families and help them through some of their darkest days.
It is a privilege to walk beside hurting families and help them through some of their darkest days.
Rafiah Wilson
Owner/General Contractor, Delaware Kitchen, Bath & Basements
A multitalented entrepreneur, Rafiah Wilson is the owner of both NOTO Permanent Aesthetics in Wilmington and Delaware Kitchen, Bath & Basements, which has a showroom in Smyrna. “My goal was to combine my love for helping people with my skills in construction, providing clients with spaces that truly meet their needs and improve their quality of life,” she says. “My commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has always been the cornerstone of my success.” Trained as a dental hygienist and in applying permanent cosmetics, her journey in remodeling and construction began when she volunteered for community renovation projects and witnessed firsthand the profound impact a well-executed remodel could have on the lives of individuals and families. “Seeing the joy and relief on their faces as their homes became more functional and beautiful reinforced my commitment to this path,” she recalls. Wilson encourages other women to follow their passions in creating businesses that will fulfill them professionally while helping others to enjoy better lives. “Live life outside the box and fulfill your wildest dreams,” she says.
Jeannie Stith
Founder and CEO, Color Guru
Sixteen years ago, Jeannie Stith’s aunt convinced her to have her colors analyzed. “It turned out to be life-changing—suddenly, I looked great in everything I wore and my wardrobe coordinated effortlessly,” says Stith, who was inspired to start Color Guru, a service that analyzes a person’s hair, skin, and eye color, and matches them with their perfect color palette. “Seasonal color analysis had its heyday in the ’80s and early ’90s but then faded into the background. I decided to bring it back—with a modern twist. We created fresh, updated palettes, expanded the seasonal types to be more inclusive and accurate, and made the entire service virtual,” Stith says. Now, Color Guru has grown to a team of 10 that has clients in 48 countries. The company has been featured in “Vogue,” “Real Simple,” and “The New York Times,” and recently launched a certification program to train new professionals. If Stith has one piece of advice for young entrepreneurial spirts, it’s this: “Start a business about something you’re truly fascinated by. There will be times when running a business feels like trying to push a boulder uphill. It’s that deep interest in what you do that will keep you going when things get tough.”
Jenifer Edmonston
Managing Director, SEA Studio
“I was inspired—pushed, really—to enter the field of architecture and design,” Jenifer Edmonston concedes. She was working toward a master’s in pharmacology when she was laid off from her pharmaceutical sales job due to a market change. The terms of her severance precluded Edmonston from taking another job in the industry, and around the same time, her husband’s growing architecture firm, SEA Studio, was in desperate need of project management. “I realized that I could help the firm grow by becoming the organizing force behind the operation, so I stepped in and have never looked back,” Edmonston says. “We have grown from a small, residential firm running out of our guest bedroom to a growing practice with a second location in Philadelphia, and projects across the U.S.” Since 2009, the firm has earned 10 Delaware AIA (American Institute of Architects) awards for its aesthetic and sustainability. SEA has also provided pro bono and at-cost design services to local nonprofits, such as civic and cultural organizations. Edmonston’s greatest lesson has been learning to embrace change. After all, “It is inevitable,” she says. “Growth comes from being willing to adapt. … It was a huge challenge to make a new path for myself, but by being open to change and eager to learn new skills, I have been able to make SEA Studio stronger and more successful.”
Maria Freudenthal
Business Adviser, Small Business Development Center of Delaware
Maria Freudenthal moved to the United States from Chile in her late 20s despite not speaking English. “I had to navigate the complexities of life in a new country on my own—without any help—and figure out everything, from how to communicate effectively to understanding the way things work.” Today, she is dedicated to making Small Business Development Center of Delaware clients feel welcome and secure. The self-professed problem-solver and confidence-builder came to Delaware in 2017 after coordinating English language programs in Connecticut. She works with established business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, focusing on the Hispanic community. “My personal experience, combined with my training and profound understanding of the challenges and needs faced by this community, allowed me to add value from the start,” says Freudenthal, who has a degree in agribusiness from Universidad Central de Chile, a certificate in small business management entrepreneurship, and a nonprofit management certificate. Her education reflects her approach. “Prepare for any challenge by gathering as much information as possible, carefully analyzing it, and allowing time to reflect before making my best effort,” she says.
