Pamela Prince-Eason

President & CEO (2011-2015)

Pamela Prince-Eason was President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a role she assumed in 2011 and held until 2025. Under her leadership, WBENC grew into one of the country’s foremost leaders in women’s professional development and sigificantly expanded its work with the Fortune 500 as well as dedicated initiatives for underrepresented WBEs including Women of Color and LGBTQ+ communities.

Pam led the way for WBENC collaboration with stakeholder organizations that align with the WBENC mission, including the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), National Business Inclusion Consortium (NBIC), the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), WEConnect International, the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), and the United States Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce (USPAACC).

Pam served three terms on the National Women’s Business Council (NWBC), the nonpartisan federal advisory committee that serves as an independent source of advice and policy recommendations to the President, Congress, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) on issues of importance to women business owners and entrepreneurs.

Additionally, her dedication to women’s business leadership was illustrated by her commitment to advancing women’s excellence and opportunity. Previously Vice President of Worldwide Procurement for Pfizer Inc., Pam’s experience as a corporate executive and woman business owner honed her expertise in supplier diversity, strategic leadership, and management best practices. She also previously held various leadership positions at Texas Instruments, GSE Systems, and Warner-Lambert; and was a co-owner of RMR Associates.

Among many accolades, she has been honored with the Women’s Business Enterprise Hall of Fame Executive Leadership award, the National Association for Female Executives (NAFE) – Woman of Achievement, Enterprising Women Hall of Fame member, and celebrated at 2023 Gala of Power Women Moves Nexus Club. She is also featured in the upcoming Women Mean Business book in which female trailblazers share how they are transforming women’s lives one voice at a time.

Pamela earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from East Tennessee State University and graduated magna cum laude from Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in international business and finance. She and husband John have three children and six grandchildren. Favorite family activities include tennis, basketball, and snowboarding.

The WBENC Executive Committee appointed Nedra Dickson as Interim President & CEO. Nedra has been serving as the WBENC Board Chair since January 2023, working closely with Pam, COO Jill Sasso and WBENC leadership throughout that time. She recently retired from her longtime leadership role with Accenture and has been involved with WBENC and our partner organizations for many years.

Nedra brings a wealth of experience, insight, and purpose-driven leadership that will not only preserve Pam’s vision but also prepare WBENC to reach even greater impact in the years ahead.

Nedra led Accenture’s Global Supplier Diversity and Sustainability Programs across 20 countries. Nedra was also responsible for Europe Procurement Operations in 30 countries.

A seasoned and awarded executive, Nedra possesses over 20 years of Technology Consulting, Operations Management, Procurement Sourcing and Category Management experience with Fortune 500 companies across multiple industries.  With strong expertise in Procurement transformation and Supplier Relationship Management, she has managed over $2B in contingent labor spend.

Nedra is credited for expanding Accenture’s award-winning and world-renown dedicated diverse supplier mentoring program – Diverse Supplier Development Program (DSDP).

Audrey Awasom

Senior Manager, Programs

Audrey Awasom, or Audrey Awesome as many call her, is a program manager at WBENC. Audrey is the strategic lead of the WBENC Women of Color Program and supports other executive education programs at WBENC.

She was recently featured on DC Inno’s 2020 list of 25 under 25 leaders for her work as the Founder and CEO of Noble Uprising, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides resources and career readiness training to women who are unemployed, under-employed or experiencing homelessness.

She is passionate about mentoring young entrepreneurs and also sits as a Chair of the Marketing committee at the Montgomery College Board of Governors. She has a B.S. in Marketing from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business.

Pat Birmingham

Information Technology Lead

Pat has dedicated more than a decade of service to WBENC, currently serving as the Information Technology Lead. Formerly as the Senior Vice President of Technology and Marketing, Pat oversaw the strategy and execution for technology, marketing, communications, public relations, branding and events. Prior to joining WBENC in 2012, she spent 14 years at Pfizer Inc, holding various positions spanning marketing and sales procurement, business process and IT. Her passion for supplier diversity began at Pfizer where she was an active contributor to the supplier diversity team. Pat also spent 19 years at AT&T in global sales roles. She is a veteran of the United States Army, earned her Bachelor’s in Business from the University of Phoenix, and is a Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM).

Pat lives on Kent Island, MD with her husband, where she enjoys the water views, boating, sunsets and her passion for cooking and local dining.

Ann Bowman

Executive Associate

As Executive Associate, Ann performs a wide array of tasks that aid in the daily operations of WBENC. Ann joined Team WBENC in September 2018.

Ann is from the Delmarva Region and has a degree in Business Administration. Ann has a background in early education, property management, and banking.

