Leading with Purpose. Living with Heart. The Women Who Inspire Us

Here are their stories:

Alicia Dicks, President & CEO, The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties: Alicia Dicks serves as President/CEO of The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, where she leads with a bold vision for equity, innovation, and lasting community impact. Under her leadership, the Foundation has expanded its role as a regional catalyst—leveraging philanthropic resources to strengthen local nonprofits, support collaborative initiatives, and drive economic and social progress across the Mohawk Valley. With a deep belief in the power of place-based investment and inclusive growth, Alicia has helped reimagine what a community foundation can be: not only a steward of charitable giving, but an active partner in solving complex challenges and creating opportunity. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to transformative change, rooted in both strategy and heart. Respected as a thought leader and connector, Alicia continues to inspire others through her tireless advocacy for the region and its people. In her own words, Alicia shares: I have learned that decisions need to be made every day to give my best to all I am committed to in my life. Some decisions are very difficult to make, some are simple. On a daily basis, priorities change, needs change, opportunities and challenges present themselves that need to be addressed; any well-laid plan is tested when reality kicks up the dust of the unexpected. I don’t like the term “you can have it all” because there will be those times that we can and those time that we can’t. What we can control is being true to ourselves, true to our values and consistent in our actions to do the best we can.

AnneMarie Walker-Czyz, President & CEO, Rome Health: AnneMarie Walker-Czyz, RN, Ed.D., NEA-BC, is President and CEO of Rome Health, bringing over two decades of healthcare leadership to the role. Prior to joining Rome Health in 2021, she held key executive positions at St. Joseph’s Health Hospital, including Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer, where she helped lead clinical innovation and care excellence.AnneMarie earned her nursing degree from St. Joseph’s College of Nursing, followed by a BSN, MSN, and Clinical Nurse Specialist degree from SUNY Upstate Medical University. She later completed her Doctorate in Executive Leadership at St. John Fisher College, with research focused on innovation’s role in improving quality and reducing costs in nursing care. A strategic and collaborative leader, AnneMarie is committed to building high-performing teams and delivering exceptional, value-driven care to the Mohawk Valley. In her own words, AnneMarie shares: A woman in the past who has always inspired me is Florence Nightingale, also known as the founder of Modern Nursing Practice. She was awoman who led from the point of sacrificial service to others. Florence Nightingale revolutionized healthcare. My advice to future leaders is to work hard and take every opportunity to learn, grow, and serve others. Opportunities that might be unanticipated and difficult, most times offer the greatest growth.Balance in leadership comes from energy. For me energy, and therefore balance, comes from surrounding myself with the amazing talent, and dedicated people of Rome. The people I have the opportunity to serve with in Rome provide me with the strength and energy to live out our Mission, Vision, and Values. I am proud and honored to serve with leaders at every level in Rome to transform community based healthcare for our region.

Honorable Bernadette t. Clark, Supreme Court Justice: A trailblazer in the Mohawk Valley legal community, Justice Bernadette T. Clark has broken barriers throughout her career—from serving as Oneida County’s first female First Assistant District Attorney, to becoming the county’s first female Family Court Judge and later, the first woman elected to the New York State Supreme Court from Oneida County. Before entering law school at age 33, she spent 10 years in sales & marketing, bringing a unique, real-world perspective to her legal career. Known for her integrity, compassion, and deep commitment to justice, she led the creation of the Oneida County Domestic Violence Court and remains a steadfast advocate for families, fairness, and the rule of law. Raised in Utica and a graduate of Syracuse University College of Law, Justice Clark continues to inspire as a role model for women in law and public service. In her own words, Justice Clark shares: My advice to the next generation of women is to never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. I faced tremendous pressure and pushback when I announced that I was running for Oneida County Family Court Judge to be the first women judge in Oneida County. I was told not to run that I would never win, that Oneida County would never elect a women. I was verbally attacked, my signs were torn down, flyers were put on cars at the courthouse stating not to vote for a Barbie Doll Judge, because I wore makeup and dyed my hair! Instead of walking away I just dug my four inch heels in even deeper, more determined to win. My career has been a series of firsts, First woman First Assistant District Attorney, Family Court Judge and New York State Supreme Court Justice. I fought hard for all of these positions in order to be an example for my two amazing daughters and all young women in our community that have a dream. The most important lesson I learned is to work hard, especially in school. People can say anything but they can’t take away your education and your success.

