Biography Bio: Prissy Elrod is referred to as ‘The Butterfly Girl.’ She metaphorically portrays her incredible journey of transformation with semblance to the epic caterpillar to butterfly metamorphosis. Just when the caterpillar thought the world ended it became a butterfly. Prissy Elrod was born and raised in Lake City, Florida and graduated from Florida State University with a B.S. and M.S. degree. She is the published author of two books: Far Outside the Ordinary and Chasing Ordinary, as well as three Meditative Adult Coloring Books: Far Outside the Ordinary Butterflies; Flowers; and Circles. She is a contributing editor to Flamingo-- a Florida life-style magazine—and pens her column “Panhandling” from her home in the Panhandle of Florida. When a brain tumor stole her husband, it also stole her identity. Faced with an unfamiliar and colorless landscape she chose to believe when one person dies two people should not. With this belief she began an excavation of self to find her new purpose in life. She did so by reimagining, recreating, and resurrecting her untapped talent which lay dormant inside her for decades. She challenged herself to step out of her comfort zone and write a book she could never find. What happens behind the closed door of a terminal diagnosis? In doing so she could help the next person sabotaged by the unexpected in life. The first page of her first book –Far Outside the Ordinary –propelled her from the shadows to the spotlight. It also created a new career and her new identity. Chasing Ordinary tells the story of one chapter ending and another beginning, as well as second chances---at love, at finding yourself, and the importance of not closing doors but having the courage to step through them. Her story inspires others to believe in themselves and achieve extraordinary things. Media Bio: Prissy has been featured on the cover of Tallahassee Woman Magazine, highlighted in Writer’s Digest Magazine, featured in Thrive Global Magazine and Authority Magazine. She’s been seen on CBS, NBC, ABC, and PBS, as well as a featured guest on NPR and multiple podcasts. Both her books are populated by book clubs around the country. The cover of Far Outside the Ordinary was spotlighted in Print magazine, after winning one of the top 350 Best Designs in the U.S. She has been the Keynote Speaker for multiple organizations: Merrill Lynch; SunTrust; Altrusa; Philanthropic Education Organization; Contemporary Women Authors of the South; Writers in the Round; The Philanthropic Education Organization and Flagler College to name a few.

Biography MICHELLE B. GRIFFIN, is an internationally certified personal brand and marketing strategist, speaker, author, 2x podcast host and community builder who has devoted her career to connecting people, growing communities, and building brands. As The Brand Therapist,℠ Michelle consults, speaks and trains professionals and leaders to clearly communicate their story, confidently share their expertise and positively grow their businesses with personal brands that make a statement and make a difference. Michelle brings two decades in communications and marketing and a master's degree in PR to her brand consultancy, BRANDthority, where she consultants and coaches clients worldwide. She is a frequent guest contributor and sought-after speaker on standing out to reach your full potential, impact-driven personal branding, and LinkedIn thought leadership. Michelle is the host of Personal Brand Therapy Show, a top-ranked personal branding podcast by Feedspot, and the co-host of the top-ranked The LinkedIn Branding Podcast, with listeners and fans worldwide. Community is an important part of Michelle’s mission to serve others. She is the founder of The #365 Creators, a LinkedIn personal branding community of 1,400+ global professionals, and also volunteers for several nonprofit, civic and professional organizations at local and national levels. Outside of work, you can find Michelle enjoying the outdoors of sunny Florida with her husband and three children. She is an avid animal and nature evangelist, drinks insane amounts of hot tea, and is always on the hunt for unique vintage/mid-century finds and tasty gluten-free treats on her travels. Her debut book, The LinkedIn Branding Book, is available on Amazon. Learn more at MichelleBGriffin.com.

