The Latest news about what is effecting Society in North America, These PR articles, bring the newest technologies, initiatives and helpful tools to those who need them.
“Improving opportunity for children and families has been a throughline throughout my career,” said Khan, a Los Angeles native that currently resides in Philadelphia. “I’m honored to join this esteemed cohort of leaders as we grow and challenge each other in pursuit of a more equitable education system.”
GreatSchools CEO Jon Deane preceded Khan in the program, having served as a fellow in 2015-2016.
Khan joined GreatSchools in 2022 and is responsible for driving organizational efficiencies in alignment with its equity and inclusion values. Prior to GreatSchools, she served as Senior Director, Community Engagement & Advocacy at Elevate 215 where she oversaw GreatPhillySchools, a local school finder website with over 350,000 annual users, and spearheaded the strategy, design, and execution of ApplyPhillyCharter, a unified application website for 80+ Philadelphia charter schools. As Director of External Affairs at KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools, Khan’s portfolio of work included advocacy, governance, and parent and community engagement. She also served as Director of the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program, overseeing the administration and expansion of the first federally-funded school voucher program, and worked in the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Innovation and Improvement, the agency’s entrepreneurial arm that makes strategic investments in innovative educational programs and practices.
For more information on the Pahara Institute and/or Fellowship, contact [email protected].
About GreatSchools GreatSchools is the leading nonprofit providing high-quality information that supports parents pursuing a great education for their child, schools striving for excellence, and communities working to diminish inequities in education. We are the only national organization that collects and analyzes data from all 51 state departments of education and the federal government to provide analysis, insights, and school quality ratings for parents, partners, researchers, and policymakers. Over 49 million users visit GreatSchools’ award-winning website annually to learn about schools in their area, explore research insights, and access thousands of free, evidence-based parenting resources to support their child’s learning and well-being. Learn more at GreatSchools.org and join us on Twitter and Facebook.
About the Pahara Institute The Pahara Institute seeks to strengthen the movement for educational excellence and equity by developing and sustaining values-driven leaders. The guiding principle of the Pahara Institute is that bold improvements are needed in our public schools so that every child in America is prepared to lead a free and fulfilling life. Pahara’s programs are designed to identify leaders in education innovation, and through a time-tested dialogue approach, strengthen and sustain their efforts to bring about critical improvements to our public schools. For more information, please visit pahara.org.
Website Blocker: The Website Blocker tool enables parents to restrict access to inappropriate or distracting websites, creating a secure online environment. With this new feature, FamilyTime reaffirms its commitment to supporting parents in their efforts to provide a safe and nurturing digital space for their children.
WhatsApp Monitoring: With the rising popularity of WhatsApp, parents must keep an eye on their children’s conversations and interactions. FamilyTime’s WhatsApp Monitoring feature provides parents with the ability to monitor chat history and ensure their kids’ conversations are safe and appropriate.
WhatsApp Business Monitoring: Monitor interactions on WhatsApp Business for a complete view of your child’s communication.
Bip Monitoring: Bip is a widely used messaging platform. FamilyTime’s Bip Monitoring feature enables parents to monitor their children’s Bip messages to ensure they are communicating with trusted individuals.
Instagram Monitoring: Instagram is a popular social media platform, and kids often use it to connect with friends and share their lives. FamilyTime’s Instagram Monitoring feature allows parents to keep tabs on their children’s Instagram activity, including posts, comments, and direct messages, to ensure their online experience is safe and responsible.
Signal Monitoring: Signal is known for its end-to-end encryption, making it important for parents to ensure that their kids are using it responsibly. FamilyTime’s Signal Monitoring feature provides parents with insight into their children’s Signal conversations while respecting their privacy.
IMO Monitoring: IMO is another messaging app that kids frequently use. FamilyTime’s IMO Monitoring feature helps parents monitor their children’s IMO chats and calls to ensure that they are connecting with trusted contacts.
Twitch Monitoring: Twitch is a popular platform for live streaming and gaming. With FamilyTime’s Twitch Monitoring feature, parents can track their children’s activity on Twitch to ensure they are engaging with appropriate content and individuals.
Approved Apps: The Approved Apps feature enables parents to curate a safe list of applications for their children, ensuring access only to age-appropriate and secure content. The Individual App Limit feature further empowers parents to manage screen time effectively, striking a healthy balance between digital engagement and offline activities.
Individual App Limit: Parents can set usage time limits for specific apps, helping children strike a balance between screen time and other activities.
With these new additions, FamilyTime is now the only parental control app that offers this wide range of functionality in one integrated platform. The inclusion of WhatsApp, WhatsApp Business, Bip, Instagram, Signal, IMO, and Twitch monitoring brings unprecedented insight into children’s digital interactions, allowing parents to safeguard their online experiences effectively.
The crowning achievement of this update is the introduction of real-time reporting. FamilyTime’s advanced technology ensures that parents receive instant updates without any time-lapse or delay. You can now have all insights about your child’s digital activities as they happen, giving you the ability to take immediate action if necessary.
Talking about the latest update, Mr Aziz Ahmed, CEO of FamilyTime said, “We recognize the paramount importance of user privacy, data safety, and providing a cost-effective solution for parents. With over a decade of experience, we’ve rebuilt our app to tackle modern challenges head-on, offering robust solutions for parents to ensure the online safety of their children. Our commitment to user privacy and safety is unwavering, and we remain dedicated to delivering the best parental control experience in the market.”
Besides offering these features, team FamilyTime recreated the child version of their app i.e., FamilyTime Jr. The rebirth of FamilyTime Jr. marks an exciting milestone for young users and their parents. The new version of the app comes with a range of enhancements, including Engaging Interface, Kid-Friendly Navigation, Comprehensive Dashboard, Enhanced App Blocker, Convenient PickMeUp Alerts, Customizable Emergency Contact, Low Battery Alert, and Advanced Technology.
This rebirth of FamilyTime Jr. represents a giant leap forward in ensuring child safety online. With an engaging interface, colorful theme, kid-friendly navigation, and an array of powerful features, FamilyTime Jr. empowers parents to safeguard their children in the digital realm while giving kids a safe and enjoyable online experience.
As the holiday season approaches, FamilyTime’s new features are a timely gift for parents seeking to create a safe and secure online environment for their children. With the ability to monitor and control various messaging apps, social media platforms, and screen time, FamilyTime empowers parents to strike the right balance between online engagement and responsible usage.
“We understand the challenges parents face in managing their children’s digital activities, and we are committed to providing them with the most advanced and comprehensive tools to do so effectively,” said Jose Gomez, Head of Marketing at FamilyTime. “These new features set FamilyTime apart as the go-to solution for parents seeking the highest level of control and insight into their children’s online experiences.”
Get FamilyTime Parental Control from the Google Play Store and enjoy all its features in a free trial. Download and Sign Up to get started.
FamilyTime offers promising digital parenting tools, empowering parents to boost their children’s digital safety. The platform continuously evolves new features, which you can explore on its website. For more digital parenting tips and updates visit its blog, and follow on Twitter & Facebook.
“My childhood was a difficult and often unbearable experience where evil manipulation almost broke my spirit. But there were also caring people along the way who stepped in to do what they could to protect and nurture me,” said Edmunds. “As an adult, I look back at those moments and realize that they saved my life. My goal is to help as many children as possible in the child welfare system and help to ensure that they have the opportunities for success that I was not provided.”
About the Book: “Garbage Bag Girl” is a gripping first-person account that delves into Celeste Edmunds’ life, a young woman who, against all odds, found strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Raised by drug-addicted parents, Edmunds learned to protect her siblings in a harsh environment filled with threats from rapists and drug dealers. The state eventually intervened, separating the family, and Edmunds was adopted into a dysfunctional home where she faced mistreatment from a sadistic mother. Contemplating drastic measures, she ran away, seeking shelter wherever she could until a compassionate woman extended a helping hand, offering her a safe and nurturing environment filled with love, and teaching her that is never too late to find “home.”
Endorsements: Renowned figures in literature and child welfare have praised “Garbage Bag Girl” for its raw honesty and impactful storytelling. #1 International Bestselling Author Dave Pelzer commends Edmunds for her resilience, noting her legendary service to those in need. Diane Moore, Former Director of Utah’s Division of Child and Family Services, hails Edmunds as a profile in courage and resiliency, highlighting the importance of loving family connections for every child.
Availability: “Garbage Bag Girl” is available for purchase through Amazon.com.
About the Celeste L. Edmunds: Celeste L. Edmunds is Executive Director of The Christmas Box International, an organization that has provided more than 145,000 children a safe and nurturing environment as they begin to navigate the child welfare system. Celeste is a passionate advocate for children’s welfare, dedicating her life to supporting those who have experienced hardship. “Garbage Bag Girl” reflects her commitment to using personal experiences to inspire hope and resilience in others.
About Richard Paul Evans: Richard Paul Evans founder of The Christmas Box International and is a forty-six-time #1 New York Times Bestselling Author renowned for his impactful storytelling and inspirational works. His endorsement of “Garbage Bag Girl” underscores the significance of Celeste L. Edmunds’ narrative.
Note to Editors: High-resolution images, author bios, and additional press materials are available on request.
Media Contact
Celeste L. Edmunds, The Christmas Box International, (801) 516-1801, [email protected]
Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Boston for 2023
NEW YORK, Dec. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Boston for 2023. Boston, the capital and largest city of Massachusetts, is generally known for its rich history, cultural significance, educational institutions, and of course, sports teams. But amongst the historic neighborhoods, prestigious campus life, and passionate Red Sox fans, ol’ Beantown also enjoys a vibrant business scene.
The booming business landscape in Boston includes world-class universities, advanced medical research, impressive technology and innovation, and unparalleled tourist attractions. Add in a booming financial sector and a strong focus on venture capital investment, and it’s no wonder so many women leaders are thriving in the City on a Hill.
Among this year’s awardees is Angela Canale, the Chief Growth Officer of Northwestern Mutual, who is a highly experienced and strategic thought leader, boasting over two decades of expertise in generating growth, innovating brands, and leading high-performing teams while transforming consumer experiences and cultivating meaningful relationships. As the Chief Data Officer for the City of Boston, awardee Stefanie Leabo leads a diverse team in transforming city data into actionable insights, utilizing her expertise as a problem-solving translator bridging policy and operational challenges with data, process, and technology. Also awarded is the Chief Executive Officer of CG Spectrum College of Digital Art and Animation, Anne Bosman, who excels in leading startups, scaling growth, and specializes in turnaround situations, showcasing expertise in operations, revenue management, change management, and optimizing team performance.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Boston for 2023.
Elizabeth Hackenson (Schneider Electric), Monica Caldas (Liberty Mutual Insurance), Angela Canale (Northwestern Mutual), Stefanie Leabo (City of Boston), Kristin Blount (Colliers International | Boston), Beth Colling (CDM Smith), Gabrielle Mondestin (MBTA), Lynne Ann (WinnCompanies), Katie Catlender (Cambridge Savings Bank), Anne Bosman (CG Spectrum College of Digital Art and Animation), Phoebe Goldsberry (The Hollister Group), Carolyn Nash (Red Hat), Deborah Scott (Harvard Medical School), Jennifer Sullivan (CVS Health), Ridhima Raina (Bain Academy℠), Nancy Pedrick (Humanscale), Kathryn Condon (Personal Investing Fidelity Investments), Alissa Ristic (KPMG US), Kristen Hopson (Generate Biomedicines), Shannon Dipalmo (CAN Community Health), Analiz Cabrera (Accenture), Nina Lynch (Accenture), Rebecca Greco (Kroll), any many others.
Women We Admire provides news and information on today’s women leaders in business, entertainment, sports, motherhood, medicine, law, and many other fields. We cover a broad range of topics and areas of interest aimed at recognizing the achievements of exceptional women while inspiring others to aim high and continue their journey towards reaching their full potential. Women We Admire and its affiliates circulate its content to over 32,000 individuals and businesses.
It takes two in the baby-making equation and men need a specific blend of essential nutrients for a healthy sperm count, motility, and normal morphology.
Timing is key. Guys benefit the most from taking a daily prenatal at least three months before trying to conceive.
Evidence-backed vitamins and minerals include CoQ10, zinc, folate, selenium, and Vitamins B6, C, D, and E, along with several amino acid derivatives.
One men’s prenatal ingredient that doesn’t get talked about enough is the Ayurvedic compound called shilajit, which has been shown to help support sperm health and energy levels.
Why Do Men Need a Prenatal?
Let’s start with the biggest question first. The reality is that eggs aren’t the only part of the baby-making equation. Any future dad who’s looking to start a family needs a very specific blend of vitamins and minerals to support their fertility and sperm health. Sperm needs to be the healthiest it can be for several reasons.
Sperm has a big job in fertilizing the egg and providing 50% of the genetic material for baby’s development. Sperm is also responsible for mapping out theDNA blueprint for the placenta, which will nourish a baby throughout the entire pregnancy.
Plus, it’s a little-known fact that men’s ability to father children has a timeline too. While men can produce sperm throughout their life,sperm quality declines with age, specifically concerning sperm DNA. During sperm development, several factors can causeDNA fragmentation, which means there are breaks or changes in a DNA strand or chromosome in the sperm. It’s as serious as it sounds. It can result in multiple issues down the line, including birth defects, developmental disorders, and even miscarriage.
Sperm morphology: In other words, what does your sperm look like? Its size and shape matter. Healthy sperm have an oval-shaped head and a long tail. In looking at a semen analysis, fertility is increased when over4% of sperm has normal morphology, and 14% is considered by experts to have a high probability of fertility.
Sperm motility: Healthy sperm is “motile,” meaning that it can efficiently swim to the egg. Successful fertilization comes from sperm that can swim in straight lines or large circles and move at a rate of around25 micrometers in a second.
Sperm count: This refers to the concentration of sperm in semen. A normal range for most men is around40 to 300 million per milliliter. Between 10 to 20 million sperm per milliliter is considered “low,” however your lifestyle factors (including nutrition) can positively impact your sperm count and change these numbers.
Numerousclinical studies show that getting the right nutrients supports sperm health across the board. Boosting your vitamin and mineral intake is important since a healthy diet doesn’t always provide the much-needed surplus of nutrients you need. Even your multivitamin doesn’t have some of the specialized nutrients shown to support sperm health.
According toDr. Darren Bryk, an expert in male andrology and infertility, swapping out the multivitamin for a prenatal is the quickest and easiest way to prepare for conception and fatherhood. “Proper prenatal nutrition for men, with consideration of adding a men’s prenatal vitamin that includes CoQ10, may be associated withhigher-quality sperm and fewer DNA abnormalities.”
To get the most benefit, it’s also important to take a prenatal vitamin daily. Making it a part of your routine is simple when you pair it with your morning meal. All of those nutrients help fill in the gaps in your daily diet and support your reproductive health.
What Makes a Good Men’s Prenatal?
In the last few years, men’s prenatals have started popping up on shelves. There are now way more options, but not all prenatal supplements are created equal. Formulation and quality is key. Finding the best prenatal requires knowing what nutrients to look for on the label. Let’s break them down.
CoQ10: Also known asCoenzyme Q10, this antioxidant is one that all future dads need. It helps support energy levels at the cellular level, so it helps sperm swim faster while also protecting sperm DNA from oxidative stress (one of the main causes of infertility).
Folate: This nutrient specifically plays a role in healthy sperm production and is associated withsupporting male fertility and DNA synthesis. While you’re searching, know that the best form to take is methylated folate, which your body absorbs more efficiently.
Vitamin B6: This B vitamin plays a crucial role in supporting healthy sperm.
Vitamin C: This vitamin has been shown to support sperm count, motility, and normal sperm morphology, including supportingoverall semen quality for conception.
Vitamin D: This is yet another powerhouse vitamin that promotessperm motility. Plus, Vitamin D has also been shown to consistently support sperm quality.
Vitamin E: This a powerful antioxidant that’s associated withimproved sperm motility, playing a role in successful fusion between sperm and egg.
L-Arginine: If sperm counts are up and your swimmers aremoving faster, this amino acid derivative is doing its job.
L-Carnitine: This is one nutrient that packs a punch. It plays a vital role in supporting sperm quality. Another perk? It’s associated withhigher fertilization rates.
Shilajit: This is one key ingredient that doesn’t get enough air time. Its name translates to “conqueror of mountains” which is pretty accurate for what it does.Clinical studies show that shilajit is effective at promoting quality sperm and higher testosterone levels. Plus, it’s been used for centuries to support energy levels and overall vitality.
What We Love: Not only was this the first men’s prenatal to hit the market, but it’s also the only men’s prenatal to include the Ayurvedic compound shilajit. This compound not only helps support sperm health but also boosts your energy.
The Beli Vitality for Men prenatal includes all the urologist and dietitian-approved nutrients needed to support men’s fertility and sperm health. Each bottle is made in the USA at a GMP-certified facility, meaning it abides by strict manufacturing practices. Plus, Beli was awarded the Clean Label Project Purity Award, giving you peace of mind that you’re taking high-quality prenatal vitamins. Beli men’s prenatal also happens to be a top pick byForbes Health.
What to Consider: Specialized forumula and at two capsules a day, it makes taking prenatals easier.
What We Love: This men’s prenatal pack includes a lot of heavy-hitting nutrients on our list, including vitamin E, L-carnitine, and CoQ10. Plus, they’re specifically formulated with bioavailability in mind, so your body can absorb all the nutrients.
What to Consider: The cost of a 30-day supply is $60, putting this prenatal at a higher price point on our list. It also requires taking a handful of pills, which makes it a little harder to stomach.
What We Love: Formulated by a board-certified neurologist, this brand follows strict standards and third-party testing to make sure their prenatal only includes what you need. That means they stay away from heavy metals, GMOs, artificial colors, or allergens. Plus, you only take one capsule daily.
What to Consider: The prenatal packs in some important vitamins and minerals, but it is more of a general multivitamin as opposed to being specifically designed to support fertility health.
What We Love: Natalist’s prenatals are made in the USA claim to meet cGMP guidelines. We also liked that this blend is formulated by a team of urologists and registered dietitians, and focuses on key nutrients like CoQ10, selenium, vitamin C, D, and E.
What to Consider: Four pills make this one of the higher daily doses on our list, while also being a higher price ($60) per monthly order.
What We Love: Blue Stork’s blend is geared toward supporting libido and energy levels, and they make sure to include key nutrients like Vitamin B6, B12, and zinc. Their blend is also made in a GMP-certified facility and is third-party tested.
What to Consider: Key antioxidants like selenium, CoQ10, and Vitamins C and E are not included in their formulation.
What We Love: Daily Wellness specifically hones in on fertility and sperm health, so it’s not just a multivitamin. Their blend includes L-carnitine and antioxidants such as Vitamins C and E, and selenium.
What to Consider: The supplement has a proprietary blend that includes green tea extract. Consider consulting with your doctor on this particular ingredient and how it might interact with medications.
About Prenatalratings.com
PrenatalRatings.com was created to help consumers compare different brands of prenatal multivitamins and find the right match. We rate prenatal vitamins based on 4 key quality metrics, including ingredients, quality, taste, and ease of use. Read our review articles to learn why certain prenatal multivitamins are better than others, and which ones we recommend you try first.
Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Salt Lake City for 2023
NEW YORK, Dec. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Salt Lake City for 2023. As the capital of Utah, Salt Lake City captivates residents and visitors with its exceptional quality of life, providing access to unmatched outdoor adventures and a vibrant cultural scene. Business leaders in the region navigate a landscape characterized by a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, along with a flourishing technology hub known as the Silicon Slopes. Many of this year’s awardees are steering their organizations with a more people-centric focus, overseeing departments in HR, communication, and customer relations to drive overall growth and success. Their impact goes beyond their professional responsibilities with many investing their time and energy in volunteer work and board designations.
