Camille Abrahams Emeagwali, M.S.
Director of Programs
The New York Women's Foundation (NYWF)
Camille Abrahams Emeagwali is a Director of Programs at The New York Women's Foundation (NYWF) where she oversees all capacity building projects as well as a portfolio of grantees focused on the economic security of women and girls in New York City. Prior to NYWF, Camille was the Director of Capacity Building at Harm Reduction Coalition, where she oversaw the National Training Institute, the HIV Prevention Capacity Building Initiative, and the CBA for Syringe Access Community Mobilization Program. Since 2000, Camille has provided technical assistance, consultation and skills-building trainings to community based organizations in the areas of organizational development and program sustainability. Camille has demonstrated her expertise in these areas by presenting at numerous conferences all across the country as well as co-authoring the 2008 Journal of HIV/AIDS & Social Sciences article, “Lessons Learned: Building the Capacity of Community-Based Organizations and Health Departments Implementing HIV Interventions in African American Communities”. With over fifteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Camille is committed to supporting the work of bold and dynamic organizations that are positively impacting the lives of women and communities of color. Camille, a native of Queens, NY, has a Master’s of Science in Nonprofit Management from the Milano School of International Affairs, Management and Urban Policy at The New School and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government and Politics from University of Maryland, College Park.
Director of Programs
The New York Women's Foundation (NYWF)
Camille Abrahams Emeagwali is a Director of Programs at The New York Women's Foundation (NYWF) where she oversees all capacity building projects as well as a portfolio of grantees focused on the economic security of women and girls in New York City. Prior to NYWF, Camille was the Director of Capacity Building at Harm Reduction Coalition, where she oversaw the National Training Institute, the HIV Prevention Capacity Building Initiative, and the CBA for Syringe Access Community Mobilization Program. Since 2000, Camille has provided technical assistance, consultation and skills-building trainings to community based organizations in the areas of organizational development and program sustainability. Camille has demonstrated her expertise in these areas by presenting at numerous conferences all across the country as well as co-authoring the 2008 Journal of HIV/AIDS & Social Sciences article, “Lessons Learned: Building the Capacity of Community-Based Organizations and Health Departments Implementing HIV Interventions in African American Communities”. With over fifteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Camille is committed to supporting the work of bold and dynamic organizations that are positively impacting the lives of women and communities of color. Camille, a native of Queens, NY, has a Master’s of Science in Nonprofit Management from the Milano School of International Affairs, Management and Urban Policy at The New School and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government and Politics from University of Maryland, College Park.
Anzala Alozie, J.D.
Vice President
Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York
Anzala Alozie is recognized non-profit executive and leader on women, girls, & youth empowerment. With over a decade of non-profit executive experience, Anzala’s expertise includes women & girls leadership, organizational development & management, strategic planning, public policy, partnership building, and board relations. Anzala is the Vice President of Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York and leads the region’s membership, volunteer services, and program initiatives. Anzala has keynoted & presented leadership development & empowerment workshops across the nation. A graduate of Albany Law School, Anzala spent several years representing immigrant survivors of domestic violence. Anzala has also worked on national and local legislative issues impacting women & girls, most notably on the Violence Against Women Act. She is a member of the National Women of Color Network Board and Albany Leadership High School Board of Trustees. Anzala is also a licensed Zumba Fitness Instructor, an active member of the Zumba Instructor Network, and holds the Zumba Basic and Zumba Sentao Specialty license. Anzala teaches at VENT Fitness in Guilderland & Clifton Park . She is a proud member of the NYS Bar Association, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. & Jack & Jill of America. She is also the recipient of prestigious awards such as the Josephine Hudson Fortitude Award, The Women’s Fund Bridge Builder Award, and Woman of Excellence Award. Anzala resides in upstate New York with her supportive husband and four dynamic & energetic children.
Vice President
Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York
Anzala Alozie is recognized non-profit executive and leader on women, girls, & youth empowerment. With over a decade of non-profit executive experience, Anzala’s expertise includes women & girls leadership, organizational development & management, strategic planning, public policy, partnership building, and board relations. Anzala is the Vice President of Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York and leads the region’s membership, volunteer services, and program initiatives. Anzala has keynoted & presented leadership development & empowerment workshops across the nation. A graduate of Albany Law School, Anzala spent several years representing immigrant survivors of domestic violence. Anzala has also worked on national and local legislative issues impacting women & girls, most notably on the Violence Against Women Act. She is a member of the National Women of Color Network Board and Albany Leadership High School Board of Trustees. Anzala is also a licensed Zumba Fitness Instructor, an active member of the Zumba Instructor Network, and holds the Zumba Basic and Zumba Sentao Specialty license. Anzala teaches at VENT Fitness in Guilderland & Clifton Park . She is a proud member of the NYS Bar Association, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. & Jack & Jill of America. She is also the recipient of prestigious awards such as the Josephine Hudson Fortitude Award, The Women’s Fund Bridge Builder Award, and Woman of Excellence Award. Anzala resides in upstate New York with her supportive husband and four dynamic & energetic children.
Lola W. Brabham
Executive Deputy Commissioner
New York State Department of Civil Service
Ms. Brabham was appointed Executive Deputy Commissioner of the NYS Department of Civil Service by Governor Andrew Cuomo. Previously, Ms. Brabham served as Deputy Commissioner for Administration and Chief and Financial Officer for the State Department of Labor and, prior, was Assistant Chief Budget Examiner for the State Division of the Budget. She was Assistant Secretary for Health, Medicaid and Oversight and Director of Human Services in the Executive Chamber under Governor David Paterson. Early in her career, she was a Legislative Budget Analyst for the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means. Ms. Brabham has a dual B.A. in Criminal Justice and Sociology from the State University of New York and an M.P.A. from Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy.
