Keynote Speaker Valerie Plame - Executive Women of the Palm

Keynote Speaker Valerie Plame
As a covert CIA Operations Officer, Valerie Plame worked to protect
America’s national security and prevent the proliferation of weapons of
mass destruction. Without warning, in 2003 she found herself at the heart
of a political firestorm when senior White House and State Department
officials revealed her secret status to several national journalists — including
a syndicated conservative newspaper columnist who published her name.
A subsequent investigation exposed what some dub an act of treason: that
Plame’s “outing” was coordinated with the involvement of President Bush’s
Deputy Chief of Staff (Karl Rove), Vice President Cheney’s Chief of Staff (I.
Lewis “Scooter” Libby) and the Deputy Secretary of State (Richard
Armitage). Libby was indicted on charges of perjury, obstruction of justice,
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WILA at a Glance
Sponsors Reception
Ann Norton
Sculpture Gardens
Wednesday, April 30
By invitation only
Women In Leadership
Awards Luncheon
Kravis Center
Thursday, May 1
11:30 a.m.
Purchase Tickets
Inside this issue:
Honorary Chair Frances Fisher
Frances Fisher is a dedicated volunteer, advocate and
supporter of many charitable organizations in Palm Beach
County. She has served in numerous leadership roles in the
last sixteen years, creating fund raising initiatives and
organizing prominent events for local organizations
including the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium,
the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, the Ryan Licht Sang
Bipolar Foundation, the Norton Museum of Art, Hearing
the Ovarian Cancer Whisper (H.O.W.), the Center for
Family Services, the YWCA Harmony House and the
Historical Society of Palm Beach County. She currently
serves on the Board of Trustees of the South Florida
Science Center and Aquarium, H.O.W., and the Palm Beach
Day Academy. She is the Founding Chairman of the newly
formed Gardens Conservancy at the Ann Norton Sculpture
Gardens and co-chairman of the Great Expectations
Capital Campaign at Palm Beach Day Academy. Her outstanding service to the community
was recognized by Palm Beach Atlantic University with the “Woman of Distinction” Award
in 2006.
Through her career in Washington, D.C., Mrs. Fisher gained national political experience.
She was appointed to serve in the West Wing of the White House as a Special Assistant to
the Counsel for President George H.W. Bush and member of the First Lady Advance Team
for Barbara Bush. She also served on the Treasury Staff for the Bush/Quayle Campaign and
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Executive Women
of the Palm Beaches
2013 - 2014
Officers
Minx Boren
President
Charlotte Pelton
President-Elect
Betsy Owen
Secretary
Misty Travani
Treasurer
Jessica Cecere
Treasurer-Elect
Ellen Block †
Immediate Past President
Directors
JoAnne Berkow
Beth Crews
Deanna Fisher
Lori Fischer
Jackie Halderman
Bonnie S. Lazar*
Beverly Levine*
Pattie Light
Katie Newitt
Trixy Walker
Newsletter Editor:
Robbyn Ackner
EWPB Foundation
Officers
Virginia Spencer
Chair
Regina Bedoya
Vice Chair
Monica Manolas
Secretary
Nanette Norton Winzell
Treasurer
Directors
Ellen Block †
Lisa Bondurant
Tish Carlo
Sandra Close-Turnqust
Rosanne Duane
Gayle A. Landen
Bonnie Lazar*
Syndie Levien
Beverly Levine*
Pam Payne
Beverlee Miller Raymond
President’s Message
“Engagement Empowers
Everyone.” That’s the
theme I chose for my year as
president, and now, more
than half way through my
term in office, it is
encouraging to see just how
many ways that theme is
becoming a reality.