Ann lives in Arlington, VA with her husband and their dog, Tiger. When not working Ann enjoys backcountry hiking and camping, fishing, visiting museums, and traveling.

Cheri Butler

Vice President, Programs

Cheri Butler is responsible for the strategic development and execution of programming for WBENC constituents.

Cheri oversees WBENC Corporate Member programming which provides exclusive peer-to-peer engagement opportunities for corporate professionals, and the Industry Spotlight Series which showcases Corporate Members and WBEs making an impact in specific industries and helps WBEs better navigate, scale and support those industries. In addition, Cheri helps provide instruction as part of the WBENC Executive Education Program for WBEs, and contributes to the NextGen Program.

Prior to joining WBENC, Cheri spent over 10 years in Global Purchasing & Supply Chain in the Automotive Industry, leading corporate buying teams and managing a global supply base.

Cheri is originally from the metropolitan Detroit area, and is an alumna of Michigan State University.

In her free time, Cheri enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, watching sports, and reading.

Nikki Byrd

Manager, Marketing and Communications

As a Marketing and Communications Manager at WBENC, Nikki brings a dynamic approach to the development and management of comprehensive marketing and communications strategies. Her role encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, from conceptualizing innovative campaigns to overseeing their successful execution, ensuring the WBENC mission and values are communicated effectively across all platforms.

In response to the challenges posed by COVID-19, Nikki demonstrated her exceptional adaptability and commitment by creating her business ‘The Write Girl’. This initiative provided invaluable support to undergraduate and graduate students, offering expert assistance in writing, proofreading, editing, and refining research papers, theoretical frameworks, and dissertations. Nikki’s dedication to fostering academic excellence has made a significant impact on the lives of many students navigating the complexities of higher education during unprecedented times.

Spring of 2021 marked a unique chapter in Nikki’s journey as she ventured into farming in Maui, Hawaii. Still embracing the serenity and richness of island life, she continued to write papers for college students on her days off.

Nikki received a Bachelor of Business degree in Marketing and Communications from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Originally hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana, Nikki now calls Indianapolis, Indiana, her home. She is an ardent lover of the outdoors and finds joy in traveling, Hot Pilates, reading, taking on different interests from horticulture to physics and expresses her creativity through creative writing.

Andrea Castillo

Manager, Programs

Andrea Castillo Strickman is a Program Manager at WBENC, where she is a member of the Executive Education Programs team and leads the WeIGNITE Program. With over 6 years of experience in project management and client liaison, she leverages her chemistry background to provide valuable insights and support WBENC’s programs.

Before joining WBENC, Andrea spent 15 years in the environmental science field, excelling as a Project Manager and Analytical Chemist. Her roles involved managing client relations, resource allocation, and project oversight, showcasing her skills in data validation and quality assurance.

Andrea earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Towson University. Outside of work, she is passionate about cooking, bike riding on local trails, traveling, and gardening, especially while listening to audiobooks or podcasts. Andrea values spending quality time with family and friends.

Alpana Chhibber-Zuniga

Manager, Programs

Alpana Chhibber- Zuniga is a Manager of Programs at WBENC and is leading the launch of the Asian American Community Resource Group under the Women of Color Programs. She also supports the executive education program, WeIGNITE.

Prior to arriving at WBENC, Alpana spent her career in academia. She was a Global History and Public Health teacher; a Dean of Students, and then served as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant for a firm based in Baltimore, MD.  Alpana is deeply committed to issues of social justice and understands how important it is to advocate for women entrepreneurs.

Alpana received her Bachelors degree from the York College of Pennsylvania, and her Masters Degrees in Global Studies and Teaching from SUNY Albany and Union Graduate College, respectively. During her time off, she enjoys traveling with her husband, laughing with her brother and sister, listening to true crime podcasts (ask her for recommendations!) and watching reruns of Murder She Wrote, and experimenting with various cuisines in the kitchen (she makes a mean shrimp taco!).

Haley Creef

Manager, Strategic Financial Services Programs

As a Manager for WBENC’s Strategic Financial Services Programs, Haley works closely with the LIFT Team to provide comprehensive financial support and resources for women entrepreneurs, including education, coaching, networking, and funding opportunities. She is passionate about enhancing the global economy by fostering innovation and growth amongst women-led ventures. Haley is the proud daughter of two small business owners and understands the value that these programs can have to empower women entrepreneurs.

Originally from North Carolina, Haley graduated from East Carolina University with a degree in Quantitative Economics and Econometrics. Prior to joining the WBENC team in February 2023, Haley worked in a variety of industries: SBA loan services, investment banking, and healthcare technology.

Haley currently resides outside of Baltimore, MD. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, cooking, and gardening. She loves to stay active and is an avid runner, hiker, swimmer, and rock climber.

Mia Delano

Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives

With 24 years of experience as a leader in inclusive diversity, Mia currently serves as a member of the leadership team and is the Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives.

In her current role, Mia oversees the development channels and revenue streams for WBENC on the national level and leads the development team in strengthening and enhancing existing corporate partnerships through WBENC initiatives and programmatic offerings, and securing new partnerships, to further the WBENC mission.

Additionally, she works each day to implement, grow and strengthen supplier inclusive diversity programs of the Fortune 500 to ensure opportunities exist for diverse suppliers within these global supply chains.

Prior to her position with WBENC, Mia spent 15+ years with Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) in Chicago. In her final position for over a decade, she served as a member of the leadership team and as the director of development, overseeing funding and building strategic partnerships.

Mia also served as the director of the annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference, the oldest conference and business opportunities fair for women business owners in the country and the largest marketing, publicity-generating and fundraising tool for the WBDC.

A native of the Midwest, Mia attended both the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and Columbia College Chicago earning a B.A. in Marketing Communications & Public Relations. When not traveling across the country for WBENC, Mia resides in Minnesota with her two loving pets Teddy & Maggie, and loves to hike the north shore, eat good food, drink fabulous wine, and spend quality time with her family and friends.

Vaughn Farris

Vice President, Business Development & Engagement

For nearly a decade, Vaughn has worked in economic development with a focus on equalizing opportunities for diverse and underserved populations. Overseeing various facets of strategic initiatives, programs, and development, he has created partnerships with Fortune 500 Companies, worked across the aisle with government advocates, and built sustaining programs with leading institutions.

Vaughn rejoined WBENC in 2021 as Senior Director, Development & Engagement, and works with corporate members to advance supplier diversity programs and procurement opportunities for WBEs. From 2013 to 2019, Vaughn led strategic programs focused on WBE and corporate education.

In his previous experience, Vaughn was an executive director for CCS Fundraising where he oversaw client projects and led the firm’s DEI initiatives. He also served as manager of corporate relations and supplier diversity for the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce.

Vaughn earned his MBA from George Washington University School of Business in Washington, DC, and holds a BA in Communications from California State University, Bakersfield.

Tarrance Frierson

Senior Vice President

A dynamic leader with strong business insight, critical thinking, and people management. Tarrance has over 25 years of corporate experience guiding strategy and operational efficiency, leading high impact projects with cross-functional teams. He has a proven record of performance optimization, stakeholder engagement, problem-solving, and change management.

As a member of senior leadership, Tarrance helps advance WBENC’s strategic priorities, growth plan, and key partnerships. He directs the planning, development, and execution of the signature Women of Color program, which includes the WBENC On-campus and HBCU Incubator initiatives. Additionally, he oversees client relations with corporate partners in the pharmaceutical industry.

Prior to joining WBENC, Tarrance was the Director of Global Supplier Diversity at Bristol Myers Squibb, leading initiatives that enabled early achievement of the organization’s $1 billion-dollar diverse supplier spend goal and induction into the prestigious Billion Dollar Roundtable (BDR). In addition, he guided the flawless execution of a program compliance review by the Small Business Administration (SBA), achieving a top-tier audit rating.

Tarrance has held various leadership positions at Fortune 250 companies within the insurance, communications, retail, and utility industries. Among his many accolades and awards are the Global Business Operations CPO Award (Bristol Myers Squibb), Chairman’s Award (Southern California Edison), Disrupter Award (Southern California Minority Development Council), and Top Influential Person in Diversity (National Association of Minority Companies). Most notable is his recognition as a WBENC Hes4Shes honoree.

Tarrance holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Ball State University, and a Master of Science degree in Leadership & Management from the University of La Verne. He has certifications in Project Management and Six Sigma Green Belt. In his personal time, he enjoys traveling, working out, and gathering with family and close friends.

Andrew Gaeckle

Vice President, Strategic Financial Services

Andrew is an innovative executive and key contributor to WBENC’s leadership team. He oversees strategic initiatives and programming that advances the growth and development of women-owned businesses and the next generation women entrepreneurs. Andrew is based in Colorado where he serves as an entrepreneur mentor, liaison to WBENC’s two West Coast Regional Partner Organizations, and manager of National Corporate Member and WBE engagement in the region. Since joining WBENC in 2013, Andrew has designed and managed many of WBENC’s best-in-class programs to advance supplier diversity across WBENC’s Corporate Members and developed leading executive development programs that help Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) grow and scale.

After starting his career in management consulting, Andrew joined WBENC to follow his passion to work with entrepreneurs, and to be a champion for diversity and inclusion. Andrew graduated from the University of South Carolina. He is an avid cyclist, golfer, and snowboarder. He and wife Anna enjoy weekend trips, exploring new restaurants, and during the winter they’ll probably be on the slopes in Tahoe or Colorado.

Charles J. Hendrix

Vice President, Member Engagement

After a 32-year career in the automotive industry, Charles (Chuck) Hendrix joined the WBENC team in 2021 as the VP of Member Engagement where his primary responsibility is to establish strategic relationships with executives at corporate and government member organizations and assist in developing and leading programs that meet their organizational objectives to engage women business enterprises.

Prior to joining WBENC, Mr. Hendrix retired from Toyota Motor North America after a distinguished 25-year career where he served in various managerial capacities including leading Toyota’s award-winning Supplier Diversity program which included over $3B in direct annual spending with diverse and women-owned businesses and an additional $1B in Tier 2 spending. In addition to other various leadership roles within procurement, Mr. Hendrix also served as a Corporate Diversity Manager where he was responsible for advancing Toyota’s overall diversity initiatives as well as serving on Toyota’s African American Collaborative’s North American Advisory Council which seeks to develop strategies and guidance for the affinity group. Mr. Hendrix has also served on several WBENC and NMSDC boards that focus on the growth and development of women and minority-owned businesses. Prior to Toyota, Hendrix worked at Honda of America Manufacturing where he was the Purchasing Assistant Manager for plastics and interior component parts.

Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Hendrix is a graduate of Idaho State University where he earned his B.B.A degree in Management & Organization and was a captain on the ISU football team which has led him to his passion for coaching football which he has done for 23 years.

Dante Hendrix

Manager, Programs

Dante joined the WBENC team in June of 2023 and serves as a Program Manager in a multitude of areas.  Prior to joining WBENC, Dante graduated from Indiana State University in December of 2022 with a Master’s degree in Business Administration after earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management in 2021. During his time at Indiana State, Dante participated as a student-athlete in football where he was team captain for 3 years in addition to being named as an All-American and to the Missouri Valley All-Conference team in multiple seasons.

More than just an athlete, Dante held several leadership positions while in college such as being named to the NCAA Division 1 Football Oversight Committee Student-Athlete Connection Group, organizing a social justice and Black Lives Matter march throughout Terre Haute, IN as well as serving as mentor and counselor to several athletes and non-athletes during critical times of need.  Additionally, he has participated in multiple community service projects and programs with the Salvation Army, Boys and Girls Clubs and the Special Olympics of Indiana.

A resident of Florence, KY, Dante enjoys spending his free time athletic training, golfing, traveling and being outdoors with his friends.

Kelly Hinman

Senior Director, Certification

As the Senior Director of Certification, Kelly is responsible for processing National certification applications, preparing National Appeals, and overseeing Regional Partner Organization Certification teams. Additionally, Kelly supports the National Certification Committee and delivers WBENCLink2.0 training for Corporate Members and certified WBE/applicants.

Prior to joining the WBENC team in 2019, Kelly spent 11 years as an Associate Director of Certification at the Women’s Business Development Center – Midwest based in Chicago, IL. Before working in the non-profit world, Kelly spent 13 years working as an American Sign Language Interpreter. Kelly received her Bachelor of Arts degree in ASL-English Interpretation from Columbia College of Chicago. Kelly correlates the years she spent as a freelance and staff interpreter, adapting to new environments and people daily, with her ability to relate to business owners in all types of industries and settings.

Originally from California, Kelly has happily resided in Chicago for 19 years. Some of her favorite pastimes are camping, golfing, and hiking in and around the city. While she has a soft spot for the Midwest and the seasons, she is always open to a tropical getaway to go diving and warm her soul inside and out.

Jessica Horne

Manager, Events

As the Events Manager, Jessica is responsible for the planning, design and coordination of WBENC events. She works alongside the Senior Director of Events and fellow staff members to ensure seamless execution and outstanding deliverables. Jessica is passionate about empowering those around her while also creating meaningful work.

Prior to joining the WBENC team in June 2022, Jessica worked as an Event Planner for three years at one of the top five country clubs in Charlotte, NC. She graduated from East Carolina University in 2018 with a BS in Hospitality Management and minor in Business Administration. During her undergraduate career, Jessica worked alongside some of the best event planners in NC to increase her knowledge of the industry.

Jessica currently resides in Raleigh, NC, with her husband, beloved baby boy and sweet goldendoodle. In her free time, Jessica enjoys traveling with friends and family, exploring new coffee shops and restaurants, and going on long walks with her energetic pup.

Jenna Houskamp

Coordinator, Marketing

As Marketing Coordinator, Jenna supports marketing strategies and implementation for WBENC programs, initiatives, and events. In this role, she is dedicated to amplifying the voices of women in business through effective communication and engaging campaigns.

Jenna’s journey with WBENC began during her internship at a WBENC-Certified business, where she connected with inspiring business owners and attended pivotal WBENC events. This experience sparked her deep passion for the organization and its mission, which continues to drive her work today.

A graduate of Calvin University, Jenna earned her degree in Marketing with a concentration in Management and a minor in Psychology. This unique combination of disciplines enhances her strategic approach to marketing. While at Calvin, she actively participated in the Women’s Business Network and Marketing Club, further solidifying her commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs. She also completed various internships, which equipped her with valuable skills in digital marketing and brand storytelling.

Outside of work, Jenna enjoys traveling, hiking, exploring eccentric gift shops, and baking all things fall related. She resides in Holland, Michigan and loves living near the Great Lakes. You can often find Jenna with a book in her hand at the beach, or swimming in Lake Michigan.

Kate Kelly

Senior Manager, Strategic Programs

As Senior Manager, Strategic Programs, Kate is responsible for the MatchMaker programs, the Women’s Business Enterprise Stars recognition, the Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarship program, and she is the staff liaison to the Women’s Enterprise Forum.

Prior to joining WBENC, Kate worked at mHUB Chicago, a hardtech innovation ecosystem. There she helped launch their accelerator in 2021 where she recruited and supported entrepreneurs in the smart manufacturing, and climate and energy technology sectors. She was also the Associate Director of Guest Services at the Smart Museum of Art at the University of Chicago. Kate studied Art History and Mathematics at Colgate University, where she currently serves as a mentor through their entrepreneurship program, Thought Into Action. She got her MBA from the University of Chicago in 2019, concentrating on economics, strategic management and entrepreneurship.

Kate lives in Chicago, IL with her partner Brian, child Everly, and cat Kevin. She loves to go to art museums and explore restaurants in the city. She is an avid reader and book collector, and her library card is one of her most treasured possessions.

Theresa Kumazah

Assistant Program Manager

Theresa Kumazah is the Assistant Program Manager at WBENC. Her role consists of planning and evaluating all WBENC Women of Color Programs. She actively contributes to the development and execution of multi-year strategic plans, emphasizing the measurement of program effectiveness.

Theresa is an esteemed Alumna of North Carolina A&T State University, holding a B.S. in Sports Science and Fitness Management. Beyond her role at WBENC, she is the proud Founder and CEO of BeOneFitness, llc. This fitness platform adopts a holistic approach, guiding clients to grow mentally, physically, and spiritually simultaneously.

With a passion for Health and Wellness, Theresa’s aspirations extend to ongoing growth in her professional and entrepreneurial pursuits. Committed to giving back, she engages in mentorship, leadership, and community initiatives.

Jess Lacey

Manager, Development & Engagement

Jess joined the WBENC Business Development team in June 2024, with 5 years of documented success in sales, training and maintaining customer relations. She graduated with her BS in Criminal Justice from East Carolina University in 2015, where she also played rugby.

Jess grew up in a military family and moved frequently throughout her years, but she has placed her roots in Indian Trail, North Carolina, with her wife Julia and their two amazing pups, Konah Beans and Zoey!  When she is not cuddling with her pups, she enjoys working out, doing yardwork, and detailing cars.

Em Lozen

Manager, Events

As the Events Manager, Em is responsible for the planning, design and coordination of WBENC events. They work alongside the Senior Director of Events and fellow staff members to ensure seamless execution and outstanding deliverables.

Em joined the WBENC team in October 2022 as an experienced fundraising events manager in the non-profit sector. They graduated from East Carolina University with a BS in Communication and spent five very fulfilling years, working with the Museum of Life and Science as a member of the development and events team.

Em was a Diversity & Leadership Fellow with the Association of Science and Technology Centers in 2018 and 2019, joining a diverse group of emerging leaders from the Museum field. Here, they developed a great appreciation for peer learning, leadership training, and networking opportunities that National Conferences provide.

Em lives in Wake Forest, North Carolina, with their partner Ashley, her two amazing kiddos, and their pets. Em is a huge fan of the Carolina Hurricanes and can often be seen attempting to get onto Jumbo-Trons at most live sporting events.

Andrea Marshall

Senior Director, Business Development & Engagement

Andrea Marshall is an innovative sales executive and key contributor to the WBENC Business Development Team. Her focus is on implementing and managing a comprehensive marketing plan to increase revenues and attract and retain WBENC Corporate and Government members.

Prior to joining WBENC, Andrea had a leadership career that spans over 15 years in Sales & Account Management working for major corporations such as Marriott International & Hyatt Hotels. She is also an entrepreneur. All of her experience has helped shaped her ability to develop strategic and impactful partnerships while re-defining ways to identify emerging business opportunities that align with an organizations mission and values.

Originally from California, Andrea has resided in the DC/MD area for 13+ years. Her favorite pastimes are cooking and developing new recipes and she is a visual artist specializing in acrylic/canvas painting.

Ryan Martin

Senior Accountant & Accounting Team Lead

Ryan joined the WBENC team in 2023. He has a BS in Accounting from Salisbury University. He is a CPA licensed in the State of Maryland and has prior experience in Public Accounting with a specialty in working with Nonprofit clients.

Ryan lives in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania with his wife and their two dogs. Ryan spends most of his free time hanging out with his wife and dogs, running 5Ks, or watching movie marathons (mainly Marvel or Harry Potter).

Monica McInerney

Senior Director, Financial Services Programs

As the Senior Director of Financial Services Programs, Monica is responsible for expanding the reach of and further formalize programs and processes with the WBENC LIFT Financial Center of Excellence.

Monica joined WBENC in May 2022 with 30+ years in procurement and supply chain roles. Her experiences span technical packaging development, direct and indirect procurement (including management of diverse suppliers), and third-party risk. She has worked in multiple, global industries with Procter & Gamble, PepsiCo, and Pitney Bowes. Most recently she was the CPO for Webster Bank, leading Sourcing, Procurement Operations and Third-Party Risk Management teams.

Monica is honored to be a part of WBENC advocacy for women-owned businesses, a nod to her mother’s legacy who had a career advocating for the protection of women against violence within and for the state of CT.

Jill Sasso

Chief Operating Officer

As Chief Operating Officer, Jill is responsible for strategic human resource planning and alignment of human resource strategies with organizational vision and mission at WBENC. In addition, she leads the strategic planning and execution of WBENC programs, driving continuous engagement and value for WBENC constituents and stakeholders. Jill also oversees the WBENC Board of Directors governance functions, ensuring a highly effective board with diverse representation and talent.

Jill joined the WBENC team in 2016 after serving on the leadership team of WBE firm, Point 2 Point Global Security, Inc. as Senior Vice President, Human Resources. Jill holds a BS from the University of North Texas, as well as a Senior Certified Human Resources Professional Certification (SHRM-SCP) from the Society for Human Resources Management and a Professional in Human Resources Certification (PHR) from the Human Resources Certification Institute.

Jill lives in McKinney, Texas with her husband Kevin and two fur babies, Cadie and Tito. She is a Jazzercise instructor and enjoys spending time with family, traveling and exploring new places, and dabbling in interior design.

Laura Swenson

Vice President, Events

As the Vice President, Events, Laura manages WBENC’s event design, project management, and overall coordination of WBENC’s national events. She works closely with both the WBENC staff and a robust team of vendors to execute exciting and engaging events.

Laura joined the WBENC team in 2014 after working six years in television and film production, including three years working for a WBENC-Certified WBE. Growing up outside of DC, in Maryland, Laura graduated with a BS in Business Administration from the University of Mary Washington in 2008 where she also played four years of rugby.

Laura lives in Rockville, Maryland with her husband, kids, and pup, where she enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and creating (whether it is trying a new recipe, quilting or pottery).

Sarah Leach Smith

Manager, Programs

Sarah joined WBENC in January 2023 after a decade at museums and botanical gardens. Having served in many roles, ranging from frontline customer service and event management to courting major donors for capital projects and leading teams, Sarah has had the privilege of seeing these organizations at every level and has become passionate about setting up women for success on every step of their career journey.

Sarah was born and raised in Durham, North Carolina, and lives there with her husband, Andrew, and their elderly pitbull mix, Jane. She earned her MS in Public Horticulture Administration as a Longwood Gardens Fellow at the University of Delaware, a BS in Horticulture from NC State University, and a BA in Journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill. She has also completed Duke University’s Nonprofit Management Certificate program. Sarah is an avid gardener (they do not own a lawnmower!), a yoga teacher-in-training, and a connoisseur of apple fritters (eating, not making).

Lindsey Smith

Accounting Clerk

Lindsey joined the WBENC team in 2023. With previous experience working for a woman owned CPA firm. Lindsey’s hometown is Fort Collins, Colorado. In high school Lindsey was the president of Alpine Ski Club.

Lindsey loves to spend her free time outdoors, her ideal vacation involves skiing, surfing, or scuba diving. She loves to travel outside of the country, especially to Latin America and Europe. Lindsey also finds passion in creating oil pastel art, and baking desserts.