Executive Deputy Commissioner
New York State Department of Civil Service
Ms. Brabham was appointed Executive Deputy Commissioner of the NYS Department of Civil Service by Governor Andrew Cuomo. Previously, Ms. Brabham served as Deputy Commissioner for Administration and Chief and Financial Officer for the State Department of Labor and, prior, was Assistant Chief Budget Examiner for the State Division of the Budget. She was Assistant Secretary for Health, Medicaid and Oversight and Director of Human Services in the Executive Chamber under Governor David Paterson. Early in her career, she was a Legislative Budget Analyst for the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means. Ms. Brabham has a dual B.A. in Criminal Justice and Sociology from the State University of New York and an M.P.A. from Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy.
Danie Buchanan "Danie B"
Radio Personality/ Social Media Specialist
WAJZ-FM Albany, New York
Jamz 96.3
Danie B is an innovative radio personality and event host, who is laying out her blueprint to take the media industry by storm. This Atlanta native was born in Eastpoint, GA, and by age 5, she knew a career in radio & television was for her.
Danie went to Georgia Southern University and majored in Multimedia Communication. She graduated with her B.S. in 2010, but while at GSU she started hosting many campus productions including the Mr.GSU Pageant and the Multicultural Student Center’s Essence Awards. She was also an on air personality and news anchor for WVGS 91.9 the Buzz, she worked to provide a live webcast and megatron footage of all GSU home games, and she could be seen on GSU’s Channel 97 as a news reporter and anchor. In her extracurricular activities, she also became a member of the prestigious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
In August 2010, Danie B began interning in various departments at iHeartMedia in Atlanta, GA, where she laid a sturdy foundation for her blossoming career. Her unique multimedia skills, bubbly charm and personality landed her a job as traffic producer and anchor for Total Traffic Network and on air personality for iHeartMedia’s WiLD 105.7 and 96.7. Danie has since moved on, and she is now the morning show host for Albany, New York’s JAMZ 96.3.
Outside of her evolving career, Danie B enjoys, running, working out, and her life’s passion of helping people, especially teen youth.
Danie B, an eccentric and gifted young, trendy and chic visionary who will most definitely leave her mark in her industry as she continues to live by her life’s motto, “Success is a journey, not a destination.”
Radio Personality/ Social Media Specialist
WAJZ-FM Albany, New York
Jamz 96.3
Danie B is an innovative radio personality and event host, who is laying out her blueprint to take the media industry by storm. This Atlanta native was born in Eastpoint, GA, and by age 5, she knew a career in radio & television was for her.
Danie went to Georgia Southern University and majored in Multimedia Communication. She graduated with her B.S. in 2010, but while at GSU she started hosting many campus productions including the Mr.GSU Pageant and the Multicultural Student Center’s Essence Awards. She was also an on air personality and news anchor for WVGS 91.9 the Buzz, she worked to provide a live webcast and megatron footage of all GSU home games, and she could be seen on GSU’s Channel 97 as a news reporter and anchor. In her extracurricular activities, she also became a member of the prestigious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
In August 2010, Danie B began interning in various departments at iHeartMedia in Atlanta, GA, where she laid a sturdy foundation for her blossoming career. Her unique multimedia skills, bubbly charm and personality landed her a job as traffic producer and anchor for Total Traffic Network and on air personality for iHeartMedia’s WiLD 105.7 and 96.7. Danie has since moved on, and she is now the morning show host for Albany, New York’s JAMZ 96.3.
Outside of her evolving career, Danie B enjoys, running, working out, and her life’s passion of helping people, especially teen youth.
Danie B, an eccentric and gifted young, trendy and chic visionary who will most definitely leave her mark in her industry as she continues to live by her life’s motto, “Success is a journey, not a destination.”
Dr. Shai L. Butler
Associate Vice President for Student Success & Chief Diversity Officer
The College of Saint Rose
Dr. Shai L. Butler currently serves as Associate Vice President for Student Success & Chief Diversity Officer for The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York. A specialist in intergroup dialogue, conflict resolution, coaching, and mentoring on topics that pertain to race, ethnicity, class and gender, Shai is regarded as a diversity expert. She is respected for her ability to be a bridge and consensus builder who uses tact and diplomacy to initiate innovative programs and problem solve. Her passion for transforming work and learning environments is derived from her commitment to personal development as evidenced by her appointment as a 2003 fellow of the National African American Women’s Leadership Institute where she received developmental training on principles of servant leadership at Gallup Leadership Institute in Nebraska and Bennett College in North Carolina. Shai put those skills immediately to work by providing service to the local community through Capital Region volunteerism with Mediation Matters, Hispanic Outreach Services of Catholic Charities, African Reflection Foundation, Zonta International as well as board service and political appointments with the Arbor Hill Development Corporation, the Capital District African American Coalition on AIDS, the New York State Prevention Planning Group for HIV & AIDS, and the Schenectady Human Rights Commission. Her commitment to the eradication of HIV & AIDS took her across the globe where she spent several weeks in South Africa working with AIDS orphans in both the city of Johannesburg and Masoyi, a small rural township near the Mozambique border as part of the Home Based Care Project.
In 2013, Shai was one of four women selected from across the State to be a recipient of the Center for Women in Government & Civil Society’s Women in Public Service Leadership Award. In February 2014, Shai was one of sixty leading educators, policy makers and industry experts invited to Washington D.C. to take part in a forum hosted by the White House Office of Science, Technology and Policy to discuss ways to increase minority participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math fields. As an alumna of the University at Albany-SUNY, she earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s in Educational Administration. Shai is a recent graduate of Northeastern University where she earned her doctorate in Law & Policy from the College of Professional Studies in July 2014. She presently resides in Schenectady, New York with her husband Odo and their two sons, Koa (9) and Nori (8). Their daughter, Chantelle is a graduate of the University at Buffalo-SUNY and is professionally employed in Advancement as a Development Associate for a tier one research institution in the Northeast.