Biography Dr. Michelle Mitcham is thrilled to empower teams, organizations, and individuals with strategies for success in both the workplace and relationships. As CEO of Courageous Conversations, a consulting practice, Dr. Mitcham coaches on leadership, communication, workplace resiliency, emotional intelligence, relationship building, empowerment, diversity, equity and inclusion, conflict resolution, and team building. Dr. Mitcham is the CEO and Publisher of the Tallahassee WOMAN Magazine, which empowers and highlights the amazing women of Tallahassee for 17 years this April, telling the stories of so many women so that the community of women feel connected and see a part of their story in each issue, in each story. Dr. Mitcham has provided professional development training for Leadership Tallahassee 2.0 program, FSU College of Communications, Leon County government, the City of Tallahassee, United Way of the Big Bend, the Second Circuit Court, Florida Judicial Wellness Program, Synovus Bank, and many more. As a keynote speaker, professor, facilitator and moderator, Dr. Mitcham has addressed audiences nationally and internationally nearly twenty years. Dr. Mitcham is a life-long learner. She earned a B.S in Psychology from the University of Central Florida in 1993; a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health & School Counseling in 1999; Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education in 2005, again from UCF, and completed one year of an Organizational Leadership doctoral program. Dr. Mitcham holds five state and national board certifications and/or licenses. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC); National Certified Counselor (NCC); Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC); State of Florida, DOH Chapter 491 Board Certified Qualified Supervisor (QS); and a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator (CFM). Mitcham has been featured on the BNC and published numerous peer-reviewed and professional articles on diversity, multicultural competencies, diversity in the workplace, mental health, and mindfulness. Dr. Mitcham is an Associate Professor of clinical mental health counseling at Florida A&M since 2015 and has been adjunct faculty at Florida State University. She is also faculty for the Georgia Banking Association’s summer banking school at University of Georgia. Formerly, Dr. Mitcham served in leadership roles as College Chair and Associate Chair of the College of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences at Argosy University. She also taught graduate and doctoral students at the University of South Florida. Dr. Mitcham is an accreditation expert, serving as Team Chair, leading teams to evaluate universities nationally. She has served as President and President Elect with the Florida Counseling Association, as well as other national leadership roles within counseling. Dr. Mitcham has over 15 years’ experience working in the family court system with high-conflict divorce clients, as a family mediator, child custody investigator and parenting coordinator, and providing expert testimony. She is a Gottman Level III couples therapist assisting couples with tools for communication, conflict resolution and rekindling their flame. Dr. Mitcham is a member of the current Leadership Tallahassee “LT Fierce 40” class (FIERCEST CLASS EVER) and a recent graduate of the Fall 2022 - FSU Jim Moran Institute’s Small Business Executive Program, Class XVII. Dr. Mitcham has received many recognitions for her contributions to leadership, DEI, and women’s empowerment. She was especially honored to be a featured guest on the Oprah show. Dr. Mitcham is honored to serve on the board of United Way of the Big Bend, the UWBB Power Five, the Executive Board for Club 25, as well as the board of Synovus Bank Tallahassee. Dr. Mitcham has been recognized as a community leader by the Oasis Center for Women and Girls, the Tallahassee Democrat’s 25 Women You Need to Know in 2020: a 2022 Leading Lady by Young Actors Theater, and Media Mogul by the (AAIM), African Americans in Media Awards. Dr. Mitcham is honored to be recognized in the upcoming 2023 TCC Women’s History Month program. Dr. Mitcham served on the Tallahassee/Leon County Commission for the Status of Women and Girls.

Biography Elizabeth Rosario, known to everyone as Ely, is a vibrant, intelligent, and incredible force in her community. She holds a Masters's of Business Administration from Colorado State University and a bachelor's degree in Communications with Business from Florida State University. Ely works at Jackson Properties and has been with the company for almost 20 years. She is also a real estate investor with properties in three different cities in Florida, has taught Entrepreneurship at the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship, and was the race director for the Tallahassee Marathon and Half Marathon receiving the Director of the Year award. She is part of Leadership Tallahassee Class 35, Leadership Florida Class 39, and a Board Member for the Tallahassee Museum. Ely is a genuine, refreshing, and authentic woman who is not afraid to walk alone. Her ability to be mindful and aware of the world around her while simultaneously creating her own is admirable. She has shared her thoughts, insights, and knowledge through speaking engagements including the Association of Leadership Programs, International Association of Assessing Officers, Writer’s Circle at Leadership Florida Annual Meeting, FSU Women In Leadership Conference, Professional Women’s Forum by the Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, and Women Wednesday. She has also spoken at different non-profit events with local organizations. Ely is also an author. She began by being a guest writer at Visit Tallahassee. She writes at Medium.com and has been a contributor author for Tallahassee Women Magazine helping women manage their finances. Her first book Own your Fire was a tell-all on how to overcome adversity and reinvent yourself, and her second book, Know Your Worth, guides people on designing and crafting a better life. She is currently working on two books, 100 Things Tallahassee due to come out September 2023 through Reedy Press, and a leadership book due to come out in 2024. Ely is a leader in her community, a businesswoman, an incredible mom, a friend, and above all someone not afraid to share her story with the world. Her never-ending energy and ability to get things done and keep moving forward are truly inspiring. Someone you can’t help but smile when you meet her.

Biography Allie joined Capital City Trust Company in 2017 following 11 years with Capital City Bank Marketing. She previously served as both public relations manager and client experience manager and knows how to offer a memorable experience with Capital City. Now as a Trust Officer, she continues to cultivate strong relationships while providing exceptional client service. Allie holds B.S and M.S. degrees in Recreation, Tourism and Events from Florida State University and is preparing for the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional (CFP®) designation. She is a member of Leadership Tallahassee Class 37 and former Knight Creative Communities Institute (KCCI) Catalyst. Allie currently serves on the boards Gadsden Arts Center & Museum and Tree House of Tallahassee.