Among this year’s awardees is Francesca Luthi, Assurant’s Chief Operating Officer and a member of the management committee, who oversees global operations to enhance business value and integrate customer and employee experiences while advancing Sustainability & DEI strategies. As the Chief Clinical Officer and EVP of the Clinical Quality Business Unit at Health Catalyst, Awardee Holly Rimmasch leverages over three decades of healthcare expertise, encompassing direct patient care and strategic management, focusing on clinical improvement, patient safety, quality, and population health. Also awarded is Melissa Loble, Chief Customer Experience Officer at Instructure, who is dedicated to fostering innovation in customer experience and empowering users to maximize solutions in compelling and efficient learning environments.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Salt Lake City for 2023.
Francesca Luthi (Assurant), Kate Moss (Bank of America), Amy Eldredge (Crumbl Cookies), Jennifer Danielson (HealthPartners), Holly Rimmasch (Health Catalyst), Melissa Loble (Instructure), Sarah Comstock (Merit Medical), Talia Butler (Salt Lake County Animal Services), Laurel Timmins (Savage Services), Sara Brady (Innovative Renal Care), Liz Udy (Conservice), Kimberley Honeysett (Varex Imaging Corporation), Wendy Steinle (Domo), Katie Evans Palfreyman (Castle & Cooke Mortgage), Lisa Peterson (97th Floor), Amanda Ryan-Smith (The Trevor Project), Bethami Dobkin (Westminster College), Lizzie Webb (IMAGE Studios®), Jennifer Duffield (Dancing Moose Montessori School), Jennifer Mitchell (The Children’s Center Utah), Sheila Rappazzo Yorkin (Westminster University), Brianne Ika (Workman Success), Claire Roberts (Lice Clinics of America), Marcia Foote (Your Concierge Connection), Tami Ostmark (Hamlet Homes Utah), Donna Root (Nilson Homes), Suzie Turner (Gibsonlook), and many others.
Women We Admire provides news and information on today’s women leaders in business, entertainment, sports, motherhood, medicine, law, and many other fields. We cover a broad range of topics and areas of interest aimed at recognizing the achievements of exceptional women while inspiring others to aim high and continue their journey towards reaching their full potential. Women We Admire and its affiliates circulate its content to over 32,000 individuals and businesses.
“Thank you to all the nominators for bringing these remarkable individuals to our attention. They made our decision particularly difficult since each nominee is doing something that benefits their community. We want all the athletes to know we’re proud of their leadership and others are too,” Ulich concluded.
2023 Athletes in Excellence Award Recipients
1. Jacob Heilveil (US – Paralympian – Wheelchair Racing) A native Korean, Jacob Heilveil moved to Hawai’i when he was twelve to undergo spinal surgery to correct scoliosis — a complication of the polio he contracted as an infant. He became interested in wheelchair racing soon after and has been a competitor ever since, having participated in ninety marathons, three Paralympics, and two World Championships. Jacob has coached wheelchair athletes and co-created the Exciting Programs Adventures and New Dimensions program (EXPAND), Colorado’s first Paralympic sports club, operated through the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. He’s currently developing an initiative to supply adapted equipment to existing mainstream community sport programs. He regularly volunteers in Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan conducting wheelchair racing clinics. Jacob is an advocate of providing people with experiences and exposure to expand their perceptions of what is possible. Nominated by 2014 Athletes in Excellence recipient, Candace Cable.
2. Anton Jackson (US – Deaflympics Gold Medalist – Basketball) After passing up Division I offers to attend Gallaudet University, Anton Jackson, a Deaf basketball player, went on to win Rookie of the Year at the university, a bronze medal at the 2007 World Championships and a gold medal at the 2009 Deaflympics. Returning to Gallaudet as an assistant basketball coach, Jackson led the school’s team to one of its few conference championships, before attending Trainer University to obtain an I’m Possible certification. In 2021, he founded AdroitBucket to provide access to elite basketball training and inspire Deaf youth to achieve their athletic dream. Some of his alumni are well on their way having been selected to represent Team USA. Nominated by 2019 EYS recipient Blessed Mbogo.