Dr. Cynthia Jones, Chief Medical Officer, Mosaic Health: Dr. Cynthia Jones is a compassionate physician and community advocate who has dedicated her career to providing equitable care to underserved populations. As Chief Medical Officer of Mosaic Health and Medical Director at Mosaic Health Utica, she leads with both clinical excellence and a heart for service. In her own words, Dr. Jones shares: My greatest inspiration is my mother. As a child, I would often accompany her to the Special Procedures radiology Department at the University of Rochester, where she worked as a Registered Nurse. I watched her care for patients with remarkable tenderness and compassion, even during difficult procedures like cardiac catheterizations. Her ability to bring comfort in such unsettling situations left a lasting impression on me. She later rose to become a head nurse in the department, an impressive achievement, especially as an African American woman in a field where that was not easy. Throughout my life, she has encouraged me to pursue my education to the highest level, and her strength, dedication and love continue to inspire me every day. My faith in God is what keeps me grounded and balanced. He’s blessed me with an incredibly supportive husband, wonderful friendships, a strong work family  at Mosaic Health–where our motto is “Better Together”– and a loving church community at Redeemer Church that helps me stay faithful and focused. With their support and guidance, I am able to pour into both my family and my calling with purpose and joy. One of my proudest moments was when my husband and I took a leap of faith and moved from Chicago, Illinois to Utica, New York–a city where we did not know anyone. It was a bold move, and at times, a scary, but we felt called to be here. Since then, we have been embraced by a wonderful community, and we truly believe it is one of the best decisions we have ever made. This move also gave me even more opportunities to mentor others–especially my patients–as they faced difficult and uncertain times. It became a living example of what I often share with them: You do not have to go through challenging seasons alone. There is always someone willing to walk beside you.

Darlene Stromstad, President & CEO, Mohawk Valley Health System: As the first woman to lead Mohawk Valley Health System, Darlene Stromstad has overseen a transformative era in local healthcare—most notably the opening of the new Wynn Hospital. With decades of leadership experience and a focus on innovation and access, she leaves a lasting legacy of care, growth, and community impact as she prepares to retire later this year. In her own words, Darlene shares: My grandmother Anna Carlstad homesteaded her own claim in rural North Dakota in the early 1900s as the widowed mother of four children. She was fearless, strong and focused. She actually was my mother’s aunt through her second marriage but stepped in to be her mother when, at three years old, my mom lost her mother to a sudden illness. Grandma taught us that love is as important as bloodlines. She had a strong sense of self, was very political and outspoken, and in her later years, loved Jeopardy. Look for what is possible and then turn talk into action. This is a beautiful and alluring place to live, work and raise a family. There are so many positives here which can be made into possibilities when people work together. Step up to be a leader, step out of your lane. Ignore the naysayers. They aren’t going to be part of the progress. Find those people who want to help – there are many of them in the Mohawk Valley! I believe you can “have it all,” but maybe not all on the same day. Being organized with your time and your priorities helps you build into your life those things that are most important. As a single parent, when my son was young I made conscious decisions about what jobs I could or could not do. I wasn’t going to commute more than 20 minutes when he was in grade school. I didn’t become a CEO until he graduated from high school. I always built in community activities which were important to me (Chamber, United Way, Rotary, etc.) but found ways for my son to participate with me when possible and appropriate. My career has always put me in very visible positions so my son was accustomed to me being a semi-public figure and understood the demands of my job. We always set aside one night a week when he could decide what we were going to do. My favorite moment here was the day of the groundbreaking for the Wynn Hospital. Thousands of people came and shared the joy of this important historic event for the Mohawk Valley. I was so proud of everyone for all the work, support and caring they’ve provided to bring this important asset to our region!