Biography With over 23 years of banking and financial planning, Melissa strives to educate and guide women about their personal financial decisions. A large part of her financial practice focused conversations with her clients about their short-term and long-term financial goals, providing personalized banking services , and assisting with any legacy planning desires. When Melissa isn't working, she spends time with her husband Albert, daughters Sophie and Olivia and their multitude of pets. Current volunteer time is spent with Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center(STAC) and Swift Creek PTSO

Biography Arlene Borenstein joined the NBC 6 news team in May of 2017 as an Investigative Producer before joining the team as a Reporter. Borenstein has worked in the nation’s top news markets including Washington D.C. and New York, but says she is happy to be back home reporting for WTVJ, the station she grew up watching. During her time in Washington D.C., Borenstein helped launched NBC’s digital nonstop channel for WRC. A few years later, her storytelling brought her to New York where she covered breaking news in all five boroughs for NY1 News. Her stories also included special projects covering topics including political races and public safety issues. One of her series stories led to the repair of many broken fire alarm safety boxes throughout New York City required for those who are hard of hearing. Borenstein graduated with honors from Florida State University with a Bachelors of Science in Communication and a Minor in English. As a result of her work promoting diversity on campus, she was named Florida State’s Multicultural Woman of the year for two consecutive years. In her spare time, Arlene and her husband love to spend time at the beach with their little boy. Watching football is also a big deal, but she lives in a divided Seminole-Hurricane household. Borenstein is also the proud daughter of a U.S Army veteran.

Biography Mafé Brooks serves as the Director of Development at the College of Communication & Information where she partners with the Dean of the College in leading its development efforts to raise philanthropic gifts that support student scholarships and professorships, as well as innovative programs and initiatives that enhances the College’s commitment to an outstanding student-centered education and experience. Her extensive career in development has allowed her to foster and strengthen relationships with donors, internal and external constituents, as well as corporations and organizations. Her commitment in forging and nurturing relationships at all levels has allowed the College to successfully raise over $25M dollars over the years that have made a significant impact in expanding opportunities for students and faculty to thrive, excel and succeed. Her areas of expertise include strategic/major gift fundraising, proposal and gift agreement development, volunteer board recruitment and management and donor engagement. She is a valued member of the College’s Leadership Board and the Center for Hispanic Marketing Advisory Board and the FSU Foundation’s Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Task Force. Prior to her career in development she served as Assistant Director for Programs and Development at FSU’s Center for Global Engagement (formerly known as the International Center) where she led the establishment of the International Center Advisory Board and collaborated with campus and community partners to fund and support community outreach programs for international students, scholars and their families. She also worked with the United Nations High Commissioner on Refugees teaching English as A Second Language at a Vietnamese refugee camp in the Philippines and worked with the Japan International Cooperation Agency, providing English language training for their program participants and executive leaders. She stays actively involved in the local community and has served in leadership roles with the Asian Coalition of Tallahassee, the Big Bend Filipino-American Association, the Character & Heritage Institute and the Literacy Volunteers of Leon County. She currently serves as a co-chair for the Resource Development and Events Benchmark Team of the SIE Colab Adaptive Leadership Institute where she is also a founding board member. The SIE CoLab is a breakthrough innovation organization that pushes communities and leaders to the next level by advancing transformative solutions to today's complex social, economic and environmental issues. The CoLab aims to foster disruption and changes in many fields--making established systems, protocols and economies obsolete--replacing these with innovative practices that create new systems, robust economies, protect the planet and respond to true human needs.

Biography Adelina Emini, Ph.D. currently serves as International Relations Manager for Radio Television of Kosovo (RTK) where she is responsible for managing RTK's international cooperation agreements and relations, overseeing international projects, organizing participation, and representing RTK in international events such as seminars, festivals, conferences, and fairs. She has previously served at the FSU Center For the Advancement and Human Right, where she assisted on Social Media campaigns. Prior to that role, She was the Marketing Analyst – Department of Marketing for Radio Television of Kosovo (RTK). Her role included analyzing the marketing trends and the advertisement prices in the domestic and in the regional markets, analyzing the client needs and sale opportunities of RTK services and advertisement spaces by providing tailor made solutions according to their needs. She work on improving relations by maintaining close contact with the clients’ agencies, negotiating the prices and concluding the contracts with the third parties according to the prices set by RTK, and analyzing the bids prepared for certain sports and cultural events. She is the Co-founder of the Forum of Leadership and Diplomacy, an NGO that aims to empower women and girls of all ethnicities in Kosovo by bringing the participants together with the leading public figures, foreign envoys and local politicians in order to enhance their skills and capacities to actively participate in decision making processes as well as supporting them to gain confidence and get them involved in politics and business life by providing professional advice and personalized leadership strategies. She has also served as the Director of the Academy of Leadership Sciences in Switzerland, representing the activists of the Academy as the director of Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia, organizing symposiums, and conferences to create awareness and improve the well-being, leadership skills, and economic conditions of the citizens.

