< Previous10 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 2024 Who inspired you to be a leader and why? The successful women in my family and friend’s circle are a constant source of inspiration for my leadership journey. Their independence, tireless work-ethic, resil- ience and unapologetic boldness serve as a powerful model for me. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/ organization? From the outset of my career, I have been driven by a commitment to empower socio-economically disad- vantaged individuals through access to education. While the precise career path was not always clear to me, my determina- tion and unwavering dedication to helping others reach their dreams ultimately have positioned me to serve as Executive Vice President at College of the Mainland. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? One of the biggest factors that impact a woman’s ability to lead others is emotional intelligence. EI is a powerful tool that can help female leaders break through barriers, cultivate strong relation- ships and create positive change. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? My leadership journey has been immensely rewarding, primarily through the opportu- nity to inspire, mentor and serve others in achieving their aspirations. Witnessing the OCCUPATION: EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF ACADEMIC AND STUDENT AFFAIRS, COLLEGE OF THE MAINLAND DR. HELEN BREWER realization of their goals and con- tributing positively to my community through acts of service brings me profound fulfillment. What has been the most sig- nificant barrier in your career? Early in my career, I faced significant hurdles, such as a lack of self-recog- nition and the confidence to navigate setbacks. However, my supportive spouse, a pillar of strength and tremendous intellect, has been instrumental in my growth. His encour- agement has fostered a profound realization of my capacity to make meaningful impacts in my profession- al and personal life. How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career? I have been on a lifelong journey to deepen my relation- ship with God, and he is the founda- tion of my confidence. In moments of personal or professional adversity, when challenges seem insurmount- able, my reliance on my faith in God consistently has provided guidance and solace. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of your- self? I prioritize self-care by main- taining physical, mental and spiritual well-being through exercise, mindful- ness and fulfilling activities. While my family remains my central focus and offers tremendous fulfillment, I also value strong support networks and mentorship for guidance and connec- tion. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? First, I would advise that they take the time to identify and prioritize their intrinsic values, since they will serve as a guiding compass throughout their leadership journeys. Secondly, my advice is to have female leaders embrace each new role with a growth-mindset, meaning a willing- ness to learn and actively. OCCUPATION: FACILITIES COORDINATOR/ODYSSEY ACADEMY PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS TERRI O’CONNELL EDUCATION EDUCATION “Live everyday like a pup when someone leaves the gate open.” TERRI O’CONNELL Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My parents were my inspiration to lead. They taught my brother and I that there was nothing in this world we couldn’t accomplish if we wanted it bad enough. We both believed them. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/ organization? Absolutely not! I began my career in public education as a substitute teacher and moved into the roll of bookkeeper at a high school. I was offered the equivalent position in Galveston and took it prior to earning my degree, subsequently being offered the position I have now had for the past nine years. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? Self confidence is key. If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will believe in you. Honesty, work ethic and perseverance are integral qualities to being a successful leader. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? The most important benefit to me has been lifelong friendships. Also, being able to walk into a room full of people I don’t know and being able to speak to and with them without hesitation. What has been the most signif- icant barrier in your career? I was my biggest barrier to my career because I married young and my life was dedicated to my children and my husband. Once the kids were grown, I thought I was too old to go to college to obtain my degree, but finally decid- ed to do so at 47 years old. How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career? My confidence has grown over my life due to being surrounded by people who believed in me and encouraged me even when I didn’t believe in myself. Their con- fidence in me never wavered, even when mine did. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of your- self? I love to travel. When traveling, I seek out every furry animal I can find to pet, feed and make friends with wherever I am. I love being in and on the water with my husband. What advice would you give to the next generation of female lead- ers? I would say to find something you would love to do and do it! Don’t put it off till the time is right. The right time is now. We aren’t promised tomorrow, so do it today. Live everyday like a pup when someone leaves the gate open.2024 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 11 Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My inspiration to be a leader is my mother, Darla Mattes. From the time she started college when I was in third grade, she balanced her studies, a full-time job and never missed my activities, all while main- taining a near-perfect GPA. Her dedication taught me perseverance, work ethic and the importance of continuous self-improvement. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/or- ganization? At the start of my career as a reporter focused on local education stories, I didn’t foresee a leadership role in school communications. Yet, when the opportunity arose to become the Public Information Officer in La Marque ISD, my home district, I was drawn to it. Twenty-seven years later, I realize it has been the perfect fit for me. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? Women often face higher expectations to balance work and personal life, such as caregiving. This can limit their career advancement and leadership oppor- tunities. However, working in the education sector provided me more balance; being able to attend children’s events, having the same holidays off and enjoying a kid-cen- tered environment. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? My leadership role has enhanced my strategic OCCUPATION: DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/TEXAS CITY ISD MELISSA TORTORICI communication skills, crisis manage- ment and public relations expertise. Leading a team also has improved my mentorship abilities. What has been the most signifi- cant barrier in your career? The most significant barrier has been managing the fast-paced evolution of communication technologies. The rise of cell phones, texting and social media often has pressured us to be reactive when we prefer to be proactive. Dealing with the constant demand for instant communication without sacrificing accu- racy has been a complex challenge that has tested and ultimately strength- ened my professional skills. How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career? Throughout my ca- reer, I’ve grown stronger by embracing the evolving challenges in education and communication. Each new respon- sibility has improved my planning and decision-making abilities. Navigating complex school issues and responding adeptly in crises have taught me to adapt quickly. What are the ways you stay ground- ed and take care of yourself? I em- brace the motto “work hard, play hard.” Cruising is my preferred way to vacation since it allows me to completely discon- nect from work, social media and emails — providing a true break. Additionally, it makes me happy to attend Texas City ISD games, concerts and plays. What advice would you give to the next generation of female lead- ers? I’d advise seeking opportunities for continuous learning and be open to feedback — it’s vital for growth. Cultivate a strong support network and don’t shy away from mentorship, both giving and receiving it. Finally, always advocate for yourself with confidence and clarity, recognizing your worth and the unique perspectives you bring to the table. OCCUPATION: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, HIGHER UP TEXAS HILLARY GRAMM EDUCATION NONPROFIT “Today’s woman is able to lead because of the women who trailblazed before her.” HILLARY GRAMM Who inspired you to be a leader and why? Witnessing those with leadership titles who failed to act motivated me to be a different type of leader. Being a leader is about learning from those you are repre- senting while encouraging and empowering them to use their voice. It is beyond provid- ing a seat at the table and more so about handing them the microphone, too. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/orga- nization? Absolutely. While I had the quali- ties of a leader, I acknowledged that I need to evolve toward becoming an effective and impactful leader. I ameliorated my skills by furthering my education, embracing wisdom from my mentors and am always willing to give more than what had been expected in all of my roles. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? Today’s woman is able to lead because of the women who trailblazed before her. As women, we must continue to stand taller and speak louder to honor those who empowered us to strive for more. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? I am consistently nudged out of my comfort zone. I have learned to set biases aside and lean into my organization’s core val- ues when making decisions that impact my organization. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? Each person has their own invisible backpack of challeng- es. While I work on unpacking mine, I am incredibly fortunate to have mentors that guide me as I navigate challenges. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? Complacency is poisonous and comfort scares me. My risk-taking men- tality has been highly beneficial in taking chances that others feared. I am very introspective and seek ways to improve personal and professional areas of my life. What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself? By nature, I am a lighthearted person. I remind myself that mistakes are a part of the journey. Missteps keep us grounded and remind us that we are human. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? Acknowledging that we are not the smart- est person in the room opens us up for our own evolution. Goals require internal and external work. Enhancing these work components requires the adoption of a collaborative mindset to build a reputable network.Mainland 409-935-2496 Metro 281-337-5634 Island 409-765-5883 2425 SH 146 North • Texas City 409-945-4461 • Fax 409-945-8479 • Email: tctrr.com No. 4 In Texas No. 10 in U.S. Gulf Coast No. 15 in U.S. Nationwide PORT OF TEXAS CITY Texas City Terminal Railway Company Port Authority Owner/BrokerOwner/Manager SERVING ALL OF THE MAINLAND THE NEWS YOU WANT DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX GALVNEWS.COM/NEWSLETTERS 12 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 2024 OCCUPATION: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BAY AREA HABITAT FOR HUMANITY MEGAN SCHEFFER Who inspired you to be a leader and why? Early in my career, I was lucky enough NONPROFIT to be mentored by my grandmother, Fay Hester, who ran a successful property man- agement company for 30 years. I learned how to present myself, how to make people feel heard and the importance of good communication. I also am incredibly grateful to our organization’s board members for encouraging me in leadership. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/ organization? No. I consider myself a “helper” person and was hesitant to go after a leadership role, but as I’ve grown in my career, I’ve learned about servant lead- ership and how I can help my organization, my colleagues, and the families we serve, by being a conscientious leader. What factors impact a woman’s abili- ty to lead others? I feel extremely lucky to have the full support of my colleagues, both male and female, but I have worked in environments where certain people took women less seriously than their male counterparts, so I know we still have room for improvement in that regard. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? I wouldn’t nec- essarily call it a barrier, but getting stuck in my comfort zone is something that has held me back before. Change can be un- comfortable and scary but it’s the only way to grow and move forward. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? I try to view each disappointment or setback as an opportunity to learn something. Of course, we all should take a moment to let ourselves feel disappointed, but then we can dust ourselves off and ask “what can I learn from this?” What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself? Work-life balance is a major priority for me. I’d be willing to bet that every woman nominated for this award tends to overcommit, but we have to be comfortable saying “no” when we need downtime. I make space by walk- ing my dog, reading a good book or having a glass of wine with a friend. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? As women, we sometimes think that we shouldn’t go after an opportunity if we aren’t 110 percent qualified or if we don’t already know how to do the job. My advice is to try anyway because you’ll regret it if you don’t, and chances are you’ll learn and take something away from the experience no matter how it turns out.2024 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 13 Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My daughter inspired me to be a leader. I wanted her to observe good leader- ship skills through what she saw in my life. I made sure that she saw qualities that good leaders have like integrity, responsibility, empathy and perseverance. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/orga- nization? I always had dreams of having a leadership role in education, but being the nonprofit world was not something I had even thought about. The opportunity to work with the TCISD Foundation for the Future has been the best thing to happen to me. OCCUPATION: TEXAS CITY ISD FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE GENY WHITE What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? It is important to have support systems in place to help you in leadership roles, like people who provide you guidance and encourage- ment. Great leaders also should always continue to learn for the betterment of themselves and others. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? I have built so many great relationships through my leadership experience. These wonderful relationships have supported me and made me want to continue to strive to be the best that I can be. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? One of the most challenging aspects of any career is change. People typically do not like change, but it is crucial to be open mind- ed to how things evolve and how we must change our ways when needed. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? Through conversation and new information, I am able to build confidence. I love learning new things and hearing ideas from my peers. When you try new ideas and have success this build confidence in what you are doing. What are the ways you stay ground- ed and take care of yourself? I love to travel with my family and friends. Just have a next adventure booked helps me to always have something to look forward to. I also love to listen to music and sing in the car when I am driving to and from work. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? Trust in what you believe in, but always be open minded to new ideas. When we work together, we can achieve more than we work alone. OCCUPATION: MANAGING DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYEE BENEFITS AT HIGGINBOTHAM INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES SHAINA MILLER NONPROFIT YOUNG PROFESSIONAL Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My late mother, Regina Gallaugher, inspired me with her strength and dedi- cation. While my dad was deployed, she worked full-time and managed our home with incredible perseverance. Her ability to handle challenges with grace taught me resilience and the value of balancing responsibilities. Her example continues to guide and inspire my leadership journey. 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 set out with a specific goal of a leadership role, but deep down, I believed I would reach that position one day. My focus was on excelling and learning. As I took on new challenges, leadership naturally emerged as the next step. I’m grateful for the oppor- tunities and support that guided me here. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? A woman’s ability to lead is influenced by confidence, emotional intel- ligence and resilience. Balancing work and personal life is crucial to avoid burnout. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? My lead- ership experiences have honed my strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. They’ve also expanded my network and deepened my understanding of team dynamics. Leading has enhanced my resilience and adaptabil- ity, and provided opportunities to mentor others. Most importantly, these experiences have strengthened my confidence and pas- sion for driving meaningful change. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? The most signifi- cant barrier in my career was transitioning to motherhood. Balancing the relentless demands of my professional life with the profound responsibilities of raising my daughter tested my limits. It compelled me to redefine my understanding of time management, prioritize effectively and embrace flexibility, ultimately making me a more resilient and empathetic leader. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? I’ve built confidence and resiliency by embracing challenges as growth opportunities and learning from each experience. Seeking feedback and mentorship has been crucial, as well as celebrating small victories. Staying adaptable and focusing on continuous improvement have helped me overcome setbacks, while a strong support network has provided encouragement and per- spective during tough times. What are the ways you stay ground- ed and take care of yourself? I stay grounded by prioritizing self-care and set- ting clear boundaries between work and personal life. Regular exercise, mindful- ness practices and quality time with loved ones help maintain balance. I also make time for hobbies and personal growth, and I seek support from mentors and peers to navigate challenges effectively and stay focused on my well-being. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? To the next generation of female leaders: Believe in your abilities and embrace your unique perspective. Seek mentors, build supportive networks, and view challeng- es as growth opportunities. Advocate for yourself and others, and remember, leadership is about uplifting those around you. It’s not just reaching the top, but also bringing others along on the journey. “When we work together, we can achieve more than we work alone.” GENY WHITE14 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 2024 Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My grandmother inspired me to be a community leader and not to be afraid to be the first to do something. With her 4th grade-level education, she reinforced how important education was and how it could change lives. She was the first Latina wom- an to serve on the school PTA, a school which I would attend years later. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/or- ganization? I always knew I wanted to par- ticipate in public service in some capacity but to be able to do it at a leadership level is an honor. It is with even more gratitude that I am able to do it for Valero, a compa- ny which helped me achieve a life-changing education. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? I believe confidence, experience, listening and empathy all positively impact a woman’s ability to lead. Women who have had to make their pres- ence felt and thoughts respected are the leaders we need to guide us. We all bring a different voice to the table and when it is listened to and collaborated with, positive advancements can be made. OCCUPATION: VALERO TEXAS CITY REFINERY, MANAGER OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS SARA MONTELONGO-OYERVIDEZ What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? In my time as a leader, I have learned patience, acceptance and resourceful- ness. I believe all of these attributes also help me to continue being a leader and learn how to build on experiences and learn from past situations. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? I have had a few barriers in my career: being Latina, a woman and younger compared to my counterparts. Although, I do not view them as significant barriers. I believe I have used each in proving to my co-workers how a different life experi- ence and view of our world can assist in making all leaders better. How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career? My confidence and resiliency come from the motivation my family and friends give me. My husband and parents constantly push me and believe in what I do and that gives me the most confidence in myself. My sis- ter always reminds me of worse circum- stances for others and that pushes me to continue fighting for a better world. What are the ways you stay ground- ed and take care of yourself? I keep myself grounded by surrounding myself with family and continuously making sure I am involved in the community. I never forget how fortunate I was growing up, even with the sacrifices my parents made to ensure my sister and I had a great education. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? Look to your support circle for encour- agement, motivation and passion. Be open to share your experiences, no matter how difficult so the next woman may not have to struggle in the same way. Throw down the ladder to help those who come after you in any way you can. We must support each other. OCCUPATION: BAY AREA TURNING POINT KATHERINE SWANSON YOUNG PROFESSIONAL YOUNG PROFESSIONAL Who inspired you to be a leader and why? My inspiration to be a leader comes from people I’ve encountered throughout my life. Their encouragement and belief in me helped me tap into my self-confidence and rise to the occasion, contributing to my leadership journey. When you began your career, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession/ organization? While I don’t have a formal leadership role at work, I contribute through initiatives like chairing the United Way Em- ployee Giving Campaign. Outside of work, I embraced leadership roles as president of the Galveston County Library Alliance and marketing director of the League City Lions Club. I found leadership in the opportuni- ties I’ve created, and the impact made. What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others? A woman’s ability to lead is greatly influenced by access to mentor- ship and supportive networks. Connecting with others provides valuable knowledge and encouragement, which is crucial as no one knows everything. Supportive net- works are essential for balancing multiple responsibilities and overcoming societal expectations, offering the lift needed during moments of doubt or struggle. What benefits have you received from your leadership experiences? The greatest benefit of my leadership ex- periences has been the connections I’ve made. I thrive on building relationships and learning from those I interact with. Each person has left a lasting impact, shaping who I am and how I engage with others. From these connections, I seek opportunities to expand networks and help when a need arises. What has been the most significant barrier in your career? The most signifi- cant barrier I’ve encountered is managing my commitments. I often want to take on everything and be there for everyone, which isn’t always feasible. This has been a learning process, requiring me to refine my ability to prioritize and set boundaries — skills that haven’t always come easily but have been essential for my personal and professional growth. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? I’ve built confidence and resil- iency by surrounding myself with uplifting, supportive people who encourage me and believe in my potential. Their support helped in overcoming hesitation and step- ping outside my comfort zone. What are the ways you stay ground- ed and take care of yourself? I stay grounded and take care of myself by prioritizing my mental health. My therapist has been instrumental in my personal growth and navigating hurdles. Beyond self-work, I adore spending quality time with my son, creating meaningful memo- ries through both everyday moments and special occasions. What advice would you give to the next generation of female lead- ers? My advice to the next generation of female leaders is to embrace your unique strengths and trust your instincts. Surround yourself with mentors who uplift and challenge you, as each challenge is a chance for growth. This way, you’ll stay aligned with your values and confidently know you’re doing your best.2024 | TCLM CHAMBER WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS | 15 Are you ready to elevate your brand and make an impact in the digital world? Look no further than SNI Digital Agency, your trusted partner in achieving remarkable marketing results. 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