Associate Vice President for Student Success & Chief Diversity Officer
The College of Saint Rose
Dr. Shai L. Butler currently serves as Associate Vice President for Student Success & Chief Diversity Officer for The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York. A specialist in intergroup dialogue, conflict resolution, coaching, and mentoring on topics that pertain to race, ethnicity, class and gender, Shai is regarded as a diversity expert. She is respected for her ability to be a bridge and consensus builder who uses tact and diplomacy to initiate innovative programs and problem solve. Her passion for transforming work and learning environments is derived from her commitment to personal development as evidenced by her appointment as a 2003 fellow of the National African American Women’s Leadership Institute where she received developmental training on principles of servant leadership at Gallup Leadership Institute in Nebraska and Bennett College in North Carolina. Shai put those skills immediately to work by providing service to the local community through Capital Region volunteerism with Mediation Matters, Hispanic Outreach Services of Catholic Charities, African Reflection Foundation, Zonta International as well as board service and political appointments with the Arbor Hill Development Corporation, the Capital District African American Coalition on AIDS, the New York State Prevention Planning Group for HIV & AIDS, and the Schenectady Human Rights Commission. Her commitment to the eradication of HIV & AIDS took her across the globe where she spent several weeks in South Africa working with AIDS orphans in both the city of Johannesburg and Masoyi, a small rural township near the Mozambique border as part of the Home Based Care Project.
In 2013, Shai was one of four women selected from across the State to be a recipient of the Center for Women in Government & Civil Society’s Women in Public Service Leadership Award. In February 2014, Shai was one of sixty leading educators, policy makers and industry experts invited to Washington D.C. to take part in a forum hosted by the White House Office of Science, Technology and Policy to discuss ways to increase minority participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math fields. As an alumna of the University at Albany-SUNY, she earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s in Educational Administration. Shai is a recent graduate of Northeastern University where she earned her doctorate in Law & Policy from the College of Professional Studies in July 2014. She presently resides in Schenectady, New York with her husband Odo and their two sons, Koa (9) and Nori (8). Their daughter, Chantelle is a graduate of the University at Buffalo-SUNY and is professionally employed in Advancement as a Development Associate for a tier one research institution in the Northeast.
Cassandra Carter
Research Assistant
Advocates for Human Potential
Cassandra Carter serves as a Research Assistant at Advocates for Human Potential. She has experience in conducting qualitative interviews, drafting survey instruments, and data management. Cassandra acts as the Primary Interviewer for the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) grant for homeless mothers with dependent children. Responsibilities include: data collection, management, and analysis, including collecting and reporting Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) data, minimizing client attrition, and co-leading focus groups. She enjoys travel, food and fun. In her leisure time, Cassandra instructs Zumba classes for children and adults.
Research Assistant
Advocates for Human Potential
Cassandra Carter serves as a Research Assistant at Advocates for Human Potential. She has experience in conducting qualitative interviews, drafting survey instruments, and data management. Cassandra acts as the Primary Interviewer for the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) grant for homeless mothers with dependent children. Responsibilities include: data collection, management, and analysis, including collecting and reporting Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) data, minimizing client attrition, and co-leading focus groups. She enjoys travel, food and fun. In her leisure time, Cassandra instructs Zumba classes for children and adults.
Kathleen Ciccone, R.N., M.B.A.
Executive Director, Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS) Quality Institute
Co-Director, New York State Partnership for Patients
As Executive Director, HANYS Quality Institute, Ms. Ciccone directs and coordinates all Association activities for HANYS’ membership related to quality oversight, performance improvement, and research initiatives. She is responsible for advocacy and representation for legislative, regulatory, and accreditation initiatives; development and oversight of research projects; oversight of comparative data projects; and division management. Ms. Ciccone is HANYS’ key liaison for quality activities with external organizations at national and state levels. She currently serves on the CMS hospital Star Ratings Technical Expert Panel.
As Co-Director, New York State Partnership for Patients, Ms. Ciccone co-directed education and consultation programs with hospitals throughout the state to achieve national Partnership for Patients Goals of reducing hospital-acquired complications by 40% and preventable readmissions by 20%.
She is a frequent lecturer and author of several publications. She received her Master’s degree from the State University at Albany and is a doctoral candidate expected in 2015.
Executive Director, Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS) Quality Institute
Co-Director, New York State Partnership for Patients
As Executive Director, HANYS Quality Institute, Ms. Ciccone directs and coordinates all Association activities for HANYS’ membership related to quality oversight, performance improvement, and research initiatives. She is responsible for advocacy and representation for legislative, regulatory, and accreditation initiatives; development and oversight of research projects; oversight of comparative data projects; and division management. Ms. Ciccone is HANYS’ key liaison for quality activities with external organizations at national and state levels. She currently serves on the CMS hospital Star Ratings Technical Expert Panel.
As Co-Director, New York State Partnership for Patients, Ms. Ciccone co-directed education and consultation programs with hospitals throughout the state to achieve national Partnership for Patients Goals of reducing hospital-acquired complications by 40% and preventable readmissions by 20%.
She is a frequent lecturer and author of several publications. She received her Master’s degree from the State University at Albany and is a doctoral candidate expected in 2015.
Beth Coco
Executive for Financial Literacy and Wellness
SEFCU
Meet Beth Coco, SEFCU’s Executive for Financial Literacy and Wellness with the responsibility of advancing member and community financial knowledge for a healthy financial future. Over the past two years, Beth was UAlbany’s first entrepreneur-in-residence (EIR). Working through the Office for Innovation Development and Commercialization Beth helped UAlbany build a culture of entrepreneurship across the entire campus engaging students, faculty and staff that had an interest in turning ideas into reality. A major accomplishment was launching with students a campus entrepreneur organization providing inspiration, experiential learning opportunities, and entrepreneurial skill development.