Biography Robyn Hillison, M.A., CCC-SLP is a Speech-Language Pathologist with 17 years experience and the owner of Capital Speech & Language Therapy Services, a private practice providing Speech/Language and Occupational Therapy services in Tallahassee, FL. Robyn earned a Bachelors of Science in Communication Science & Disorders from Florida State University in 2003, and a Masters of Arts in Communication Disorders from Eastern Michigan University in 2005. Robyn has had the opportunity to serve in a variety of settings as a Speech-Language Pathologist. In 2005, Robyn began her career at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, MI. providing inpatient therapy for children in the PICU and serving pediatric patients in their outpatient clinic. She then moved on to Ingram County Schools where she was responsible for speech and language programming for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students from kindergarten through high school. In 2009, after moving back to Tallahassee from Michigan, Robyn provided school based services in Gadsden County, followed by three years of telehealth services to rural school districts in New Mexico after the birth of her daughter in 2011. In 2015, Robyn opened Capital Speech & Language Therapy Services and created a practice that allowed her the flexibility she needed as a parent, while also allowing her to grow as a clinician. One of Robyn’s passions as a Tallahassee native is to deliver outstanding care to her community as well as cultivate an exceptional work environment for the clinicians in her practice. In 2022, Capital Speech earned a spot on the Seminole 100, an award given to the fastest growing FSU alumni-owned businesses. Robyn’s clinical interests include Apraxia of speech, voice disorders, and phonological impairments. She resides in Tallahassee with her daughter and husband and in her free time is training her golden retriever, Luna, to become a therapy dog for Capital Speech.

Biography Pamela Monroe: mother. teacher. librarian. I graduated from Florida A& M University with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and spent 12 years teaching kindergarten and third grade. Looking for a change but not wanting to leave the profession I was a recipient of a grant from the Laura Bush Foundation when there was a cry for school librarians. After graduating from FSU iSchool, I answered the call and spent five years an elementary school librarian at Sabal Palm Elementary and Godby High School (three weeks of collection building). In 2014, I became the Information Literacy Coordinator at Florida A & M University Libraries and working with students, faculty and staff of the Sociology, Social Work and Criminal Justice departments, as well as First- Year Experience. Three years later, I was hired as the Head of Reference Services, overseeing reference and information literacy. In 2021, I joined the LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library as the first Innovation Officer then later that year graciously moved into the position as Library Director.

Biography Maureen Canelo is a Senior at Florida State University majoring in Family and Child Sciences on a Pre-Med track. She is the Assistant Director for the FSU Women Student Union.

Biography I am an IT and management information systems dual degree student originally from Miami Florida. I’ve been involved with Cgs about 3 years now and I’m super excited to speak about some of the things we do!

Biography Elyssa Horne is a student in the Florida State University College of Communication and Information graduating in May of 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Information Communication Technology. She is currently president of Women in IT/ICT Sharing Experiences (WISE) and a member of the STARS Alliance.

Biography Lauren is a senior graduating in December of 2023 with a bachelor's degree in Media and Communication Studies with minors in Art History and Religion. She is the President of the communications honor society Lambda Pi Eta, as well as the Vice President of the CCI Student Leadership Council, the Social Media Chair for CodEducation and a member of the STARS Alliance. Lauren is also a Media Intern on the communication team for CCI.

Biography Jennifer is currently a sophomore graduating in May 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in information technology with a minor in Innovation and Business Analytics. She is the President of Students & Technology in Academia, Research, & Service Alliance (STARS Alliance), as well as the Vice President of Women in IT/ICT Sharing Experiences, and member of Por Colombia. Jennifer is also an Outreach Coordinator Intern for the College of Communication and Information.

Biography Dr. Erin Sylvester Philpot is the Assistant Director for Leadership Programs at the Center for Leadership & Social Change. A proud FSU alumna, Erin was a member of Service Scholars, Alternative Breaks, and completed the Leadership Studies Certificate as an undergraduate, all programs she now gets to work with in this role. She received a master’s degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of South Carolina and her doctorate in Higher Education Leadership & Policy Studies from Florida State. Her research interests include barriers to access in higher education, and ways in which we can make higher education more affordable and more accessible for students from historically under-represented groups. Erin has worked professionally in Student Conduct, Fraternity & Sorority Life, & Event Planning. In addition to her role as mommy to her two-year old, Truett, and spending time outdoors, Erin also advises Chi Omega Sorority and Omicron Delta Kappa.

Biography Erika Benton is the founder of Visionary Communications & Consulting, LLC (VCC), a mission-driven consulting firm providing small nonprofits with communication and fundraising services. She has over seven years of open government advocacy and communication experience. She holds a Master's of Public Interest Media & Communications from Florida State University and a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies & Philosophy. Previously the Partnership and Outreach Coordinator for the National Freedom of Information Coalition and Marketing Manager for the First Amendment Foundation of Florida. In addition to running a business, she currently works full-time in collaborative philanthropy. When she isn't working, you can find her enjoying time with family and friends and actively promoting community equity.