Everywhere I look, there are more and more
hands on deck participating in turning
“wouldn’t it be nice” ideas into events and
projects and opportunities. There have been
learning opportunities like Promoting Your
Business Through Social Media with Jennifer
Hampton and the WILA 2013 Recipients Panel,
hosted at Northwood University and facilitated
by past president Rita Craig. The panel
discussion focused on what it takes to succeed
and lead. Our Past Presidents Luncheon in
December provided another opportunity for
learning and engagement, where Andrea
Bradley Esq., the new president and CEO of
Palm Healthcare Foundation, talked about
Reflections on Being Presidential. There have
also been Tables for Ten on engaging topics
like Mentoring and Goal Setting where, as
members, we have had an opportunity to learn
from each other.
We have had some important partners who
have engaged with us in making this a great
year. Thanks to sponsorship by Wilmington
Trust and FAU Lifelong Learning, EWPB worked
with Girls II Women to bring a film screening
and discussion of Girl Rising to our community.
This film showcases the strength of the human
spirit and the power that educating young
women has to change the world. We also
partnered with FPL in bringing together a panel
of four of their female executives, facilitated by
member Pam Rauch, to share insights about
negotiating/navigating the tumultuous and
constant business of change.
The Future of Change was the theme of our
Inaugural EWPB Leadership Institute
developed in partnership with PNC Bank. The
evening prior to the event, Penny Murphy
hosted and sponsored a VIP Reception at
Pioneer Linens. Attendees had the opportunity
to hear Mary Ella Gabler, president of Peacock
Alley and author of “Uncommon Threads,”
speak about what it means to grow a company
from an idea to a successful reality. On Friday
January 31st, the Leadership Institute was
launched at the Kravis Center. We began the
day with breakfast speaker Sharon Hadary,
founder and former executive director of the
Center for Women’s Business Research and coauthor or How Women Lead – The 8 Essential
Strategies Successful Women Know. Our
luncheon keynote speaker was Ann Rhoades,
founding Executive Vice President of People
and JetBlue Airways, current President of
People Ink, and author of Built On Values –
Creating an Enviable Culture that Outperforms
the Competition. Adding to the value of the
Leadership Institute experience, we held three
simultaneous breakout sessions in both the
morning and afternoon, along with Human
Library Tables where 20 community experts,
including many of our own members, hosted
conversations on a wide variety of business
topics. How’s THAT for engagement!
I’ve noticed that when it comes to taking on
that which is ours to do, there are two very
different approaches. Choosing one over the
other makes all the difference. When we say
“I have to (fill in the blank)” - no matter the
task at hand - it creates a certain energy that
can feel burdensome, but if we shift our
language to “I get to _____”,we are reminded
of the privilege and blessing of having
opportunities and choices. As Executive
Women we “get to” engage in many
worthwhile activities, meaningful dialogues
and opportunities for networking and learning.
By doing so together we “get to” make a world
of difference.
Here’s to an engaging and empowering year,
Purchase WILA Tickets Here
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(Frances Fisher continued from page 1)
(Valerie Plame continued from page 1)
as an Event Planning Associate for their Inaugural Committee. Mrs.
Fisher’s proactive efforts to promote community stewardship began
when she co-founded the National Environmental Policy Institute in
Washington, D.C. in 1992. She remained Executive Director until 1999 and
continued serving on the Board of Directors until 2002.
and lying to federal investigators and in
March 2007 was found guilty on four of the
five counts against him.
Mrs. Fisher holds a B.S. degree from the University of Alabama. She is an
active supporter of the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches as well as
The Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea. A native of Tuscaloosa,
Alabama, Mrs. Fisher is married to Jeffrey Fisher, and they are the proud
parents of Harrison (age 10). She is also the step-mother of Alexandra
Fabrikant of Miami and Samantha Carroll of Los Angeles.
The Fishers have recently completed the restoration of their primary
residence and second historic home in Palm Beach and enjoy spending
time in their vacation homes in Fisher Island, Florida and Chatham,
Massachusetts.
Much had been written about the “Valerie
Plame Story” before Plame, who remained
silent throughout the controversy, wrote her
New York Times best-selling autobiography
Fair Game: My Life as a Spy, My Betrayal by
the White House. In 2010, Fair Game was
made into a major motion picture starring
Sean Penn and Naomi Watts. Plame released
her second book, fictional thriller Blowback,
in October 2013 to wide renown.
