It's Never Too Late

Originally from upstate New York, Lisa Barrett attended American University in Washington, D.C., where she received her B.A. in political science and M.A. in applied politics. After working in the political world for more than a decade, Lisa left professional politics behind and moved to Wilmington, North Carolina, in 2017.

Vicky Janowski is editor of the Greater Wilmington Business Journal and WILMA magazine, and co-director of WILMA’s Women to Watch Leadership Initiative. She has a background in journalism, covering health care, politics, and business. Janowski serves on local and national boards, including the Girl Scouts and Alliance of Area Business Publishers.

Amanda Miars is a Wealth and Estate Advisor with Live Oak Private Wealth, specializing in wealth management, tax minimization, and estate planning. With 12 years of experience, she partners with clients to achieve financial goals. Amanda holds a law degree from Campbell University and serves on several community boards.

Haley Rae, founder of Studio Wilde, helps entrepreneurs create digital presences that fuel business growth while honoring their energy. Specializing in brand and website design, she empowers business owners to build visually stunning, sustainable brands dripping with personality— while focusing on long-term success without burnout.

Sabrina Davis is the president and owner of Port City Signs & Graphics. After a career in broadcast journalism and a role as Assistant Dean at UNC-Chapel Hill, she transitioned to graphic design. In 2008, she purchased Port City Signs, bringing digital printing to the business and expanding its offerings.

Sheri Leavens is Assistant Dean for Student Success at UNCW’s College of Health and Human Services, overseeing programs for nearly 5,000 students. She holds degrees from the University of Illinois and FIDM, and is pursuing a Doctor of Education. Sheri also runs a coaching business and hosts the podcast Black Woman Working.

As Chief Executive Officer at James E. Moore Insurance Agency, Adrienne is passionate about making a difference in people’s lives. This mission has driven her family’s independent insurance agency for three generations. A UNCW graduate and former Division I volleyball co-captain, she also leads through community involvement and philanthropy.

Jennifer Marshall Roden is a partner at Craige & Fox, PLLC, specializing in elder law and estate planning. She is a certified Elder Law Attorney and serves as the New Hanover County Public Guardian. Jennifer also chairs the Elder & Special Needs Law Section of the NC Bar Association and holds leadership roles in NAELA.

Originally from upstate New York, Lisa Barrett attended American University in Washington, D.C., where she received her B.A. in political science and M.A. in applied politics. After working in the political world for more than a decade, Lisa left professional politics behind and moved to Wilmington, North Carolina, in 2017.

Lisa Leath is Chief People Officer at Vantaca and founder of Leath HR Group. She drives HR strategy, focusing on talent management and organizational design. Under her leadership, Vantaca has been recognized on the Inc 5000 list. Lisa also chairs the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce and co-chairs the Cape Fear Tech Talent Collaborative.

Rachel Olsen is a public speaker and communication coach who empowers anxious speakers to communicate with confidence. She has keynoted conferences, led workshops in over 25 states, and coached more than 1,000 people. Rachel also teaches public speaking at UNCW and serves as an official TEDx coach.

Brooke Skipper owns Bee and Co Services, a boutique marketing company, and Salt Air Heating, Cooling & Electrical with her husband. A UNCW alumna, she is involved in various community organizations, including the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. Brooke won the 2024 WILMA Women to Watch Award in the Business category.

AnnMarie, originally from the North, moved to the Triangle for better home prices, low taxes, and a thriving job market. Since 2001, she’s helped clients buy and sell homes, using her Northern spunk and Southern charm. She also manages a skilled team of Realtors while raising her two children.

Stephanie Lanier is the founder of Lanier Property Group, an award-winning real estate team in Wilmington, NC. With over 12 years of experience, she has closed hundreds of transactions and earned numerous accolades, including Realtor of the Year. She also founded The Inspiration Lab, supporting working women through resources and connections.

Bevin, originally from North Carolina and a UNCW graduate, starred on One Tree Hill for six seasons. After earning an MFA, she worked as a cycling instructor and motivational speaker. In 2020, she returned to Wrightsville Beach to launch Recess, combining her passion for community, fitness, and wellness.

Alisha Thomas is the owner of Wait. What. Consulting and Bookkeeping for creatives. Based in Wilmington, NC, she combines her background in art and design with expertise in finance and operations. Alisha helps creatives manage their businesses, drawing from her experience with a successful gift company sold in major retailers.