Biography Jessica Clark, PMP® is the CEO and Chief Creative Strategist of Skye Creative Marketing, a certified woman-owned creative company focused on providing branding and public outreach services to mission-based clients. During her career, Jessica’s work has included branding an opioid safety awareness campaign, developing and marketing a national child abuse prevention education in-school curriculum, and creating and marketing multiple outreach products and campaigns for Florida state departments, NGOs, associations, education organizations and start-ups. Jessica is an internationally certified PMP® (Project Management Professional) and nationally-acclaimed producer and creative strategist. Her work has garnered two Emmy® Award nominations, a Gracie Award® from the national Alliance for Women in Media, state and national American Advertising Awards, and various state and national awards for public outreach campaigns, creative design and public relations. Her career also includes being part of the founding team of Ology Brewing Co. and Ology Distilling, a craft brewery and distillery in Tallahassee, Florida. She is a WSET Level 2 certified wine professional and uses her niche industry knowledge as a marketing consultant for food and beverage clients. In 2010, Jessica graduated from the Florida State University with a B.S. in Public Relations from the College of Communications when she spent time in the London Study Abroad Program and as a member of the FSU Honors Program. She is a 2022 FSU Alumni Association’s Notable Nole award winner.

Biography Julia Holly is the owner of JH Creative (@jhcre8tive). Her company specializes in helping small businesses develop their branding and designing efficient systems for teams. Julia’s focus is working with companies in high-end fashion, luxury brands, and tech. Julia is originally from the SF/Bay Area, CA and has over 18 years of experience in her field.

Biography Faye R. Jones is a Research Specialist II at the College of Communication & Information at Florida State University. Her research interests include STEM student outcomes and the exploration of student pathways (e.g., recruitment, retention, graduation, and employment) through institutional research and data analytics. Dr. Jones is Associate Director for the Information Use and Policy Institute where she serves as co-investigator on several NSF and IMLS projects to include the NSF project entitled, Backtracking CTE Pathways: Deconstructing critical junctures in 2-year IT programs. Dr. Jones’ research interests also include exploration of college-to-career success of underserved populations in STEM fields. She is passionate about engaging youth in STEM and is director of Black Men in Tech and co-director of FSU iCamp, programs funded by the Army Educational Outreach Program to increase the engagement of rising 9th through 12 grade students in IT.

Biography Michelle Winokur is enthusiastic about health care, communication and good public policy. She acts on these passions through the non-profit and medical society accounts she manages as a Vice President at Woodberry Associates. The Washington, DC-based public affairs firm is known for its tailored strategy, dogged execution and unparalleled creativity. Prior to joining Woodberry, Michelle owned her own consulting firm, which supported health care clients in the areas of public policy, communications, research and program evaluation. Her most recent position before launching the firm was Deputy Chief Financial Officer to Florida CFO Jeff Atwater. Prior public service included stints as Deputy Communications Director for Governor Rick Scott and Communications Director for the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration and the Florida Department of Health. Michelle began her career in public service as a Gubernatorial Fellow under Governor Jeb Bush. Between government stretches, she also worked as a management consultant for an international firm. Michelle is a proud graduate of Florida State University, earning her BS in Public Relations and her MS in Integrated Marketing and Management Communication. She went on to earn a Doctorate of Public Health in Biostatistics and Epidemiology from Florida A&M University. She’s been an adjunct professor at both FAMU and Tallahassee Community College. She lives in Tallahassee, Florida with her husband and son.

Biography Ashley is a Project Manager at MentorMate where she helps implement and maintain customized technology solutions for various industries, including the medical/health care industry. Ashley believes that our actions have a profound impact on the world around us, even when they seem insignificant. She is a certified PMP, Product Owner, ScrumMaster, and has acquired several other certificates over her 10 years working in Project Management. In her time as a PM, she has lead initiatives for Inspire Medical (IM), the Transportation Security Authority (TSA), Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), and Oregon State Police (OSP) among others. Ashley holds a BS in Information Technology after majoring in Information, Communication, and Technology at Florida State University.

Biography Deidre Melton is the Associate Vice for Audit and Chief Risk Officer for Florida A&M University. Deidre provides daily strategic direction and supervision for audit, advisory, and investigation services; serves as a trusted advisor to leadership and leads enterprise risk management efforts across the university. Prior to coming to FAMU in 2014, Deidre worked for the State of Florida Auditor General’s Office for eight years performing information technology audits of educational and ‎local/state government entities. ‎ Deidre is very active in the audit and tech professional communities, serving on a variety of local, state, and national boards and committees. Notably, Deidre chairs the IT Audit Group for the State University System of Florida, the Leon County (Florida) Audit Committee, and holds a national board position for the Association of College and University Auditors (ACUA). Deidre is the 2021 recipient of ACUA’s Outstanding Professional Contributions Award recognizing her contributions to the profession of internal auditing in higher education. Additionally, she regularly speaks for local and national professional organizations on topics involving DEI, fraud, enterprise risk management, audit, cybersecurity, and various leadership development topics. Deidre is a proud alumna of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University where she earned her B.S. of Management and Master of Business Administration at Florida A&M ‎University. Additionally, Deidre is a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Inspector General Investigator (CIGI), Certified Inspector General (CIG), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Controls (CRISC), and holds a Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA).

Biography Gina Miller is a UX / UI designer on the Custom Application and Mobile/Portal team in Information Technology Services (ITS) at Florida State University, which is responsible for the design and creation of custom applications utilized by various campus departments and management of the myFSU Portal and FSU mobile application. Prior to her current role, Gina served as the assistant director of marketing and communications and web developer for the Division of Student Affairs for 7 years. Gina is a two-time alumna of FSU with a B.S. in information technology, M.S. in integrated communications. Outside of work, much of Gina’s enjoys time with family, reading and attending FSU athletic events.

Biography Rosa L. Smothers has over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity. She is currently senior vice president of cyber operations at KnowBe4, where she is responsible for leading KnowBe4’s Federal Practice efforts, including providing cybersecurity advisory services to civilian and military agencies within the U.S. federal government. Ms. Smothers is also responsible for providing analysis for KnowBe4’s cybersecurity research and cyber threat intelligence efforts. Having served for over a decade in the Central Intelligence Agency, Ms. Smothers is a highly decorated national security professional with extensive experience leading the planning and execution of cyber operations against terrorist and nation-state targets as well as the adoption of cutting-edge computer technology. She served as a cybersecurity analyst and technical intelligence officer in the Center for Cyber Intelligence and the Counter Terrorism Mission Center and on multiple overseas tours, to include extensive service in Iraq. She holds a B.A. in Information Studies and an M.S. in Computer Network Security. Ms. Smothers is a mentor to women and young people in cybersecurity and is a member of Women in Defense and Infragard.

Biography Nipa looks at the world through a creative lens. She is an accomplished visual storyteller using graphic design, illustration, motion graphics, scripting, shooting, editing, and production. Before bringing her talents to Florida, she worked in Los Angeles serving as one of the top designers for some of the world’s largest entertainment companies such as Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc., Disney, and 20th Century Fox. Nipa has not only designed for global industries but also developed statewide campaigns for important issues such as mental health awareness, highway safety education, agriculture, education, and advocacy efforts. Her mission is to find the truth behind every idea and she has a passion for exploring new ways those ideas can resonate with the world.

Biography Jennifer Garner is an 18-year career marketer with a passion for leading and influencing diverse, cross-functional teams. Jennifer received her bachelor’s degree in Communication, Public Relations from Florida State University, where she was a National Hispanic Merit Scholar and member of the Honors Program, Delta Zeta Sorority and Dance Marathon. She went on to work in public relations and marketing with roles at The Zimmerman Agency, Florida’s Restaurant & Lodging Association and Southern Resorts before returning to school for an MBA at Cornell University as a Consortium Fellow. Jennifer then joined Kraft Heinz, where she has served in various roles across the company, including Head of Category Marketing & Insights for US Foodservice, Head of Functional Academies on the Global Learning & Development team, and currently as Head of Culture & Capabilities for the North America Zone. A first-generation college student, Jennifer is passionate about mentorship and enjoys speaking with students at Florida State and Cornell and with industry colleagues at talent development conferences. Jennifer lives in Tallahassee with her husband Sean, their daughter Blakely and their Cavalier King-Charles Spaniel Winston. She is a foodie, wine connoisseur, runner, indoor cyclist, amateur photographer and world traveller who has visited 5 continents, 36 countries and 46 states.

Biography Kara Irby is a Communications Specialist for the Florida League of Cities. She coordinates communications projects for the League’s affiliate associations, such as the Florida League of Mayors. Her projects include but are not limited to producing promotional and informational videos, graphics, e-newsletters, and social media management. She also writes for the League’s flagship publication, Quality Cities magazine. Before joining FLC, Kara was a news writer at Florida State University, contributing to her alma mater by promoting the university’s research, faculty and students. Her communications career began as a reporter and producer for WFSU-TV/The Florida Channel, covering state government across the Sunshine State. One of Kara’s more compelling stories was a documentary on the late Dr. Robert Hayling of St. Augustine, FL. It showcased Dr. Hayling’s role in getting the 1964 Civil Rights Act passed, despite being threatened by the Ku Klux Klan! She has been engaging in her passion for storytelling for nearly 20 years. She was bitten by the media bug participating in her school’s TV Production program in Saint Petersburg, FL, where she was an anchor for the school’s FOX-13 Magazine, airing on the FOX Affiliate throughout the Tampa Bay Area. She attended and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Media Communication Studies from Florida State University in 2011. Irby obtained her Master’s in Public Administration in 2020. Kara is the CEO and Founder of the EnLIGHTened First Lady, LLC, helping leading women share their stories and provide inspiration and encouragement through content creation and communication services. Her blog, of the same name, details her life as a millennial Pastor’s wife and first-time mom. Kara is married to the Reverend Marcus R. Payne, Pastor of Saint Paul AME Church in the Chaires Community. Together, they share one son, Marcus Payne II, whom they affectionally call “Deuce” and paw-parents to an English Bulldog, Major. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the Coordinator for the Tallahassee District Ministers Spouse Alliance and the Communications Chair for the Florida State University National Black Alumni.

Biography Kim Kelling is the Director of Content & Community Partnerships at WFSU Public Media. She oversees all content development for television, radio, and digital platforms as well as community engagement and education projects. Linking content that WFSU produces as well as the vast resources of PBS and NPR to our community is part of the station’s strategic plan. She produces a weekly series called Voices that Inspire featuring a diverse array of individuals who are making a difference in our community. During her leadership at the station, the news team has won several regional Murrow Awards as well two national Murrow awards. Our education team won the top award in community engagement at the National Education Telecommunications annual meeting. WFSU has been the recipient of a Ready To Learn grant from the US Department of Education in partnership with PBS and the Corporation of Public Broadcasting for the past 20 years enabling our education department to be one of the most respected in the country. WFSU-FM is one of the most listened to radio stations in the region. Prior to working at WFSU, Kim was a freelance film producer working in Los Angeles, CA. She produced several commercials that appeared in the Super Bowl. Kim sits on the Florida Public Media Board, Tallahassee Community College Foundation Board and Apalachicola Riverkeeper Board. She has served as an advisor to the Florida Afterschool Network, a founding member of the Family First Tallahassee Summit and a co-founder of ASPIRE, a collective impact initiative to connect youth to career and education opportunities. She is a member of Leadership Tallahassee Class 28 and in 2011 was named one of the 25 Women You Need to Know by the Tallahassee Democrat. She is the current president of Capital Women’s Network (CWN) and a member since 2010. Kim graduated from Williams College and is married to Todd Engstrom, an ornithologist. They have one grown son, Dawson J. Engstrom who lives in Los Angeles.

Biography Dr. Kelly Kelly joined the faculty of the School of Communication in the fall of 2020. She teaches strategic communication and is faculty advisor to the Ad Club and Arrowhead Advertising, FSU’s National Student Advertising Competition team. As teaching faculty at FSU, she has taught more than 1,200 students, many of whom have entered the media and communications field in account management, strategy, and creative roles today. And some who are just now entering the job market. In 2022, Dr. Kelly was a Florida State University Outstanding Teacher in the Major Award nominee. She was also nominated for a Student Affairs Leadership Award. And she is the 2019 recipient of the University of Florida Graduate Teaching Award. Prior to Dr. Kelly’s decade of experience in education, she worked in business development, consulting and leadership roles with Fortune 500 companies. She holds a doctorate in mass communication from UF but please don’t hold that against her.

Biography Merging energy and enthusiasm to exceed client expectations while balancing family and volunteer activities, Nanette seizes opportunities at every corner. She views challenges as a chance to harness her creative power. With nearly three decades of integrated communications experience and 19 years with The Moore Agency, Nanette brings optimism and unique insight to each client and project. Nanette works with a variety of clients that range from law enforcement to the medical industry; her goal is to improve the world through her work. Her ability to achieve high-impact results can be seen through the more than 35 awards she has received for her campaigns. One such example is her efforts on behalf of the Alliance to Save Florida’s Trauma Care, in which she helped orchestrate an aggressive media relations and grassroots outreach effort to protect funding for Florida’s trauma centers. Thanks in part to the more than 600 stories generated on the topic, she helped to secure more than $50 million a year in recurring funds. Additionally, Nanette manages the communications outreach for the Florida Sheriffs Association. Utilizing social media to align the public perception with the mission of the association, the team’s work has significantly increased visibility with the enhancement of digital and online media. Her diligence on behalf of the organization has led them to become one of the most respected associations in the nation and a trusted source for statewide media outlets. Her work with the recent Amendment 10 effort is another award-winning effort. Working with the Florida Sheriffs Association, she helped align and coordinate Florida’s constitutional officers in a voter education effort. With so many amendments on the ballot, the team worked to combat voter fatigue to brand the amendment as the Protection Amendment, which protected our right to vote, as well as protected families and veterans. Through compelling story telling and substantial earned media and digital advertising, the amendment passed. Nanette has a degree in Communications from Florida State University and during the fall, can be found cheering on her beloved Seminoles. She is one of fewer than 100 public relations professionals in Florida that is Certified in Public Relations and she serves her community as a member of the Bradfordville Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department. Her visionary leadership and daring spirit are hallmarks of how she delivers success.

Biography Josie Gustafson is a Speech-Language Pathologist with experience in both pediatric and adult populations. Prior to becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist, Josie worked 10 years as a buyer and supply manager for a major retailer. Upon moving to Tallahassee in 2003, Josie returned to school for her “encore career” and obtained a master’s degree in Communication Disorders from Florida State University in 2009. Josie began her career dividing her caseload between pediatrics (early intervention) and adult neurological disorders. In 2016, Josie joined FSU Speech and Hearing Clinic to serve as a Clinical Supervisor for the Speech Team and instructor at the undergraduate level. Since 2017, Josie has worked exclusively at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare in both outpatient and inpatient settings treating a variety of acquired neurological disorders. Her primary focus includes evaluation and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders targeting the Head and Neck Cancer and Motor Movement/Degenerative disease populations. Josie holds several certifications and enjoys mentoring graduate students. She resides in Tallahassee with her husband and son, and enjoys traveling and spending time with friends.

