20242 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 2024 By Doreen Hughes Coldwell Banker TGRE I n the spring of 2021, several women from the original Women Who Lunch group met with the former cham- ber president and CEO, Page Michel. The meeting’s objective was to honor and recognize women in the community with membership in the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce who have made significant contributions to the suc- cess of their organizations by inspiring others to strive for excellence. The meet- ing outcome: the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce Women in Leadership Awards (WILA) was born. THE JUDGING CRITERIA Nominees were judged on the core tenets of WILA Leadership — champion/ advocate/mentor of others; connector and collaborator; servant-leadership who gives back; an empowering leader who uplifts others and adds value; a passion- ate and joyful leader who works with humility, empa- thy and integrity. WILA 2021 The inaugural Women in Leadership Awards hosted by the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce was held Sept. 15, 2021, at the Doyle Convention Center, in Texas City. A large crowd of more than 300 guests attended, celebrating six women in the following categories: education, non- profit/volunteer, young pro- fessionals, women-owned business and small and large businesses. The six women honored were Debbie Fuller, Texas City ISD/Guajardo Elemen- tary, Education; Judy Garcia, CASA of Galveston County, Nonprofit/Volunteer; Colleen Martin, City of La Marque, Young Professional; Courtni Tello D.D.S, Tello Smiles, Woman-Owned Business; Bonnie Baty, Karat Creations Jewelry, Small Business; and Monica Eaton, Texas First Bank, Large Business. WILA 2022 In 2022, the follow- ing women received the prestigious WILA honors: Dr. Melissa Duarte, Texas City ISD, Education; Amy Reid, Galveston County SBDC, Nonprofit/Volunteer; Tracy Pryor, HCA Houston Healthcare Mainland, Young Professional; Lori Carnes, Carnes Funeral Home, Woman-Owned Business; Judy Slocumb, The Inde- pendence Village, Small Business; and Anita Jones, Linde, Large Business. WILA 2023 The 2023 Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Com- merce luncheon was held May 10 at The Chandelier Reception Hall in Texas City. The WILA honorees were: Caytlyn Stanley, Hospital- ity Health ER Galveston, Young Professional; Kathy Vasquez, Vettrus Supply, Woman-Owned Busi- ness; Debbie Simmons, Anchor Point, Nonprofit/ Volunteer; Gina Welsh, Santa Fe Texas Education Foundation, Education; Dr. Kimberly Grimsley, Exodus Consulting & Psychological Services, Small Business; and Ezmine During, Valero Texas City Refinery, Large Business. THE HISTORY OF THE WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS CONTENTS LARGE BUSINESS Molly Dale-Crow ............................................3 Tekeshia Jones ............................................3 Becky Trout-Unbehegan .................................4 SMALL BUSINESS Natalie Picha ................................................4 Gabriella Roach ............................................7 Catherine Sachko .........................................7 WOMEN-OWNED Latisha Mobley .............................................8 Sandra Morgan ............................................8 Jeanne Shipp ...............................................9 EDUCATION Dr. Helen Brewer ........................................10 Terri O’Connell ............................................10 Melissa Tortorici .........................................11 NONPROFIT Hillary Gramm ............................................11 Megan Scheffer ..........................................12 Gney White ................................................13 YOUNG PROFESSIONAL Shaina Miller ..............................................13 Sara Montelongo-Oyervidez ........................14 Katherine Swanson ....................................14 WILA 2023 WILA 2021WILA 20222024 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 3 Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My dad inspires me every day to be a leader in our family business and the community. Leading our organization and the community, it makes me very proud to watch him make a difference in the lives of others. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/ organization? I’m in a unique situation that I have always known I would be a leader in our organization in some facet or another. As a little girl, I would tell my OCCUPATION: VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MCREE FORD, PRESIDENT BAY AREA AUTO & TRUCK RENTAL INC. MOLLY DALE-CROW grandfather that I was going to run the business one day. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? I think every woman is very capable to do anything they choose to do. Women are in- credibly resilient, capable and strong leaders. For me, the guilt of missing time with my children and family is what impacts me the most. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? Seeing growth in the organizations or people surrounding me. I love to walk side by side, and often behind, those I lead and watch them shine. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? The biggest barrier for me has been myself. I had always said that I would run our family business, but then I found a passion for volunteering in the community. Thankfully, I was able to find a path that allowed me to be involved in the family business but also do something I love. How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career? When those around you trust you and know you are a per- son of integrity, it is easy to be confi- dent in the decisions you make. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of your- self? Time with my family and friends is precious to me and it is what keeps me centered and balanced with the demanding schedule I keep. What advice would you give to the next generation of female lead- ers? I recently heard probably the best advice I could have been given, and now I share it anytime I can: “Don’t let someone else’s pen write your story.” We all have a path and a journey in this life but don’t let others opinion or success alter yours. What is right for them may not be right for you. Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My parents and grandparents are a huge inspiration to me. They all re- mained steadfast in attaining the goals they set for themselves. I would not dishonor their sacrifice and legacy. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/ organization? Right after I graduated from college, I wrote down a goal to work in the environmental or sustain- OCCUPATION: ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF SUSTAINABILITY AT LINDE PLC ability field. I always have wanted to work in the field I am currently in and intentionally worked toward that goal. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? Opportu- nity and exposure often impact a woman’s ability to lead. What benefits have you received from your leadership experienc- es? Learning to take on roles and responsibilities that stretch me and allow me to grow. What has been the most sig- nificant barrier in your career? Being a woman in a male-dominat- ed field is challenging. Fortunately, I have had some amazing mentors along the way. How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career? Training, education and mentorship. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself? I am intentional about spending time with myself and my family. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? Keep going, you cannot achieve your goals if you do not con- tinue to work toward them. TEKESHIA JONES “I think every woman is very capable to do anything they choose to do. Women are incredibly resilient, capable and strong leaders.” MOLLY DALE-CROW “Being a woman in a male- dominated field is challenging. Fortunately, I have had some amazing mentors along the way.” TEKESHIA JONES LARGE BUSINESS LARGE BUSINESS4 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 2024 Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My parents encouraged my sisters, brother and me always to do our best. So, I think I was inspired to succeed and in my “success” I hope that I am seen as a leader in my field. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/orga- nization? I wanted to be a great writer or journalist and imagined that career. My writ- ing skills took me in other directions that I really did not know existed when starting my career. It’s never too late though, so I still might write “the great American novel” and make that dream still come true. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? I believe the factors im- pacting the ability to lead, whether women or men, are the same: talent, communica- tion skills and work-life balance. Leader- ship skills take time to develop. By voicing their ideas, inspirational leaders empower others to express their thoughts. While perhaps difficult to practice, leaders understand the importance of self-care to OCCUPATION: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT/UTMB HEALTH BECKY TROUT UNBEHAGEN stay on top of their game. What benefits have you received from your leadership experienc- es? The greatest benefits I have received from leadership are self-con- fidence, a sense of personal pride, knowing that I helped others to per- form at their best, and both personal and professional growth. What has been the most signifi- cant barrier in your career? Allow- ing self-doubt to control my decisions at times probably has been the great- est barrier to my career. Be brave. Never underestimate your ability and talent. Challenges help you grow, and change can be liberating. Mark Twain said, “The secret to getting ahead is getting started.” How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career? For me, confidence is built by seeing an idea to which I contributed come to fruition and become successful. Resiliency is built by rolling with the punches, accepting responsibility if things go wrong on your watch, changing with the times and in using your talents and passion to contrib- ute to a greater good. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself? I spend time with my family -- husband, kids, grandkids and parents. I exercise. My husband and I support the causes and organiza- tions we believe in. We travel more and try to eat less. We believe in a higher power. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? Education is a lifetime goal. Keep an open mind. Embrace change. Stay up to date with the lat- est technologies. Never sell yourself short. Take care of yourself. Cherish time with family and friends. Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My parents were my first role models of servant leadership. Growing up in church as a preacher’s kid, I saw how my mom and dad served others. Leadership is not about ego or self, it’s about helping. As kids, my brothers and I were expected to help. This was the training ground for servant leadership. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/orga- nization? At age 33, I found myself a single mother of three daughters. I didn’t seek to be a partner in a wealth management firm, but I needed to build a financially stable environment for my girls to thrive. Having previously owned my own business, I knew the rewards of building a business that serves others with integrity and hard work. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? Pre-conceived ideas or stereotypes have most negatively impacted my ability to lead. My personal challenge has been to lean into my authentic self and lead from that place. At times, being the only woman in the room is the advantage. My voice, my perspective has value, and we have to believe that truth in order to step into leadership. OCCUPATION: RHP WEALTH MANAGEMENT What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? Two of the biggest benefits: 1) Helping others navigate crisis or stressful situations with positive outcomes and achieve empow- ered living. 2) Building a firm and legacy that has lifetime impact on clients. We help make lives better by connecting per- sonal values to financial resources. There is joy in knowing you make an impact. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? Self-doubt. I love to dream BIG about the future of RHP and the many people we could serve. My inner critic tells me I can’t or I shouldn’t and keeps me from focusing on the things that could have the greatest impact because I’m not convinced I’m capable. Moving past the fear is where opportunity lies. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? I try to remember that I am valu- able for who I am and not what I do. Our culture teaches us to define ourselves by our titles rather than see our God-given talents. Even if things don’t go exactly as planned, I am still me and have some- thing to offer. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself? Morning quiet time for prayer and meditation are a necessity. I spend quality time with my husband and family. I’ve served in our church and been blessed with an amaz- ing community of friends. I prioritize sleep and exercise. I try to eat healthy, but I love chocolate — especially hot fudge sundaes! What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? Be yourself and know yourself. If you know yourself, you strategically can apply your gifts and talents for the most im- pact. Don’t overwork. Being a workaholic doesn’t make you a great leader, it leads to burn out. Consider yourself an athlete and train like one so you’re holistically fit to run your own marathon. NATALIE PICHA LARGE BUSINESS SMALL BUSINESSRENT • SALES • REPAIR 2830 TEXAS AVENUE TEXAS CITY 409-948-4497 Store Hours: Mon-Fri: 7am-6pm 24 Hour Call Out Service Available MAINLANDTOOL.COM Congratulations Jeanne Shipp Women In Leadership Award Co-Founder/CEO 2024 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 5Leading with heart and hustle. Congratulations, Shaina Miller, for being named a Women in Leadership Awards finalist. You embody the values, passion, and integrity that empower others and bring value to our team. Your leadership inspires those around you, and we’re proud to have you as part of the Higginbotham family. higginbotham.com Insurance and Financial Services 6 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 2024Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My dad encouraged me to view all problems from multiple perspectives and to avidly seek answers. He was known and respected for being balanced. He was direct and kind, firm and forgiving, and he was generously fair. My dad inspired me throughout my life, and I know that seeking to adapt his qualities has guided my path to leadership. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/ organization? I never expected to lead, especially in the construction industry. I’m truly a great follower. But there were problems that needed solutions, and for whatever reason, I kept holding myself personally responsible. Because I work for an incredible company, they acknowledged this, guided me through the industry stan- dards, and we began to build a team and grow the company. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? The respect that others give us begins with the amount of respect we show ourselves. We sometimes prior- OCCUPATION: VICE PRESIDENT OF BNO CONSTRUCTION GABRIELLA ROACH itize caring for others over ourselves, which tends to lock us into more sup- portive roles than those of leadership. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? My leadership role allows me to see a larger picture. Though equally import- ant to the entire picture, staying solely focused on one specific item or another prevents learning additional aspects. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? Experience in my industry. Someone with more educa- tion or experience knows what I am still learning today. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? I think fear used to hold me back, the fear of embarrassment. I had to learn to show myself the same grace I offer to others so that I could move with more confidence and less fear. Cer- tain things still intimidate me, but I’ll do them anyway. What are the ways you stay ground- ed and take care of yourself? I unplug. At a certain time every day and on certain days of every week, I am unavailable. Consistently. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? It depends on the person. People who are naturally gracious need to learn to be firm. While those that are naturally direct and matter-of-fact need to learn to be flexible and adaptable. “Every- thing in moderation,” as my dad would say. Who inspired you to be a leader and why? A remarkable mentor inspired me to become a leader by showing me the power of community and the importance of lifting others up. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/orga- nization? When I began my career, I didn’t initially imagine stepping into a leadership role, but as my passion grew, so did my desire to make a meaningful impact. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? A woman’s ability to lead is deeply impacted by the strength of her OCCUPATION: INSURANCE AGENT, TEXAS STRONG INSURANCE support system, the encouragement she receives to trust her voice and the cour- age to break through barriers and inspire others to do the same. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? My leadership experiences have given me the confidence to trust my instincts, the privilege of empowering others and the ful- fillment that comes from making a positive impact in both my community and the lives of those I work with. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? The most signifi- cant barrier in my career has been breaking through the limitations of being underesti- mated as a woman, constantly needing to prove my worth and capability. However, it has fueled my drive to succeed and advo- cate for others facing similar challenges. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? I’ve built confidence and resiliency by setting and achieving small goals, learn- ing from setbacks and surrounding myself with supportive mentors and peers who encourage me to keep pushing forward. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself? I stay ground- ed and take care of myself by spending quality time with my family and my two dogs, Bernie and Gracie, that I just love so much and bring me so much joy. I also find balance by enjoying the outdoors and relax- ing by the pool, which helps me recharge and unwind. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? I’d tell the next generation of female leaders to believe in themselves and their dreams, even when it gets tough. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and don’t be afraid to stand out and speak up. Be brave in the face of challenges, and re- member that every step forward, no matter how small, makes a difference. CATHERINE SACHKO 2024 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 7 “My dad inspired me throughout my life, and I know that seeking to adapt his qualities has guided my path to leadership.” GABRIELLA ROACH SMALL BUSINESS SMALL BUSINESS “Surround yourself with people who lift you up and don’t be afraid to stand out and speak up.” CATHERINE SACHKO8 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 2024 Who inspired you to be a leader and why? Growing up in such a dysfunctional environment, I knew I had to work hard to have a better life. I worked hard to become the leader that I am today, so I could help make a difference in the next future. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/or- ganization? Yes, being that I always have been very goal driven and passionate about helping others achieve their goals. This milestone in my career did not take me by surprise. I am committed and dedi- cated to make an impact within the beau- ty industry through mentorship programs along with building supportive communi- ties within the salon suite industry. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? Integrity. When you lead with integrity you set a standard for great- ness straight across the board. This means you treat the janitor with the same respect at the CEO. Be the change you want to see and lead by example. Remain consistent because, even when your not motivated, consistency will keep you focused. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? Being able to create the greatest team that I want to be apart of. Making a difference in these young ladies lives by mentoring them and helping them achieve their goals. Showing OCCUPATION: SALON SUITE OWNER/OPERATOR AT THE BEAUTY HUBB BY L’KOUTURE AND THE BEAUTY AND BARBER LATISHA MOBLEY them that no matter what race you are, no matter what background you come from, no matter the adversities you have to overcome, it can be done. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? Being that my first business was birthed right in the mist of the pandemic, there were several challenges down to getting building material; things were double in price. Being a woman and having to negotiate and navigate through the building process was very difficult, yet I stood my ground and here I am with two locations within two years. How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career? Embracing the journey instead of being focused on the end results. Embracing the highs and lows. Being OK with everything not always running as smoothly as I would want at all times. Setting boundaries, knowing that I can’t please every single person and thats OK. Being OK saying “no, that’s not going to work.” Giving it my best. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of your- self? I am a God’s girl. I put God first. I pray about everything. It keeps me grounded and humble. I love a good spa day. I enjoy vacationing. I love music and cooking, thats my way of decompressing after a hard day. I come home, turn on music and cook dinner. I enjoy going to concerts. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? You have to start some- where and just continue to build. Stay consistent and always operate with integrity. Set high standards. Be open to constructive criticism. Know that a “no” is not always a bad thing. Don’t get discouraged because you hear a “no.” Know that sacrifice come with success. Pay it forward along your journey of success. Who inspired you to be a leader and why? One of the most significant influ- ences in my career has been my parents, who were my first mentors. They instilled in me the values of entrepreneurship and integrity, teaching me that a successful business is built on a foundation of hon- esty and ethical practices. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/or- ganization? No. My career began with a strong foundation in information technol- ogy, a field that always has fascinated me OCCUPATION: CFO/CHOICE ANALYTICAL INC. due to its dynamic nature and the endless possibilities it offers for innovation and problem-solving. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? I think the largest factor is lack of confidence. You have to grow your knowledge over time and speaking up to others in your field requires confidence. Also, people’s gender bias. Gender has nothing to do with your ability to lead, but some stereotypes are hard to overcome. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? My career has allowed me the opportunity to travel the world extensively and meet people of many different nationalities and cultures. This has allowed me to see the world from many different points of view. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? As a woman working in a predominantly male industry, I find that I have to work twice as hard to gain trust and credibility. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? In learning more about our indus- try and product knowledge. Also, getting involved with trade shows and industry organizations. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself? I love sitting alone in the quiet. This is how I rejuvenate and recharge myself. I deal with a lot of different people throughout my day and relish the time when I get to be by myself and turn off my thoughts. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? My advice to others in my field is to lead with integrity, support and uplift those around you and always stay true to your values. By doing so, you can create a pos- itive and lasting impact on your organiza- tion and the people you work with. SANDRA MORGAN WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS “As a woman working in a predominantly male industry, I find that I have to work twice as hard to gain trust and credibility.” SANDRA MORGAN2024 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 9 www.crowderfuneralhome.com Traditional Funeral Services • Cremation Specialists • Pre-Need Arrangements • Monuments • Headstones Celebrating 65 Years of Service Bacliff | Bayou Vista | Clear Lake Shores | Dickinson | Friendswood | Hitchcock | Kemah | La Marque | League City | San Leon | Santa Fe | Texas City | Tiki Island LIVE UNITED www.uwgcm.org | (409) 948-4211 | 2800 Texas Avenue | PO Box 3098 | Texas City, TX 77592 LIVE UNITED UNITED WAY FIGHTS FOR THE HEALTH, EDUCATION AND FINANCIAL STABILITY OF EVERY PERSON IN EVERY COMMUNITY Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My mom and dad owned a small business. As a child I used to watch my mother (not my dad) do deals. My mother was often called a “wheeler-dealer.” My mom set the example of someone who was not afraid to take a risk. She would say, “wade on out in the deep water.” When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/ organization? I always have had a competitive nature and determination to push ahead. It is a part of my DNA. So when I became a nurse, I did not expect to become a leader, but it was part of a natural evolution. What factors impact a woman’s abili- ty to lead others? The strong propensity of empathy and nurturing. Remembering that your staff, clients and patients are all human. Even your opponents or biggest critics are all human. They have problems, families and uphill battles. Remembering and respecting what they must deal with daily and trying to be helpful where and when it matters most. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? Learning the importance of listening, exercising humility and imparting empathy. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? As the company grows, the difficulty of maintaining the same cultural saturation increases. Im- parting my continued vision and mission to almost 1,000 employees (and growing) is more challenging than with a smaller group. How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your ca- reer? The confidence has come from those who I have led and watched them grow into great leaders. The resiliency comes with learning to compartmentalize stress. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself? I do not create situations that are nonexistant. I do not make mountains out of molehills. I take care of the immediate issues in front of me. I don’t worry about anything until I have something to actually worry about. When I go to bed, I sleep well knowing everything is fine for that day. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? Lean in to and embrace your feminini- ty. We often can be labeled as weaker, indecisive and more emotional than men, when in fact our femininity is our biggest strength. We are not indecisive; we are thoughtful and reserved in our response. We are emotional. This is what connects us to others. It brings unity in a way in which men struggle. OCCUPATION: CO-FOUNDER, CEO/ HOSPITALITY HEALTH ER JEANNE SHIPP WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSNext >