The late Ruth Bader-Ginsberg, a lifelong advocate of gender equality, once said, “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made. It shouldn't be that women are the exception.”
For a lot of women, that saying is more than a passing comment: It’s hope for a better future—one where the term “male-dominated field” is obsolete and anyone, regardless of gender, can utilize their talents to help foster a bright future.
The following female professionals knew that there would be unique challenges to speaking up and standing out, and they didn’t back down. They saw their dreams and chased after them with a veracity and dedication that is to be commended.
Mari Considine
Chief Marketing, Communications & Development Officer, Acenda Integrated Health
Her advice for future female professionals…
Don’t wait to feel perfectly ready before going after the opportunity you want. Growth happens outside your comfort zone. Stay curious, build your network and always be prepared. Know your value and advocate for yourself the way you would for someone you believe in.
On what makes a good leader…
A good leader listens, leads with empathy and creates space for others to succeed. For women, leadership also means challenging outdated norms and modeling confidence without ego. It’s about being inclusive, making decisions with integrity, and showing that strength and compassion go hand in hand. The best leaders bring out the best in others by showing up with consistency, authenticity and heart.
June DePonte-Sernak
Chief Inclusion Officer, Rafforzare
On what drives her…
I am driven to help women find their purpose while navigating through diverse and changing times. Creating a foundation of lifelong learning by sharing the stories of the icons that came before us fuels my passion for education, history and cultural anthropology.
On her toughest challenge…
The hardest challenge is the cultural and societal expectations of being a woman in leadership. As a multicultural leader, my values and ethics come from my heritage. My Native American name is "Charging Spirit," which reflects my belief to leave the world better than I found it. Women have always had pivotal roles in history and matriarchal cultures. My ancestors taught me that wealth is not financial: It is your health, relationships and spirit. Leading with cultural humility creates an equitable environment to succeed, no matter the path the journey takes.
Janet Goehner-Jacobs
Executive Director, Saddler’s Woods Conservation Association (SWCA)
On her personal philosophy…
I believe that having an “attitude of gratitude” can have a profound impact on how you navigate yourself through any mission in life. There is always something to be grateful for, and that powers me forward.
On her toughest challenges…
From four people showing up for our very first cleanup event to today, where we log thousands of volunteer hours annually, the challenges have been many. Weather disasters toppling old-growth trees, vandalism, funding crunches—even hate speech for the work we do—have all been endured and part of our journey. These tests have only solidified SWCA’s sense of purpose and taught us that protecting the planet begins at home, that building a culture of kindness has never been more important, and that in the end, hard work always wins.
Erica Gordon
Principal, Associated Design Studio
On her personal philosophy…
Structure creates freedom; it sounds backwards, but it’s the truth. The more organized we are, the more space we have to be creative, responsive and spontaneous—whether that means reworking a layout or taking a week out to unplug. I don’t do chaos disguised as genius: I do clear systems, thoughtful design and a calendar that makes room for both deadlines and a social life.
On her goals…
I’m building a business that can thrive without me glued to it 24/7. That means hiring intentionally, creating systems that don’t need my constant input, and making space to travel and be present with the people I love. The goal is sustainability for my clients, my team and myself. It’s a work in progress, but I’m learning that success doesn’t always mean “more”—sometimes it means “smarter.”
Heather Luty
Senior Vice President, Management, The Michaels Organization
On her goals…
One of my biggest goals is to mentor and elevate my team. Empowering, leading and preparing them for the next level remains one of the most meaningful accomplishments. To achieve that, I'm focused on creating more structured development pathways, championing talent in rooms where decisions are made and being a resource for those looking to grow. Representation at the top matters, and I’m committed to helping others rise.
Her advice for future female professionals…
Own your voice—even when it's uncomfortable. Speak up, ask questions and advocate for your value. Too often, women hesitate to take a seat at the table or wait to be asked—my advice is: Take the seat, ask for the promotion, pitch the idea. Confidence grows with experience, but courage starts with taking the first step.
Suzanne Martinelli
Founder and CEO, NJ Health Hospice and Palliative Care
On her personal philsophy…
Never underestimate the power of a strong work ethic. Choose to work harder and longer than everyone else today and every day. Pursue your goals continuously, relentlessly and fearlessly. You must fight and sacrifice for it with discipline and perseverance, especially when faced with real challenges. Unleash your inner champion and choose to be exceptional.
On her toughest challenge…
One of my hardest professional challenges was launching a business a week before the pandemic hit. Every day, we navigated the chaos and innumerable challenges of learning to evolve in the face of adversity. Our ability to pivot during this time and work harder than we could ever imagine was the key in weathering the storm. I am proud to say we not only survived, but have thrived and are privileged to serve our South Jersey community.
Michele Schina
CPA, Founder and Partner, Schina & Associates CPA
On her toughest challenge…
In 2010, I faced a series of life-altering events—losing my mother, losing my home to arson and being diagnosed with breast cancer—all while running and expanding my business. At first, I tried to push through, fitting in the steps to get better between my work. But then, I became ill from an unrelated health matter that almost took my life and put me in the hospital for 11 days, barely able to move. I was physically weak, navigating treatment and recovery as I was heading into tax season. Yet, that period taught me to listen to my body, quiet my mind and embrace transparency with my clients. I learned the power of community, resilience and the importance of mental strength in chaos. That time shaped my calm, focused leadership today.
Kashana Yara Waples
Owner, Juice Captiol
Waples’ holistic humanitarian spirit extends to benefiting both her customers and the community as a whole. Driven to educate about, provide and model healthy living, Waples works to ensure that lifestyle is accessible to and affordable for all. Committed to her community, Waples continues to attend community events, town halls and school functions to educate the community on the benefits of a healthy life—all while navigating the challenges of running a small business.
Waples shows commitment to her personal and professional craft by constantly engaging in educational endeavors of her own to stay informed on current business and customer service practices, and personal enrichment. In addition, she signed up for an entrepreneurial development training program at LAEDA Women's Business Center, and her business has voluntarily participated in a 12-month collaboration with consultants to improve her business practices.
Jo-Ann Weiner, EA, CFE, CTRS, NTPI Fellow
Founder, J. L. Weiner & Associates, LLC
On her personal motto…
There is a poem by S. H. Prayer that I have always looked to and tried to live by. Here is a portion of it: “When faced with a decision, make that decision as wisely as possible. Remember the moment of absolute certainty never arrives. That way you can look forward with confidence and back without regrets.”
Her advice for future female professionals…
It is essential that female professionals form strategic partnerships with those above them. There are too few women in executive positions to help all women aspiring to achieve; therefore, women need to seek strategic partnership with men, as well.
On what drives her…
I am driven by the goal to help others solve complex tax, business litigation and matrimonial asset issues.
Eileen Wirth
President & CEO, MEND Inc.
Her advice for future female professionals…
Don’t be afraid to challenge those around you to ensure your voice is heard. Remember: While you may need to work harder to have your ideas and suggestions recognized, you do have something to contribute.
On what makes a good leader…
A good leader recognizes it is the effort of the entire team that generates success and lets each team member know how vital they are to that success is key.