Purchase WILA Tickets Here
Inaugural EWPB Leadership Institute
– Using Brain Science to Get the Best from Your People
presented by Susan Klein, MCC, Success Technologies, Inc.;
and Diversity in the Workplace, Approach and Trends
presented by Marsha Jones, PNC Bank - attendees regrouped
for lunch and the keynote presentation by Ann Rhoades,
The daylong event sought to inspire and educate participants founding Executive VP of People Ink and JetBlue Airways and
best-selling author of Built on Values: Creating an Enviable
to be more effective in this world of constant change.
Culture that Outperforms the Competition. Ms. Rhoades
The day started with breakfast and a presentation on Creating engaged and educated the audience with information on
a Bold and Integrated Leadership Model to achieve success in creating and building organizations that stay true to the
the workplace by Sharon Hadary, Principal, Sharon Hadary & values that make them successful.
Co. Founding and former Executive Director, Center for
Women’s Business Research and author of How Women Lead. The afternoon included three breakout sessions - a Special
Attendees learned what research has to say about why having Forum with Keynote Speaker Ann Rhoades; Stepping UP to
Significance: Why Leadership Must Evolve FOR the World with
women in leadership positions results in higher profits and
Joan O. Wright, O’Sullivan Wright, Inc.; and Pull Me Don’t
performance.
Push Me with Naomi Ackerman, The Advot Project – Theatre
Following the presentation, Ms. Hadary lead a discussion with for Social Change.
a panel of five key local business men and women, including
Kelly Smallridge of the Business Development Board, Beth
The final segment of the day’s programming was a unique
opportunity to participate in Human Library Tables, which
Kigel from the Northern Chamber of Commerce, Earnie
Ellison, Jr., Managing Partner, Ellison Consulting Group and
involved small group discussions on a wide variety of subjects
with local experts. Topics included Branding your Business or
Cressman Bronson and Melissa Mickle, both of PNC Bank.
Organization, Building a Great Team, Conflict Resolution,
After morning breakout sessions - including Developing Your Retaining and Engaging Employees, The Skinny on Social
“A” Game: Keys to Effective Leadership in the Changing
Media and more. At the end of the day, attendees networked
Workplace presented by Rita Craig, Top Tier Leadership; Shine over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
More than 175 female business leaders joined Executive
Women of the Palm Beaches (EWPB) and PNC Bank for the
Inaugural Leadership Institute held Friday, January 31 at the
Cohen Pavilion in the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach.
New Members
Welcome to the newest members of The Executive Women of the Palm Beaches. We invite our new members to join
us and get to know your new organization at any or all of the upcoming events listed on the event calendar and we
encourage our existing members to reach out, say hello and embrace our newest members highlighted below.
By Margarita Abrishami
Martha McLean Bolton – Exec
Martha McLean Bolton is a research group leader with Max Planck Florida Institute for
Neuroscience. She develops and implements research programs to study alterations in brain
circuits in autism and schizophrenia. Prior, she was a researcher with Duke University Medical
Center, where she still serves as an adjunct assistant professor. Martha graduated cum Laude
with her B.S. degree in Biochemistry from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University,
and her Ph.D. in Neurobiology from Duke University Medical Center.
Chanda Fuller – Exec
Chanda Fuller became the executive director of the Palm Beach chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis
Foundation after relocating from the Los Angeles chapter. Her volunteer work includes
serving with the Peace Corps in Belize, the Belize Cancer Network, and the National 4H
Center. Chanda attended Grossmont College in San Diego, California.
Donna Hamilton – Exec
Donna Hamilton is the president of Juno Beach Civic Association, a non-profit, non-partisan
100% volunteer civic association created to enrich the lives of people living in the Juno Beach
community. Prior to ‘retirement’, Donna was a director of marketing for a commercial
architectural and engineering firm in Northern CA, and a principal member of an international
design firm on the East Coast. Donna is also on the board of the Loxahatchee Guild in Jupiter.
