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Philadelphia Family’s 2024 Women of Influence Network: Wisdom, Inspiration, and Connections

Discover a treasure trove of inspiration, practical advice, and potential connections from the women shaping our Philly Family Community!

The Women of Influence event series celebrated Women of Influence Award Winners and fostered meaningful connections among attendees. We’ve hosted Luncheons at Terrain Devon as well as Terrain Delval and up next, we’re planning a Women of Influence Speed Networking Night in Rittenhouse Square for November 13th – we hope you can join us!

To extend the impact beyond these events, we invited each guest to contribute to our Women of Influence Guide with their wisdom, words of encouragement, or an introduction. This directory of local Women of Influence is now available as an enduring source of inspiration and connection for YOU. Scroll through to find your next mentor, collaborator, or simply to be uplifted by the incredible women in our community! So dive in, get inspired, and start building those meaningful connections that can shape your future! We would also like to invite you to join us for our first Women of Influence Speed Networking Night:

Feature photo by AMC Photography Studios.


Stef Arck-Baynes, Founder & CEO
Achieving Good Communications Co. | achievinggood.co

Stef founded Achieving Good Communications Co. to increase opportunity and equity by elevating causes, brands, and people making a positive impact.


KYRA ATERBURY, Executive Director
Need in Deed | needindeed.org

Alice Walker said, “Look closely at the present you are constructing: it should look like the future you are dreaming.” Stay present and dream big.

Kyra is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


PAMELA BADOLATO, Content Director
Family Focus Media | familyfocus.org

“When you have more than you need, build a longer table not a higher fence.”


JACQUI BAUERS, Founder
Joint Joint | jointjoint.com

Thank you all for the amazing work you are doing to improve and bring something special to the community! You inspire me to keep going!

Jacqui is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


MAGGIE BOND, Director of Sales and Events
Live Nation Special Events | specialevents.livenation.com

Maggie Bond is a trailblazer who not only excels in her own career, but also actively creates opportunities and support for other women to achieve great things along with her.


SARAH BOND, Founder & CEO
Family Focus Media | familyfocus.org

Sarah helps local leaders focus, integrate & amplify their marketing and community connections with Main Line Parent, Philadelphia Family, and Bucks County Parent.


MARY BORDIC, Medical Information Director
Harmony Biosciences

Mary is a former nurse turned pharmaceutical leader here today in support of all Women of Influence as we shine and share our beautiful light with the world.


PEG BOTTO, Owner & Chef
Cosmic Foundation | Cosmicfoods.com

I want to thank all the women who are silent workers without recognition. The world is going to be a better place with everyone working together.

Peg is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


ANN MARIE CASEY, Founder
AMC Photography | amcphotostudios.com

Passion, determination, and a little bit of creativity; women can break barriers and succeed in any field they choose. Fearlessly chase your dreams.


VICTORIA CLEMENT, Owner, Head Physical Therapist, Doula
Restore Physical Therapy and Pelvic Health | restorethefloorpt.com

“Ladies, you do not have to just ‘push through’ pelvic floor issues! You’d be surprised at what your mind and body are capable of not just in rehab but in every aspect of life!”


KAITLYN CUNNINGHAM, Director of Outreach
Fusion Academy | fusionacademy.com

“Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.”


Capri Dessecker, REALTOR® & Team Lead
The Capri Dessecker Team | REMAXOneSouthPhilly.com

As a realtor, team lead at RE/MAX One Realty, and owner of Studio South Philly, Capri Dessecker has woven herself into the fabric of her community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those she touches. She is a dedicated real estate agent passionate about helping others achieve their homeownership dreams. She is a dedicated philanthropist and community advocate.


CARA DIXON, CEO and Founder
Growth Minded LLC and Root to Branch 501c3 | growthmindedco.com and root-to-branch.org

“It is an honor to serve the community alongside such an incredible group of women.”


BANSI DOESCHER, Owner & Head Dentist
Smile Team | gosmileteam.com

Dr. Bansi Doescher, owner and dentist of Smile Team, has dedicated her career to not only restoring smiles but also uplifting underserved communities and mentoring the next generation of dental professionals. Her career has been marked by profound compassion, innovation, and empowerment in the field of dentistry.

“I started my dental office from scratch in 2018—what a journey! Any woman can achieve her dreams. Our nurturing nature is our strength. Keep believing in yourself!”


