< Previous10 | The Daily News | 40 Under 40 | 2024 LIVES: LEAGUE CITY WORKS: DOW Thomas Fitzgibbons, 37 Sr. R&D Leader Why did you go into your particular field? My goal is to help the largest number of people live their highest quality of life, while minimizing their carbon footprint. Working at a large integrated materials science company allows me to impact a number of applications and drive the development of new materials to make peoples’ lives better. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Well, this depends on when I was asked. When I was a small child, I probably wanted to play for the Yankees, but as I was finishing high school, I was pretty set on becoming a lawyer. I was a bit late to the science game but have always enjoyed tinkering with things and finding out how things work. What was your first job? My first job back in high school was at a piano and keyboard store in the local mall. My job was to deliver and move pianos for folks who had ordered them and/or were moving their instruments. It was a physically demanding job, but I got to drive a big truck, which was fun. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? I had a mentor tell me one time that to be impactful you need to show up to work every day willing to be fired. This has always stuck with me and has influenced me to be bold in my decision making and think outside the box when innovating. What’s your favorite thing about your job? The thing I love about research and development is that I have the opportunity to go into the lab and see things that have never been seen before. This energizes me and allows me to really dive into my curiosities. Being able to lead an organization that is focused on characterizing new materials allows me to live out these passions. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? The importance of working with others who have different backgrounds and goals than you. In a large company like mine, it is nearly impossible to drive any meaningful impact by yourself. To make the most impact, you need to learn how to work not just with other scientists, but marketing teams, manufacturing engineers and leadership at multiple levels. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? My dad was an engineer who was able to make tough decisions and work hard to achieve success. Seeing him work through school while I was young as well as work across a number of industries inspired me to remain curious and work hard myself. His engineering background also worked to keep me grounded when innovating to find new solutions or materials. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? Relax? With three kids younger than 10, I think I have forgotten what that means. When not at work, I like to hang out with my wife, Liz, and kids, Holden, Eoghan and Isla. We spend a lot of time at the Y with their sports and with the Cub Scouts in our area. What is something about you that most people don’t know? I was in the marching band where I was able to win two state championships while in high school. I also marched for a few years in the Drum Corps organization, which allowed me to tour all over the country as a teenager. Read full profile at galvnews.com. LIVES: GALVESTON WORKS: GALVESTON PARK BOARD OF TRUSTEES Bryson Frazier, 40 Chief Financial Officer Why did you go into your particular field? Originally, I was a history major, but an academic advisor encouraged me to take an introductory accounting and management class. I thought, “This is math that makes sense and is useful.” After college, I decided to enter the public sector and began my career as a tax auditor. I’ve been working in government ever since because I feel like I can make a difference. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? As a child, I wanted to be an NFL player or someone who wears a suit to work. As I got older, I aspired to be a rock star. At least one of those dreams came true … I sometimes wear a suit to work! What was your first job? My first job was at a country club during the summer of my first two years in high school. I washed golf carts, assisted members with their clubs, picked up and dropped off members at their cars and locked up the bathrooms at night. It was a fun job. I got to drive golf carts all summer! Little did I know, those skills would come in handy when I moved to Galveston. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? My dad taught me to never do anything halfway. If you’re going to do it, give it your all. When I broke into management, an old boss advised me to remember that people work to live, they don’t live to work. They need a work/life balance. My mom always taught me to be respectful. Those three pieces of advice have helped me immensely in life. What’s your favorite thing about your job? The people. I really enjoy the people I work with and what we’re accomplishing together. You can see the impact: clean and safe beaches and a strong tourism economy. Facilitating and supporting our staff, and watching them achieve great things is my favorite part of the job. Also, there is something oddly satisfying about reconciling accounts down to the penny. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? I wish I knew the importance of networking and building relationships. Understanding the value of continuous learning and staying updated with industry changes is crucial. I also learned that balancing technical skills with strong communication and leadership abilities can significantly enhance career growth. Seeking mentorship early on could have provided valuable guidance and support, helping me navigate challenges and seize opportunities more effectively. Finally, I wish I knew about the long hours in this field. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? Personally, my parents are my greatest mentors. If I am half the man my dad is, I’m doing something right. Professionally, a man named Will Duran comes to mind. I worked with him in state government. He was always there to lend an ear and offer advice as I worked my way up the ladder. There are other mentors as well. It’s important for young professionals to find a mentor and develop that relationship. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? I enjoy watching football, spending time in the yard, listening to music and watching Star Wars! Usually, on a day off, you can find me spending time with my wife and kids — going to the beach, soaking in a sunset at our favorite spot, taking road trips and eating seafood! Read full profile at galvnews.com. 2024 | 40 Under 40 | The Daily News | 11 LIVES: TEXAS CITY WORKS: GUAJARDO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, TEXAS CITY ISD Chasity Fuchs, 32 Resource/Inclusion Teacher Why did you go into your particular field? I initially wanted to enter the special education field because of my experiences growing up with an uncle who has down syndrome. Once I finished college, I found the idea of special education intimidating, so I chose general education. After eight years as a third-grade teacher, I moved to resource/inclusion and I have never been happier with my career choice! As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I went through many potential career interests growing up, from a paleontologist to an astronaut. I always liked reading and learning. What was your first job? My first job was babysitting in high school, and in college I worked in tutoring and retail. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? In college, my dad told me to find something I truly enjoyed. This guided me through switching majors and in making sure to make time for the things I love. What’s your favorite thing about your job? The best part of my job is advocating for my students’ needs. I work with teachers to better understand how to help students with disabilities and I get to work with my students on their level to fill learning gaps. It is very rewarding to be able to provide students with accommodations that make them feel successful. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? I wish I knew that the hours spent redoing desk arrangements and decorating bulletin boards will never matter if you are not building relationships with your students and their families. Relationships always come first. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? I have learned so much about work ethic and doing what is best for students from my former principal, Debbie Fuller. She taught me about leadership and how much even the little things matter. Debbie truly has a servant heart as a leader and educator. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? I love to spend time with my husband and our two boys, Jacob and Holden. They keep us busy, and even though it’s not necessarily relaxing, there’s no other way I would rather spend my spare time! I also enjoy reading and have an ever-growing to-be-read pile. What is something about you that most people don’t know? I earned my master’s degree while navigating life as a new mom. I also really hate for my food to touch! How do you hope to grow in your career? I am currently taking courses to become a certified educational diagnostician. Eventually, I would like to transition into that area of special education. In the meantime, I truly enjoy being a resource/inclusion teacher and hope to learn more ways to help my students achieve academic success. If you couldn’t do what you’re doing now, what would you be doing? If I could not be a teacher, I would work with adults with special needs. There are many great organizations in our area and volunteering for Golden Rule Services Inc. is where I first found the desire to go into special education. LIVES: GALVESTON WORKS: PARKER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, GALVESTON ISD Bailey Glenn, AGE Lead 3rd Grade Teacher Why did you go into your particular field? I went into education because I have found a great interest in how students interact with new learnings and information. It is such a privilege to interact with students and motivate them to be their best selves! As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? As a child, I wanted to be either a teacher or a lawyer (just like both my parents). I ultimately decided to become a teacher because I was curious about how others learned. I enjoyed working with people to help them achieve their personal goals. What was your first job? My first job was working at Moody Day Care with first- and second-graders during the summer. I worked there throughout my summers in college. It was such a fun experience and I also got to work with children in the field I was studying for. It gave me experience managing field trips and interacting with students. Those summers were some of the best times, especially going to Palm Beach every Wednesday and roller skating! What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? The best advice I’ve ever received was from my family. My family always told me to do my best. In whatever I did, they told me to give it my all and even if I fell short, I could be proud and say I did my best to achieve that goal. I always put my full effort into anything I’m in. I have a sense of pride in my work, and I am thankful my family encouraged my efforts! What’s your favorite thing about your job? My favorite thing about my job is teaching the students! Obviously, this is the main goal of being a teacher, but I truly love teaching my students and having them genuinely engaged in what we are learning. I love discussing new ideas with them that make them ponder new possibilities. I love watching them problem-solve and take pride in their work in the classroom! Our students today are so resilient, and so curious. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? What I know now that I wish I knew when I first started my career is that it is OK to not have everything figured out the first year of teaching. Taking it one day at a time is sometimes all you can do, and that is perfectly fine. Surrounding yourself with a support system that encourages and loves you is what will get you through. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? The greatest mentor I consider is my mom. My mom is a powerhouse whom I look up to professionally and personally. I admire how she had raised and supported a beautiful family all while working full time and dedicating time to volunteer efforts in Galveston County. Her passion for her profession is evident every day, and I strive to do so in my profession. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? When I am not at work, I love to go to the gym or watch movies at home. I enjoy going camping as well with my husband. We love walking in nature and looking at what the Lord has created around us. Read full profile at galvnews.com.12 | The Daily News | 40 Under 40 | 2024 LIVES: LA MARQUE WORKS: BABY STEWART FOUNDATION Ashley Gooden-Stewart, 36 CEO and Founder Why did you go into your particular field? I’ve always been a resourceful person. I have a big capacity to care for others and create solutions. My grandparents and mother raised me to have compassion and serve others. After the loss of my infant son CJ Stewart in 2015, I wanted to commemorate him. With the help of my mentor Barry Silverberg, I was able to found a 501(c)3, Baby Stewart Foundation. Keeping my son’s memory alive is what I aimed for. I know firsthand how it feels to hit rock bottom and receive help in a time of need. I wanted to pay it forward and restore the hope of working families who have temporarily fallen on hard times. Many families walk away feeling empowered, which is the most rewarding feeling. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Growing up, I wanted to be a nurse. I wanted the opportunity to heal patients and have the ability to bring understanding and peace during challenging times. I was in a CNA program in high school and in college. I changed my major from nursing to social science. What was your first job? I was a cashier at Wendy’s during my senior year of high school. It equipped me to navigate through customer service and quick problem solving. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? The best advice I ever received was to have faith in God and follow my dreams. My journey sometimes feels isolated, but I know if I just stick to my dreams and have faith, I can persevere. What’s your favorite thing about your job? I am passionate about helping those who feel unseen and unheard in our community. The power of conversation can connect a person with adequate support, care and resources. I meet my clients where they are despite socioeconomic status and barriers they’re faced with. I’ve had many jobs in the past. My role as a philanthropist and community leader is something that comes naturally to me. I’ve created a community for those who also felt alone in their pain and struggles. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? I wish I knew that it’s okay to rest and take care of my mental health. In the beginning, I would hit the ground running and I didn’t have balance or boundaries established. Now I practice self-care often and prioritize my mental health. I can’t pour from an empty cup. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? Barry Silverberg is my greatest mentor. I met him when I resided in Austin in 2013. He encouraged me to enroll in his Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership and Management program at Austin Community College. He told me five times I was not ready to start a nonprofit organization. When my heart was heavy and I was grieving the loss of my son CJ, Barry then helped me start my 501(c)3. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? I love to travel with my family. I want to create as many memories with my children as possible. Even when I travel for work and conferences, my family is right there with me. I also enjoy dining at different restaurants. I am a foodie who is open to any kind of cuisine and cooking various dishes. Read full provide at galvnews.com. LIVES: SANTA FE WORKS: HARLOW WELLNESS Amy Harlow, 37 Owner and Licensed Professional Counselor Associate Why did you go into your particular field? I always knew I wanted to support people with navigating their emotions and life’s challenges. My journey to become a therapist was long, but my time in public education solidified my desire to help people in a therapeutic way. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Like most children, I wanted to be a veterinarian. I knew I didn’t want to be a nurse like my mom because I’m too squeamish. My dad really wanted me to be an engineer but math was not a strong subject for me. In the end, they wanted me to love what I do. What was your first job? Snohut Snoballs in Santa Fe. I went into the SFISD administration building every day for a week until Mr. Johnson agreed to hire me. I worked there for four summers. It was the tastiest job! What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? “Work will always be there.” My mom told me that my first year teaching. I carried everything home with me and it consumed me. We have to care for ourselves and put ourselves and our families first. I know it isn’t that easy; we have to earn a living, but we should continue to seek balance. What’s your favorite thing about your job? Building relationships is the first job of a therapist. I take pride in being able to provide a safe, judgment-free, space for my clients, so when I’m given the opportunity to be a safe person for someone, it is the best feeling. Knowing that they trust me with the most authentic version of themselves helps me know that this is what I’m meant to do. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? It’s OK to let your clients see you experiencing their feelings with them. In school, we are taught to be robotic, but clients want to feel empathy during a session. Also, adults love fidgets and weighted stuffed animals just as much as kids! Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? My mom, Ja Margaret Lowry. I think a lot of people would agree, especially her former nursing school students. She gives the best advice and is a champion for everyone in her life. She definitely gave me the “how hard can it be?” gene. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? Anything by the water with my husband and two beautiful kiddos. We spend most of our weekends fishing at Lake Livingston. If we aren’t there, you’ll catch me gardening while my kids play in mud puddles, and my husband builds whatever project I dreamed up. What is something about you that most people don’t know? I never wanted to go into education, it was a plan “C”. However, the eight years I spent in schools as a teacher and a school counselor were amazing. I loved being a part of so many children’s lives. I believe I was meant to be there. Educators are amazing, the work they do each and every day takes so much courage and commitment. Hug a teacher or buy them a coffee! How do you hope to grow in your career? I would like to continue to grow in my specialty of ADHD and autism in women. So many women go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed and they never receive the proper care they deserve. Read full provide at galvnews.com. 2024 | 40 Under 40 | The Daily News | 13 LIVES: HOUSTON WORKS: FAMILY SERVICE CENTER Jade Harris, 38 Chief Information Officer Why did you go into your particular field? I’ve always enjoyed troubleshooting and figuring out problems. I love to help others and I feel like my purpose is to assist and engage with users like you, leveraging my knowledge and capabilities to provide helpful responses and support. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a pediatrician. What was your first job? My first job was at AMC theaters What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? Don’t lose hope when you get a no. The right doors are always open for you. What’s your favorite thing about your job? As a CIO, one of the most exciting aspects of the job is the opportunity to innovate and drive technological advancements within an organization. Being able to lead strategic initiatives that leverage technology to solve complex problems and improve business processes is incredibly fulfilling. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? Don’t be afraid of failure. If you’re honest about your failures with your colleagues and take the time to learn from them, you will gain so much more respect than getting it right all of the time. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? I love to cook, spend time with my family and my two French bulldogs, Tuxedo and Fendi. What is something about you that most people don’t know? I love to learn about space. I believe there are other beings that we don’t know about. I also believe mermaids are real. How do you hope to grow in your career? I hope to continue to expand my knowledge and experience, staying updated on the latest trends, technologies and best practices in the field of information technology. Refining my abilities to analyze complex problems, provide strategic insights, and offer practical solutions that align with business objectives. I strive to foster a culture of innovation by encouraging creative thinking and exploring new approaches to solving challenges. If you couldn’t do what you’re doing now, what would you be doing? Alternatively, I might delve into fields such as education or data analyst, utilizing my abilities to teach and convey information in innovative ways. Ultimately, any role that allows me to continue leveraging my skills to assist and empower others would be fulfilling. LIVES: LEAGUE CITY WORKS: GET SOCIAL Ashley Helms, 37 Owner and Chief Marketing Officer Why did you go into your particular field? I have always loved writing and started out in journalism, but after I did a marketing internship for the marketing director at COX Media, I wanted to switch to marketing. I loved the creative piece to it. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Lots of things! A cop, a marine biologist, a lawyer, anything that involved working with animals. What was your first job? I started a dog-sitting business when I was 9, but it was mostly so I could have an excuse to pet strangers’ dogs! It didn’t work out so well when I had to actually do the work. My first real job was Chick-fil-A. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? Never ruin an apology with an excuse. What’s your favorite thing about your job? I love being able to help other small businesses and nonprofits get their stories out there. Every day is something new and each project is exciting because I get to be really creative. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? It’s important to know what your boundaries are and to stick to them. And, it’s OK to take care of yourself and tell people no sometimes. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? I’ve had so many great mentors over the years that I can’t pick just one. I’m surrounded by such a great group of friends who constantly give me really good advice — business-wise and personal. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? I really like to do absolutely nothing when I’m not working. Lounge around my house and listen to music or audiobooks. But if we do leave the house, we like to visit tea houses, antique stores and visit places around Galveston and Houston. What is something about you that most people don’t know? There’s not a lot that people don’t know. I would say it’s that I played flute all throughout middle school and my freshman year of high school. I also played on the softball team, so had to choose between that and marching band, so I went with softball. How do you hope to grow in your career? I really hope to continue to grow my business and to be able to hire a staff that can focus on individual projects versus being a team of one. I would like to some day have locations in other cities. The idea would be to have help so I could spend more time mentoring or volunteering. If you couldn’t do what you’re doing now, what would you be doing? Honestly, I’m not sure. I try not to think about that. If I had to pick something I would say, I’d be doing something in the nonprofit realm. Preferably working on a rescue farm with animals! NEVER RUIN AN APOLOGY WITH AN EXCUSE. DON’T LOSE HOPE WHEN YOU GET A NO. THE RIGHT DOORS ARE ALWAYS OPEN FOR YOU. 14 | The Daily News | 40 Under 40 | 2024 LIVES: LEAGUE CITY WORKS: GREER HERZ & ADAMS, LLP Chelsi Honeycutt, 36 Attorney Why did you go into your particular field? I became an attorney because I admired the idea of leadership and of being a leader in my community. The ability to advise and help others operate and exist within our legal and judicial system is an honor, especially when your clients place their trust in you to guide them through their greatest challenges and most exciting ventures. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? As a child, I wavered between the law and education — sometimes a lawyer, sometimes a teacher. My grandmother and mother would always tell me I needed to be a lawyer, and here we are. What was your first job? My first job was as a hostess at The Flying Dutchman at the Kemah Boardwalk. My first job after law school was as an assistant district attorney in Harris County. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? The greatest advice I have ever received is from my husband. His advice on my most difficult or nervous days is always to remember that no one else has it any more under control or together, they are just better at pretending. I think anyone can benefit from that mentality when impostor syndrome sets in and it is hard to find the confidence you truly should have in yourself and your abilities. What’s your favorite thing about your job? What I enjoy most about being an attorney is the confidence others in my community and my clients have in me to know the right answer or the right thing to do. It is a great honor — after graduating law school, passing the bar exam and cutting my teeth for the past 10 years since becoming licensed — to see the trust others place in me when they need help. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? You cannot be everything to everyone all the time. You have to prioritize and accept that you are not always able to give 100 percent to all aspects of your life — your job, your friends, your community involvement or even your family — at the same time. Finding the balance is when you perform your best in all areas. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? I consider my grandmother to be my greatest mentor because she was so certain in my abilities and so resound in her belief that I would accomplish great things. It was her confidence in me that gave me confidence in myself. She taught me about independence, goals and dreams and shaped who I am today. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? I spend my time away from work with my family. They keep me busy with sports and school, but when we have time to relax, we typically choose beach resorts or Disney and never get tired of hanging out at home. What is something about you that most people don’t know? I am really great at the toy claw arcade games. How do you hope to grow in your career? There are great attorneys at my law firm. I hope to grow in my career by continuing to build upon my trial, writing and management skills under their leadership, and to grow my own reputation and client base in the community. Read full profile at galvnews.com. LIVES: TEXAS CITY WORKS: BOEING / CHOOSE TO DREAM MENTORSHIP ORGANIZATION Loreal Hunter, 36 Talent Acquisition Advisor / Founder Why did you go into your particular field? During my time working in the fashion industry and retail space, I wanted to transition into a corporate work schedule that would allow me to have additional time. Due to my love for people, my manager insisted that I take over the training and recruiting process. I quickly realized how much I enjoy human resources. I love assisting individuals through their career process and seeing their face light up during the offer stage. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? As a child, I had many interests. I wanted to be a marine biologist, lawyer and professional dancer. Growing up, I loved swimming and had a huge interest in whales and the sea. I also enjoyed creativity and expression, which still cultivates my personality today. What was your first job? My first job was working in the gift shop at NASA’s Space Center Houston. I assisted customers in the gift shop and learned a lot about the space industry. This job really equipped me with being able to speak with individuals from all over the world. In addition, it’s a cool full circle moment now due to recruiting engineers who currently work on space shuttles at Kennedy Space Center. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? Always do what’s right even when it’s uncomfortable. Keep God first and remain true to who you are, and kindness goes a long way, which is what I always strive to do this in my professional and personal life. What’s your favorite thing about your job? My favorite part about my job is engaging with candidates to learn what motivates them daily within their industry and knowing I was there to assist in the journey. I call it the candidate experience! Although, with my Choose to Dream mentorship program, it’s really seeing the girls grow in confidence from when we first initially started the program until now. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? I wish I knew the power of networking and mentoring early in my career. I believe it’s extremely vital to have a great mentor to guide you through your career industry and networking with other individuals can advance your career knowledge and opportunities. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? My mom is my greatest mentor. She’s one of the hardest working and kindest people I know. My mom went back to college as a single parent when my sister and I were children, then went on to get her master’s degree. I knew at that point there was nothing I couldn’t accomplish. Her best quotes are “life is not easy” and “no matter what decision you make, you have to face the consequences.” When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? I really enjoy all things fashion, music, dance and theater! I am also the founder of Choose to Dream mentorship program, which gives back to girls within the community. This program emphasizes self love awareness, education, African American history and more. The mission is to empower young girls in all areas of life and to dream to their highest potential. I have a strong love for community service as well. Read full profile at galvnews.com. 2024 | 40 Under 40 | The Daily News | 15 LIVES: GALVESTON WORKS: TEXAS A&M FOUNDATION AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY AT GALVESTON Anna Hyatt, 35 Assistant Director of Corporate Relations & Foundations Engagement Why did you go into your particular field? Honestly, I started my career in K-8 recreation because I needed a job. However, I fell in love with the work. I was trusted with a lot of responsibility and freedom to create new programs and processes, and seeing my work translate into impactful experiences for students was incredible. When the opportunity to move to higher education philanthropy presented itself, it felt like a new way to positively impact my community. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? My mom will tell you that I told people I wanted to be a jewelry store owner during the day, and a babysitter at night. I never had a specific role in mind like a firefighter or lawyer, but I knew I didn’t want to do anything too serious and if I could make people laugh and be outdoors then I would be happy. What was your first job? My first paying gig was when I was 4 years old as an extra in Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler V” TV- movie when it was filmed at the Galveston Railroad Museum. But my first “real” job was as a lifeguard at the Galveston Racquet Club. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? Be yourself. Nobody does it better. What’s your favorite thing about your job? I love that my work has meaning, and that no two days are alike. Sometimes it’s a regular day in the office, or you head to the beach for a sea turtle release, or you get on a working vessel and see students hands-on learning. You can’t help but be excited for the future when working with students. Fundraising to impact their educational journeys makes me excited to go to work each day. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? Oh! I wish I knew that life is long, and nothing is permanent! When you are young and first starting your career, it feels like you are never going to “get there” and that every decision you make is monumental. I’ve learned that everything changes, whether you want it or not, and every experience is leading you to something new. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? I am so blessed, there’s no way I could possibly pick one. I’ve had an incredible team of women (and a few men) teaching and supporting me through life. My mom, my godmother, my aunt and cousins, my grandmothers, my coworkers, my friends, my people from summer camp — each has shown me a different aspect of life and encouraged me to fully embrace who I am. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? I love to spend time in my backyard — in my hammock with a book and a beer, throwing the Frisbee and playing with my dogs, and puttering around with my plants. What is something about you that most people don’t know? I was Hook ’Em, the mascot at the University of Texas from 2009-2011. No, not the live animal bull. Yes, it is very hot inside (about 40 degrees hotter than the outdoor temperature). Yes, I had to try out. No, I wasn’t the only one — we were a team of six. Yes, I had previous experience, as Tuffy the Tor at Ball High School. And yes, it was an incredible experience! Read full profile at galvnews.com. ESCAPETOYOURTROPICALOASIS!ESCAPETOYOURTROPICALOASIS! HostYourNextPrivateEventinParadise!HostYourNextPrivateEventinParadise! SMALLTOLARGESCALEPRIVATEEVENTS CORPORATEEVENTS SMALLTOLARGESCALEPRIVATEEVENTS CORPORATEEVENTS BeautifulLagoonExperienceinyourBackyard!BeautifulLagoonExperienceinyourBackyard! AllInclusiveVenueAllInclusiveVenue WWW.BLUELAGOONBARGRILL.COM|WWW.LAGOONFESTTEXAS.COMwww.texasf irst.bank CONGRATULATES ALL OF THE OUTSTANDING http://www.leteciaellishaywood.com Congratulations to Shenay Keyes! For making the Top 40 Under 40 16 | The Daily News | 40 Under 40 | 2024 THE NEWS YOU WANT DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX scan the QR code with your smartphone or visit galvnews.com/newsletters LIVES: WEBSTER WORKS: LETECIA ELLIS HAYWOOD INTERIOR DESIGN Shenay Keyes, 34 Interior Designer Why did you go into your particular field? Growing up, I was always rearranging my room, sparking a love for reshaping spaces. This, coupled with my fascination for colors and their impact on daily life, naturally led me to interior design. It was a career path that not only felt right but also allowed me to be of service. It’s a fulfilling journey, blending creativity with practicality, and creating spaces that positively impact people’s lives. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be an artist. I was constantly sketching and drawing, finding endless joy in the creativity. When my uncle gifted me my first large-scale sketch pad and paints, I felt like Picasso and poured into it for hours on end. What was your first job? At 15, my first job was at a local tanning salon. Engaging with customers was the highlight of my day. I loved getting the opportunity to assist and interact with new faces regularly. This experience not only helped me to hone my customer service skills but also taught me the value of hard work and communication. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? The best advice I’ve ever gotten is to “never stop learning.” It’s been a guiding principle in both my personal and professional life. Staying curious and open to new experiences keeps things exciting and helps me grow in unexpected ways. What’s your favorite thing about your job? My favorite aspect of being an interior designer is the transformative journey our designs undergo, from mere concepts on paper to tangible, lived-in spaces. It’s an incredible experience to see our vision take shape, knowing that it will serve as the backdrop for cherished moments in the lives of our clients. Crafting spaces that not only possess beauty but also deeply resonate with their inhabitants is incredibly fulfilling. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? Looking back, I wish I’d known the importance of pacing myself. Understanding that burnout is real and that it’s okay to take breaks is crucial. Remembering that my career is a marathon, not a sprint, helps me prioritize self-care. Learning to balance work with personal time has been invaluable, reminding me that life is more than just the job. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? My greatest mentor is my boss, Leticia Haywood. We’ve worked together in various capacities for over a decade. She continually invests in me as a young designer, both challenging and guiding me. Her mantra, “when in doubt, scale it out,” reflects her practical wisdom. She’s not just a mentor but a supportive guide, making the journey both enriching and enjoyable. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? To unwind, I enjoy exploring new places and soaking up the sun either by the pool or at the beach. Sharing a meal with friends and loved ones is always a highlight for me. Painting allows me to express myself creatively, while losing myself in a good book is my go-to for relaxation. These simple pleasures keep me grounded and provide the much- needed work-life balance. Read full profile at galvnews.com. 2024 | 40 Under 40 | The Daily News | 17 LIVES: GALVESTON WORKS: MOODY NEUROREHABILITATION INSTITUTE AT TIDEWAY Peyton LaBauve, 31 Program Director Why did you go into your particular field? Working in health care allows me to serve my community while providing for my family. More broadly, I appreciate how versatile health care requires you to be, and all the different areas available to develop in — financial and human resource management, supply chain, quality, patient and staff experience, clinical operations, physical plant, emergency management, compliance, data, security, and IT — there is so much to do and so many avenues for innovation and service. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? As a child I was fairly dedicated to the arts. That was where my heart was growing up. And truthfully, I think I really just loved the creative process. I get to engage that process now to the benefit of others in the creation of programs, services and other innovations. What was your first job? My first health care job was as a medic in the Air Force. I was trained as a combat medic but otherwise worked as an EMT, phlebotomist or medical assistant, based on where I was needed on a given day. The vast majority of my training was in the hospital setting. It was so valuable and laid the foundation for the health care career I have today. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? “Bloom where you are planted.” A higher-ranking officer said this to me at my first work station. It essentially means to make the best of every situation, especially those that are difficult or outside of your control. It has stuck with me ever since, and in many ways, I credit this simple phrase for helping me to remain so adaptable. What’s your favorite thing about your job? In health care, many people from different backgrounds and disciplines have to come together as a team for the continuum to work as intended. Reconciling care and processes between providers who may approach the delivery of medicine from different points of view and experience is fulfilling, especially when this coordination results in patients reaching their goals and reclaiming their health. Collectively helping someone experience a new thing, and reaching that next milestone — that is special. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? Careers are not built overnight, and fewer today are linear. Sometimes we have to take a step back to take two forward. Others may have to start fresh in new markets and roles to cultivate the very specific skills required by the jobs they truly want. There are many ways to get to one place, and exhibiting both flexibility and intention in career planning goes a long way. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? To be perfectly honest, that would be my wife. She is a fantastic doctor with a machine-like work ethic. Even when working long hours for weeks at a time, she still finds balance in her life and opportunities for self care, reflection and friendships. She pushes me to be a better version of myself every day, and while I have many great mentors, none of them hold me to the standard that she does. Read full profile at galvnews.com. LIVES: LA MARQUE WORKS: EXP REALTY Rose Lazo, 28 Real Estate Agent Why did you go into your particular field? I ventured into real estate to help people find their dream homes and secure investments that shape their futures. Passionate about property and community, I saw real estate as the perfect avenue to blend my interests and skills. The dynamic nature of the Galveston market excites me, and I enjoy the challenge of meeting my clients’ needs. It’s fulfilling to guide clients through significant life decisions and witness the joy when they find their home. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? As a child, I had big dreams of belting out hits on stage as a singer and chasing bad guys as an FBI agent. I wanted to catch criminals by day and serenade audiences by night. My dual aspirations had me practicing my Grammy acceptance speech while pretending to chase criminals. Imagine solving mysteries with a microphone in hand! My childhood dreams were nothing if not ambitious and a bit over the top. What was your first job? My first job was an amazing experience as a student worker at Galveston College’s counseling center. Under the guidance of my boss, Angie, I helped students prepare their schedules, assisted counselors, and handled tasks like making copies and sorting mail. I’ll never forget her! Angie taught me so much and gave me a wonderful introduction into the working world. I loved supporting students and staff in such a meaningful way and remember those days fondly. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? The best advice I’ve received is that loving yourself means respecting your own boundaries and making it clear to others you won’t tolerate disrespect. It’s about cherishing who you are and ensuring others treat you with the same care and consideration you share. This advice has been a guide for me these past four years in valuing my own well-being while building and nurturing healthy relationships. What’s your favorite thing about your job? Alongside the joy of helping clients find their dream homes, I thrive on the challenge of problem-solving and negotiation in real estate. Whether it’s navigating complex transactions to crafting win-win solutions, and/ or finding creative solutions to meet clients’ needs, it’s exciting to overcome obstacles and secure the best outcomes for everyone involved. These aspects of my job keep me engaged and excited about real estate. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? “No” is a complete sentence, and it’s perfectly okay to say if you feel uncomfortable or if something doesn’t align with your job requirements and Realtor values. It’s a powerful act of self-respect and creating healthy work boundaries. Embracing this simple practice empowers me to navigate relationships in the real estate world. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? Pastor Josefina Gomez from New Life Fellowship Galveston holds a special place as my greatest mentor. Her gentle wisdom and unwavering support have deeply influenced my personal and spiritual life. Her spiritual guidance and love for education has shown me how to navigate life’s challenges and encouraged me to embrace growing as a person even if it’s difficult. I’m incredibly grateful for her mentorship, which continues to inspire me to embrace kindness and serving others. Read full profile at galvnews.com.Insurance and Financial Services 18 | The Daily News | 40 Under 40 | 2024 NEVER MISS A SINGLE ISSUE! COASTMONTHLY.COM/SUBSCRIBE LIVES: FRIENDSWOOD WORKS: HIGGINBOTHAM Shaina Miller, 28 Managing Director Why did you go into your particular field? Initially, I didn’t actively pursue a career in the insurance industry; I stumbled into it thanks to Higginbotham. I quickly discovered a passion for helping businesses and employees navigate the complexities of the health insurance market. As a broker, I take pride in helping clients craft the perfect program for their employees, impacting their well-being and the company’s bottom line. Additionally, the ever-evolving landscape of our industry and its regulations keeps me engaged and sharp. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? My aspirations changed with the wind as a child; however, one constant was my love for playing “office.” When I spent time at work with my mom, I eagerly imitated her, answering phones and typing at the computer — activities that amusingly mirror much of my everyday life today. What was your first job? My very first job was working as a food runner at Pier 99, a seafood restaurant in Corpus Christi. I landed the gig at 15. It was the only place in town willing to hire me at that age. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? The best advice I’ve ever received is that learning never stops. No matter how much you think you know, there’s always something new to discover. This advice has encouraged me to stay curious, seek out new challenges and continuously grow both personally and professionally. Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning has not only enriched my knowledge but has also opened up countless opportunities and experiences that I would have otherwise missed. What’s your favorite thing about your job? My favorite aspect of being a broker is the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of employees and their families. By providing them with comprehensive benefits, I help ensure they have the security and support they need. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact on their well-being and to help businesses attract and retain top talent. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow in this dynamic field. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? Looking back on the onset of my career, I wish I had grasped the significance of networking and building strong professional relationships earlier on. Understanding that success isn’t solely about individual achievements but also about the community you build and the support systems you nurture would have enriched my professional journey immensely. Additionally, realizing the true value of work-life balance and its impact on long-term career satisfaction and personal well-being would have been incredibly beneficial. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? The greatest mentor in my life has been my dad. Joining the military at 19 and committing 32 years of service in the Coast Guard, he exemplified incredible resilience and discipline. Climbing the ranks to achieve the highest position possible, he showed me the value of hard work, perseverance and the importance of leadership. His journey and principles have profoundly impacted my personal and professional growth, making him my most influential mentor. Read full profile at galvnews.com. 2024 | 40 Under 40 | The Daily News | 19 LIVES: FRIENDSWOOD WORKS: UTMB HEALTH Samantha Miro, 34 Manager of Strategy and Communications Why did you go into your particular field? I was initially drawn to higher education leadership because of the support I received as a college applicant and student. After college, I worked as a college access advisor to help high school students navigate college applications and the financial aid processes. This began my passion for working within higher education strategy and policy to better understand and help remove some of the barriers I recognized, especially for historically marginalized populations. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Growing up, I wanted to be a teacher. Educators have been the most influential coaches, advocates and leaders throughout my personal life and professional trajectory. What was your first job? Like most Galvestonians, my first jobs revolved around tourism — selling snow cones on the beach and working as a lifeguard at a water park. But my first role once I finished college was to serve as a college access advisor at a large high school. This experience was the catalyst that launched me into my professional path now, as it helped me understand social, political and economic factors that influence secondary and postsecondary educational systems. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? If someone is asking you to lead a project or take on an initiative, they already believe you have the knowledge, skills and understanding to do it, and likely do it well. The advice was to not only say “yes” to opportunities but to have the confidence to know that the request is already proof that you will succeed and to believe in yourself. What’s your favorite thing about your job? I enjoy the variety of work and simplifying complex topics. Faculty, scientists, students and leaders at UTMB are so innovative and intelligent. Being able to understand the remarkable work and research they conduct and connect it to our shared goals and individual support roles is really meaningful to me. Whether its through fundraising, communications, student events, data reporting or contributing to research, I feel proud of connecting our work to the communities we serve. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? I have been incredibly fortunate to report to leaders and supervisors who support my personal and professional growth. When I first started working, I was too timid to ask for professional development opportunities, but now I feel more confident in this area and know the strong correlations between support, engagement and well-being. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? My dad, Gary Seale, is my greatest mentor. He is resilient, intelligent and very hard working. He is always learning something new and challenging himself to grow. To me and to countless members in his communities, he is reliable, dependable and holds himself accountable. He engages strongly in everything he does, whether that is being a dad and grandfather, a researcher, a musician or whichever role he is playing, he gives it his all. Read full profile at galvnews.com. LIVES: GALVESTON WORKS: ROSENBERG LIBRARY Heather Owens, 37 Children’s Librarian Why did you go into your particular field? I’ve always had a passion for reading, which was instilled at an early age. Both my mom and I were hardly seen without a book in hand. After graduating from Texas A&M, I applied to be a children’s department library assistant while I tried to figure out what I wanted to be when I “grew up,” and the rest is history. I went on to earn a master’s in library science, specializing in children’s services. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? It really depended on the day! Frequent mentions were veterinarian, truck driver, nurse, teacher and scientist. What was your first job? At 14, my parents gave me special permission to become an assistant janitor at a middle school, because I was determined to make my own money. My first customer service role was at TCBY in high school. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? Feeling down? Feeling anxious? Go outside in the sunshine and eat a banana. What’s your favorite thing about your job? The people, by far. I genuinely enjoy our patrons and their families. Instilling a love of reading and lifelong learning in our youngest patrons is my passion. It doesn’t get any better than being surrounded by books all day. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started your career? Not all children come from the same circumstances in life. Books and education are only a top priority in a child’s life if they have enough to eat, a home and a responsible, attentive adult in their life. I knew this was true, but not at the level I see currently. I’ve become familiar with the resources available to families and children in Galveston and offer those resources when asked. Who do you consider to be your greatest mentor and why? Obviously, Karen Stanley, the children’s services manager at Rosenberg Library! For almost 12 years as my supervisor, Karen has taught me how to be my best self as a children’s librarian. She challenges me to put myself in new situations and always has new ideas to expand our services, reach new patrons and create an engaging library experience for the families in Galveston. When you’re not at work, what do you do to relax? I read (a lot). Ironically, I do not get to “just read books all day” at work as a librarian (common misconception). I love spending time with my husband, Dustin, and our 5-year-old son, Dylan. We take advantage of all the island has to offer — the beach, Moody Gardens, putt-putt golf, Pleasure Pier, etc. I also enjoy making jewelry with seashells and sea glass and listening to live music. What is something about you that most people don’t know? I graduated valedictorian from Texas A&M University in Galveston. I also love heavy metal music. How do you hope to grow in your career? I hope to continue to create new and exciting innovative ways to support Galveston families and children at Rosenberg Library with educational, entertaining programming and materials for years to come. Read full profile at galvnews.com.Next >