Lina Suber

Assistant Program Manager

Lina Suber is an Assistant Program Manager at WBENC with a primary focus on WBENC’s Women of Color Incubator Program. She helps develop, strategize, and implement the program content to support developing women entrepreneurs. She is also involved in the Women of Color Program where she supports and contributes to program facilitation.

As a recent alumna of North Carolina A&T State University, Lina has her B.S. in Management concentrating in Entrepreneurship & Innovation from the Willie A. Deese College of Business & Economics. While an undergrad, she utilized her education to develop her business start-up INVSTD LLC, which is a mobile food grocer delivery service providing nutritious food accessibility in food deserts nationwide.

Her passion for Business Development synergizes with her passion for Community outreach to which she represents herself as not only a Founder, but an Advocate for all Women Owned Businesses. Apart from business, Lina spends her time running, visiting nature parks, and fashion styling.

Laura Taylor

Senior Vice President, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement

As Senior Vice President of Strategic Financial Services and WBE Engagement, Laura leads the WBENC Financial Center of Excellence. The Financial Center of Excellence, known as LIFT, seeks to break down access to capital barriers for women entrepreneurs by providing comprehensive financial support and resources, including instructor-led education, eLearning, coaching, networking, and funding opportunities.

Laura also leads the WBE engagement and recognition efforts including WBE Stars, the Women’s Enterprise Forum, and Procurement Opportunities programs. In addition, she is accountable for the WBENC Capstone program, the pinnacle executive education offering, as well as the corporate member recognition program, America’s Top Corporations for Women Business Enterprises. Prior to her current role, Laura was accountable for WBENC Certification and the organization’s strategic partnerships with its Regional Partner Organization Network.

Before coming to WBENC in 2018, Laura was a senior leader in the Global Supply Chain organization at Pitney Bowes with additional leadership roles in Procurement, Finance, and Customer Service.

Laura is a former Chair of the Board of Directors for the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. Laura is a William J. Alcorn Leadership Award recipient and is in the AIDC Women’s Business Enterprise Hall of Fame.

Avery Trump

Senior Manager, Programs & Events

As a Senior Manager of Programs at WBENC, Avery leads several outreach programs designed to develop and support women-owned businesses through education, community building, and access to resources. Avery currently leads WBENC FutureGEN and the WBENC Collegiate Accelerator program, championing emerging women business owners and strengthening future generations of entrepreneurs. Joining WBENC in 2018, Avery has navigated many roles including event planning and logistics for the WBENC National Conference, as well as supporting executive education, networking, and engagement programming. Avery is originally from North Carolina and holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management, concentrating in Special Events & Conventions from East Carolina University. Avery leads the WBENC Women & Pride program and is passionate about inclusion and equity for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and workplace professionals.

Andrea Villazon

Manager, Programs

Andrea Villazon has been working in the non-profit and accounting fields since 2017. She earned her bachelor’s degree in finance from George Mason University and has been dedicated to helping companies manage their books with accuracy and efficiency ever since. Beyond her professional pursuits, Andrea prioritizes her family above all else. She also enjoys traveling, spending time at the beach, and listening to music.

Erin S. Watson, APR

Vice President, Marketing & Communications

Erin leads marketing and communications strategy and execution for all WBENC programs, events and initiatives. She brings significant experience in strategic planning, digital marketing and communications, public and media relations, social media and business development.

Throughout her career, Erin has overseen in-house agency teams responsible for all aspects of communications and marketing strategy, planning, oversight and implementation for digital and traditional marketing and public relations. She has also held leadership roles in integrated marketing agencies, working with national brands including Nickelodeon, Carnival Cruise Lines, The Georgia Aquarium and Stanley Black & Decker Security. She has spoken at national and regional conferences, including the Partnership for a Healthier America Summit and the national Legal Marketing Association conference. Erin has achieved her national Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) from the Public Relations Society of America and previously served as the PRSA South Carolina Chapter President.

Erin was recently honored with a 2023 Jefferson Award for service to community through the Multiplying Good ChangeMakers program and was elected to the South Carolina Board for Multiplying Good. She was also a founding committee member of the American Lung Association South Carolina Lip Sync for Lungs Battle and served as chair in 2019. A native of Charleston, Erin enjoys spending time with her husband Matt, child Smith, their dog, Frank. Water, sunshine, exercise, reading, friends and family, and the Clemson Tigers round out her days.

LaKesha White

Senior Vice President, Certification

As the Senior Vice President of Certification, LaKesha leads the WBENC WBE and WOSB certification standardization and compliance efforts by overseeing the Regional Partner Organizations’ processes. LaKesha is responsible for all certification-related training for RPO Staff and Certification Committee members and managing WBENC’s proprietary database, WBENCLink2.0.

Prior to joining WBENC in 2011, LaKesha served as Director of Certification for the Women’s Business Enterprise Council – South from 2003-2007, then transferred her services from Louisiana to be the Carolinas Certification Program Manager for the Greater Women’s Business Council until 2010. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration as a Magna Cum Laude graduate from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in 2001.

LaKesha is a 20+ year military spouse and mother of an LSU student (Geaux Tigers!). A native of Texas, her family is now stationed in San Antonio and enjoying being closer to family. When not moving all over the U.S., she enjoys relaxing on the back porch, watching sports (preferably football or basketball), and playing Ruzzle.

Hunter Whittington

Manager, Financial Programs

As Manager of Financial Programs, Hunter is responsible for delivering finance focused resources and events to WBENC’s network of members. He works with the LIFT Financial Center of Excellence to achieve this goal, collaborating to develop content and programs that enhance the financial knowledge of our WBE’s.

Hunter joined the WBENC team in April 2023 with a background in grant writing and business development. He graduated from East Carolina University with a bachelor’s in political science and economics and spent time working in local government as an economic developer and later as a funding specialist for an engineering firm.

In his free time, Hunter enjoys traveling to new places, trying out recipes in the kitchen, bouldering at his local climbing gym, and spending time with his friends and family. He is currently based out of North Carolina.

Jessica Yamas

Director, Partnership Compliance

Jessica entered the WBENC network in 2013, starting as Certification Assistant for the Center for Women & Enterprise (CWE). With a passion for entrepreneurship and a keen interest in the challenges that women in business face, this job quickly blossomed into a career path in supplier diversity. She spent over five years at CWE, ending her time as Director of Certification and Corporate Relations.

From there, Jessica had the privilege of joining the national WBENC team as Director of Strategic Programs, where she managed educational and awards programs such as Tuck-WBENC, MatchMakers, WBE Stars awards, and the Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarship. She also served as the staff liaison to the Women’s Enterprise Forum.

In 2022, Jessica moved over to the national certification team at WBENC, and now uses her knowledge of certification and the network and her skills with data and Excel to oversee compliance.

After earning a B.A. in mathematics from Bucknell University, she opened a café/restaurant, which she ran for four years. Her other work experience includes high-net-worth tax accounting, bookkeeping, and auditing. Jessica holds a dual master’s in business administration and accounting (MBA/MSA) from Northeastern University. She is an avid card player and runs an all-female poker group, she is a harmony vocalist and has played gigs up and down the Eastern seaboard, and she is a proud breast cancer survivor.

Cassandra Frake Yzaguirre

Manager, Marketing & Communications

As Manager of Marketing and Communications, Cassandra oversees and implements strategies for WBENC programs, events, and brand awareness. From ideas to implementation, she helps to communicate through design and multimedia marketing strategies.

With a BS in Economics from SUNY Purchase, paired with a liberal arts foundation in Marketing, Music, and the Arts, Cassandra is both analytical yet creative in her approach. After graduating in 2011, she worked directly for small business owners, Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), and non-profits in a variety of industries including the Performing Arts, Wine & Spirits, Antique Auctions, Architecture, Engineering, & Construction (AEC), and Higher Education. Utilizing her interdisciplinary skillset and industry experience, Cassandra fosters meaningful connection among team members, initiatives, and business opportunities.

Prior to joining the WBENC team, Cassandra worked at Vassar College, which was originally founded in 1861 to provide women access to high quality educational opportunities. While at Vassar, Cassandra helped the Donor Relations team advance inclusive educational opportunities and intellectual openness for students and alums.

Cassandra is the recipient of the 2020 Rising Star Award from the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) for her contributions as a committee member of the SMPS New York Chapter.

Cassandra lives in Poughkeepsie, New York, within the beautiful Hudson Valley. She is an avid walker and enjoys getting outdoors. She nurtures her creativity by reading, playing music, painting with watercolors, gardening, or making jewelry.

Amanda Zack

Vice President, Programs

As Vice President, Programs, Amanda works closely with the CEO and leadership team and is responsible for a variety of WBENC programs and initiatives. Amanda oversees the WBENCPitch program, serves as the lead liaison for one of the organization’s advisory groups known as the Women of Distinction, and manages the annual November Board of Directors & Committee Meeting, and special VIP and affiliate events.

Amanda joined the team in 2014 after working in event management planning and executing charity events on the West Coast. During her time at WBENC, she has supported the Accounting and Certification departments, and worked primarily as an Event Manager on the Marketing team overseeing our signature annual conferences and events before transitioning to the operations team.

A local from the DC metropolitan area, Amanda is from Silver Spring, MD. She graduated with a BA in American Studies from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2009. Amanda enjoys watching sports, baking, spending time with her pup, traveling, and working out (especially boxing).