Beth Coco has more than 28 years of experience in company building, development and performance improvement. In a variety of executive roles, she has had extensive entrepreneurial success in customer relationship management, sales and procurement contracting, staff development, marketing, operations and managing technical personnel in information technology education, non-profit organizations and financial institutions. Beth consults on national training rollouts, use of technology in the workforce and changing job responsibilities due to implementing technology. She has developed and managed 400-plus technical documentation projects for private and public sector organizations. Beth actively mentors and advises small business entrepreneurs and executives.
In 1986, Beth founded MicroKnowledge, Inc., a New York technology training company that today has customers nationwide. She served on a public board, Capital Bank, for 15 years and now serves on the Advisory Council of Capital Bank, Chemung Canal Trust Company (CHMG). Beth has been recognized as an industry leader through several awards, including Entrepreneurial Excellence, Showcase Governor's Award for Science and Technology and Top Entrepreneur.
Beth serves on the Sponsorship Council for the Northeast Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. Beth is appointed as the liaison for the BayView Academy in Providence, Rhode Island. In addition, Beth is an Associate of the Sisters of Mercy in Albany, New York. She is one of the founding directors, past president of Circles of Mercy, Sisters of Mercy of America 1998 – 2006.
She holds an M.A.L.S. in adult workforce education and career development and a B.S. in business, economics and entrepreneurial management from the State University of New York, Empire State College where she was honored with the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. Beth also holds a certificate in management and supervisory skills from Cornell University.
Executive for Financial Literacy and Wellness
SEFCU
Meet Beth Coco, SEFCU’s Executive for Financial Literacy and Wellness with the responsibility of advancing member and community financial knowledge for a healthy financial future. Over the past two years, Beth was UAlbany’s first entrepreneur-in-residence (EIR). Working through the Office for Innovation Development and Commercialization Beth helped UAlbany build a culture of entrepreneurship across the entire campus engaging students, faculty and staff that had an interest in turning ideas into reality. A major accomplishment was launching with students a campus entrepreneur organization providing inspiration, experiential learning opportunities, and entrepreneurial skill development.
Beth Coco has more than 28 years of experience in company building, development and performance improvement. In a variety of executive roles, she has had extensive entrepreneurial success in customer relationship management, sales and procurement contracting, staff development, marketing, operations and managing technical personnel in information technology education, non-profit organizations and financial institutions. Beth consults on national training rollouts, use of technology in the workforce and changing job responsibilities due to implementing technology. She has developed and managed 400-plus technical documentation projects for private and public sector organizations. Beth actively mentors and advises small business entrepreneurs and executives.
In 1986, Beth founded MicroKnowledge, Inc., a New York technology training company that today has customers nationwide. She served on a public board, Capital Bank, for 15 years and now serves on the Advisory Council of Capital Bank, Chemung Canal Trust Company (CHMG). Beth has been recognized as an industry leader through several awards, including Entrepreneurial Excellence, Showcase Governor's Award for Science and Technology and Top Entrepreneur.
Beth serves on the Sponsorship Council for the Northeast Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. Beth is appointed as the liaison for the BayView Academy in Providence, Rhode Island. In addition, Beth is an Associate of the Sisters of Mercy in Albany, New York. She is one of the founding directors, past president of Circles of Mercy, Sisters of Mercy of America 1998 – 2006.
She holds an M.A.L.S. in adult workforce education and career development and a B.S. in business, economics and entrepreneurial management from the State University of New York, Empire State College where she was honored with the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. Beth also holds a certificate in management and supervisory skills from Cornell University.
Meredith S. Cohn
Senior Director, Social Events
American Heart Association
Meredith Cohn has worked as a Director for the American Heart Association for the past 8 years. She manages both the Heart Ball and Go Red For Women Campaign in the Albany, NY market and is responsible for raising over $700,000 per year to fund the American Heart Association’s mission of building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. In addition to her development position, she is also a certified health and wellness coach and runs the American Heart Association’s BetterU program, a 12 week heart health makeover for a select group of women in our region.
Meredith is active in her community supporting many non-profit organizations including the local youth choir, the Alzheimer’s Association and Autism Speaks. She lives in Clifton Park, NY with her husband Harry and their 17 year old son Ian. Their daughter, Mackenzie, is a 2015 St. Rose graduate and is pursuing a career in music.
Tennille D. Daniels, MPH, PMP
Research Associate
IMPAQ International
Tennille D. Daniels, MPH, PMP is a creative project manager who uses innovation and influence to move people to action. She is an experienced program manager of health care projects where the overall goal is to improve quality of care and patient safety. Currently, Tennille lives in the Washington, DC area and serves as a Research Associate at IMPAQ International. Prior to her work at IMPAQ, she was a Senior Program Manager at the Health Research & Educational Trust in Chicago. There she was responsible for managing the operations of an over $100 million dollar federally funded project. She has been blessed to gain a strong skill set in public health and business management through work experience with organizations such as The Coca-Cola Company, Accenture, Hughes Spalding Children’s Hospital, and the United States Department of Health and Human Services, HIV/AIDS Bureau.
Tennille has a passion for helping women live their best lives. She is the founder of Divas, MPH (Making our People Healthier) a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to helping women achieve total health and wellness. She uses her passion, creativity and talents to be of service through the planning of educational and community-based programs.
Tennille earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems Management from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. She also holds a Masters in Public Health degree from the Rollins School of Public Health in Atlanta, GA.
Research Associate
IMPAQ International
Tennille D. Daniels, MPH, PMP is a creative project manager who uses innovation and influence to move people to action. She is an experienced program manager of health care projects where the overall goal is to improve quality of care and patient safety. Currently, Tennille lives in the Washington, DC area and serves as a Research Associate at IMPAQ International. Prior to her work at IMPAQ, she was a Senior Program Manager at the Health Research & Educational Trust in Chicago. There she was responsible for managing the operations of an over $100 million dollar federally funded project. She has been blessed to gain a strong skill set in public health and business management through work experience with organizations such as The Coca-Cola Company, Accenture, Hughes Spalding Children’s Hospital, and the United States Department of Health and Human Services, HIV/AIDS Bureau.
Tennille has a passion for helping women live their best lives. She is the founder of Divas, MPH (Making our People Healthier) a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to helping women achieve total health and wellness. She uses her passion, creativity and talents to be of service through the planning of educational and community-based programs.
Tennille earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems Management from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. She also holds a Masters in Public Health degree from the Rollins School of Public Health in Atlanta, GA.
Miriam Dixon
Director of Human Resources
City of Albany, NY
Miriam Dixon is a born leader, as one of twelve children she was raised in a family that emphasized the importance of vision, leadership, and service. Mrs. Dixon has shown her passion for leadership and service since she was 14 years old, serving as a peer lawyer in the Kansas City Peer Court Program. Mrs. Dixon went on to be President of her Universities Young Democrats Chapter. During her Senior year of College Mrs. Dixon was selected as a “Shear Fellow” to attend the 21st Century Leadership Academy, sponsored by the Sue Shear Institute for Women in Public Life.
Mrs. Dixon currently serves as Director of Human Resources for the City of Albany. In this role she oversees staffing, employee relations, training, benefits, civil service, EEO and MWBE. Mrs. Dixon previously served as the City Payroll Manager. Prior to relocating to New York, Mrs. Dixon worked as a finance executive, serving as the Controller for several years of a Kansas City based company. After seeing the company through two acquisitions Mrs. Dixon was relocated to the upstate area. Mrs. Dixon holds a dual bachelor’s of science degree in Psychology and Accounting, from Missouri State University.
Director of Human Resources
City of Albany, NY
Miriam Dixon is a born leader, as one of twelve children she was raised in a family that emphasized the importance of vision, leadership, and service. Mrs. Dixon has shown her passion for leadership and service since she was 14 years old, serving as a peer lawyer in the Kansas City Peer Court Program. Mrs. Dixon went on to be President of her Universities Young Democrats Chapter. During her Senior year of College Mrs. Dixon was selected as a “Shear Fellow” to attend the 21st Century Leadership Academy, sponsored by the Sue Shear Institute for Women in Public Life.
Mrs. Dixon currently serves as Director of Human Resources for the City of Albany. In this role she oversees staffing, employee relations, training, benefits, civil service, EEO and MWBE. Mrs. Dixon previously served as the City Payroll Manager. Prior to relocating to New York, Mrs. Dixon worked as a finance executive, serving as the Controller for several years of a Kansas City based company. After seeing the company through two acquisitions Mrs. Dixon was relocated to the upstate area. Mrs. Dixon holds a dual bachelor’s of science degree in Psychology and Accounting, from Missouri State University.
Jade Gibson
Owner
Jade's Hair Envy
Jade Gibson Is the heart of Jade's Hair Envy. She Is the owner and outstanding artistic Hair Stylist of this exciting mind-body salon. Jade has over 21 years of experience with complete client satisfaction. She is a graduate of The Orlo School Of Cosmetology And Hair Design In Albany, New York. Jade is a modest stylist with exceptional talent that transforms her client's hair enabling individual personality to shine through. She is known for being a "Master Designer" of short cuts and is an Educator/Technician for Influance Hair Care, keeping her up to date on the newest coloring techniques and styles.
Annmarie Lanesey
President
Green Tree Technology
Annmarie Lanesey, President of Greane Tree Technology, has over fifteen years’ experience in technology transformation, process reengineering, and new media production. Since co-founding Greane Tree Technology in 2008, she has overseen projects for publishing powerhouses, social media startups, academic institutions, national nonprofits, and New York State agencies. Ms. Lanesey is responsible for Greane Tree’s business operations, strategic development, and creative direction. She is a champion of Agile development and an advocate for women in STEM. In 2012, Ms. Lanesey was selected by Albany Business Review as one of the 40 Under Forty and as one of the six Women Who Mean Business.
Prior to founding Greane Tree Technology, Ms. Lanesey had a successful career as an independent new media producer. For Morse Zehnter Associates, she created and managed MZA Multimedia, a full service technical animation and motion design studio that produced media ranging from advertising animations to 3-D building forensic models. Ms. Lanesey profitably managed the studio and its staff for 7 years, producing work honored with Davis, Pegasus and Telly awards.
Ms. Lanesey holds a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Art Media and Communication, and a Master of Fine Arts in Integrated Electronic Arts, from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute . She received the RPI Founders Award of Excellence and was the first RPI undergraduate to be granted a full scholarship to the Electronic Arts graduate program. Her new media artistic work has won top prizes in international festivals and has screened at over 100 contemporary art venues worldwide.
Ms. Lanesey is passionate about community service and is a member of the boards of the Commission on Economic Opportunity for the Greater Capital Region Foundation and the Hudson Valley Community College Foundation.
President
Green Tree Technology
Annmarie Lanesey, President of Greane Tree Technology, has over fifteen years’ experience in technology transformation, process reengineering, and new media production. Since co-founding Greane Tree Technology in 2008, she has overseen projects for publishing powerhouses, social media startups, academic institutions, national nonprofits, and New York State agencies. Ms. Lanesey is responsible for Greane Tree’s business operations, strategic development, and creative direction. She is a champion of Agile development and an advocate for women in STEM. In 2012, Ms. Lanesey was selected by Albany Business Review as one of the 40 Under Forty and as one of the six Women Who Mean Business.