Eleanor Picente, Board of Trustee, Rome Health, Philanthropist & Child Advocate: Eleanor Picente is a licensed clinical social worker, dedicated youth advocate, and philanthropist who serves on the Board of Trustees for Rome Health. In her own words, Eleanor shares: In my professional work, I’m proud of the counseling relationship that has brought opportunities of growth and change in the mindset of both children and adults, from negative to positive and sadness to joy. My responsibility is to bring words of comfort, encouragement, and support. The message is consistent that our choices of the past do not define who we are now. We all evolve every day. Sometimes we evolve with success and sometimes with failure. But we need to be kind to ourselves, as every day gives us the time to be the person we want to be. My gift is to have experienced their journey of strength and healing, of self-discovery and appreciation for each persons’ uniqueness. The specialness of who they are and are becoming. The proudest moment is when that person sees the door opening to let a new future in. This is the time of growth, happiness, and recognition of new possibilities.To all the young girls and women, be kind to yourself, embrace your uniqueness and appreciate your humanness, good and bad. Live a balanced life and continue to be encouraged to be the best version of yourself. Have the courage to stand up for what you believe and value, articulate your dreams and goals.Work hard and go make it happen!What’s needed is to take risks and expect to make mistakes. Expect also to change over time as the life you are desiring is waiting for you. The opportunities for you in the Mohawk Valley and anywhere in the world are countless. When in doubt remember this; everyone has a unique role, discover what your role is, be proud of it and do it well.

Felissa Koernig, President & CEO Oneida Health: Felissa Koernig, JD, MBA, FACHE is the first female President and CEO of Oneida Health, bringing over 15 years of leadership across nonprofit, federal, and private healthcare sectors. She holds a JD and MBA from Penn State and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Felissa is known for her commitment to patient-centered care and operational excellence. In her own words, Felissa shares: As a millennial, I have been privileged to spend my career in a working world where there is more than one female seat at the table. I am acutely cognizant that this hasn’t always been the case and that the generations before mine had to not only outcompete their male counterparts but also every other woman for that one seat. Because of this, some of those pioneering women have been labeled as catty and cutthroat. I think it’s important to remember that women who fought for that one seat have rebuilt the organizational structures over time to bring more women to the table. For me personally, it was those women who had reputations as being too harsh and unapproachable who believed in me, gave me opportunities, and supported me to get to where I am today. In my career, I have chosen not to squander the responsibility that these women have passed down to me but topay it forward and bring more women to the tables that I influence. In a televised interview at Georgetown Law, Ruth Bader Ginsburg spoke about the composition of the Supreme Court and her trailblazing position on it. In that interview, she said, “People ask me sometimes, when do you think it will be enough? When will there be enough women on the court? And my answer is when there are nine.” In reverse, this statement is not revolutionary; for one hundred and ninety years, it was all men. Why does the idea of all women make people uncomfortable? Despite the progress that has been made, this reminds me of how far we still have to go. In the future, tables filled with women will be as common as those filled with men, so common that they won’t elicit a reaction. So, my advice to the next generation of women is to bring other women with you, give grace to the women who came before you, and continue to push the limits on what is considered enough for women in the workplace. Maybe someday Ruth’s words won’t be provocative but instead an interesting part of history.

Heather Elias, Co-owner of Utica Coffee Roasting Company: Heather Elias is the Co-Owner of Utica Coffee Roasting Company, a prominent coffee roastery with cafés in Utica and Clinton. Under her leadership, the café has become a vibrant gathering place, known for its energetic and inclusive atmosphere.​ Her favorite aspect of Utica Coffee is the strong connection she has with the community. It brings her immense joy to contribute to its growth and support the vibrant relationships they’ve built along the way. In her own words, Heather shares: Michelle Klosek inspires me because she exemplifies the true spirit of determination and ambition. As an incredible businesswoman, she fearlessly pursues her dreams, turning challenges into opportunities and never backing down from her goals. Her unwavering commitment to her vision motivates those around her to strive for their own aspirations. Michelle’s ability to balance her professional success with her personal passions demonstrates that with hard work and belief in oneself, anything is possible. She is a shining example of what it means to chase your dreams relentlessly and make them a reality. To the next generation of women in the Mohawk Valley, my advice is to embrace your unique strengths and pursue your passions with confidence. Don’t be afraid to take risks and step outside your comfort zone; each challenge you face is an opportunity for growth. Surround yourselves with supportive mentors and peers who uplift you and share your aspirations. Remember that your voice and ideas are valuable—speak up and advocate for what you believe in. As you navigate your paths, prioritize collaboration over competition and lift each other up. Together, you can create a powerful network that inspires change and fosters a brighter future for all women in our community. Believe in yourself, and never underestimate the impact you can make.