Suzanne Holmes – Exec
Suzanne Holmes is a Sr. vice president and Sr. relationship manager with PNC Bank. Suzanne’s
community affiliations include: Arthritis Foundation, Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach,
Hanley Center Foundation, and Harmony House Luncheon Committee to name a few. She
received her Master of Arts from University of Delaware and is fluent in Spanish, French, and
conversational in Italian and Portuguese.
(Continued on page 7)
New Members
Carol Putman – Exec
Carol Putman is the owner of Carole Putman Design, representing the Carlisle & Per Se
Collections. It is the largest direct selling company of upscale women’s designer clothing
and accessories. Carol is heavily involved with Impact 100 of South Palm Beach County and
Junior League of Boca Raton. She received her Masters in Education from Florida Atlantic
University.
Shana D. Peterson-Sheptak –Exec
Shana Peterson Sheptak is a Sr. vice president and regional manager for PNC Bank. Prior to
PNC, Shana was the market manager for One Boca Place and Boca Federal Branches. She is
currently on the advisory board for The Haven and has served the community on the
board of Children’s Home Society and Junior Achievement. Shana has her Bachelor of Arts
in Speech, Language Pathology and Audiology from University of Florida.
Elayne Forgie, Exec. Returning Member
Elayne Forgie is the President and CEO of Alzheimer’s Care Resource Center,a non-profit
providing comprehensive service and programs to caregivers of persons with Alzheimer’s,
dementia, or other memory impairments. Elayne is on the board of Area Agency on Aging
of the Palm Beaches/Treasure Coast and Alzheimer’s Association SE Florida Chapter.
Welcome back Elayne to EWPB!
Gail M. Asarch, Exec
Gail Asarch is a managing member of Ardent Management, LLC. She manages personal and family investments in
capital markets, alternative investments, private equity, and real estate in addition to being a partner for
Hurricane Wings and Grill restaurants and Meyer Jabara Hotels. Her community service includes: Meyer
Amphitheatre, Anti Defamation League, Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, and the Arthur I. Meyer
Jewish Academy.
Marilena Beuses, Exec.
Marilena Beuses is a leadership consultant and executive coach. She has over 18 years of
experience in senior human resources and 13 years as a professional executive coach and
senior leadership consultant; with extensive domestic and international experience in
multiple industries and Fortune 100 companies. Marilena received her B.A. in Psychology
and Sociology from Duquesne University and her MBA from the University of Michigan
before attending Coach University.
(Continued on page 9)
New Members continued from page 7
Judie E. Beaumont, Exec.
Judie Beaumont is a vice president and senior trust officer with Key Bank. Prior to the
banking industry, Judie owned a private law practice in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She is a
member of the Oklahoma Bar Association and on the board of the United Way of Indian
River County. She is a past board member of American Cancer Society Indian River
Region.
Marcella Scherer, Exec
Marcella Scherer is the president of Marcella Scherer, Inc., an image consulting firm
helping women through color analysis, skincare, makeup, wardrobing, personal
shopping, seminars, and executive leadership coaching. Prior to starting her own
business, Marcella was the executive director and national trainer for BeautiControl
Cosmetics. Her community involvements includes: PB Academy of Health and Beauty
Board, Women’s Chamber of Commerce founding member, and WHO Foundation
member. Marcella earned her MBA in Marketing from Radford University in Virginia.
ALL New Adjunct Level:
Andrea Sayger
Andrea Sayger is the vice president of Brown & Brown of Florida, Inc., Prior to the insurance business, Andrea
worked as a buyer for Macy’s Department Stores, and managed the Bonefish Grill in Daytona Beach. She is
involved in the community with Quantum House and Junior League of the Palm Beaches. Andrea has her B.S.
degree in Public Relations from University of Florida.
Jennifer Rodriguez
Jennifer Rodriguez is a vice president and branch manager of Florida Community Bank, and has been in the
banking field for over 19 years. She received her B.A. in Liberal Arts from Penn State University and her M.B.A.
from Palm Beach Atlantic University. Jennifer has volunteered her time at the Women’s Chamber Foundation,
Women’s Chamber of Commerce and BNI – H2O Chapter.
Dana Ross
Dana Ross is the director of talent management and human resources for Brooks
International. Prior to moving to South Florida, Dana was the manager of human capital
and organization management consulting for Accenture in New York. She is a new
member advisor with Junior League of the Palm Beaches and graduated from Penn State
University with a degree in finance after studying abroad at the American University of
Roma.
31st Annual Women In Leadership
Award Nominees
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Robin Roshkind, Esquire
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Leslie Artsis Adams
Verdenia C. Baker
Yvonne S. Boice
Jestena Boughton
Sally Chester
Michelle Diffenderfer
Elayne Forgie
Dr. Laurie George
Deborah Jaffe
The Honorable Jeri Muoio
Janet Nakushian
Denise Marie Nieman
Stephanie Pew
Sharon Quercioli
Jocelyn Skolnik
Kelly Smallridge
Mayor Priscilla A. Taylor
Yvette Trelles
Denise W. Valz
31st Annual Women In Leadership
Award Recipients
Christine D. Hanley
Private Sector
Judith A. Mitchell
Public Sector
Beverly Perham
Volunteer Sector
Rev. Pamela A. Cahoon
Inspirational Leadership Award Recipient
Upcoming Events - Mark Your Calendar!
All EWPB Events are posted monthly on the EWPB website calendar. Community Events are posted as they are received. Watch weekly for
updates, information and pricing by visiting www.ewpb.org *Indicates Community Events
Wednesday, April 30 - 2014 Annual Women In Leadership
Awards Sponsors Reception
Thursday, May 1 - 2014 Annual Women In Leadership Awards
Luncheon Purchase Tickets
Friday, May 9 - Networking - Casual Breakfast Gathering at the
Boulevard Cafe
Tuesday, May 13 - EWPB Board Meeting
Tuesday, May 13 - EWPB Program's Committee Meeting
Wednesday, May 14 - Networking at the Hampton's
Friday, May 16 - EWPB Foundation Board Meeting
Tuesday, May 20 - EWPB Membership Committee Meeting
Tuesday, June 10 - EWPB Program's Committee Meeting
Thursday, June 12 - EWPB Membership Committee Meeting
Friday, June 13 - Networking - Casual Breakfast Gathering at
the Boulevard Cafe
Wednesday, June 18 - EWPB Installation Dinner
It's hard to believe we are in the home stretch
of the 2013-2014 term. What an incredible
experience we've had together this year with
the launch of the Inaugural Leadership
Institute, the many wonderful programs
offered to us, so many new members and the
Robbyn Ackner Women In Leadership Awards luncheon. We’ve
most certainly seen our theme for the year in action, as
everyone who has gotten engaged, has been empowered.
giving you access to full content. You’ll find many links which
lead to calendar items, articles, notices, community events
and even member profiles. We will continue to work on this
over the course of the next few months and welcome any
suggestions. The deadline for all submissions is the 1st of each
month. Send your announcements or event details, including
any pertinent links to [email protected]
You may have seen some changes in our monthly eNews.
We’re doing our best to streamline the eNews, while still
Jeanne L. Matullo
Morgan Stanley
Vice President - Financial Advisor
(561) 838-8976 Work
(561) 317-1630 Mobile
[email protected]
777 South Flagler Drive, Suite 900
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
http://www.morganstanley.com/fa/jeanne.matullo
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We’ve also made many changes to the website and are
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Warm regards,
Robbyn L. Ackner, Newsletter Editor
Network: The Newsletter of
Executive Women of the Palm Beaches
Editor, Robbyn Ackner
Layout/Design, Karen Webster
Contributors: Robbyn Ackner, Jody White
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