Prior to founding Greane Tree Technology, Ms. Lanesey had a successful career as an independent new media producer. For Morse Zehnter Associates, she created and managed MZA Multimedia, a full service technical animation and motion design studio that produced media ranging from advertising animations to 3-D building forensic models. Ms. Lanesey profitably managed the studio and its staff for 7 years, producing work honored with Davis, Pegasus and Telly awards.
Ms. Lanesey holds a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Art Media and Communication, and a Master of Fine Arts in Integrated Electronic Arts, from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute . She received the RPI Founders Award of Excellence and was the first RPI undergraduate to be granted a full scholarship to the Electronic Arts graduate program. Her new media artistic work has won top prizes in international festivals and has screened at over 100 contemporary art venues worldwide.
Ms. Lanesey is passionate about community service and is a member of the boards of the Commission on Economic Opportunity for the Greater Capital Region Foundation and the Hudson Valley Community College Foundation.
Lindsey Mask
Founder/ CEO
Ladies America
Lindsey Mask is the Founder and CEO of Ladies America, a national young women’s professional networking group offering women an opportunity to connect and advance personally and professionally. The original organization, Ladies DC, was founded in 2006 and has grown to a network of close to 2,000 top-tier professional women in and around the nation’s capital and has expanded to New York, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Texas. In 2011, Ladies DC partnered with the United Nations Foundation to host its inaugural “Women Leading the Future” women’s conference, drawing in hundreds of attendees and speakers from across the country. The 2012 Conference will be in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Center for Women in Business.
Lindsey Mask is also a Principal at Global Vision Communications (GVC), a strategic public relations and business development firm. Mask is an expert in public & media relations, new media strategy, branding & marketing, tactical outreach and business development communications. She also launched and manages the firm’s women’s practice.
Prior to joining Global Vision Communications, Mask served as Communications Director for U.S. Congressman Howard P. “Buck” McKeon of California, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, where she handled national and local media, served as spokesperson for the Congressman and designed and implemented online, traditional and constituent outreach communications strategies. Mask’s tenure with McKeon lasted over five years, beginning first on the House Education & Workforce Committee, where she served as Press Secretary and as Director of Outreach & Coalitions.
In 2008, Mask took a hiatus from Capitol Hill to manage all national network and cable television coverage with a team of 22 professional volunteers for the 2008 National GOP Convention hosted in St. Paul, Minnesota.
The Texas native previously worked as Press Secretary for Congressman Trent Franks of Arizona and at the state level in the Texas House, Senate and as a speechwriter for the first female Texas Commissioner of Education.
Preceding her work in politics and business, Mask was a television news anchor and reporter for an ABC affiliate in Michigan. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (double major) in Mass Communication and Speech Communication from Texas State University and studied journalism and communications abroad at the University of West London (formerly Thames Valley University) in England.
In 2012, she was named one of the top thought leaders under 40 by Washington Life Magazine. She serves on the founding Board of the 2012 G8 Young Global Leaders; is a co-founder of DC Entrepreneurship Week; an Ambassador for Availor Investments, a social impact investment fund in NYC and on the Board of the Women
Under Forty Political Action Committee (WUFPAC), aimed at helping women under forty secure seats in federal office. She regularly lectures on media, public relations, networking and communications for the Leadership Institute, Women in Public Policy’s WeLEAD program at American University, the Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN) and the Women’s Congressional Staff Association. Believing in global business and social change, Mask has spent a great deal of time overseas, most recently in 2011 on a mission trip to Haiti.
Mask has been featured by National Journal, Power Women Magazine, The Hill Newspaper – The Washington Scene, ION’s Metro Magazine (a national television network), WUSA9, NBC Nightside, The Broad Perspective (radio), Capitol File Magazine, District Dish, Networking News and HerExchange. Ladies DC/ Ladies America has partnered with such organizations as Womensphere’s Global Summit in NYC, Global Woman Summit of DC, the United Nation’s Foundation, Fair Fund against human trafficking, Becky’s Fund combating domestic abuse, Newsbabes for Cure, DC Entrepreneurship Week, Do It in Person, StreetWise Partners, Women’s Congressional Staff Association, Luke’s Wings and Bisnow’s programs for Women in Business, Technology and Journalism.
Founder/ CEO
Ladies America
Lindsey Mask is the Founder and CEO of Ladies America, a national young women’s professional networking group offering women an opportunity to connect and advance personally and professionally. The original organization, Ladies DC, was founded in 2006 and has grown to a network of close to 2,000 top-tier professional women in and around the nation’s capital and has expanded to New York, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Texas. In 2011, Ladies DC partnered with the United Nations Foundation to host its inaugural “Women Leading the Future” women’s conference, drawing in hundreds of attendees and speakers from across the country. The 2012 Conference will be in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Center for Women in Business.
Lindsey Mask is also a Principal at Global Vision Communications (GVC), a strategic public relations and business development firm. Mask is an expert in public & media relations, new media strategy, branding & marketing, tactical outreach and business development communications. She also launched and manages the firm’s women’s practice.
Prior to joining Global Vision Communications, Mask served as Communications Director for U.S. Congressman Howard P. “Buck” McKeon of California, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, where she handled national and local media, served as spokesperson for the Congressman and designed and implemented online, traditional and constituent outreach communications strategies. Mask’s tenure with McKeon lasted over five years, beginning first on the House Education & Workforce Committee, where she served as Press Secretary and as Director of Outreach & Coalitions.
In 2008, Mask took a hiatus from Capitol Hill to manage all national network and cable television coverage with a team of 22 professional volunteers for the 2008 National GOP Convention hosted in St. Paul, Minnesota.
The Texas native previously worked as Press Secretary for Congressman Trent Franks of Arizona and at the state level in the Texas House, Senate and as a speechwriter for the first female Texas Commissioner of Education.
