Xtalks, powered by Honeycomb Worldwide Inc., is a leading provider of educational webinars to the global life science, food and medical device community. Every year, thousands of industry practitioners (from life science, food and medical device companies, private & academic research institutions, healthcare centers, etc.) turn to Xtalks for access to quality content. Xtalks helps Life Science professionals stay current with industry developments, trends and regulations. Xtalks webinars also provide perspectives on key issues from top industry thought leaders and service providers.
Nandwana emphasizes the importance of making a difference and moving the world forward through technology. “There are a lot of people in the world who need help, so whatever we can do to move the ball forward, we do our little part,” he notes.
Key takeaways:
The importance of AI and IoT to improve clinical outcomes
How AI is bridging communication gaps between doctors, scientists, and patients
Why remote engagement is a game-changer for today’s pharma representatives
How hybrid engagement options improve the quality of care for patients today
Disruption Interruption is the podcast where you’ll hear from today’s biggest Industry Disruptors. Learn what motivated them to bring about innovation and how they overcame opposition to adoption.
Disruption Interruption can be listened to via the Podbean app and is available on Apple’s App Store and Google Play.
About Disruption Interruption: Disruption is happening on an unprecedented scale, impacting all manner of industries — MedTech, Finance, IT, eCommerce, shipping and logistics, and more — and COVID has moved their timelines up a full decade or more. But WHO are these disruptors, and when did they say, “THAT’S IT! I’VE HAD IT!”? Time to Disrupt and Interrupt with host Karla Jo “KJ” Helms, veteran communications disruptor. KJ interviews bad a**es who are disrupting their industries and altering economic networks that have become antiquated with an establishment resistant to progress. She delves into uncovering secrets from industry rebels and quiet revolutionaries that uncover common traits — and not-so-common — that are changing our economic markets … and lives. Visit the world’s key pioneers that persist to success, despite arrows in their backs at http://www.disruptioninterruption.com
About Karla Jo Helms: Karla Jo Helms is the Chief Evangelist and Anti-PR® Strategist for JOTO PR Disruptors™.
Karla Jo learned firsthand how unforgiving business can be when millions of dollars are on the line — and how the control of public opinion often determines whether one company is happily chosen, or another is brutally rejected. Being an alumnus of crisis management, Karla Jo has worked with litigation attorneys, private investigators, and the media to help restore companies of goodwill into the good graces of public opinion — Karla Jo operates on the ethic of getting it right the first time, not relying on second chances and doing what it takes to excel. Helms speaks globally on public relations, how the PR industry itself has lost its way and how, in the right hands, corporations can harness the power of Anti-PR to drive markets and impact market perception.
About Anupam Nandwana: With over 20 years of experience in the Pharmaceutical Industry, it has been my passion to develop solutions with the goal of delivering treatments to patients across many therapeutic classes. Technology has been the catalyst for change, and it is my lifelong mission to bring new and innovative solutions to the marketplace. Challenge the status quo with Powered Possibilities.
References: 1) Staff Writer. “Five Ways the Contact Center Will Evolve by 2025″, Vonage.com, 27 March 2022, vonage.com/resources/articles/5-ways-the-contact-center-will-evolve-by-2025/#:~:text=Gartner%20predicted%20that%2080%25%20of,with%20communication%20application%20programming%20interfaces.
Media Contact
Karla Jo Helms, JOTO PR™, 727-777-4629, [email protected], jotopr.com
Buzze is a local Arizona start up with national ambitions to encourage individuals to switch to electric vehicles and promote sustainable transportation options. Aaron Lieberman, a former Arizona State Representative, is the founder and CEO of Buzze. The company’s initial geographic focus is the Greater Phoenix Area, and Buzze already has more than 60 hosts across the Valley, from New River to Casa Grande and everywhere in between. In celebration of the launch, Buzze will be offering free EV charging at all hosts across the valley for the week, ending on November 15th.
“Just this week, the City of Phoenix was awarded the EV City Award by Plug In America,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “So we are thrilled that a hometown company like Buzze is launching their innovative model in Phoenix first. I am excited about Buzze’s focus on providing more charging options to renters and apartment dwellers, helping to meet the need while we work to expand the network of public chargers.”
“Anyone who has driven an EV knows these are awesome cars, and much cheaper to operate than their gas counterparts,” said Aaron Lieberman, Chairman and CEO of Buzze. “But if we don’t address the needs of the charging challenged, 40% of the potential buyers will be cut out of the EV revolution. Buzze solves this issue, and our mission is to create a neighborhood network of EV chargers to help get one million EVs to the road. When we do so, we will have helped remove 4.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide from the air per year.”
The easy-to-use Buzze app shows EV drivers a map of nearby level 2 charging hosts for EV drivers to select from and schedule their next charging appointment. At the time of the appointment, the driver will arrive at the host’s home to charge their vehicle. The Buzze app is then able to meter the charge through the car’s telematics, and then settle the payment. Buzze then charges at the driver, and compensates the host for the energy used, allowing them to earn additional income – even if they’re not at home.
Across the country, EV adoption is growing rapidly, with an expected growth from 3 million in EV in the US in 2022 to over 30 million in just the next decade. Arizona is among the top 10 states for EV adoption. Maricopa County, a region known for its growing population and technological advancements, is the perfect location for Buzze’s launch–accelerating the transition towards sustainable transportation in the county, and the country. Maricopa County residents can join the EV revolution now by downloading the mobile app, available for download in the Apple Store and Google Play. To learn more about Buzze and its innovative service, visit: https://www.buzze.biz/.
Buzze Buzze leverages the power of the sharing economy and the existing home charging infrastructure to provide fast, affordable and reliable charging solutions for EV drivers, while creating new income streams for homeowners and reducing carbon emissions. Buzze’s mission is to help get one million new EVs on the road by connecting EV drivers with a convenient network of shared charging hosts. Buzze was founded by former Arizona State Representative, Aaron Lieberman. For more information, visit: https://www.buzze.biz/.
The pioneering wellness brand to launch its first outpost on the Mexican Caribbean which will mark the start of their ambitious global expansion plans
MADRID, Nov. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Pioneering wellness brand, SHA has announced the opening of their Mexico outpost in January 2024. This will be the first phase of its global expansion plans with a further opening set for the Emirates in 2025. Building on the success of its flagship clinic in Spain, the expansion has been developed to reflect the consumer demand to place health and well-being at the forefront of all areas of life – business and personal. SHA Mexico will be located in the state of Quintana Roo, in the eastern portion of the Yucatán Peninsula.
The Brand
This carefully planned expansion programme has been developed by the AB Living Group with the decision to move by an in-depth analysis of various locations, climate and surrounding environment, alongside connectivity and access to clinic resources. Through this new venture, SHA will continue to drive its award-winning concept forward, redefining integrated and transformative wellness across the globe. Alejandro Bataller, Vice President of AB Living, the operator and owner company of the SHA brand shares, “Our commitment has been the same since the beginning: to share our method. As we celebrate 15 years, it is a very exciting time for AB Living to bring SHA to the North American continent, making it possible for more people to benefit from a state of complete physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Between the relics of ancient wisdom and the advancements of modern medicine, Mexico is a natural paradise that is ideal for our offering. We look forward to January 2024 when we can finally welcome guests, helping them to achieve the best version of themselves.”
The Concept
Over the last fifteen years, SHA has transformed the lives of over 70,000 people around the world, including business leaders, heads of state, celebrities, professional athletes and beyond. The exclusive method, now more easily accessible to North Americans with the opening of SHA Mexico, is distinguished by the continuous innovation of SHA’s enviable expert team and their long-standing partnerships with universities and prestigious institutions in the field, which has awarded SHA Wellness Clinic over 100 of international awards and most recently the “World’s Best Wellness Clinic 2023”.
Guests will choose between four personalised health programmes (which will mimic that of those in SHA’s Spanish outpost and range from four to 21 days). Naturally, they will be led by renowned professionals and experts in four distinctive areas of health and well-being impact: Rebalance & Reenergize, Detox & Optimal Weight, Well-Ageing & Prevention and Leader’s Performance. Each programme will be curated to meet the guests’ needs and goals through nine key disciplines: healthy nutrition, preventive & well-ageing, holistic medicine, cognitive stimulation, advanced preventive diagnostics, well-being & inner balance, physical performance and healthy living academy which all come together to form what has become known as the SHA Method.
Unique to SHA Mexico, the wellness clinic is set off the coast of the largest coral reef in the Americas offering guests a unique location to immerse with nature, which has its own healing benefits, along with therapies inspired in the prehepatic cultures, such as Temazcal, aimed to heal the body and the mind.
Design + Activities
Situated in the Mexican Caribbean, SHA Mexico places Costa Mujeres on the international radar. It’s unique and exquisitely aesthetic architecture elegantly pays homage to the human genome majestically rising between the emerald green of the mangroves and the infinite shades of blue of the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea. Its striking ultra-modern design taps into the beautiful transformational journey offered to its guests at the land of the ancient Mayans.
Designed by renowned Mexican architectural firm, Sordo Madaleno and the prestigious interior designer, Alejandro Escudero, the building seamlessly blends the indoors with the outdoors with an organic, sustainable and contemporary feel. Thoughtfully selected natural materials such as Mexican ceramics, wicker, autochthonous textiles, and marble, in combination with the use of renewable energies, will minimise environmental impact. Lush tropical gardens have been curated by Maat Handasa, who designed the landscape to respect the local species. With its own stretch of white sand beach and a natural cenote, SHA Mexico sits across from the largest coral reef in the northern hemisphere, a marine ecosystem of protected species.
The complex itself will be made up of 35 residences and 100 ocean front rooms & suites, each with private balconies that feature panoramic vistas of the turquoise Caribbean Sea and luxurious bathrooms, all fitted with rain showers. The wellness clinic has been meticulously planned to create a comfortable and flawless journey for each guest – from the relaxing medical consultation rooms that all offer captivating ocean or mangrove vistas, to the mind & body rooms, fitness studio, yoga & meditation sanctuaries, spa, and a hydrotherapy circuit. The Athletics Club, looking out to the Caribbean horizon, will offer more robust fitness programmes guided by an expert team of professionals providing a personal approach to fitness and movement to impact energy levels, strength and longevity. The fitness facilities will offer outdoor and indoor training areas including four distinctive movement studios, high-tech fitness equipment with virtual reality jogging track, guided walking meditation routes and tennis & paddle courts, to name a few. Other amenities include a games room, movie theatre, art exhibitions, library, meeting rooms, and a chef’s studio that will play host to Healthy Living workshops. Guests will also have the option to travel privately to the property, by air or sea, offering a discreet heliport and dock that will deliver you direct to your ocean front room or suite. Finally, an infinity pool and a beach club will allow guests to enjoy the simple pleasures of Mexico in between consultations, treatments, and experiences.
The property will stay true to the brand’s principles of sustainability, employing natural construction materials and renewable energy sources to minimise environmental impact.
Culinary
The Culinary offering follows the SHA Nutrition, which is based on a healthy, energetic, mainly alkaline, and very balanced diet, inspired by ancient principles and adapted to modern life. With a practical and attractive approach, it places special emphasis on local, organic, and seasonal foods, respecting nature’s offerings at each time of the year and in each place. The property will open with a signature restaurant, SHAmadi, with menus curated to the needs of each individual guest and their programme goals. New in Mexico, there will also be a second dining option, Earthy, which will offer the SHA’ innovative live-fire cooking and sea to table concept to non-guests for the first time in the brand’s history, Earthy will open in March 2024
The starting stay at SHA Wellness Clinic Mexico is $5,770 USD, inclusive of the 4-day Recover and Energise programme, SHA Nutrition plan and in-room accommodations in an ocean front deluxe room.
The property will be accepting reservations from the 7th of November 2023.
For more information, please contact Murphy O’Brien Public Relations at [email protected].
SHA Wellness Clinic
SHA Wellness Clinic is a pioneering wellness clinic in Spain, Mexico (opening 2023) and the Emirates (opening 2025) whose mission is to help people live longer and better lives through a holistic and comprehensive approach to health. The SHA Method, which has been developed and overseen by world-renowned experts, integrates the most cutting-edge treatments of scientific medicine—especially in the fields of preventive, genetic and anti-aging—with the most effective natural therapies, particularly focusing on highly therapeutic nutrition. To meet each individual’s needs and wellness goals, SHA provides different personalised health programs carefully tailored to each guest upon their arrival, always after medical and therapeutic assessments carried out by experts. SHA is a life-changing experience, where health is understood not only as the absence of disease but as an optimal state of complete physical, mental and spiritual wellness in harmony with the environment, their ideal weight and great vitality. SHA Wellness has received dozens of international awards and has earned a well-earned reputation as a global leader in health and well-being.
About AB Living
AB Living is a business group that specialises in health and wellbeing, luxury hospitality and premium properties, prioritising excellence, design, and sustainability in every single one of its projects. Its three pillars include: AB Wellbeing with innovative wellness centres that make a positive difference in people’s health; AB Hospitality, developing iconic properties in the heart of nature, created in partnership with prestigious hotel brands to make your leisure time matter and AB Properties, focused on residential developments set in exceptional surroundings with exquisite care for every detail.
Individuals and couples are encouraged to visit www.bivffoundation.org to learn more about the organization’s mission and the criteria for grant eligibility.
Applications for the initial round of grants are due by December 31, 2023
Driven by a highly qualified board of medical directors and fueled by generous contributions from individuals who share their vision, the BIVF Foundation has established three distinct grant programs to provide essential support to a wide spectrum of individuals and couples:
IVF Cycle Grants: These grants offer a lifeline to individuals without fertility insurance coverage, covering the entire cost of an IVF cycle at any SART-accredited center in MA, ME, NH, and RI.
Oncofertility Grants: Designed for individuals recently diagnosed with cancer, these grants cover the expenses related to an egg freezing cycle, enabling them to preserve their fertility before beginning cancer treatment.
Financial Assistance Grants: Providing cash support of up to $10,000, these grants can be used to cover out-of-pocket expenses associated with donor eggs or sperm, adoption, medications, and more, making family building more attainable for those in need.
David Stern, Chairman of the BIVF Foundation, stated, “For many individuals in New England, building a family through assisted reproductive technology, such as IVF, egg donation, and adoption, presents a significant financial challenge. The BIVF Foundation’s mission is to alleviate the financial burden associated with reproductive care for those who require it.”
Beyond its grants, the BIVF Foundation is unwavering in its commitment to fostering a compassionate community, supporting those facing challenges, and raising awareness about fertility issues. Rooted in New England, the BIVF Foundation is deeply dedicated to extending a helping hand to those confronting the emotional and financial obstacles of fertility treatment and family-building. It firmly believes that every individual and couple should have the opportunity to experience the joys of parenthood, irrespective of their financial circumstances.
The BIVF Foundation understands the myriad of situations in which individuals and couples may require assisted reproductive technology to fulfill their family-building dreams. Unfortunately, this crucial need often goes unmet due to insufficient insurance coverage, leaving families saddled with overwhelming financial burdens. The BIVF Foundation was established to bridge this gap, providing support to those traditionally excluded from family-building discussions due to a lack of insurance resources.
The foundation’s commitment is unwavering, recognizing the importance of assisting individuals and couples, including same-sex couples, single parents by choice, those diagnosed with infertility without fertility insurance benefits, and people with cancer who urgently need to preserve their future fertility.
In 2023 and beyond, the BIVF Foundation is poised to make an enduring impact on the lives of many, offering a message of hope and unity to those who have faced the heart-wrenching challenges of infertility. Through their Family Building Grants, they reaffirm the belief that parenthood is an achievable dream.
For more information about the BIVF Foundation and its programs, please visit www.bivffoundation.org.
The company leveraged and implemented enabling technologies so VA applications deploy quicker, better, and easier.
FALLS CHURCH, Va., Nov. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Cognosante, LLC announced today that in a cross-functional, collaborative effort with multiple VA and contracting teams, its Cloud Operations and Migrations Services (COMS) project team has successfully met and surpassed VA’s first objective of migrating 350 production applications into the Veterans Affairs Enterprise Cloud (VAEC) by 2024, five months in advance of its deadline.
Since 2018, Cognosante has worked with the VA Enterprise Cloud Solutions Office (ECSO) on the implementation and maintenance of the multi-vendor VAEC, a critical component of VA’s digital modernization initiative.
Cognosante was initially tasked with developing and executing a strategy to move 350 VA systems to the VA Enterprise Cloud by FY 2024. To achieve this goal, the company’s cloud experts partnered with VA application teams to familiarize stakeholders with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure cloud service provider capabilities, application migration specifics, and additional capabilities provided through VAEC services.
“Delivering cloud strategy and efficient execution, we migrate mission critical applications with agility, leveraging Cognosante Cloud Foundations™ principles. We developed this framework to aid agencies’ Cloud Smart journeys, focusing on cloud velocity, nimble governance, enhanced maturity, cloud security, and compliance, all while exceeding service level agreement commitments and providing cost transparency and optimization,” says Erick Peters, Cognosante’s Chief Technology Officer.
“This milestone is a significant achievement for the entire project team, reflecting our robust cloud approach and our strong partnership with VA,” says Philip Dietz, General Manager of Cognosante’s Military and Veterans Health Business Unit. “We are leveraging and implementing enabling technologies so VA applications deploy quicker, better, and easier. VA has seen performance gains and efficiencies because of this work, ultimately resulting in service improvements for the Nation’s Veterans.”
The COMS project has received numerous industry recognitions for innovation and performance, including the 2022 Pinnacle Award for Government TEAM Project of the Year, and the 2022 FedHealth IT Innovation Award.
About Cognosante At Cognosante, we help create a safer, healthier, more equitable nation for all. Federal agencies who deliver exceptional public services and programs choose us for our innovative mindset and unwavering dedication to moving their missions forward. Applying practical expertise to build solutions that leverage leading technologies, Cognosante partners with healthcare, civilian, and defense agencies to realize program outcomes and performance.
Whether we are modernizing systems, enabling greater access to public benefits, or delivering mission-critical programs, we innovate with purpose – touching the lives of millions of people. For more information, visit cognosante.com.
New data indicates low job security and sleep deprivation impact Customer Success leaders, often stemming from poor work-life balance and the always-on nature of remote work
NEW YORK, Nov. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Vitally, the first Customer Success Platform (CSP) specifically designed for maximizing productivity, visibility, and collaboration, today released the findings of “The Secret Lives of CSMs” report. A survey of hundreds of Customer Success Managers (CSMs) in the U.S. revealed that their role is crucial to business success in the current economic climate, but employees with that title are burnt out, overworked, and often underpaid. Businesses that are unable to remedy these issues run the risk of losing a significant segment of their revenue-generating workforce.
B2B businesses, particularly those in the SaaS sector, are currently facing economic turmoil following a brief pandemic-induced boom. Acquiring new customers is now an uphill battle, which makes the roles of CSMs — who are responsible for preventing churn and maximizing the value of existing accounts — even more critical. Fortunately, according to the report, CSMs largely enjoy their work, with 89% reporting they find genuine fulfillment in assisting their clients. What’s more, many show great ambition to grow into senior leadership positions with 53% aspiring to become a VP of Customer Success and 45% a Chief Customer Officer.
Yet, at the same time, almost half (47%) report experiencing burnout at their job. This largely stems from increased pressures to drive results amidst a challenging economy and provide superior customer service for a global customer base. To make matters worse, 44% of CSMs didn’t receive a raise or promotion in the last 12 months, and 35% feel inadequately compensated for their work, highlighting a concerning gap between their dedication and the recognition they receive in terms of compensation. But even bigger than the financial toll CSMs face is the mental strain: 46% report their job has negatively impacted their sleep, and 39% say their job has negatively impacted their mental health within the past six months.
“Customer Success Managers are driven by passion and a genuine desire to help their clients,” said Jamie Davidson, CEO and co-Founder of Vitally. “But a down market for SaaS companies combined with around-the-clock demands brought on by remote work and global customer bases have increased the stress load for CSMs, to the point where their mental and physical health are being negatively impacted. At Vitally, we are leading the charge to give CS teams all the tools they need to be as productive as possible, so that CSMs can get everything done during the workday instead of feeling like they have to be on-the-clock after hours — or worse, while they’re on vacation.”
Additional key findings include:
47% of CSMs report experiencing burnout at their job. Of those, 36% report experiencing burnout at a significant frequency
In fact, 48% of CSMs say they’re passively open to new opportunities, and it’s no wonder why: Half of the CSMs who aspire to become a VP of Customer Success or Chief Customer Officer (CCO) say there isn’t a clear path into that role unless someone vacates the role
76% of CSMs worry about their job security at least occasionally. Of those who are worried about job security, 64% say they worry regardless of whether or not they achieve their quotas
And the work culture for CSMs often leaves them feeling forced to prioritize their job over their mental health and well-being, with 51% of CSMs saying they sometimes feel guilty requesting time off from work and 40% admitting they check work chat platforms like Slack when on PTO
In addition, survey respondents were asked to answer open-ended questions that provided candid responses from participants and offered an in-depth understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and internal dialogues of B2B CSMs from their point of view. To learn more about The Secret Lives of CSMs report, download the ebook with the complete findings here.
METHODOLOGY Vitally conducted The Secret Lives of CSMs survey online between August 31 and September 14, 2023. It reflects the opinions of 679 full-time employees with the title Customer Success Manager (CSM) in the United States and was conducted at 95% confidence with a +/- 4% margin of error.
About Vitally Vitally is the first Customer Success Platform (CSP) specifically designed for maximizing productivity, visibility, and collaboration. Vitally is the only workspace that combines productivity and collaboration tools with essential customer data, empowering B2B Customer Success teams to increase net retention revenue (NRR), deliver the best possible customer experience, and increase their team’s efficiency. Based in New York, Vitally is backed by investors including Andreessen Horowitz, Next47, and HubSpot Ventures, and its customers include Twilio Segment, Productboard, and Customer.io.
In contrast to conventional setups where projectors are fixed in place, the six Crimson WU31 projectors offer remarkable flexibility, and can be deployed across the facility for various events. Thanks to its omnidirectional capabilities, which provides design and installation versatility, the Crimson Series is an excellent fit for expansive venues, live events, and high-use environments. The projectors produce incredibly lifelike visuals that completely fill the screens, resulting in a spectacular and distinctive experience for visitors seeking full immersion in the artworks.
“The vivid colors and brilliant visuals in the exhibition offered a fresh perspective on the original analog artworks, now transformed with enhanced projection effects and a more vibrant color palette,” noted Lee. He went on to explain how visitors had the opportunity to appreciate artworks that seamlessly blended traditional and contemporary elements through various visual interpretations and the digitalization of Asian cultural resources. “The Crimson WU31 projectors played a crucial role in illuminating the walls, bringing forth diverse forms of artwork, each with its own captivating narrative.”
Paul Lee, sales manager for Korea, Enterprise, Christie, commented, “We’re delighted that the ACC has selected our Crimson WU31 projectors to enhance the immersive exhibition experience. Knowing that our projectors will contribute to both recreation and aesthetics is truly gratifying. Our commitment remains unwavering in delivering the finest and most inspiring experiences for all. We eagerly anticipate the exciting journey ahead with ACC and its upcoming projects.”
Featuring Christie TruLife™ electronics for lightning-fast processing, the Crimson Series is equipped with a long-life laser light source that boasts up to 20,000 hours of virtually maintenance-free operation. This powerful and user-friendly projector stands as the preferred choice for high-demand, large-scale venue events and applications. Coupled with the built-in warp and blend capabilities of Christie Twist™, they provide installation versatility and deliver incredible visual experiences.
“The most beautiful part of the evening was seeing WJA members, leaders, founders, and friends celebrating old friendships and forging new ones. When we come together as an industry, we do great things, we create opportunities, and we continue to build our legacy. Thank you all for your support and your presence at our 40th Anniversary Gala. The work we do raising funds for the association and foundation nonprofits is powerful, meaningful, and the key to a brighter future. As we look to 2024, your support remains pivotal to reach more members. Please join us as a member, corporate member, or angel sponsor!” says Susan Chandler, WJA President and Chief Merchandising Officer for Citizen Watch America.
The elevated cocktail reception, featuring gourmet delights presented by Major Food Group, left guests delighted and satisfied. Acclaimed performers, including harpist Lexie Lowell by Élan Artists, a percussionist, duo aerialists by Astarte Creative, and the urban rhythm musicians Drumadics by Élan Artists, provided an unforgettable experience. Astarte Creative dazzled with a glamorous dance act performed to a custom montage of diamond and jewelry-themed tracks— a spellbinding delight with hundreds of crystals and giant burlesque feather fans. Topping off the evening, Lorenzo Laroc entranced all with an electrifying performance on his signature five-string plexiglass electronic violin, playing an array of attractive genres for guests throughout the night. During the evening, current international board members and past presidents were acknowledged for their volunteer work and photographed onstage, while The Pool emanated a sea of dazzling ruby red, from the gowns and jewels of guests in attendance. John Green, President & CEO of Lux Bond & Green, emceed the night with a contagious enthusiasm.
The highlight of the night was the thrilling auction led by Caroline Ervin via Lydia Fenet Agency, showcasing a luxurious five-star corporate retreat package generously provided by Inspirato for Good. The auction raised funds to support the Women’s Jewelry Association International non-profit and its Foundation arm, ensuring women continue to thrive in the industry for generations to come. In addition to the luxurious corporate retreat package provided by Inspirato for Good, a new second priceless experience was unveiled. Generously provided by Balmain, this extraordinary package included a VIP invitation for two to Balmain Paris Fashion Week show (choice of Fall 2024 or Spring 2025), attendance at Balmain’s exclusive party and cocktail reception, a private dinner designed for Balmain’s top clients, and an exclusive opportunity to tour Balmain’s showroom and place a pre-order on the collection. The second auction item also offered a private shopping experience at Balmain’s Madison Ave. flagship store, or a store in the winner’s city. Balmain would close the store for the winner and up to 10 friends to shop for a full look, complete with champagne and styling assistance from a senior sales associate. Additionally, a percentage of sales goes towards a donation.
“We are very grateful to all that came out to celebrate this significant milestone. The energy and the spirit of generosity demonstrated by leaders in our industry further illuminates they believe in all that the WJA does to provide meaningful networking, professional development, and financial support to women in our industry. ‘Belief’ is a powerful motivator, and it was evident in the funds raised for the foundation that the industry truly believes in all that we do,” says Gabrielle Grazi, President of the WJA Foundation and VP, Head Retail Strategy and Partnerships, Natural Diamond Council.
Monica Elias, CEO and Executive Producer of Elias World Media, curated the evening as WJA Gala Event Chair, which celebrated the beauty, creativity, and passion of the jewelry and watch industries. Susan Chandler was Sponsorship Chair of the WJA Ruby Gala, with both Monica and Susan being supported by WJA committee members: Aida Alvarez, Kendra Bridelle, Gabrielle Grazi, and Ivette Nersesyan-Stephanopoulos, as well as by Anna Samsonova, Jen Cullen Williams, Rachel Jurisz, and Jacqueline Cassaway. The gala brought together prominent names in jewelry, fashion, entertainment, and philanthropy, including Kimberly and Steven Rockefeller, Kayla Rockefeller, Angel Pai, Julia Haart, Lucy Horowitz, Isabelle Bscher, and Janna Bullock. Industry VIPs included: Jack Gabriel, David Kellie, Matthijs Braakman, Howard Hauben, Anne Russell, Caryl Capeci, Adam Black, Esther and Ruth Fortunoff, Annie Doresca, Nancy Orem Lyman, Grant Mobley, Rob Bates, Jill Newman, and Adrianne Sanogo. Acclaimed jewelry designers were in attendance, including: Stephanie Gottlieb, Monica Rich Kosann, Lorraine West, Malyia McNaughton, Joan Hornig, Lorraine Schwartz, Ofira Sandberg, Olivia Landau, and Kyle Simon, Maria Valim, and Steven Lagos.
“The evening was magical and a testament of what can be achieved when thought leaders and industries come together to support a good cause. We were determined to create an evening that was big, bold, and unique. Taking a chance, we incorporated many new elements not seen before, like bespoke dance and musical performances, an auction featuring luxury packages generously donated by famed brands, and the invitation of notable names in philanthropy, fashion, and entertainment,” says Monica Elias. “Yielding publicity leading up to the event from high-profile outlets, this level of exposure is good for the entire industry, putting everyone on the map for the fundraising of important causes. The excitement and energy that filled the room was lifting. Guests were thrilled to be a part of the evening and motivated to give back. We honored the past and present, and toasted to the future. We are grateful for the support of the industry and everyone who helped make this night a big success.”
The Women’s Jewelry Association would like to extend heartfelt thanks to its gala sponsors: De Beers, Jewelers Mutual, Citizen Watch America, GIA, Elias World Media, JCK, Krainz Creations, Platinum Guild International, Stuller, The Centurion Jewelry Show, BOSS Logics, Chrysmela, Goldstar, Heritage Auctions, Instore, Lux, Bond & Green, Marco Bicego, Richline Group, Sheetal, Uni-Design, V&A Group, and Casadevall Group.
The WJA 40th Anniversary Gala not only celebrated the organization’s achievements but also raised critical funds to support women in the jewelry and watch industries. The gala was a testament to the enduring impact of WJA in advancing and empowering women professionals in the field.
About the Women’s Jewelry Association: The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) is a trailblazing organization dedicated to empowering and advancing women within the jewelry and watch industries. In 1983, WJA was founded on the belief that women could create lasting change by connecting, mentoring, and recognizing one another’s accomplishments. Today, WJA stands as a global network of professionals spanning diverse roles, from designers and manufacturers to retailers and media representatives. The organization’s mission is to facilitate professional growth through networking, education, leadership development, and a wide range of member services. Through its numerous chapters across the U.S. and around the world, WJA offers a spectrum of benefits, including networking events, educational programs, mentoring initiatives, scholarships, and grants.
About the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation: The WJA Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA), dedicated to furthering the organization’s mission of providing women in the jewelry and watch industries with educational and business opportunities to help them achieve their full career potential. The Foundation operates as a 501(c)(3) corporation, actively engaging individuals and corporations to contribute and make meaningful impact through the distribution of scholarships and grants.
On November 14, the Lung Association will release the sixth annual “State of Lung Cancer” report, which demonstrates how the toll of lung cancer varies by state and examines key indicators throughout the U.S. including new cases, survival, early diagnosis, surgical treatment, lack of treatment and screening rates.
The report will include new data on Radon in New Jersey. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the U.S. every year. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that rises through the soil and can enter your home through cracks in floors, walls, or foundations. Any type of home can have high indoor radon and high levels have been found in homes in every state. The American Lung Association has partnered with RAdata, a Protect Environmental company, to provide no-cost professional radon testing in the New Jersey region.
Protect Environmental is providing access to professional no-cost radon testing in the New Jersey and New York City region through its national partnership with the American Lung Association. Through this initiative, a qualified professional will conduct a radon test using a certified radon measurement device, providing a detailed report to the homeowner upon completion of the test at no cost. If elevated levels are identified, the problem can be fixed through the installation of a mitigation system.
“We discovered that my childhood home had high levels of radon when my father was diagnosed with lung cancer, even though he was a non-smoker,” said Kyle Hoylman, CEO of Protect Environmental. “Our team is doing its part to reduce exposure to radioactive, cancer-causing radon gas in the communities we serve, but more awareness and action is needed to prevent this deadly disease. That’s why we partnered with the American Lung Association to break down barriers and empower individuals to reduce their risk of radon exposure through no-cost professional radon testing.”
During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, the American Lung Association urges everyone to:
1. Test Your Home for Radon: Every home should be tested for radon. Exposure to radon causes no immediate symptoms, but the long-term threat of lung cancer is important to everyone. People who have never smoked make up one out of seven radon-related lung cancer deaths each year. Learn more at Lung.org/radon and reserve your appointment for a professional radon test at no cost today.
2. Take a quiz to see if you or a loved one are eligible for lung cancer screening: Lung cancer screening is key to early detection of the disease. A person is eligible for lung cancer screening if they are 50-80 years of age, have a 20 pack-year history (1 pack/day for 20 years, 2 packs/day for 10 years), and are a current smoker, or have quit within the last 15 years. Find out if you are eligible for lung cancer screening with this 2-minute quiz at SavedByTheScan.org.
3. Support Research: Today, as a part of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, the American Lung Association is announcing the first-ever Courtney Cox Cole Lung Cancer Research Award. The $1 million research endowment was funded through the dedicated efforts of the Cole family and friends to honor the life and legacy of the late Courtney Cox Cole, who fought valiantly against EGFR-mutant lung cancer while inspiring countless individuals and families impacted by this disease. In its inaugural year, the Courtney Cox Cole Lung Cancer Research Award was given to Wei Tao, PhD, from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston for his project called, “Inhalation delivery of mRNA via Targeted Nanoparticles for Lung Cancer Treatment.” Learn more about this research here and donate to support lifesaving lung cancer research at Lung.org/Donate.
4. Join the Patient & Caregiver Network for Critical Lung Cancer Resources: The Lung Association’s Patient & Caregiver Network provides people living with lung cancer and lung disease and their caregivers with critical support, education, and access to emerging research like clinical trials. Learn more and sign up for the Patient & Caregiver Network at Lung.org/PCN.
The American Lung Association’s LUNG FORCE initiative unites those impacted by lung cancer and their caregivers across the country to stand together against lung cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., and about every two minutes, a person in the U.S. learns they have lung cancer. More must be done to raise awareness and the research funding needed to end lung cancer once and for all. Join the movement today at LUNGFORCE.org.
### About the American Lung Association The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.
About LUNG FORCE The American Lung Association’s LUNG FORCE initiative unites people impacted by lung cancer and their caregivers across the country to stand together against lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer deaths. Increased awareness about lung cancer, more education on lifesaving screening and more research funding are critical to fuel lifesaving breakthroughs. Through education, advocacy and research, LUNG FORCE works to provide hope to all those impacted by the disease and save more lives. Find out more at LUNGFORCE.org.
American Lung Association • 55 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 1150 • Chicago, IL 60601 1331 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Ste. 1425 North • Washington, D.C. 20004 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) Lung.org
About Protect Environmental Protect Environmental is a national leader in the environmental consulting and construction industry, focusing on radon and chemical vapor intrusion management. With a proven track record spanning 18 years and more than 200,000 completed projects in all 50 U.S. states and 2 U.S. territories, the company provides expert service from its trusted professionals to provide peace of mind protection to property owners seeking to build and maintain healthy, safe, and sustainable indoor environments. Join our rapidly expanding team, apply today. For more information, call 502-410-5000 or click on https://www.protectenvironmental.com.
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Media Contact
Andrea Stephens, Protect Environmental, 5026496870, [email protected], Protect Environmental