Heather Evans, Executive Director, American Heart Association: Heather Evans is an optimist who strives to see the good in every person. With the strengths of Learner, Ideation and Strategic, she likes to think big, ask lots of questions, and create solutions. Her heart is happiest when she is able to bring people together to find synergy. In her own words, Heather shares: I take pieces of inspiration from so many women (and men) around me. From Staci Thompson, CEO of Bassett Healthcare, I take leading with humility. From Alicia Dicks, I take leading with courage to make transformational change. From Dr. Maria Kontaridis, I take tireless dedication to science. From Eve Van de Wal, I take a commitment to being present in the community as a visible leader. From Dr. Cynthia Jones, I take her ability to make each person feel seen. From my mother, I take her unwavering commitment to friends and family. Every experience offers you a chance to learn something new, and therefore no experience is wasted. Keep your eyes and mind open to new ideas and new ways of thinking. Balance can look different to each of us, make peace with that and find your own version of balance each day. I am proud of my commitment to our community, and of my ability to collaborate and build creative partnerships to affect meaningful and sustainable impact. And, I am most proud of being a mother, watching our children and stepchildren grow into thoughtful young adults.

Jackie Romano, Philanthropist, Global Trade Advisor-The Fountainhead Group: A proud native of Cornhill, Utica, Jackie’s early experiences with community institutions like the Utica Zoo, Parkway Recreation, and brownies and 4H instilled in her a deep appreciation for the power of access—to recreation, education, the arts, and opportunity. These formative moments shaped not only her personal values but also her commitment to giving back. Over the past three decades, Jackie has built an impressive global career while dedicating herself to nonprofit leadership, serving on numerous boards and tirelessly championing local organizations and small businesses throughout the Mohawk Valley. She believes strong communities are built by lifting others up, and leads with fierce determination, empathy, and a persuasive energy that rallies others to action. Jackie shares her life with her husband John Romano, their children and grandchildren, and their beloved Shar-Pei, “The Queen Bee.” She balances a successful professional life with her greatest source of pride—her family. She finds joy in supporting and celebrating those she loves most. Whether hosting holidays, tending to her flowers or creating a warm and welcoming home, Jackie brings the same care and dedication to her family life as she does to her community. In her own words, Jackie shares: To the women who will shape the Mohawk Valley’s future—your voice, your actions, and your dedication matter. Communities evolve with time, and so do the needs of those who call them home. The Mohawk Valley has long been a place of resilience and transformation, welcoming refugees and fostering a rich cultural tapestry that strengthens our shared identity. You have the power to build upon this legacy. Advocate for a community that thrives—not just in its diversity, but in its commitment to arts, sports, entertainment, and essential services that uplift every individual. True progress means ensuring growth without sacrificing safety, working toward opportunities that empower all, and recognizing that a strong community is one built with intention, inclusion, and care. Change is constant, but it is shaped by those who dare to lead. To the next generation of women, never underestimate the impact of giving—whether it’s your time, your voice, or your expertise. This region thrives because people show up for one another. Step forward, embrace the challenges, and commit to making the Mohawk Valley even greater for future generations.

Jennifer Keida, President and CEO, Standard Heating, Cooling and Insulating: Jenn Keida is a trailblazing CEO and business owner who has transformed Standard Heating, Cooling and Insulating into the largest HVAC and insulation company in Central New York, championing people-first policies, industry innovation, and community impact. In her own words, Jenn shares: My mom inspires me. It sounds so cliché, but I fundamentally understand the importance of putting others first because of her. She inspires me to uphold the values of altruism but doing so without hurting myself. Often, that is the result of an imbalance of empathy and caring so much.Find your people. Surround yourself with the right people, especially other women, who inspire, support and have the same drive you have. Find a mentor that will help you process issues, set goals, support you during challenges and help you back up, when you fail. And give back to those in your circle. I have learned that balance means that I have to give up one to give to another and I didn’t accept that. I create harmony instead of balance. Harmony, by definition, means “the quality of forming a pleasing and consistent whole”.When your purpose embodies your commitments to your family, work and community, you create the best harmony for your life. Just like music, harmony can combine, intertwine, get loud or soft and change all the time, as long as your are consistent in who you are and what you believe.There are far too many moments to choose just one, but if I had to answer what my proudest moment has been—as a mother, mentor, or community leader—it would undoubtedly be the privilege of being a mom. It’s the role I’m most proud of. My girls have overcome obstacles, forged new ground, and spread their wings while creating their own journeys. They are strong and kind, bold and empathetic, creative and independent. They make me proud every day.

Jill Hayes, CEO & Co-Owner, New York Sash: Jill Hayes is the CEO and Co-Owner of New York Sash, where she fosters empowered leadership, teamwork, customer care, company culture, and community giving—continuing a tradition of embracing conscious business principles while running the family-owned home improvement company she helped grow. In her own words, Jill shares: The best investment of your time will be spent on yourself. When you take time to reflect and really know who you are, what you value, what is important in life…these things become pillars to stand on. They become your personal truths and guideposts for every decision you make, be it personal or professional. Whenever you are struggling with what to do, or when you feel conflicted, these guideposts can help you move forward. When you align your decisions with your values, you will feel a security and confidence you can trust. That does not mean you will be free from mistakes, as they are part of growth and success, but it helps with second-guessing yourself and eliminates guilt and regret, and that is something all women could do without. My 4 Personal Truths/Guidepost: 1. Have faith in God’s plan, 2. Do the right thing, 3. Take care of each other, 4. Good things come to those who work hard. Balancing family, career, and community giving is important—but taking care of yourself has to be part of that, too. It’s not always easy, so I plan a schedule and try to stick to it, while staying flexible. Family comes first, so I always make that my priority. I spend Sundays surrounded by my family. We attend Mass and have family dinner together, and I do not allow much to interfere with that. Community involvement is so much a part of our business at New York Sash it is blended into my career. I feel blessed to be able to give back and support our community in so many ways. When business is going well, I can do more for my staff and my community, which in turn contributes to my business doing well. It is a wonderful cycle.

Joanne Donaruma Wade, Philanthropist, Leader in the field of Human Services: Joanne Donaruma Wade, a lifelong Mohawk Valley resident and Utica College graduate, spent nearly 40 years leading at The Arc Oneida-Lewis. Joanne is married to John Wade, owner of Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse. She was proudly brought up in the Trevisani Family and has 10 brothers and sisters. Her greatest role in her life is being a mom to her two children, Michael Donaruma and Alexa Donaruma. In her own words, Joanne shares: A woman who has inspired me is my former supervisor, Angela VanDerhoof. As Executive Director of The Arc Oneida-Lewis, where I worked for nearly 40 years, Angela was a steady, passionate leader and mentor. We’re both retired now—me, active on boards and volunteer committees; her, thriving in her independent living community, no doubt still inspiring others. Angela taught me to “believe and you will succeed.” She brought out my inner strength, encouraged growth, and gave me the wings to create programs that made our agency stronger. She also helped me envision my own path forward—balancing work and family, building partnerships, and leading with humility, perseverance, and empathy. She saw my potential before I did. Under her leadership, I grew not only as an employee, but as a parent and a person. The tools she gave me—confidence, resilience, and vision—have stayed with me into retirement. Even now, as I serve on community boards, I often hear her voice guiding me. Angela turns 90 this year, and I can only imagine the countless lives she’s touched. Besides my mom, she is the most treasured woman in my life. I hope every young woman entering the workforce finds an “Angela” to believe in her, because truly—if you believe, you will succeed. Balancing family and career was always a challenge—not by force, but by choice. When I commit, I give 100%, and my interests have always been varied. Alongside my career supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, I taught ballroom dance, owned a charm school, coordinated fashion shows, directed the Miss Greater Utica pageant for over 20 years, and served on select boards. That balance also gave my husband and me the chance to talk with our kids about work and money. I truly believe children learn work ethic through example. When parents model hard work, commitment, and balance, their children carry those lessons forward. Now that my kids have careers of their own, I still remind them: don’t forget to balance. With no kids at home, I’m now learning how to balance volunteering with time for myself, my husband, and a little R&R. A colleague once said I didn’t retire—I rewired. And right now, that feels just right: family, friends, Florida, and community involvement!

Dr. Juleen Qandah, Emergency Medicine Physician, Town of New Hartford Medical Director, Rome Health Stroke Director, Partner CNY Brain & Spine: Juleen Qandah is widely recognized for her leadership in acute care medicine, with a focus on neurological emergencies that impact patients across the region. Yet beyond the hospital walls, she is a devoted wife and proud mother of four, balancing her groundbreaking work with the heart of a close-knit family life. In her own words, Dr. Qandah shares: Honestly, I don’t think of it as a perfect balance—because most days, it isn’t. As a mom of four and an emergency physician, I’ve had to learn that giving doesn’t always mean giving everything, all at once, to everyone. Instead, it’s about being present where I am, and learning to shift my energy based on what (and who) needs me most in that moment.Some days, my kids need more from me—emotionally, logistically, or just to know I’m paying attention. Other days, my patients in the ED need me fully focused and calm in chaos. And then there are times when I show up for my community—not because I have endless time, but because connection and purpose matter to me too. I’ve learned to set small boundaries, protect certain times (like family dinner or bedtime routines), and let go of the guilt when I can’t be everywhere. I also lean on others—my husband, Nick, friends, neighbors, even my kids—as part of the team. They know that “mom gives” in lots of ways, and not just at home. Ultimately, I try to give from a place of strength, not depletion. And that means caring for myself, even in small ways so I can keep giving to the people and places I love the most.

Kate Rolf, President & CEO of Nascentia Health, A visionary leader in healthcare, Kate Rolf, MBA, CHCE, FACHE has driven growth and innovation across aging services, home care, and community-based care. She’s widely respected for advancing care for aging populations and strengthening community health. In her own words, Kate shares: I’d tell the next generation of women in the Mohawk Valley to embrace resilience and community, two lessons life taught me early when I lost my mom at 16. Find your purpose, whether it’s leading an organization like Nascentia Health or raising a family, and pursue it with determination and grace, knowing setbacks are just steppingstones. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. My husband, Jim, of 35 years, my three daughters, Janet, Jenna, and Jaime, and now five grandkids (with one more on the way) have been my rock. Don’t shy away from asking for help or leaning on mentors; I’ve built a career in healthcare by learning from others and staying curious. Finally, give back, whether it’s through work or volunteering, because lifting up the Mohawk Valley strengthens us all. As a mother, my proudest moment is seeing my three daughters grow into strong, compassionate women, living their lives well, raising their own families, having five grandkids and one more coming, while carrying forward the love and resilience I learned from losing my mom so young. It’s a quiet pride, knowing they’ve built on that legacy. As a community leader, it’s harder to pick just one, but I’d say it’s watching Nascentia Health thrive as a beacon of care across Upstate New York under my leadership, especially moments like launching Nascentia Neighborhood and Beeches Manor in Rome, as well as innovative programs that help families remain and receive amazing services at home, reflecting the care I wish my mom could have had. Both feel like full-circle victories, blending my personal and professional worlds.

Kristen Copeland, Producer & Anchor, WKTV NewsChannel 2: Kristen Copeland is a longtime producer and anchor for WKTV NEWSChannel 2, where she brings the day’s top stories to viewers during the Live at Five Newshour and NEWSChannel 2 at 6:00. A proud native of the Mohawk Valley, Kristen believes that local news is most meaningful when it’s covered by people who truly understand the community. That’s why she’s made the choice to live and work in the region where she was raised—because the stories that matter to you matter to her, too. Kristen is a graduate of New Hartford High School and SUNY Oneonta, and she brings both journalistic integrity and a deep personal connection to every newscast. Whether reporting on breaking news, community milestones, or everyday triumphs, she’s passionate about sharing the voices and values that make the Mohawk Valley unique. For Kristen, our region’s history is rich, its future is bright—and she’s proud to help tell its story, every day.In her own words, Kristen shares: I draw daily inspiration from my grandmother, JanetChanatry. She is the matriarch of our family and one of the strongest women I know. I don’t know where her energy comes from but, at 91-years-old she still goes to work every day, is always put together and cooks for her family and anyone who sits at her table. You may see her recipes in the Chanatry’s ad but I get to eat what she cooks. She will also beat you in Gin Rummy, Bananagrams and Scrabble. My grandmother also has strong faith and we are blessed that she passed that down to us. She should be on this list, not me. There is no substitute for hard work. I have found that doing extra does not go unnoticed. Take pride in what you do and own your role. Also, appreciate and support the people around you…it comes back to you.

Kristen Martin, CEO of Utica National Insurance Group: Kristen Martin, J.D., is making history as Utica National’s first female CEO. With a strong foundation in economics and law, she is guiding one of the area’s largest employers with integrity, growth, and a commitment to excellence. In her own words, Kristen shares: There are so many inspiring women in the Mohawk Valley it is hard to pick just one! I have had the opportunity to learn and be inspired by so many of them. Linda Romano is someone who I have been fortunate to learn from and have always been amazed by her ability to balance her career and give so generously to our community as she leads various philanthropic initiatives that make the Mohawk Valley a better place to live for everyone. Likewise, Darlene Stromstad inspired me with her courage, compassion, and dedication to improving healthcare in the Mohawk Valley with the construction of a new state-of-the-art hospital that was built during a pandemic that brought unprecedented challenges to our healthcare system. My advice to women is to surround yourself with people who have had different experiences that you can learn and grow from. Don’t be afraid to go outside of your comfort zone and learn on the fly. If you are told no, ask again and keep moving forward. My boys are an incredible source of pride for me. My oldest son works on Capitol Hill and my younger son is just finishing his master’s degree. Watching them navigate their future from the “front row” is awesome. On the professional front, I am proud to lead an organization that gives back to the community through our Foundation, supporting dozens of area non-profits – with over 50 grants awarded in 2024. Whether it’s sponsoring the Utica National Kids Run, backing the amazing work of local organizations – like the Community Foundation, or partnering with food pantries to combat food insecurity, the Utica National Foundation is something I’m incredibly proud of. Finally, last year I ran the Boilermaker 15K for the first time. I set that as a goal and had never run that distance. It was hard but I am really proud that I was able to do it.

Dr. Maria Kontaridis, Executive Director, Masonic Medical Research Institute (MMRI): Dr. Maria Irene Kontaridis is a nationally recognized leader in biomedical research and executive director of the Masonic Medical Research Institute (MMRI) in Utica, where she also serves as the Gordon K. Moe Professor and Chair of Biomedical Research and Translational Medicine. She holds a joint appointment as Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, specializing in cardiovascular research. Through her work, Dr. Kontaridis is advancing cutting-edge research and building bridges between discovery and patient care—making an impact both in the lab and across the global scientific community. In her own words, Dr. Kontaridis shares: I admire women scientists who have paved the way for future generations, breaking barriers and making a difference. There is not one singular name; we are a collective whose influence, perseverance, innovation, and leadership hope to inspire women researchers for generations to come. Never be afraid to take chances- be brave. When women are empowered to lead, innovate, and mentor, the entire community benefits. Representation is a catalyst for change, inspiring future generations and shaping the future for the better. How do I balance giving to my family and giving to my community or career? Ha! I don’t. There is no such thing as a work-life balance. It is a seesaw. You shift in the direction of what is needed at the time, and you do your best to keep it going (without falling off)! Beyond everything, I am most proud of how far I’ve come, the wonderful family I have, and the amazing young women my two daughters have become.

RoAnn Destito, Former NY State Assembly Member: RoAnn Destito is a devoted public servant and proud Mohawk Valley native who spent 40 years serving New York State, including roles in the State Assembly and as Commissioner of General Services—always guided by a deep love for her family and her community. In her own words, RoAnn shares: I was very fortunate to have a mom who inspired me at a very young age! She was a public health nurse who was married with children and received her BS in Nursing at Syracuse University in the 60’s long before it was common. So as you can imagine I was supported in my education and career throughout my life. I also learned how to balance my family, friends and work from her too! It was very important for me to be involved in family activities no matter how busy my life became!So my message to young women involved in work and community- strike a balance it will be better for all aspects of your life but don’t leave out your own personal needs! A healthy woman is a healthy family and community!I am proud of my overall public service as a state legislator for 20 years and a state Commissioner for over 10 years because I was able to build a good foundation for our growth here in the Mohawk Valley whether it was in education, economic development growth, housing and our health care needs I was a strong advocate for all in Albany. I had a very rewarding career and now I am able to give back to our not for profit communities and volunteer my skill sets.

Sarah Foster Calero, President, Oneida County Tourism: Sarah Foster Calero, a Vernon, NY native, is the president of Oneida County Tourism (OCT). She received her bachelor’s degree in communications public relations from Marist College in 2010, and began working for OCT later that year. This past August, Sarah and her husband welcomed their baby girl (Coco) to the world, making this upcoming Mother’s Day extra special. In her own words, Sarah shares: My biggest piece of advice is to get involved and find the “right” people to surround yourself with. Speaking from experience, I didn’t know many people when I began my job. I joined the Catalyst Group with the Utica Chamber and discovered there were other young professionals who, like me, genuinely believe in and love the area. It was important for me to realize this because I’d often been met with negative comments. Surrounding yourself with people who are going to support you, personally and professionally, will make all the difference as you grow. The people I met in these groups when I was right out of college are some of my closest friends to this day, and most of us are all still working in positions that directly impact the growth of our area. P.S. Both the Utica and Rome Chambers have young professionals groups! When I learned that the position of president was going to be open, I felt I wasn’t qualified and let imposter syndrome get the best of me. Fortunately, I had a few people “put me in my place” (aka act as my personal cheerleaders) and told me it was worth pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. While this role has indeed been out of my comfort zone, I’m so proud of myself. It is an honor to serve as the president of Oneida County Tourism, and I’m proud of what our organization is accomplishing, alongside our major partners and stakeholders.

Staci Thompson, President & CEO, Bassett Healthcare:  Staci Thompson, MHA, FACMPE is leading Bassett Healthcare Network into a new era as President and CEO. With a deep commitment to rural health, she focuses on enhancing patient care, operational efficiency, and workforce development across Central New York. A native of Auburn, New York, she is married with two sons and enjoys traveling, the outdoors, and volunteering in her spare time. In her own words, Staci shares: I have always been inspired by my mother, Terri Cuddeback. Like so many women of her generation, my mom married right out of high school and immediately started a family. My mother also had a passion to become a Registered Nurse, working in critical care. With three young daughters, my mother took on the challenge of returning to school to pursue her dreams. She spent over 30 years taking care of patients in Auburn Memorial Hospital’s Critical Care Unit. I saw first-hand the amount of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice it took for her to accomplish her goals. She taught me the value ofan education, the power of pursuing your dreams, and the special role nurses play in health care. Her compassion, dedication and resiliency continue to inspire me to this day.My proudest moment as a community leader is working every day with the caregivers at Bassett Healthcare Network to provide access to care for the communities we serve. I came to Bassett with a passion for Rural Healthcare and a desire to ensure that we can serve the needs of our patients. I am honored to be working alongside this talented group of practitioners and nurses ensuring that we improve the lives of our patients and the health of our communities.

Theresa Kalil-Lennon, Chief Operating Officer/Co-owner, Steve Lennon & Co Jewelers: With over 30 years in wealth management—including senior leadership roles at Community Bank Wealth and HSBC—Theresa brings expertise in strategy, relationship management, and business growth. A SUNY Poly alum, Theresa is also an active community leader and 2023 Women of Impact honoree, known for uniting people and celebrating others behind the scenes. In her own words, Theresa shares: My proudest moments were being able to help co-parent or mentor two beautiful children, five beautiful nieces and one adorable nephew. Each of them has their own unique personality and style. I’ve been fortunate and blessed to be able to be there for each one of them at different stages of their lives. Whether it’s been a call from college, what prom dress should I pick, can you help me with interview questions, can you teach me to drive, can I come and work with you or can you just help me with life. It’s sometimes the simple moments in life that can be most impactable near or afar that make a difference. The opportunities in the Mohawk Valley to the next generation are endless. Our area fully embraces and welcomes small businesses and corporations of all industries and sizes. There is room for everyone and it’s so important to have choices. The area needs the next generation to move things forward. Their ideas, creativity and talents are so important to help current businesses succeed and future businesses to develop. We should fully engage and support the young talent and next generation this community has to offer.