Aly Mitchell
Owner, Paiya
In the wake of the 2020 pandemic, a vision emerged from a temporary pause: Aly Mitchell, a dedicated fitness enthusiast and former spa manager, saw an opportunity to fill a gap in the activewear market. “I was passionate about fitness and good health. I wanted it for myself and saw how valuable it is for others,” she explains. After having a stroke in 2012 with a 2% chance of survival, she knew she wanted to work in the wellness industry. Thus, Paiya was born—an activewear brand that emphasizes affordability without sacrificing quality. Launching online in February 2021, Mitchell quickly learned the importance of community support. “Your direction is more important than your speed,” she points out to young women in business, advising them to focus on the big picture. From humble beginnings of fulfilling orders from her guest room, Mitchell transformed her vision into a thriving brick-and-mortar store in May 2022. Her commitment to her brand has also led to 85 pop-up shops and a growing online presence. As she reflects on her journey, Mitchell shares, “When I see a stranger wearing my leggings, it’s a reminder of how far I’ve come.” Living in Hockessin with her high school sweetheart and beloved dog, Mitchell is excited to continue inspiring others on their wellness journeys.
Allison Taylor Levine
Founder and CEO, Local Journalism Initiative/Spotlight Delaware
Allison Taylor Levine is passionate about democracy, community, and journalism, especially in Delaware. Levine is the founder and CEO of the Local Journalism Initiative, whose flagship project is “Spotlight Delaware,” a first-of-its-kind collaborative community-powered nonprofit newsroom. After starting her career as a reporter at several newspapers, including “The News Journal,” Levine spent 20 years in various communications and community leadership roles in Delaware, including 12 years as vice president for marketing and communications at the Delaware Community Foundation (DCF), a nonprofit that establishes and manages charitable funds, primarily in the First State. Levine left the DCF in January 2024 to become the first full-time employee of “Spotlight Delaware” and launched spotlightdelaware.org on March 1. The team has grown to 11 people, including editor-in-chief Jacob Owens and five full-time reporters. Levine is a nationally recognized expert on local news ecosystems, civic engagement, philanthropy, and the role of media in building democracy, community, and social capital. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English and journalism from University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and a master’s in public administration from the University of Delaware.
Nyemade Boiwu
Founder/CEO, African Butterfly Enterprises
Nyemade Boiwu is a woman on a mission to amplify voices, drive change, and foster connection. As the owner of African Butterfly Enterprises, she’s found her niche in diversity, equity, and inclusion, blending her expertise in communication with a passion for social justice. With over 26,000 followers across social media, she’s more than just a content creator—she’s a storyteller with heart. But finding her own voice took time. After 16 years at Bank of America, Boiwu realized something was missing. “I didn’t feel fulfilled,” she says. Now, she’s channeling that corporate experience into meaningful collaborations with nonprofits like the American Civil Liberties Union of Delaware and the Stop the Violence Coalition. She’s also a force in mental health advocacy with her weekly series, “What’s on Your Mind,” sparking important conversations nationwide. Her career accolades are impressive, but Boiwu’s path wasn’t without its challenges. Early in her entrepreneurial pursuits, she struggled with knowing her worth. “It’s better to hold out for clients who truly see the value in what you offer,” she advises. Once she embraced that, the results were transformative.
Rev. Chelsea Spyres
Pastor and Executive Director, Riverfront Ministries
As pastor and executive director of Riverfront Ministries, Rev. Chelsea Spyres believes in nurturing body and spirit. The United Methodist pastor helped lead the 2021 launch of the Wilmington Kitchen Collective, a collaboration between Riverfront Ministries and Wilmington Alliance. The collective began in one location with seven culinary entrepreneurs and has grown to three (soon to be four) locations and 26 small businesses. Spyres grew up in Newark, earning a degree in social work at University of Delaware before moving to Detroit to serve as a caseworker at a nonprofit working with homeless people. She earned her master’s in divinity at Wesley Seminary in Washington, D.C., and has a passion for helping faith communities transform underutilized spaces into ones that meet the needs of communities. Some of the best advice she received in her career is to lean into her curiosity. “At times it can be tempting to rest in the familiar and to get stuck in how things have always been,” she says. “This spirit of curiosity and experimentation draws me into new places with new people.”
Kathy McDonald
Director of Development, Celebrate Wellness
With more than 40 years in hospitality, Kathy McDonald has experienced all the positions that make a restaurant run, including owning one while working full time. Throughout her career, she experienced the joys of colleagues who lifted her up and the lows of losing industry friends to addiction and suicide. “Burnout and depression were catalysts that led me to sell my place and resign from my full-time position,” she recalls. She ended up at the Delaware beaches as a director of catering, ultimately winning numerous awards. Currently, she leads Celebrate Wellness, a philanthropic initiative of LaVida Hospitality Group dedicated to supporting mental health in restaurant communities. “Our industry needs a major movement toward better mental health and psychological safety,” she says. “How we share our experiences creates community, and community creates a sense of belonging and healing. The resources we are providing and others that are available to hospitality workers, have definitely made a big difference. I look forward to sharing my story and helping to end the stigma of mental health.”
Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald
Director of Marketing and Events, Delaware Symphony Orchestra
A fan, consumer, and creator of the arts since childhood, Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald is founder of Arts in Media LLC, which marketed and celebrated local arts from 2005 to 2022. She is now creating new energy for the Delaware Symphony Orchestra as director of marketing and events. “Working in Delaware’s nonprofit arts sector has given me immeasurable joy and a sense of purpose,” she says. “Our charge as Delawareans must be to ensure that this talent is consistently recognized, nurtured, and properly supported.” Her professional advice to others? Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to take risks. “If your intuition and passion is there, take the leap,” she says. Kramer-Fitzgerald earned a degree in communications from Penn State. An accomplished painter, she created and manages the Delaware Arts Info blog and is board chair of City Theater Company. She has served on area event committees, including Christina Cultural Arts Center’s Christi Awards, the Fringe Wilmington Festival, The Delaware Contemporary gala, and AIDS Delaware’s Red Ribbon Runway.
Anya Lindsey-Jenkins
Executive Director, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Delaware
Anya Lindsey-Jenkins is a compassionate and driven nonprofit executive with nearly two decades of service to at-risk youth. Throughout her career, Lindsey-Jenkins has been a tireless advocate for underserved communities. Her deep understanding of at-risk youth challenges has guided her in developing innovative programs and organizations that empower young individuals to overcome obstacles and create brighter futures for themselves and their families. As the executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Delaware, her focus on mentorship and youth development creates an environment where young people can reach their full potential. Among her initiatives is renovating and opening a Youth Enrichment Center in Kent County. Lindsey-Jenkins is a certified health education specialist with a bachelor’s in journalism from Temple University and a master’s in community health from Saint Joseph University. “The most critical lesson in my career is that when you live a purposeful life and are mission-driven, you will succeed at anything you decide to accomplish,” she says. “The secret sauce is to remain resilient and steadfast throughout challenging times because just around the corner is the breakthrough.”
Claudine Wiant
Executive Director, Prevent Child Abuse Delaware
Her role as the executive director of Prevent Child Abuse Delaware (PCAD) is Claudine Wiant’s first job leading an organization. “Although I had never been more than a middle manager, I was a subject matter expert, I could easily forge relationships, and I knew how to lead people, so I applied,” she says. PCAD provides personal safety/abuse prevention training to 40,0000 schoolchildren in pre-K through sixth grade, as well as training and resources to foster parents and home visitors and their supervisors. Formerly, Wiant worked as director of programs for the Beau Biden Foundation for the Protection of Children. “I was fortunate to have Patty Dailey Lewis as my boss. She moved mountains for the protection of children,” she says. Wiant’s experience also includes 20 years of service in law enforcement with New Castle County Police. Exploring new career options, she earned her master’s and juris doctor degrees. She also began volunteering as a Stewards of Children facilitator and a certified court-appointed special advocate. “Take inventory of your vast competencies. Be authentic to yourself and others,” she advises.
Elizabeth D. Albano
President and Chief Executive Officer, Artisans’ Bank
Early in her career, Beth Albano took two pieces of advice to heart. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and consider roles that will help you grow and add value. “I chose to invest in myself, my colleagues, and my company by taking on and learning more across departmental lines,” explains Albano, whose job in Artisans’ audit and compliance department gave her a companywide view. More than 30 years later, she leads the Wilmington-based bank, which has 12 branches and two commercial and consumer lending offices. Moreover, she’s on the Governor’s Council on Banking and the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia’s Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council. Albano is past chair and a member of the Delaware Bankers Association as well as a member of ChristianaCare Health System’s audit and compliance committee. Her advice to others? “Work hard, ask questions, critically think about what you are learning— and what you have learned—become a resource, share knowledge, surround yourself with strength—because no one person knows or can do all—and be a teammate; nothing is beneath you, no matter the position you hold.”
Dr. Heather Boyle
Owner, Family Dental Associates, PA
As a child, Heather Boyle played “dentist” using a needlepoint magnification mirror. Her “patient’s” dental chair was a La-Z-Boy recliner. Today, the native Delawarean runs a solo dental practice in a field dominated by group practices and male peers. It has not been easy. The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine graduate knew how to care for teeth, but handling the books for the Dover business was a baptism by fire. She also coped with loans, a pandemic, and a tornado. “Nonetheless, both my business and I have come out on the other side of those devastating events by standing tall,” says Boyle, who has been nominated as a top dentist for seven straight years. “I fought to keep my business open to treat emergency patients and keep them out of overrun emergency rooms and hospitals.” The practice also treats veterans at no cost. It helps that she follows her father’s advice: “Stay steady to course.” The sailor’s words have “kept me focused on the task at hand, and to keep pushing even when there’s no land in sight.”
Laura Gendreau
Senior Director, Financial Empowerment and Housing Stability, United Way of Delaware
Laura Gendreau was young when she learned about being a “change agent.” She translated for her Spanish-speaking grandmother, and when her mother died, she entered the nonprofit arena to positively impact her community. Past positions include director of the Puerto Rican Action Board in New Jersey and site administrator for the Ocean County Multi-Service Program, where she implemented after-school homework programs targeting English as a Second Language students. As senior director for United Way of Delaware, Gendreau manages the day-to-day operations of seven programs under the Stand by Me umbrella. The financial coaching program helps Delawareans reach their goals, including home ownership. Gendreau is currently on the governor-appointed Delaware Hispanic Commission, one of her many affiliations. She’s a firm believer in preparation and leading by example. However, the cancer survivor and mother of three knows the value of rest. “We need to give ourselves time to heal and nourish our bodies, minds and spirit,” she says.
Jane Pierantozzi
Founder and Executive Director, Faithful Friends Animal Society
Prior to working in animal welfare, Jane Pierantozzi spent more than 15 years improving the lives of abused children, homeless and mistreated animals, and the people who care for them. Faithful Friends Animal Society (FFAS) began as a vision in Pierantozzi’s living room 24 years ago, with a handful of volunteers and no budget. Since then, the nonprofit has grown to $4.7 million, with 90 employees serving 18,000 pets and 24,000 people each year. Today, it offers shelter to rescued pets, low-cost veterinary care to animals in the community, and a wide range of programs including a free pet food bank to help keep pets in loving homes. Pierantozzi spearheaded the creation and passage of major state legislative animal welfare reforms that have saved hundreds of thousands of animals from certain death and led to Delaware being named the first no-kill state in the country, with a 90% or better save rate across every shelter. Under Pierantozzi’s direction, FFAS has led a series of model policy reforms, including a state-sponsored spay/neuter fund that benefits low-income pet owners, stray cat caretakers, and shelters; the country’s first shelter standards law; and the creation of Delaware’s Office of Animal Welfare. A longtime vegan, Pierantozzi also founded the nonprofit Plant Powered Delaware, with local health, animal rights, and environmental advocates to educate citizens on the multitude of benefits of switching to a plant-based diet.
Rachel Nuzzi
Chief Human Resources Officer, Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell LLP
Looking back, Rachel Nuzzi’s career path in human resources was an unexpected yet natural progression, she says. “I honestly say that a role in HR was just naturally in me. Beginning with my first job in high school as a barista at a coffee shop, I started training new hires and recruiting friends to work with me.” But it was not a career Nuzzi foresaw as an undergrad at the University of Delaware with an undeclared major. She was a member of a sorority and enjoyed the recruitment process, “interviewing students interested in joining a sorority, selling them on mine, and onboarding and mentoring students.” She earned a degree in communications and took a job with a public relations and marketing firm. She went on to the law firm Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell LLP in 2005, where she worked for a few years before pursuing other opportunities. “I was recruited into all my subsequent positions by people I worked with in previous roles, or networked with while involved in professional organizations,” she says. In 2022, she came full circle, becoming chief human resources officer for the firm.
Dawn Sheiker
Director of Client Relations, Morris James LLP
Dawn Sheiker is a visionary in business development, known for her keen insight and ability to drive transformative growth. With a career grounded in change management, strategic planning, lawyer coaching, and practice group management, she has built a reputation as a forward-thinking leader. Sheiker’s strength lies in her ability to see the bigger picture, pinpoint opportunities for growth, and effectively guide teams toward increased profitability and market reach. Currently, as the director of client
relations at Morris James LLP, Sheiker brings her consultative approach to the forefront. She collaborates closely with attorneys, helping them craft and execute strategic business plans that elevate client service. Her personal commitment to clients and referral sources goes beyond transactions—Sheiker fosters meaningful connections to gain valuable feedback that informs the firm’s revenue strategies. A past president
of the Legal Marketing Association (LMA) Northeast Region, Sheiker has also played a pivotal role in shaping the legal marketing community. Her service on the 2022 Annual Conference Planning Committee and her long-standing leadership with LMA, including roles as treasurer and president of the legacy Metro Philadelphia Chapter, underscore her dedication to the field. A frequent speaker on topics like client service, strategic planning,
and business development, Sheiker continues to inspire professionals across the industry.
Beth Altemus
Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations, Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore Inc.
While working at MBNA, Beth Altemus became an Easterseals volunteer. “I fell in love with the mission of serving people with disabilities and seniors,” she recalls. “I found my purpose.” After 22 years in banking, she joined Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore Inc.’s development department in 2007. She quickly advanced to donor relations and events manager. Caring for her dying mother influenced her decision to become director of in-home services and its caregiving programs. “It added a new dimension to my understanding of the meaning and value of the mission and allowed me to interact with the community and families served by Easterseals,” Altemus says. She’s held her current role since 2016, and her team has secured record-breaking support for the organization’s 75th year. Altemus proves that women can follow their passions and be devoted wives, mothers, and grandmothers. “There is a unique satisfaction in knowing that you are making a positive difference in the lives of others and your community,” she concludes.
Suzanne Bogan Martinelli
CEO, The Ardent Team LLC
Suzanne Bogan Martinelli is an innovator in health and beauty. She is the dynamic founder and CEO of The Ardent Team and formed NJ Health Hospice and Palliative Care. She is also the founder of Bombshell Beauty, which specializes in unique hairstyling tools and accessories sold worldwide under the Bombshell Beauty, Vidal Sassoon, Hot Tools, and Karina brands. Her best career advice comes from inventor Thomas A. Edison: “There is no substitute for hard work.” As an inventor herself, she holds three U.S. patents and two trademarks. As general sales manager at Delaware’s WJBR 99.5, she led her team to record success. Martinelli earned a bachelor’s in communications from Penn State and is a winner of the Delaware Economic Development Office: Emerging Technology Center Best Overall Business Plan Award. She advises other entrepreneurs to surround themselves with enthusiastic, like-minded people who offer different skill sets. “Enthusiasm is contagious,” she says. Martinelli enjoys serving as a mentor to empower fellow entrepreneurs and is a judge for the Temple University Fox School of Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Institute’s BYOBB Competition.
Donyale Hall
Owner and CEO, Minority Contractors & Associates LLC
Donyale Hall embodies the spirit of making a difference, whether as a self-made businesswoman or a Gulf War-era veteran of the United States Air Force. Beginning her career as a communications and navigations systems specialist in avionics, she diligently pursued a degree in electrical engineering during her off-duty hours. In 2008, Hall earned her MBA in finance from Wilmington University, and, despite a struggling economy, she launched two successful ventures—a catering company and a consultancy dedicated to empowering others to start their own businesses. In 2010, Hall shifted her focus to securing funding for Delaware veterans, collaborating with the U.S Department of Labor. She has held various leadership roles, including at-large commissioner for Dover’s Human Relations Commission, president of the Frederick Douglass Foundation, and the first vice president of Blacks in Government. Today, her contracting company prioritizes the growth of minority-owned businesses. Through her advocacy for veterans and commitment to economic development, education, and youth empowerment, Hall consistently exemplifies the motto, “Service above self.”
Sarah Gilmour
Outreach and Development Manager, Pathways to Success Inc.
Sarah Gilmour takes pride in being a prominent voice for empowering women and girls in Delaware. Her journey began in the retail and banking industries, eventually leading her to a pivotal role as the volunteer services manager for the American Red Cross. This experience, particularly helping disaster-affected families, ignited her passion for nonprofit work. Now serving as the outreach and development manager for Pathways to Success, Gilmour plays a vital part in preparing youth, adults, and families for brighter futures by managing special events and initiatives aimed at underserved students. Known for her exceptional relationship-building skills, Gilmour collaborates with various child-focused stakeholders at Pathways and has contributed to the Sussex County Development Committee as a founder of the Fund for Women for nine years. In 2023, she was honored with the First Founders Award from the Fund for Women recognizing her efforts in connecting founders to the organization. Gilmour’s advocacy extends to various committees, including the Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice and the Volunteer Delaware 50+ Advisory Council. Above all, she follows one guiding principle: “It’s all about the kids!”
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