Preceding her work in politics and business, Mask was a television news anchor and reporter for an ABC affiliate in Michigan. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (double major) in Mass Communication and Speech Communication from Texas State University and studied journalism and communications abroad at the University of West London (formerly Thames Valley University) in England.
In 2012, she was named one of the top thought leaders under 40 by Washington Life Magazine. She serves on the founding Board of the 2012 G8 Young Global Leaders; is a co-founder of DC Entrepreneurship Week; an Ambassador for Availor Investments, a social impact investment fund in NYC and on the Board of the Women
Under Forty Political Action Committee (WUFPAC), aimed at helping women under forty secure seats in federal office. She regularly lectures on media, public relations, networking and communications for the Leadership Institute, Women in Public Policy’s WeLEAD program at American University, the Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN) and the Women’s Congressional Staff Association. Believing in global business and social change, Mask has spent a great deal of time overseas, most recently in 2011 on a mission trip to Haiti.
Mask has been featured by National Journal, Power Women Magazine, The Hill Newspaper – The Washington Scene, ION’s Metro Magazine (a national television network), WUSA9, NBC Nightside, The Broad Perspective (radio), Capitol File Magazine, District Dish, Networking News and HerExchange. Ladies DC/ Ladies America has partnered with such organizations as Womensphere’s Global Summit in NYC, Global Woman Summit of DC, the United Nation’s Foundation, Fair Fund against human trafficking, Becky’s Fund combating domestic abuse, Newsbabes for Cure, DC Entrepreneurship Week, Do It in Person, StreetWise Partners, Women’s Congressional Staff Association, Luke’s Wings and Bisnow’s programs for Women in Business, Technology and Journalism.
Rose Miller
Owner
Pinnacle Human Resources, LLC
Rose is the Owner of Pinnacle Human Resources, LLC located in Albany, NY. A human resources professional for over twenty years, her expertise is human resources consulting. Providing strategic HR support and expert HR best practices she helps clients reduce costs and focus on their core business. She offers clients customized solutions that fit any size company. Her practice includes HR audits, employee handbook preparation, on-site and off-site HR support services, training, employee performance programs, talent acquisition and alignment of people to fit corporate initiatives.
Rose has overseen the growth of Pinnacle Human Resources and was formerly the Managing Partner of Bonadio SourceHR and DR Human Resources. Her company continues to offer HR solutions and valued-added services to clients with a local, state- wide, national and global presence. Clients count on Pinnacle HR for professional guidance on employee conflicts, performance management and HR Best Practices. In an environment that has become increasingly complex in terms of legal and regulatory compliance issues, clients are finding it more and more important to utilize Human Resources consultants on a regular basis.
Owner
Pinnacle Human Resources, LLC
Rose is the Owner of Pinnacle Human Resources, LLC located in Albany, NY. A human resources professional for over twenty years, her expertise is human resources consulting. Providing strategic HR support and expert HR best practices she helps clients reduce costs and focus on their core business. She offers clients customized solutions that fit any size company. Her practice includes HR audits, employee handbook preparation, on-site and off-site HR support services, training, employee performance programs, talent acquisition and alignment of people to fit corporate initiatives.
Rose has overseen the growth of Pinnacle Human Resources and was formerly the Managing Partner of Bonadio SourceHR and DR Human Resources. Her company continues to offer HR solutions and valued-added services to clients with a local, state- wide, national and global presence. Clients count on Pinnacle HR for professional guidance on employee conflicts, performance management and HR Best Practices. In an environment that has become increasingly complex in terms of legal and regulatory compliance issues, clients are finding it more and more important to utilize Human Resources consultants on a regular basis.
Dr. Fe Mondragon, M.D.
Obstrician and Gynecologist
Mondragon-McGrinder Medical Associates
Dr. Fe Mondragon received her BS in Pre-Medicine, Magna Cum Laude from the University of San Carlos and her medical degree from the University of Santo Tomas Philippines. She served as resident physician in obstetrics and gynecology and Chief Resident at the University Hospital. She was Clinical Instructor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University from 1973-1975. In 1975, Dr. Mondragon immigrated to the United States. She was a resident in Pathology prior to joining the residency program of OB/GYN at Albany Medical Center. She continued at the Medical Center as a Fellow of the Maternal Fetal Medicine Department and subsequently as Clinical Instructor and Ultrasound Instructor of the Maternal Fetal Medicine Department.
In 1981 Dr. Mondragon set out to open her solo practice in Clifton Park and has continued to practice there and joined with Dr. McGrinder to start Mondragon McGrinder Medical Associates in October 2000 with offices located in Clifton Park and Schenectady.
In 1999-2002, Dr. Mondragon was President of Medical Staff at Bellevue, The Woman's Hospital in Schenectady, NY. In 2011, She received the "Woman of the Year" award during the "Women's Night Out" in recognition of her dedication to women's health.
Obstrician and Gynecologist
Mondragon-McGrinder Medical Associates
Dr. Fe Mondragon received her BS in Pre-Medicine, Magna Cum Laude from the University of San Carlos and her medical degree from the University of Santo Tomas Philippines. She served as resident physician in obstetrics and gynecology and Chief Resident at the University Hospital. She was Clinical Instructor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University from 1973-1975. In 1975, Dr. Mondragon immigrated to the United States. She was a resident in Pathology prior to joining the residency program of OB/GYN at Albany Medical Center. She continued at the Medical Center as a Fellow of the Maternal Fetal Medicine Department and subsequently as Clinical Instructor and Ultrasound Instructor of the Maternal Fetal Medicine Department.
In 1981 Dr. Mondragon set out to open her solo practice in Clifton Park and has continued to practice there and joined with Dr. McGrinder to start Mondragon McGrinder Medical Associates in October 2000 with offices located in Clifton Park and Schenectady.