Biography Robyn Hillison, M.A., CCC-SLP is a Speech-Language Pathologist with 17 years experience and the owner of Capital Speech & Language Therapy Services, a private practice providing Speech/Language and Occupational Therapy services in Tallahassee, FL. Robyn earned a Bachelors of Science in Communication Science & Disorders from Florida State University in 2003, and a Masters of Arts in Communication Disorders from Eastern Michigan University in 2005. Robyn has had the opportunity to serve in a variety of settings as a Speech-Language Pathologist. In 2005, Robyn began her career at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, MI. providing inpatient therapy for children in the PICU and serving pediatric patients in their outpatient clinic. She then moved on to Ingram County Schools where she was responsible for speech and language programming for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students from kindergarten through high school. In 2009, after moving back to Tallahassee from Michigan, Robyn provided school based services in Gadsden County, followed by three years of telehealth services to rural school districts in New Mexico after the birth of her daughter in 2011. In 2015, Robyn opened Capital Speech & Language Therapy Services and created a practice that allowed her the flexibility she needed as a parent, while also allowing her to grow as a clinician. One of Robyn’s passions as a Tallahassee native is to deliver outstanding care to her community as well as cultivate an exceptional work environment for the clinicians in her practice. In 2022, Capital Speech earned a spot on the Seminole 100, an award given to the fastest growing FSU alumni-owned businesses. Robyn’s clinical interests include Apraxia of speech, voice disorders, and phonological impairments. She resides in Tallahassee with her daughter and husband and in her free time is training her golden retriever, Luna, to become a therapy dog for Capital Speech.

Biography Delores has worked in the field of communication disorders for over 45 years. Her work experience includes the public schools, the Schendel Speech and Hearing Clinic and conducting a Private Practice. While working as a clinical educator at the L. L. Schendel Speech and Hearing Clinic at Florida State University, Delores provided clinical training and supervision for many graduate students as they earned their required clinical experience in the field. Most of these persons are now in the workplace providing services to both adults and children with communication disorders. While at the Schendel clinic as a faculty member in the Department of Communication Disorders and as a clinical supervisor, Delores served as the chairperson of the Multicultural Issues Committee through which the pathway for minority faculty and students interested in the department was addressed. Additionally, since retiring from that position and maintaining a private practice, Mrs. Hudson has allowed several persons interested in speech/language pathology shadow her in her work setting and given guidance to them in their pursuits. In the clinical setting and in her private practice, Delores has developed a strong interest and expertise in working with children with autism as well as treating clients with reading disorders. Many clients with these needs have made significant progress and gained stronger communication skills that allow them to function well in life. Delores, who is currently retired, is married to retired educator Willie A. Hudson and is the daughter of former outstanding educator Dr. Devurn Glenn and his caring wife, Mrs. Allie M. Glenn.

Biography Cyndy Marks is a certified speech language pathologist with thirty years of experience in the field of speech language pathology. She earned her B.S. and M.S. degrees in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology at Florida State University in 1992 and 1993, and has provided treatment to clients of all ages in the public and private schools, acute care, sub-acute care, skilled nursing, home health, and private clinic settings. Cyndy's experiences as a speech therapist, combined with her experiences as a small business owner and consultant for physicians and medical practices, contributed to her vision of what a private speech therapy clinic should be. The first step in bringing her visions to life was the opening of Southeastern Therapy Services in 2009. At the outset, Cyndy developed “The STS Model”: a set of guiding principles and practices governing every aspect of owning and operating a small healthcare practice. She believed this would enable STS to survive and thrive amidst future shifts in healthcare reimbursement and the ongoing shortage of SLPs. For the nearly fourteen years since opening, STS has provided a comfortable, inviting place where clients and caregivers can feel welcome and receive dynamic, effective treatment from competent professionals with the tools and support they need immediately at hand. STS has grown to be the region's largest private outpatient speech therapy practice, with a second location serving residents of Wakulla County. When not working, Cyndy enjoys composing music, crafting, and camping with her husband, Lee - a veteran of the U.S. Navy and research engineer at Florida State’s National High Field Magnetic Laboratory - and her 4-legged kids: Maximus Aurelius, Charlie Baron, Gracie Loo and Winnie Sue. As a life-long resident of Tallahassee and graduate of Florida State University, Cyndy is an enthusiastic supporter of FSU athletics and academic programs.

Biography Tricia Montgomery is a faculty member in the School of Communication Science and Disorders at Florida State University. She serves as the Director of Clinical Education and the Director of the FSU Speech & Hearing Clinic. She also serves as the VP for Professional Development for the Council for Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders.

Biography Annika Suarez is a proud Florida State alumna with a passion for helping children to communicate and meet their feeding needs. Since graduating from Florida State, she has worked hard to stay on top of new techniques and is continuously working to develop her skill set to provide speech therapy and lactation counseling services to infants and children. In addition, to being the owner of her practice, she is a mentor for other speech therapists and lactation professionals in the community. Annika’s practice, Sunny Pediatric Services, specializes in working with infants and young children with feeding/swallowing disorders and language delays. She currently leads a team of speech-language pathologists and an occupational therapist to serve Tallahassee, Monticello and Crawfordville. Annika strives to grow her practice to help as many infants and young children in the big bend region as possible.