Coral Edwards, Evidence-Based Coach, Facilitator
Coral Edwards Coaching, Chamber of Mothers, Perinatal Partners Network | coraledwards.com

As an evidence-based coach, and the founder and CEO of Coral Edwards Coaching & Consulting, Coral Edwards’ powerful mission to support and uplift mothers across the community inspires hope and empowerment for mothers navigating the complex journey of parenthood and careers.


Michelle El Khoury, Founder, Perinatal Yoga & Well-Being Coach
YOGAMAZIA | yogamazia.com

A unique sanctuary of wellness, education, and empowerment is flourishing under the guidance of Dr. Michelle El Khoury. As the Founder and Managing Director of Yogamazia, Dr. El Khoury has created more than just a yoga studio; she’s cultivated a community where families find support, children discover resilience, and wellness becomes a way of life.

“In every stage of life, remember: your calm is your strength.”


RACHEL FISHMAN, Co-Founder & Program Manager
Courtyard Mentor Network | courtyardmentornetwork.org

Volunteering with youth mentoring will allow you to positively impact the lives of underserved youth in your community.

Rachel is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


DIANNE FURPHY, Certified Life & Mindfulness Coach
Kreate What U Want | kreatewhatuwant.com

Dianne supports kids, teens & adults in boosting confidence, decreasing anxiety, building on social skills, grief, life transitions, (+ more) through art and mindfulness.


LAURA GURTEN, Director of Clinical Operations
Gameday Men’s Health Southeastern PA/Northern NJ | gamedaymenshealth.com/newtown

“Don’t ever be afraid to ask the hard questions, the worst they can say is no … and then find another way to get it done!”pports kids, teens & adults in boosting confidence, decreasing anxiety, building on social skills, grief, life transitions, (+ more) through art and mindfulness.


TINA HO, Facial Plastic Surgeon
Tina Ho MD Facial Plastic Surgery | drtinaho.com

Dr. Tina Ho is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon serving Philadelphia and the Main Line, specializing in rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, facelift, and neck lift.


HEATHER HOLIDAY, Director of Development
A Better Chance for Our Children | abcfoc.org

“Life is short, don’t waste time trying to fit into boxes or be anything but your true, beautiful, joyful, self!”


IMANI JACKSON, Founding Teacher-Leader
Poinciana Montessori | poincianamontessori.org

“Show up in as many spaces as possible because you never know the connections you can and will make.”


Corina Jenkins
Specialists of Schools | linkedin.com/in/corinajenkins

In the fields of education and behavioral health, Corina Jenkins stands out as a dynamic force for positive change. Through her work with Specialists of Schools and as a former leader at Embark Behavioral Health, Corina has made an indelible impact on countless families, professionals, and organizations through her unwavering commitment to connection, compassion, and community building.

 “Own your unique story and create the positive impact only you can make!”


GEORGETTE KERR, Owner and President
After the Stork | afterthestork.info

For the past 20 years, it has been Georgette’s honor to care for the sweet newborns of Philadelphia and Main Line families. They have built an amazing doula team they are incredibly proud of.


BRIDGET KOLARIK, Publishing Assistant
Family Focus Media | familyfocus.org

“Looking forward to meeting all the amazing women at the 2024 Women of Influence Luncheon.”


REBECCA KOLSKY, Partner
Testa & Pagnanelli, LLC | tpfamilylaw.com

“Congratulations to the WIF honorees! It’s inspiring to be among such strong women. In my Family Law practice, I enjoy lifting up and supporting women with care, empathy & advocacy.”


STEPHANIE KOSTA, Vice President, Government Affairs
Comcast | xfinity.com

Stephanie L. Kosta’s commitment to public service is evident through her personal and professional work. She not only leads corporate impact efforts for Comcast Freedom Region including programs focused on digital equity through Project UP, but her passion for children, family, diversity, and equity drives her volunteer work. Stephanie is thrilled to be recognized as a Women of Influence among such an inspiring group of women.

Stephanie is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


KATIE KUPSTAS, CEO & Founder
Innovators Club for Women® | innovatorsclubforwomen.org

“At Innovators Club for Women, we believe in the power of women to break barriers. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Stay bold, stay resilient, and keep innovating!”


JULIE LATHIA, Owner
The BenLath Law Group, LLC | benlathlaw.com

Embrace the risk and don’t be afraid to take chances. The only real failure occurs when you don’t try.

Julie is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


LARA AMAN MATTEY, Studio Owner
Ivory Tree Portraits | IvoryTreePortraits.com

How our children present themselves starts with how they hear us talk about ourselves and our peers. It’s my passion to create a culture that builds kids’ (and women’s) self-confidence through inclusion, fun, and community.

Lara is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


JENN METZGER, Founder
Saferbabies | saferbabies.com

“I keep ‘Harold & The Purple Crayon’ on my nightstand! He’s a hero. ‘The road to success is like Harold and the Purple Crayon. You have to draw it for yourself.’ (James Cameron)”


ASHLEY MEYERS, Owner & CEO
Main Line Fashionista Boutique | mainlinefashionista.com

Sometimes we have to Fake It Till We Make It.
That’s ok! Also, don’t overthink social media posts! Post and move on!


ASHLEY MORRISON, General Manager
After the Stork | afterthestork.info

“At After the Stork we are women who support women during the trying months of postpartum. It’s our passion and it’s our honor. Women are amazing in every way, aren’t they?!?”


Dr. Abbey Orozco, Co-owner, Pediatric Dentist
Top of the Hill Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry | topofthehillsmiles.com

Nestled in Philadelphia’s Chestnut Hill neighborhood, Dr. Abbey Orozco, affectionately known as “Dr. Abbey” to her young patients, has created a practice that reflects her values of hard work, empathy, and family-centered care. As the co-owner and pediatric dentist at Top of the Hill Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Orozco leads with compassion and dedication in the field of pediatric dentistry. 

“Many thanks to my wonderful husband, my hilarious friends’ text thread, Wegman’s meat in a bag meals, unhinged Peloton fitness instructors, and the Fourth Wing book series!”


LUBA PATLAKH-KAPLUN, Director, MS-CCC/SLP,
Kidology Inc | kidologyinc.com

Luba is a bilingual speech language-pathologist, who specializes in child development, pediatric education, and emotional support. Her words of wisdom to all the fantastic, hard working women out there is to never allow a setback to stop your drive. Use it to better yourself, learn and grow, then you can do even MORE!!! Challenge yourself to help motivate others and never, ever give up!

Luba is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


MAIRIN PETRONE, Development Director
Family Focus Media | familyfocus.org

“Criticism should be taken seriously, not personally.” – Hilary Clinton


SUDHA RAMAN, Medical Director, Nemours PA Specialty Care Network, Nemours Children’s Health System | nemours.org

Dr. Sudha Raman, MD, MBA, FAAP is a board-certified pediatrician and neonatologist. She is currently the Medical Director of Ambulatory Care Centers for Nemours Children’s Health in Pennsylvania and a neonatologist at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware and St. Francis Hospital. Dr. Raman has been practicing medicine in the Delaware Valley for over 20 years. She is passionate about working to ensure that all children have equal access to high-quality healthcare.

Sudha is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


KARI RIES, Owner
Ries Video Productions | riesvideoproductions.com

Kari is energized by personal and creative videography. When a great story comes together with creative visuals, compelling narration, and carefully curated music, it’s pure magic!


LORI ROBBINS, Director of Sales & Client Marketing
Family Focus Media | familyfocus.org

“I am woman phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that’s me.” – Maya Angelou


APRIL ROBINSON, Mental Health Therapist
Whole Heart Reproductive Mental Health | wholeheartmaternalmentalhealth.com

“When we speak we are afraid our words will not be heard or welcomed. But when we are silent, we are still afraid. So it is better to speak.” – Audre Lorde


MARISSA ROSEN, Nanny Placement Professional and Founder
MBR NANNY NETWORK | mbrnannynetwork.com

“As women of influence, we nurture growth, foster empowerment, and create lasting impact. Together, we can uplift one another and shape a brighter future for all.”


DANA SCARCELLA, Leadership Coach & Corporate Trainer
Compass HR Consulting | compasshrc.com

Dana Scarcella is a high energy leadership consultant. With a passion for empowering people to achieve their full potential, Dana’s purpose is to help people live an inspired life.


Perri Shaw Borish, Founder & Psychotherapist
Whole Heart Reproductive Mental Health | wholeheartmaternalmentalhealth.com

As the founder and director of Whole Heart Reproductive Mental Health, Perri and her team specialize in the psychosocial aspects of reproductive mental health across the adult female lifespan. She is humbled and honored by the patients they treat every day.