In 1999-2002, Dr. Mondragon was President of Medical Staff at Bellevue, The Woman's Hospital in Schenectady, NY. In 2011, She received the "Woman of the Year" award during the "Women's Night Out" in recognition of her dedication to women's health.
Donna Montalto, MPP
Executive Director
American College/ Congress of Obstricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), District II
For the past 24 years, Donna Montalto has served as the Executive Director for the American College/Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, (ACOG), District II. Donna is responsible for managing the New York State (chapter) office in Albany which serves 4,500 obstetrician-gynecologists. Prior to ACOG, Donna worked for NYS Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno and was responsible for all women’s health care policies. She is most often credited with writing the laws guaranteeing all maternity patients a 48 / 96 hour hospital stay after childbirth. Donna has written and received over 8 million dollars in medical educational grants. Most importantly, Donna is a devoted spectator of her 2 teenage son’s baseball games.
Christina Roarke
Director of Financial Aid
Excelsior College
Ms. Roarke has over 16 years experience in higher education administration. She has served as the Director of Financial Aid at Excelsior College since October 2014 and oversees federal, state and institutional aid programs for Excelsior’s non-traditional student population, including working adults, members of the military and veterans.
Excelsior College, a 4-year, private, non-profit distance education institution, provides educational opportunity to adult learners, striving to meet the needs of those traditionally underserved in higher education. The College is a recognized leader in prior-learning assessment and degree completion for adult students and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Prior to her work at Excelsior, Ms. Roarke was Senior Associate Director of Financial Aid at the University at Albany. She is the former Director of Financial Aid at Maria College and served as the Assistant Vice President for Student Lending in Bank of America’s northeast region. Earlier in her career, she served as Assistant Director of Financial Aid and Financial Aid Counselor at her alma mater, The College of Saint Rose, in Albany, New York, where she studied Philosophy, Religious Studies and Women’s Studies.
She is an inaugural member of the Excelsior College Advanced Leadership Development Program. Ms. Roarke also serves as a mentor in the Excelsior College Leadership Academy and a moderator for the Lean In leadership circle.
Director of Financial Aid
Excelsior College
Ms. Roarke has over 16 years experience in higher education administration. She has served as the Director of Financial Aid at Excelsior College since October 2014 and oversees federal, state and institutional aid programs for Excelsior’s non-traditional student population, including working adults, members of the military and veterans.
Excelsior College, a 4-year, private, non-profit distance education institution, provides educational opportunity to adult learners, striving to meet the needs of those traditionally underserved in higher education. The College is a recognized leader in prior-learning assessment and degree completion for adult students and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Prior to her work at Excelsior, Ms. Roarke was Senior Associate Director of Financial Aid at the University at Albany. She is the former Director of Financial Aid at Maria College and served as the Assistant Vice President for Student Lending in Bank of America’s northeast region. Earlier in her career, she served as Assistant Director of Financial Aid and Financial Aid Counselor at her alma mater, The College of Saint Rose, in Albany, New York, where she studied Philosophy, Religious Studies and Women’s Studies.
She is an inaugural member of the Excelsior College Advanced Leadership Development Program. Ms. Roarke also serves as a mentor in the Excelsior College Leadership Academy and a moderator for the Lean In leadership circle.
Mecca E. Santana, Esq.
Vice President of Cultural/ Community Affairs and Diversity Officer
Westchester Medical Center
Mecca E. Santana is the Vice President of Cultural/Community Affairs and Diversity Officer for Westchester Medical Center. As the head of the Office of Diversity and Engagement, she is responsible for building and leveraging relationships with external stakeholders in the diverse communities that make up the Hudson Valley, while also ensuring that all internal organizational policies and procedures are aligned with diversity and inclusion best practices.
Prior to this position, Ms. Santana served as the Chief Diversity Officer for the State of New York. Appointed by Governor Andrew Cuomo in September 2013, Ms. Santana was responsible for the creation and implementation of recruitment and retention initiatives designed to promote workforce diversity and inclusion, while also leading new initiatives to increase Minority & Women Owned Business (MWBE) procurement opportunities.
Prior to joining the Cuomo administration in 2013, Ms. Santana was the Executive Director of Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity Management for the New York City Department of Education. Ms. Santana began her legal career as an Assistant District Attorney in the New York County (Manhattan) District Attorney’s Office.
Ms. Santana holds certifications from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations in Equal Employment Opportunity Studies and Diversity Management. Ms. Santana, who is licensed to practice law in both New York and New Jersey, graduated from Hofstra University School of Law in June 2000 and is a graduate of the State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany.
Vice President of Cultural/ Community Affairs and Diversity Officer
Westchester Medical Center
Mecca E. Santana is the Vice President of Cultural/Community Affairs and Diversity Officer for Westchester Medical Center. As the head of the Office of Diversity and Engagement, she is responsible for building and leveraging relationships with external stakeholders in the diverse communities that make up the Hudson Valley, while also ensuring that all internal organizational policies and procedures are aligned with diversity and inclusion best practices.
Prior to this position, Ms. Santana served as the Chief Diversity Officer for the State of New York. Appointed by Governor Andrew Cuomo in September 2013, Ms. Santana was responsible for the creation and implementation of recruitment and retention initiatives designed to promote workforce diversity and inclusion, while also leading new initiatives to increase Minority & Women Owned Business (MWBE) procurement opportunities.
Prior to joining the Cuomo administration in 2013, Ms. Santana was the Executive Director of Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity Management for the New York City Department of Education. Ms. Santana began her legal career as an Assistant District Attorney in the New York County (Manhattan) District Attorney’s Office.
Ms. Santana holds certifications from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations in Equal Employment Opportunity Studies and Diversity Management. Ms. Santana, who is licensed to practice law in both New York and New Jersey, graduated from Hofstra University School of Law in June 2000 and is a graduate of the State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany.