May 12, 2017 Unique Monthly Visitors: 333,439

rbb Communications

Link to article

2017 Influential Business Women: Visionary pioneers for a new age

South Florida’s influential businesswomen reflect and attempt to emulate the achievements of their predecessors. Yet, they’re successfully doing so in a new age.

Whether modeling themselves after local leaders or acclaimed executives from among the world’s blue chip corporations, they are tenacious and innovative pioneers not satisfied with the status quo – even if they’ve made great strides over previous generations.

These leaders are trailblazers who often span the very industries that help define South Florida itself. They’re from professional, personal and financial services; health care; real estate and development; and travel, tourism and attractions that together form the very backbone of the local economy.

Read on to see that their stories are not necessarily unique. But they are indicative of the importance others have played in helping each woman find her own success – and elevate South Florida’s business, cultural, civic and philanthropic communities to greater heights.

Our 25 honorees were feted at a May 12 luncheon celebration at the Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six, during which they each shared a pearl of wisdom.

We’d like to thank our corporate sponsors, Florida International University College of Business and GCI Worldwide Corp., and associate sponsors Durée & Company, Fibernet Direct and HSBC.

Continued… Page 2/26

rbb Communications

Jaclyn Baumgarten

CEO, Boatsetter.com

www.boatsetter.com

2890 N.E. 187th St., Aventura 33180

(844) 262-8738

Birthplace: Los Angeles

Education: B.A., Wellesley College; M.B.A., Stanford University Graduate School of Business

Though she’s CEO of a nautical enterprise, Jaclyn Baumgarten finds a role model more firmly rooted on terra firma. She cites Liesl Capper Yearsley, a search engine pioneer, CEO of IBM-acquired Cognea, and now part of the core team behind Watson, the world’s preeminent artificial intelligence.

To Baumgarten, Yearsley is known for “consistently being ahead of … things that shake the ground under us and fundamentally change the world we live in.”

No small role model. Yet, Baumgarten no doubt qualifies as an influential in her own right. The woman who founded Cruzin in 2012, which led to creation of a new industry poised to disrupt the multibillion-dollar marine industry, she was selected by Boating Industry as one of the sector’s Top Movers and Shakers.

To get there, Baumgarten has been driven by tenacity, an unwillingness to quit, and a belief that hard work and creativity always deliver solutions. She surrounds herself with strong talent nurtured to excel, and she always seeks the win-win.

“Don’t play zero-sum games,” she says.

Baumgarten “jealously” protects her time and respects that of others. It is any entrepreneur’s “most scarce and valuable asset,” she says. Moreover, she turns to human beings’ inherent power, “our special ability to collaborate in groups, and together, to be far more than the sum of our individual parts” to drive the common good.

“I always aim to build powerfully collaborative situations, where the success of one member is experienced as a success for all,” she says.

Amid it all, her compass also remains on her own north star.

“I know that if the current path is not leading where I want to go, I can carve my own new, better path, and I can bring others along with me.”

Darran Blake

Continued… Page 3/26

rbb Communications

Senior VP, wealth management,

UBS Financial Services

www.ubs.com

401 E. Las Olas Blvd., Suite 2300, Fort Lauderdale 33301

(954) 527-6376

Birthplace: Philadelphia

Education: B.S. in business, University of Maryland

Fun fact: Blake was imbued with an entrepreneurial spirit from an early age. She had three different businesses from ages 16 to 21, and was in a three-page People magazine spread for her clothing company at 21.

As a young child, Darran Blake saw “sleeping as a waste of time.” She would take her rest envisioning who she wanted to be, then would awaken energized to take steps to fulfill that vision.

Those visions led her to launch three separate startups, become a successful woman in the financial services field, and thrive as a mother serving as a role model to a teenage daughter.

It helps that she lives in South Florida, an ideal and supportive business, civic and cultural community, she says. Whether working with other empowering leaders, or collaborating with partners in her financial practice, boards, and organizations, “the relationships have been instrumental in my career,” Blake says.

Today, she’s a giver. Blake sits on several boards driven to create change in the community, she says. Whether working on the Broward County centennial, the Pace Center for Girls’ Empowerment of Girls event, or spearheading a new educational initiative to address and combat the opiate crisis in South Florida, Blake sees herself as fortunate to be able to make a difference.

That difference also is found in mentorship. Whether working with aspiring business executives or her own 16-year-old daughter, Jordan, Blake helps them zero in on their strengths and progress in their development. Even her clients are guided to lead the “work-optional lifestyle they have planned all their lives to achieve.”

Blake may decry sleep. But she awakens every day to see a new adventure. She follows her passion, “shoots high,” she says, “and takes risks.

“That is what separates the ordinary from the extraordinary,” she says. “As that child who didn’t want to sleep for fear of giving up valuable time to accomplish goals, I never stopped then, and haven’t stopped now. And I still can’t sleep.”

Suzanne Bogdan

Continued… Page 4/26

rbb Communications

Regional managing partner,

Fisher & Phillips LLP

www.fisherphillips.com

450 E. Las Olas Blvd., Suite 800, Fort Lauderdale 33301

(954) 847-4705

Birthplace: Hastings, Michigan

Education: B.L.S., Barry University; J.D., University of Miami

Fun fact: “Even before I started college, I knew I wanted to live in South Florida,” she says. “I moved to Miami to take a job in a mannequin factory in Hialeah. I then launched my legal career by overstating my qualifications to get a job as a legal secretary.”

Throughout her professional career, Suzanne Bogdan has parlayed her skills into a platform to give back. Today, she does so as regional managing partner for law firm Fisher & Phillips, helping guide the firm, her partners and younger associates.

Yet, she also did so as volunteer general counsel for nine years for the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. She helped the chamber tackle compliance issues and implement forward-thinking processes. Appointed to the position of chamber chair-elect-designate, Bogdan works with chamber personnel, providing guidance and assistance to the business community by voicing concerns, addressing community problems and finding ways to lead the community in shaping processes that protect and help the business and community climate.

In her legal work and substantial pro bono work with educational institutions and associations throughout Florida, Bogdan educates schools on the laws that impact their institutions, and she mentors attorneys who want to grow into education lawyers.

For Bogdan, being an influential businesswoman means tapping her sphere of knowledge, relationships and expertise to help “influence, inspire and motivate others to develop into better people and leaders to shape policy, law or business practices in a positive way,” she says.

Since before earning her first leadership post at the firm, as chair of the firm’s nationwide education practice group in 1998, Bogdan has sought to excel by doing right – no matter the cost – and pushing through fear. It’s advice she’d give any protégé.

“Don’t be afraid to try new things and push yourself,” she says. “Fear is a great motivator, and you’ll probably do much better than you anticipate up front.”

Rebecca Faith Bratter

Continued… Page 5/26

rbb Communications

Deputy managing shareholder, Greenspoon Marder

www.gmlaw.com

200 E. Broward Blvd., Suite 1800, Fort Lauderdale 33301

(954) 491-1120

Birthplace: Columbia, Maryland

Education: B.A., Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University; J.D., Nova Southeastern University

Fun fact: “I was a nerd in high school,” she says. “I love to hike, I truly love to volunteer my time, I don’t enjoy big cities and I always wear glitter nail polish.”

Work hard, build a solid team, challenge those around you, inspire confidence, and raise up your organization. Those are the attributes Rebecca Faith Bratter sees in an influential businesswoman.

“And,” she adds, “she has to earn respect and not demand it.”

These are traits Bratter has learned throughout her career. Most recently, she’s learned them from firm founders Gerry Greenspoon and Michael Marder. But she’s also long lived by the belief that, to succeed, an executive must be “the hardest-working person in the room,” she says.

“That should not be measured in hours or days, but in dedication and often in finding efficiencies,” she says. “You can’t be afraid of new challenges; you just may have to try harder.”

For Bratter, hard work has paid off. She was the youngest shareholder appointed to the Greenspoon Marder management committee, later becoming the firm’s first deputy managing shareholder. She has helped grow the firm from 20 lawyers when she joined to over 200 today.

For those 200, Bratter has one question: “Do you love what you do?”

“We spend most of our day and some of our nights working, so if you don’t love what you do and who you work with, it will never work out for you. You will not have the influence you want or need to do your job,” she says. “Once you have the job you love, then the sky is truly the limit. The glass ceiling doesn’t apply to you. Work hard at every level and with everyone. You will succeed.”

Luciana Carvalho, MCR

Senior VP, Blanca Commercial Real Estate

www.blancare.com

Continued… Page 6/26

rbb Communications

1450 Brickell Ave., Suite 2060, Miami 33131

(786) 301-3020

Birthplace: Vitoria, Espirito Santo, Brazil

Education: B.S. in economics, University of Vila Velha Brazil; B.A. in marketing, Florida International University; Master of Corporate Real Estate, CoreNet Global

Fun fact: “At 16 years old, I started my own business, which then became a family business. At 18 years old, I enrolled myself in an abroad program to come to the U.S. to learn English,” she says. “I kept it a secret from my mom because she was a very protective mother. A month before leaving, I told her about my plan and she laughed in disbelief. I then showed her my passport and visa, plane tickets and information about the program, which I paid on my own. It was one of the most exciting moments of my life.”

When Luciana Carvalho’s grandmother decided at 55 she wanted to become an attorney – and she did – Carvalho learned only the latest important life lesson.

“She taught me life lessons that have kept me motivated throughout my career,” she says. “She taught me the importance of building a strong family foundation, making me realize that we can ‘have it all’ – be a career woman and be good mother and wife.”

Carvalho layers those lessons atop her “inborn people skills, entrepreneurial spirit and relentless desire to be the best I can,” she says. She’s driven by seeking to develop mutually beneficial business relationships through involvement in the community and giving back to the community and making a difference for others. She says her grandmother “helps me stay true to myself and motivates me each day,” and “has helped me be successful throughout my career.”

To Carvalho, challenges in life shape outstanding individuals. Born and raised in Brazil, she moved to the U.S., and made her way. She later navigated the role of tenant representation broker in commercial real estate during the Great Recession.

“I have always visualized what I want,” she says. “I created my own path and arrived at my destination, always exceeding my life goals. It is important to work hard to improve yourself every single day, both professionally and personally.”

Carla Corbo

International and area sales manager, Southeast Florida Division, Lennar Homes

www.lennar.com

730 N.W. 107th Ave., 3rd floor,

Miami 33172

Continued… Page 7/26

rbb Communications

(786) 255-9003

Birthplace: Lima, Peru

Fun fact: “I love to do charity work, helping those in need or going through hard times,” she says. “I especially love volunteering at the children’s hospital in my native country of Peru, where I serve during my annual Christmas trip.”

For inspiration, Carla Corbo need look no further than Sara Blakely. The founder of the Spanx line of women’s and men’s undergarments tapped her “sheer determination to overcome countless obstacles to make her dreams a reality” – and earn a spot on Forbes’ list of the world’s most powerful women.

“I relate to many of her fears, the difficulties she encountered and her perseverance against all odds,” Corbo says.

For much of her own success, Corbo has turned within. Having lost her mother when she was 11, Corbo says she had to grow up fast.

“My biggest motivator has been the hard times in my life,” she says. “After a long time of feeling bad about my beginning, I can thank that hardship – and other challenges – for where I am today.”

Corbo points to two accomplishments that make her most proud. The first came during her rookie year at Lennar when, despite never having been in sales, she became the company’s top sales producer. The second was opening a highly successful new department for the division. Both involved hard work and pressure, and staring down her hidden fears.

“But they were beautiful to see blossom,” she says.

Today, she mentors Lennar’s next generation “to be their best; reach for the stars; and never allow age, gender, race or any other factor to be a deterrent.”

The beliefs Corbo shares are borne from a personal philosophy that itself has blossomed over the years.

“Life is like a race through the countryside, use your griefs and losses as fuel,” she offers, “but remember to breathe and enjoy the beauty around you.”

Shana S. Crittenden

COO, North Shore Medical Center

www.tenethealth.com

1100 N.W. 95th St., Miami 33150

(305) 835-6103

Birthplace: Champaign, Illinois

Continued… Page 8/26

rbb Communications

Education: B.S. in biology, University of Illinois; M.P.H., Emory University

Fun fact: “I was the captain of both the dance and cheerleading team in high school,” she says. “Now I find great joy in dancing with my young children.”

When Shana Crittenden considers the inspirations who drive her, she looks global – to Oprah Winfrey and executive coach Trudy Evans, and across South Florida – to leadership coach Giselle Cheminand, and Tenet hospital CEOs Gabrielle Finley-Hazel and Barbara Simmons.

She also looks to her parents, who supported her dreams of becoming a physician from a young age – even after she changed her mind one month before she was slated to take the Medical College Admission Test. She recalls the day she told her father she wanted to pursue health care administration to help provide health care services to the less fortunate.

“To my surprise, he said: ‘I only supported your dreams of being a doctor because it was your dream. I’ll support this one, as well,’” she recalls. “They continue to support me in my professional pursuits, and are my pillars of strength in helping me raise my two beautiful children.”

Today, she uses her career and influence to collaborate with “amazing people all working toward a common goal: making a difference in the lives of others,” she says.

Surrounded by compassionate healers, they “wake up every day with the sole purpose of saving lives,” she adds. “That’s a pretty incredible environment to witness.”

Giving back to the community has always been important, and Crittenden supports causes and organizations that tap her inner spirit and faith. She personally and professionally supports, mentors and empowers young women, whether at her workplace, in the community or the PACE School for Girls. A board member of the Extraordinary Women Leading Change conference, she partners with other women who are positively affecting countless lives.

As she tells all her protégés: “Do not let minor setbacks define or destroy you. … Always remember, ‘a setback is a setup for a comeback.’ Eventually, your comeback will happen and you’ll be thankful for each and every setback along the way.”

Cristina DiMauro

Senior VP, commercial banking executive, BankUnited

www.bankunited.com

7765 N.W., 148th St., Miami Lakes 33016

(305) 569-2055

Birthplace: Miami

Continued… Page 9/26

rbb Communications

Education: B.B.A., finance, Florida International University; High Performance Leadership, University of Chicago

Fun fact: “I danced ballet for 15 years at the same studio where my mother was also a company ballerina,” she says. “Now, my two daughters are both studying dance, as well.”

To Cristina DiMauro, the attributes of an influential businesswoman are clear: have a meaningful impact and motivate others.

While not exactly saying who has served this role in DiMauro’s life – “there have been many people that have taught me a lot along the way,” she says – what they’ve done is easier to pinpoint. There was the girls’ high school she attended, which “taught me to assume there are no limits and no preordained definitions of roles for girls or women.”

One of those she admires most in life – Coco Chanel – left a mark in words upon DiMauro, saying: “Keep your heels, head and standards high.”

This sums up what DiMauro says she aspires to: Embrace her femininity and the unique personality traits it brings that thrive in the workplace. Be confident, “if you are prepared you can accomplish anything,” she says. And maintain your standards. “Always conduct yourself in manner that you can be proud of, personally and professionally.”

The rewards have come in kind. She helped found a new commercial banking effort after BankUnited’s relaunch in 2009. Over almost eight years, the organization has recruited a talented team, built a portfolio of nearly $4 billion in loan commitments, brought hundreds of commercial clients to the bank, and supported0 entrepreneurs and business owners across Florida.

Now, she’s paying it forward, working to be a good example to her daughters first, her teams, the community, her parish, her alma mater, and the Florida Chamber’s Board of Governors. All the while she maintains high standards.

“How you carry yourself tells the world who you and what is important to you,” she says. “You get to decide what the right set of standards are for yourself, if you abide by them, you will not have any regrets.”

Jamie Dos Santos

Founder and CEO, Cybraics

www.cybraics.com

100 S.E. Third Ave., Suite 808, Fort Lauderdale 33394

(954) 526-9612

Birthplace: Hialeah

Education: Technical training (ISDN, SONET, Frame Relay, X.25, SDH), Bellcore Technologies

Continued… Page 10/26

rbb Communications

Fun fact: “I was high school homecoming princess, a bodybuilder for six years, have two black belts and fought full contact until 1989 – winning the women’s championship,” she says.

As a woman who has launched companies and explored the leading edge of technology, Jamie Dos Santos has high standards for what being an influential businesswoman entails. She is a woman who is encouraging, mentoring or sharing experiences for another person to succeed.

“There are so many heroes that don’t need the spotlight and dedicate their lives to helping others,” she says. “That’s who deserve this recognition.”

Dos Santos counts on her list Barbara Walters, who reached into so many living rooms, presented the truth and the realization that knowledge is power.

“It doesn’t always have to be about who makes the most money,” Dos Santos says.

Her path to success started at a young age, about the time her father enrolled Dos Santos, then 12, and her sister in karate. They found discipline; internal, physical and spiritual strength; and the realization to “empower myself … led to confidence in competing and, eventually, that same confidence to start a business,” she says.

This led to Dos Santos starting a gym in her 20s, later helping build Terremark Worldwide, and now running Cybraics. President Barack Obama appointed her to the President’s National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee, and she chaired the Secure Government Communications report to the president.

With ambition, passion, faith and a realization that frustration and anger are acceptable – if displayed only in private, Dos Santos has “learned over the years while on this amazing journey that you must give back equal to what you take, the closer that is an even balance the more fulfilled your life will be,” she says. “We are all connected in the universe.”

Lisa Duke

CFO, Walter Duke and Partners

www.walterdukeandpartners.com

901 S.E. Fifth Court, Fort Lauderdale 33301

(954) 587-2701

Birthplace: Miami

Education: Broward College

Fun fact: Duke says she can outdo the guys when it comes to target shooting.

Continued… Page 11/26

rbb Communications

An influential businesswoman positively impacts the lives of others, first and foremost, particularly women in the business community, says Lisa Duke. With a strong work ethic and loyalty, she learned that there is no substitute for either.

Not much for mantras or mission statements, Duke discovered at a very young age that one need not work hard to be successful.

“In any situation, I go straight to ‘What is the endgame here?’ and then I get there,” she says. “My philosophy has always been to not waste time on dreaming and believing it will happen, but rather working hard and making it happen.”

Her greatest career accomplishment has been leading the company’s commercial real estate valuation and advisory firm for the past seven years with great success, tapping into new sources of business and becoming a market leader in the company’s space, harnessing the power of effective social media and corporate best practices – all while working beside her husband and company president, Walter Duke.

Together, they are involved in and supportive of countless civic causes and charitable organizations. She serves organizational and charitable boards including the Port Everglades Association and its Economic Engine Performance Report Luncheon; Winterfest; her former neighborhood association, where she successfully spearheaded the design, funding and construction of several linear parks and major neighborhood improvement projects in excess of $1 million. During the past year, Lisa and Walter, the former mayor of Dania Beach, were honored as a Couple of Style and Substance by the Symphony of the Americas.

“We are successful because we love what we do and we love doing it together. I manage the business and he runs the practice,” she says. “The synergism is tangible.”

Tanya Ferreiro

Principal and assurance practice leader, Kaufman Rossin

www.kaufmanrossin.com

2699 S. Bayshore Drive, Miami 33133

(305) 857-6737

Birthplace: Santiago de Cuba

Education: B.A. in accounting, Florida International University

Fun fact: “I have a snake phobia,” she says. “Friends have suggested that I pet a snake to get over my fear, but there is absolutely no way I can do that. It may seem funny to others, but for me, the panic is real.”

Continued… Page 12/26

rbb Communications

A role model for some, mentored by others, the source off “a significant positive impact at her company and in her community. These attributes define an influential businesswoman to Tanya Ferreiro.

Yet, they don’t have to come from a woman. Ferreiro’s path to becoming assurance practice leader with Kaufman Rossin began when she took a bookkeeping class in grade school and discovered she had a knack for numbers and accounting. Her teacher, Mr. Healy, encouraged and guided her to pursue accounting as a career.

One of her proudest moments was being named the firm’s first female partner. In an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated, this was a significant milestone. More recently, Ferreiro was appointed leader of the firm’s audit practice, managing one of the firm’s largest departments and identifying ways to increase productivity and revenue, principally through innovation. She’s proud of the recognition.

She’s also proud of her efforts in the community. Ferreiro has worked with several nonprofits through her role at the firm, providing audit services and guidance to the boards of organizations such as the Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis, United Way, Miami Dade College Foundation and Cure SMA. She also served on the board of directors and as the audit committee chair for CHARLEE, Children Have All Rights: Legal, Educational and Emotional.

Getting to this point in her career, Ferreiro has been motivated by a common philosophy – with a twist.

“‘If you love what you do, you won’t work a day in your life,’” she says. “While that may not be 100 percent true, pursuing your passion will certainly make you feel more fulfilled and accomplished.”

Arminda “Mindy” Figueroa

Founder and chief marketing connector, Latin2Latin

www.latin2latin.com

333 N. New River Drive E., Suite 1200, Fort Lauderdale 33301

(954) 376-4800

Birthplace: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Education: B.B.A., University of Puerto Rico; M.B.A., Dowling College

Fun fact: “After spending most of my childhood taking singing lessons, participating in TV commercials and talent shows, writing the script for a school play, singing for the high school choir and a rock band, I thought I was destined for Broadway,” she says. “But I chose another creative avenue: marketing and business management.”

To Arminda “Mindy” Figueroa, an influential businesswoman is one who sees life and work as a journey shared with others – making connections and enhancing the outcomes for others along the way – “regardless of personal gain,” she says.

Continued… Page 13/26

rbb Communications

It was something she realized about 10 years ago – the business of making human-to-human (H2H) connections for all types of purposes and reasons. It led to the creation of her fourth business, the one she leads today building connections between others.

“People fuel my soul and boost my energy,” she says. “I relish the next human encounter, as it makes me a better person to learn their hopes, fears and their own journey. The effect is equally exhilarating, whether it’s an old friend or someone I just met.”

Her own journey brought Figueroa to Florida from New York City when she became involved with Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center, then served on the marketing council of Hispanic Unity. She later became the first Latina to be part of the board of governors of the Tower Club. She’s also been involved in the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Federation and a host of corporate clients.

Figueroa cites four women who have been instrumental in shaping who she is today: her mother; her sister, Carmen; her paternal grandmother, Carmen; and her wife, Amilda. Cheerleaders, compass, “my north, my sounding board and the shoulder to cry on during my journey,” she says.

Tracy L. Gerber

Co-managing shareholder, West Palm Beach office, Greenberg Traurig

www.gtlaw.com

777 S. Flagler Drive, Suite 300 East, West Palm Beach 33401

(561) 650-7900

Birthplace: Tampa

Education: B.A., history, Tulane University; J.D., University of Florida Levin College of Law

Fun fact: “I love to cook and make great Jewish food,” she says. “Every year around the December holidays, I make 100 potato latkes and bring them into the office.”

In describing an influential businesswoman, Tracy L. Gerber need look no further than her mother. A former owner of an advertising agency, she showed young Gerber “that success in business is best achieved by working hard and always doing the right thing for your clients,” she recalls. “These are the essential qualities that help a business woman develop influence.”

Gerber finds influentials wherever she can, regardless of gender. At her firm, law partner Brad Kaufman has been a strong advocate and sponsor. Early on in her career, he steered opportunities to be lead counsel in significant cases and develop relationships with key clients. At home, her husband’s support “has allowed me to have an excellent career and family life,” she says.

Continued… Page 14/26

rbb Communications

Aside from doing what she loves for work, when it comes to leadership, Gerber ascribes to the servant-leader philosophy. This begins with the idea that one wants to serve others to help enrich their lives, “which in turn builds better organizations that serve the needs of others,” she says, “and ultimately creates a more caring world.”

As any good leader, Gerber similarly drives opportunities to people in her office and encourages them to serve their community. The office received the first Edward Rodgers Award from the Palm Beach County Bar Association for significant support of its diversity initiatives. They also support the Palm Beach County Legal Aid Society.

“I’m proud of the women I’ve mentored – both inside and outside the firm,” she says. “When I see them excel at what they do – like the associate I have primarily worked with for the last eight years becoming a shareholder of the firm this year – I feel especially proud to have been a part of that success.”

Tina Lux-Boim

President and CEO, Managed Maintenance

www.managedmaint.com

301 Yamato Road, Suite 2180, Boca Raton 33486

(561) 869-4399

Birthplace: Topeka, Kansas

Education: B.A. in communications, University of Kansas

Fun fact: She was an amateur boxing referee when Floyd Mayweather was a teenager while working with the Police Athletic League.

When looking for a role model as an influential businesswoman, Tina Lux-Boim aims high. She believes Mary Barra, CEO and chairman of GM, “dispels the myth of a woman leading a company traditionally perceived to be the purview of men.”

But she also looks closer to home. Her mother, Eileen, is a single mom who went on to get her master’s degree and built a successful career in HR with Siemens Corp.

From all successes – including herself – Lux-Boim seeks positive traits, like focus, determination and hard work. Almost 20 years ago, she started as an administrative assistant with a technology company. She saw an opportunity to build a maintenance and support business, and pitched it to the company CEO.

“In a few years, this business became the company’s most profitable business unit,” she says. Ten years ago, MMI was spun off, and she later became president and CEO.

Continued… Page 15/26

rbb Communications

Because MMI’s mission includes giving back to the community, her executive team is committed to local charities, including Boca Helping Hands and Family Promise, community-based organizations providing food, emergency assistance and job mentoring to individuals and families in distress. They have sponsored in-house food drives, raffles, auctions and donation lunches for charities, and periodically allow employees time off during the workday to volunteer at company-designated charities.

To Lux-Boim, success requires a singular expectation: Believe in yourself and expect the unexpected. You have to consider not just “what is,” but “what can be,” she says.

“Like my mom, I, too, was a single mother for a long time. As a woman or man, one can achieve their business objectives while weaving it into your family and spiritual life,” she says. “And while on my journey, it is not that I kept my faith – but my faith and family helped me be what I am – as a woman, as a person.”

Dana Markham

President, Pine Crest School

www.pinecrest.edu

1501 N.E. 62nd St., Fort Lauderdale 33334

(954) 776-2146

Birthplace: Fort Lauderdale

Education: B.A. in elementary education, University of Mississippi; M.S. in early childhood education, Ed.D. in child and youth studies, Nova Southeastern University.

Fun fact: She was an all-star softball player throughout high school and college, contributing as pitcher, catcher, shortstop and first- and second-base player.

Some might believe that, as an educator, failure would not be an option for Dr. Dana Markham. Yet, “failure is always an option,” she says.

“I measure success based on our resiliency and how well our leadership team, faculty and students respond to and overcome obstacles that come our way,” she says. “We must learn from our mistakes, own them and move forward.”

Markham has learned her way from many who came before her. She respects the successes of Michele Stocker, a shareholder at law firm Greenberg Traurig. Whether in the business or civic community, or among family and friends, Stocker “sets an example for everyone who crosses her path.” Then there’s Markham’s father, “the consummate professional who was well-known for his strong work ethic; and her husband, Joe, “who encourages me to reach higher every day.”

Continued… Page 16/26

rbb Communications

“He has pushed me to apply for positions I may not have otherwise applied for,” she says, “and inspired me to make my voice heard when it may have otherwise been stifled.”

With the strength of role models and personal achievements behind her, Markham’s greatest accomplishments include earning the respect of her colleagues and the vote of confidence from Pine Crest School’s board of trustees to be named president in 2011.

Little surprise that Markham’s advice for her college-age self or a protégé climbing the corporate/business ladder would be to know the power of what you do and say – on yourself and others.

“Know that every conversation has an impact,” she says.

As she oversees an institution that dates to 1934 and today has 2,636 students and 743 employees across two campuses, that’s an important lesson indeed.

Mika Mattingly

Executive VP, Colliers International

South Florida

www.colliers.com

801 Brickell Ave., Suite 850, Miami 33131

(786) 486-4391

Birthplace: Washington, D.C.

Education: B.A., Boston University Film School

Fun fact: She grew up on a horse farm in the foothills of Shenandoah Mountain.

Mika Mattingly has a vision for downtown Miami, what she calls “one of South Florida’s best-kept secrets.” By opening the city’s central business district to a new generation of investors who believe in the key role downtown Miami will play when Brightline is completed, she believes Flagler Street will become a main connector between cruise ship passengers and the high-speed train taking their families to Central Florida’s amusement destinations.

“The potential of downtown Miami is endless,” she says.

And as influential businesswomen, she and others “can ignite a chain reaction with just one phone call,” she says.

In her career, Mattingly has been “relentlessly steadfast” and trusted her internal instincts, she says. It began before she joined the South Florida offices of Colliers International in 2016, launching the firm’s urban core division. As co-leader of

Continued… Page 17/26

rbb Communications

this group, her team specializes in urban renewal, off-market sales and assemblages across core South Florida neighborhoods.

With a strong foundation of building-level market data and a knack for navigating the complexities of urban zoning and approvals, Mattingly has established herself as a real estate expert in the downtown Miami area, and helped transform the area from a neglected business corridor to a revitalized real estate destination.

Aside from transforming neighborhoods, what Mattingly has been most proud of has been her ability to introduce young women to commercial real estate, and “making them understand not only can they succeed,” she says, “but dominate a predominately male dominated playing field.”

She also believes that “influential” can also apply to her work in the community. She has helped open doors that have notoriously been shut to inexperienced women. Her message to protégés she mentors?

“Be über-focused on a neighborhood which you love and believe fully in long-term success,” she says. “Farm the area and become the local expert, as the neighborhood will always yield fruit.”

Nancy Merolla

Senior VP, community reinvestment officer, Florida Community Bank, N.A.

www.floridacommunitybank.net

2050 Weston Road, Suite 300,

Weston 33331

(954) 984-3341

Birthplace: Sayville, New York

Education: Broward College; American Institute of Banking and Institute of Financial Education

Fun fact: Although she has a fear of heights along with vertigo, she has twice taken on the personal challenge of skydiving.

Whether in the business world, the community or civic life, Nancy Merolla believes an influential businesswoman is an agent of change and a leader who’s honorable, passionate and drives others by “the impact of her words, her actions and her promises to clearly shape how people act or in the results of her commitments.”

Merolla knows she’s gotten where she is today because of the influence of role models starting from an early age. Her mother and sister always led her into a direction of caring and supporting others.

Continued… Page 18/26

rbb Communications

Although her mother departed many years ago, her sister “continues to be a true source of inspiration to me, with her faith and loving support consistently shown to me and others,” she says.

In the community, Merolla has been a change agent, serving as CEO of various nonprofit organizations that were struggling. A financial background that started in high school, complemented by her personal commitment, instilled turnaround results and outstanding programs. These included the creation of affordable housing for low-income individuals and behavioral health services for Broward’s children and families.

Her leadership resulted in an unsolicited appointment as Broward’s circuit administrator of the Florida Department of Children and Families under Secretary George Sheldon. She also taps that experience as her bank’s community reinvestment officer, addressing key issues in 17 counties and throughout Florida.

Her advice to others?

“Always work hard, dedicate your time and your talent to issues that matter the most, and do what you say you’re going to do,” she says. “Remember to remain ethical and trustworthy always – as if the world is watching.”

Julie Palmer

Director of people and culture, Suffolk Construction

www.suffolk.com

2 S. Biscayne Blvd., Suite 2700, Miami 33131

(305) 913-3379

Birthplace: Havana

Education: Bachelor’s degree in public administration, Florida International University

Fun fact: “I am the mother of three incredible young men whom I learn from every day,” she says. “Outside of that, I enjoy gardening and growing orchids and bromeliads.”

Throughout her career, Julie Palmer has had mentors too numerous to name. But when looking for a role model she can emulate as an influential businesswoman, she looks no further than Indra Nooyi, CEO of PepsiCo. Palmer considers Nooyi “a true strategist whose initiatives have focused on corporate sustainability, as well as community impact as evidenced by PepsiCo’s projects to educate women and children in impoverished countries and on equality in areas where cultural beliefs hinder the ability of women to progress.”

Her mentors and career guides who have had the most impact have been those who have “challenged me at every turn,” she says. Internally, Palmer turns to her strong faith and “a willingness to take risks and confront fear head on.”

Continued… Page 19/26

rbb Communications

“I follow the principles of servant leadership,” she adds, “which are empowering and developing people, humility, authenticity, interpersonal acceptance, providing direction and stewardship.”

Throughout her career, whether professionally, as a United Way volunteer or a member of the Florida International University Industry Advisory Council, Palmer has coached and mentored many people. Watching them develop and be able to take on positions of greater responsibility has been moving.

“It is very rewarding for me to know I contributed at some level to their success,” she says.

Her advice to them: Take every opportunity to learn.

“If they are in functional capacities, to learn the business well so they are able to contribute at a higher level,” she says. “Understand that influencing and communication are key attributes for success, and that the inability to establish good relationships is the No. 1 career derailer. Be humble, approachable and inquisitive. Be trustworthy, respectful and professional. Hold true to your values.”

Juliet Murphy Roulhac

Regional manager, external affairs, Florida Power & Light Co.

www.fpl.com

7201 Cypress Road, Plantation 33317

(954) 321-2194

Birthplace: Kingston, Jamaica

Education: B.A. and J.D., University of Florida

Fun fact: She was the child radio spokesperson for Colgate.

Throughout her career, Juliet Murphy Roulhac has used her life experiences to influence her business and industry, as well as to mentor and develop future business leaders. This is what has made Roulhac an influential businesswoman.

She credits her parents, who instilled in her a confidence that she could do anything she wanted to, while always being kind to others. Their and others’ lessons have led to Roulhac’s own personal mantras. First, “make it work,” which challenges her to work through difficult situations. Second, “there is no right way to do a wrong thing, which keeps my moral compass well-tuned,” she says.

In her position with the Fortune 200 company – the largest electric utility in the state – Roulhac manages governmental and community relations with elected officials and major stakeholders and develops regional strategies for FPL. She is a licensed attorney and practiced in the general counsel’s department prior to external affairs, and has over 25 years of complex business litigation and appellate experience.

Continued… Page 20/26

rbb Communications

Her experiences and actions resulted in Roulhac being the first African-American woman to be appointed by the governor to serve on the board of trustees for her alma mater, the University of Florida. She also believes her “influence” extends to her “hands-on leadership” as chair on the executive committee of boards and organizations that benefit the community, providing thought leadership to move these organizations forward, fulfilling their missions and visions.

Her advice to other women rising through the ranks? Know what you want, have the fortitude to ask for it, all while being aware of how you carry yourself.

“It is imperative to remain cognizant of what you say and how you behave at all times,” she says, “because you influence people by your very presence.”

Ileana Salort-Horta

COO, MBAF

www.mbafcpa.com

3150 S.W. 38th Ave., 11th floor, Miami 33146

(305) 704-8662

Birthplace: Miami

Education: B.A. in accounting and management and M.S. in taxation, Florida International University

Fun fact: This year, Salort-Horta competed in the CrossFit Games Open, placing fifth in Florida, 82nd in the U.S., and 113th in the world for the scaled category in her age group.

Throughout her life, Ileana Salort-Horta has sought challenges and overcome obstacles. She graduated fifth in a high school class of over 1,000 students one month after she turned 17. She earned a bachelor’s degree at age 19, three weeks shy of her 20th birthday.

Yes, she only passed one part of her CPA exam when she sat for it the first time – on her 21st birthday.

“I was devastated,” she says, “but it pushed me to try harder.”

Throughout her career, Salort-Horta has seen herself – and other influential businesswomen – as those who handle demanding jobs while juggling their family roles, are actively involved in the community, serve as great leaders “and inspire others to do the best they can,” she says.

She also credits others who have helped get her where she is today: her husband and children, and “MBAF principals who have guided me throughout my career and believed in me.”

Continued… Page 21/26

rbb Communications

Early in her career as an academic advisor at FIU’s School of Accounting over 20 years ago, working students would tell Salort-Horta how frustrated they were because they felt it was taking them too long to get their bachelor’s degree.

“I would always tell them, ‘It doesn’t matter how long it takes, as long as you get there,’” she says. “Still, to this day, I think about that phrase whenever I feel overwhelmed or frustrated.”

She’s lived that mantra. Last year, she achieved a goal she set for herself many years ago: to be named a 40 Under 40 honoree by the South Florida Business Journal.

“It was important for me to show my children that if you set goals for yourself and you work hard, you will achieve them,” she says.

Hildy Sastre

Co-managing partner, Miami, Shook, Hardy & Bacon LLP

www.shb.com

201 S. Biscayne Blvd., Suite 3200,

Miami 33131

(305) 358-5171

Birthplace: Los Angeles

Education: B.A. in international affairs, Florida State University; J.D., Georgetown University Law Center

Fun fact: “I’m an avid CrossFitter, off-road mountain biker, and busy mother of two boys, who play way too many sports,” she says.

Asked to identify an influential businesswoman who has touched her life, Hildy Sastre balks.

“There are so many women that I admire, I cannot just list a few,” she says.

“Since I have been practicing law, I have watched women excel in what was once a male-dominated profession,” she says. “That makes me incredibly proud.”

But her own success begins with those who have given her a chance. There was her single mother, who had virtually no resources or support and older siblings to care for, but “she was able to instill in me a desire to succeed.”

There was her firm, Shook Hardy & Bacon, which provided her with the opportunities to succeed – well beyond the typical secondary or supporting roles women had been offered, as well as others central to her life.

Continued… Page 22/26

rbb Communications

“I have been the beneficiary of my firm’s and clients’ forward thinking,” she says. “Additionally, my husband, Michael, has always been supportive of my choices. I could not agree to try cases that last weeks to months long, almost always out of town, without 100 percent of his encouragement.”

Yet, she has been her own best supporter, as well. Sastre believes people can accomplish anything they truly set their minds to.

“This is true for most of life. People are self-limiting by nature. This does not mean that I can win the Boston Marathon, but it does mean that I can run in it,” she says. “We should all take on tasks that are new and seem impossible. Everyone is capable of accomplishing more than they think they can.”

Whitney Schiffer

Partner, director of audit and attest services, Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants

www.bpbcpa.com

200 S. Biscayne Blvd.,

6th and 7th floors, Miami 33131

(305) 960-1218

Birthplace: Fort Walton Beach

Education: B.B.A., University of Georgia; M.S. in accounting, Florida International University

Fun fact: She is a huge Georgia Bulldogs fan and spends many fall weekends in Athens at football games.

Some women see other professional women as influential in their lives. Whitney Schiffer sees her mother and grandmother. Her grandmother owned an appliance store, and her mother ran a medical practice.

As a little girl, sometimes Schiffer would go to work with each of them, and was always intrigued watching them run the accounting, billing and administrative side of the businesses. Both were very organized, always friendly and respectful to others, supported a collaborative work environment and were master multi-taskers.

Her professional success has come from working at a progressive firm. She almost quit when facing the challenges of working and having to raise her daughters. Then the former head of the audit practice told her to figure out a schedule that worked.

“We didn’t realize it at the time,” she recalls, “but it was the first alternative work arrangement.”

Alternative as it may be, work still is work. Schiffer works in a deadline-driven industry. When they loom, she stays calm.

Continued… Page 23/26

rbb Communications

“Somehow, it all gets done. There’s no reason to panic every time – just find a way to get it done,” she says. “Sometimes you have to just focus, work and don’t get caught up in the distractions.”

Whether as a director at the firm, her involvement with the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce’s healthcare committee, Healthcare Financial Management Association and the South Florida Hospital and Healthcare Association, she has tapped her flexible schedule – something that was new and uncertain – to find focus and success.

Her advice to others: Get lucky and work in a place that is committed to its employees and values flexibility.

“The strength of your teams cannot be underestimated,” she says. “Build up the people around you every day.”

Lisa Scott-Founds

President, CEO, Winterfest

www.winterfestparade.com

512 N.E. Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale 33301

(954) 767-0686

Birthplace: Fort Lauderdale

Education: B.S. in communications, Florida State University

Fun fact: “In 1987, I was the head of public relations for a prominent nuclear physicist at University of Miami and gave a speech in Russia to 700 scientists from around the world on ‘Fueling the 21st Century,’” she says. “A far cry from running Winterfest. I can also ride a unicycle.”

Like a captain of a ship at sea, Lisa Scott-Founds believes her success has come from having a 360-degree perspective – the ability to see around her and not what is just in front of her. She listens, is highly focused, doesn’t understand the words “no” or “can’t,” and tries to help others excel by using her talents and connections.

Her accomplishments have come from developing a personal roadmap for success. Scott-Founds’ map includes her genuine passion for what she does and clear vision for what she wants her organization to achieve.

“The support and encouragement that I receive from my staff, board members, friends and family is priceless in those endeavors,” she says.

Checking any vision-blocking ego at the door, she lives by the “live, love, laugh” mantra to enjoy every day, listening and learning while keeping quiet when appropriate.

“It is impossible to learn when you are the one talking,” she says.

Continued… Page 24/26

rbb Communications

Her career has had challenges she’s successfully overcome. One was moving the boat parade to start downtown on the New River in 2007. Others said it couldn’t be done. A decade later, an additional 250,000 people see the parade, taking its spectator base to over 1 million – the largest live one-day spectator event in Florida and the seventh-largest in the country.

“It takes a village to run the largest one-day live event in Florida, and our board is the heart and soul of that village,” the Fort Lauderdale native says. “I would tell protégés to learn from others and learn every day. Most importantly, be humble and gracious.”

Kirstin Turner

Managing director and Florida complex director, RBC Wealth Management

www.rbc.com

525 Okeechobee Blvd., Suite 800, West Palm Beach 33401

(561) 822-0404

Birthplace: Sydney

Education: B.S. in interior design, Florida State University

Fun fact: “I was born in Sydney to New Zealand parents and moved to the U.S. in 1979 because of my father’s job,” she says. “I became an American citizen in 2015, and this past presidential election was my first time to vote at the age of 43.”

To Kirstin Turner, an influential businesswoman is driven by results. She motivates her organization with a unique leadership style that may not be the historical norm. She is someone who inspires not only women, but also men to be better and work smarter – instead of harder. She challenges all “to look through a different lens and come up with new ideas and solutions that may not have been created with only male leadership,” she says.

Turner enjoyed a combination of mentors who taught and sponsored her through the years. Yet, she doesn’t discount her “complete naïve and stubborn tenacity that I can do anything if I put my mind to it,” she says.

That belief led Turner to become the only female complex director at RBC Wealth Management, where she increased complex revenues 50 percent in three years. She is one of the firm’s top recruiters and helped transition Florida’s business model within RBC.

“I believe that I have been able to show that a woman can be very successful in this role,” she says, “and that having women in leadership in the financial services industry is paramount to our future successes.”

Little separates work from family, she says. Her employees and her three children know each other – and the importance all play in her life. Such interwoven transparency leads to a smoother organization, she says.

Continued… Page 25/26

rbb Communications

“I am a very transparent person and believe that my personal life and my professional life must be somewhat intertwined for my success,” she says. This way, “each side will understand my need and desire to support the other. I am not sure when I discovered it; it just seems like common sense to me.”

Mary M. Young

Executive director, Ziff Graduate Career Services Center, University of Miami School of Business

www.bus.miami.edu

5250 University Drive, Coral Gables 33146

(305) 284-1329

Birthplace: Alexandria, Louisiana

Education: B.B.A. and M.B.A., Millsaps College; post-graduate work, Harvard University and Boston University; international coaching certification, University of Miami

Fun fact: She was a nationally ranked Hobie Cat sailor while getting her M.B.A.

Ask Mary M. Young about her interpretation of an influential businesswoman and she’ll define her as someone who inspired another to achieve her dreams and “who probably lifted you up when you thought that dream was not possible.”

Seems improbable that Young would need such an inspiration. Before being named to her current post, Young was immediate past group location leader for IBM Americas Miami. Before that, she held leadership positions with AT&T and PriceWaterhouse Consulting.

A graduate of Leadership Miami and Leadership Florida, Young is a past president of the YWCA of Greater Miami, was the first female chair of the Coral Gables Community Foundation, served on the Florida Board of Professional Engineers, and has been a two-year Women’s Fund “Power of the Purse” chair.

Young may not even describe her influence as female. For her, motivation came from her father, a pathologist during the Vietnam War in a rural Veterans Administration hospital in a segregated Southern town. He taught Young that “kindness knows no age, race, sex or religion, and that one outstretched hand can change – not save – a life,” she recalls.

She has brought that belief to a 30-year career in the South Florida business community. Today, she leads and inspires the next generation of students whom she’s helping find their path. Tables turned, she’s now the one inspiring others, whether students or those throughout the community.

“I have been a tireless advocate for women’s needs,” she says.

Continued… Page 26/26

rbb Communications

Her message for all is the same: “Never give up on what you value. Never allow others to deter you from what they think are ‘your crazy dreams’ or ‘outdated values.’ Perhaps, unlike others, my life has far exceeded any crazy dream I could hope for.”