Jessi Sheridan, Founder
Habituelle and The Leader’s Edge | instagram.com/habituelle

As the Founder of Habituelle and Vice President at The Leader’s Edge, Jessi Sheridan has dedicated herself to amplifying women’s voices and creating a sense of community in a time when many felt silenced and isolated.  She empowers women leaders, helping them define purpose, unlock potential, and lean into their power.


Susan Shifrin, Founder & Executive Director
ARTZ Philadelphia | artzphilly.org

Susan Shifrin, Founder and Executive Director of ARTZ Philadelphia, has dedicated her life to enhancing the quality of life for those affected by dementia through the transformative power of art.

“No matter the struggle, kindness, compassion, and a good sense of humor will get you through and help others as well.”


GAURI SHIROOR-AGRAHAR, Co-Owner
Philly DIY supporting Samvit Sudha | phillydiy.com

Gauri’s volunteer work with Samvit Sudha finds practical and innovative ways of giving back to her ancestral homeland. In this nonprofit, she works to financially empower women in South India. These women are taught to sew, embroider, and make handmade paper. The women of Samvit Sudha make beautiful and practical handsewn bags and gifts that Gauri has been selling for the last 10+ years.

Gauri is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


Swati Shroff, Clinical Associate Professor/Director
Jefferson Women’s Resident Clinic and Women’s Health Elective, Thomas Jefferson University | jeffersonhealth.org/find-a-doctor/s/shroff-swati-m

As a Clinical Associate Professor at Thomas Jefferson University and the Director of both the Jefferson Women’s Resident Clinic and Women’s Health Elective, Dr. Swati Shroff has dedicated her career to improving women’s health through patient-centered care and education. She is a true leader in women’s health care space and a passionate advocate for advancing women in academic medicine. Her mission is to improve women’s health and advance women in academic medicine, through evidence-based, patient-centered primary care, education, and mentorship.


KATHRYN SNYDER, Founding Director, Art Therapist
Parent to Child and Therapy Associates | parent2child.net

Kathryn has been working with children, families, and young adults in the greater Philadelphia region for over 25 years. She loves supporting people in their development.


MARCELA SUMMERVILLE, Owner & Director
Spanish Workshop for Children | spanishworkshopforchildren.com

To my fellow Women of Influence, let’s stand strong together. I lead in early education and have been honored. Remember, you’re powerful. Be proud of your own paths and believe in your abilities — they make a big difference. When unsure, know that our dedication drives change, brightening lives and the future. As leaders, our contributions matter. Keep pushing for new ideas and growth.

Marcela is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


Sarah Sweeney-Denham, Head of School
Greene Towne Montessori School | gtms.org

As the Head of School at Greene Towne Montessori School, Sarah Sweeney-Denham’s journey in education is deeply rooted in personal experience and a profound belief in the power of respectful, child-centered learning.

“The other side of the challenges that I’ve faced is all that I have learned from them—both in terms of skills gained, and also about myself.”


LAUREN SZKOLNICKI, Marketing Manager & Designer
Family Focus Media | familyfocus.org

There is always something new to learn.


SARAH TODD, Co-President & Director of Operations
Well Rooted | wellrootedpa.org

It is an honor to be listed among such influential women who saw a need and decided to “Be The Change” instead of standing on the sidelines.

Sarah is a member of our Class of 2023 Women of Influence Award Winners alumni. Read her profile here.


Jenavia Weaver, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder
Citadel International, R.A.R.E. Genius, LLC. | raregeniusproductions.blogspot.com

Jenavia Weaver has dedicated over three decades to uplifting her community through innovative programs and unwavering commitment. As Co-Founder and Chief Operations Officer of Citadel International and R.A.R.E. Genius LLC, Jenavia’s story is one of community service, cultural preservation, and women’s empowerment.

 “If YOU see a problem, don’t look around and ask ‘Why didn’t anyone else solve it?’ If YOU see the need, it’s YOUR work to do.”


KIM WRIGHT, Owner
Nothing Bundt Cakes | nothingbundtcakes.com

 “Congratulations to the Philadelphia Family Women of Influence for doing important work with grace and grit. It’s an honor to be part of your community.”


Visit our Philadelphia Family digital Women of Influence Guide to get to know the 2024 Award Winners, our women-led Members, and to look back at last year’s Women of Influence alumni as well! Visit our sister sites to expand your circle beyond Philadelphia.

Founder & CEO, Family Focus Media | Creator for Main Line Parent, Philadelphia Family, & Bucks County Parent | Connect with me on Instagram @sarahbondfocus or email sarah@familyfocus.org.

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