3. Natalia Mayara Azevedo Da Costa (Brazil – Paralympian – Wheelchair Tennis) Ranked top twelve in the world, top ten for doubles, and number one in Brazil for wheelchair tennis while actively competing, Natalia qualified for the 2012 and 2016 Paralympic Games. She won a silver medal at Les Petit As, Wheelchair Tennis Junior Masters, and gold medals at the Juniors South American Games and the Para Pan-American Games in both singles and doubles, giving Brazil its first gold medal in tennis. Now retired from competition, Natalia has been a force spreading awareness of adaptive sports and the Paralympic movement, actively volunteering in various capacities with organizations who deliver adaptive sports programs for youth, including Angel City, PlayLA, Ready, Set, Gold! YMCA, and Triumph. A frequent guest speaker, she has shared her Paralympic journey with audiences young and old. She has promoted wheelchair tennis by hosting clinics, conducted school assemblies, and created and shared content to amplify the reach and impact of these initiatives. As part of the Ready Set Gold! program, Natalia participated in their virtual series, promoting a healthy lifestyle by teaching children how to stay active at home. Beyond her local community, Natalia has volunteered for Brazilian Paralympic Committee (CPB) and Paralympic APC campaigns, advocating for the empowerment of Paralympic athletes and the importance of inclusivity. Natalia also had the honor of representing all Paralympic athletes at the United Nations in Switzerland, where she delivered a powerful speech on the visibility of Paralympic sports and the significance of the Olympics/Paralympics being held in South America. Nominated by Ready, Set, Gold!, Izabela Maria da Silva, Andrea Tabor, Shanda Vail, Lauren Bendik, and Crystal Yang Edwards.
4. Amobi Okugo (US – Retired MLS Player) A first-generation Nigerian American from California, Amobi Okugo played over 200+ matches across multiple teams (Philadelphia, Orlando, Kansas City, Portland, Austin Bold, and the USMNT Youth Teams including the 2012 Olympic Qualifying Team) during his soccer career. While in the MLS, he represented his teammates as Team Captain and Player Representative, successfully negotiating improved player rights, and winning the Open Cup Championships (2015), Western Conference Winners (2017), and Copa de Tejas (2019). Okugo is a prolific volunteer, directly engaging with approximately 1,200 youth per year in a mentorship role, as well as an average of twenty-five community-based programs per year. His mission is to “help others understand their unique opportunities and create excellence through exposure.” He is the founder of Frugal Athlete, a business that helps athletes through financial education and athlete empowerment, as well as the creator of the Ok U Go Foundation, a non-profit supporting BIPOC youth. Nominated by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency.
5. Ella Rae Rodriguez (US – Collegiate Wheelchair Basketball) Currently studying neuroscience and cognitive science while playing collegiate wheelchair basketball for the University of Arizona, Ella Rodriguez has been competing since she first discovered adaptive equipment. Before college, she played wheelchair basketball, danced, surfed, cheered for her high school team, and even helped her high school coaches create a new adaptive team, which included three other students with physical disabilities. After winning two silver medals at the Paralympic trials in 2021 in long jump and discus, she’s now set her sights on joining Team USA’s U26 Wheelchair Basketball team. As a Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) Ambassador and youth mentor, she has generously shared her story to inspire others at corporate functions and outreach events, including CAF’s fundraising gala. In her spare time, she volunteers as a mentor and coach at CAF clinics, including CAF’s work with the Golden State Warriors wheelchair basketball clinic series and their multi-sport clinics at the University of Arizona. Ella has expanded people’s horizons by connecting them to CAF for equipment and giving them a glimpse of what is possible. Nominated by Challenged Athletes Foundation.
6. Jessica Smith (Australia – Paralympian – Para Swimming) Jessica Smith began representing Australia in para swimming when she was just thirteen. She swam for Team Australia for the next seven years, ultimately competing at the 2004 Athens Paralympic Games at nineteen. Since retiring from swimming, Jessica has become a runner and an international advocate for diversity and inclusion, disability awareness, and positive body image, sharing her journey with diverse audiences including the United Nations. Her message to people living with a disability is to focus on what your body can do. Smith is co-founder and COO of TOUCH Talent Inclusion Consultancy, an international inclusive talent agency and disability inclusion consultancy, as well as a brand ambassador for corporations, and a member of the Australian Government Sports Commission’s AIS Female Performance & Health Initiative Athlete Advisory Group. Jessica has received numerous awards for her work, including the prestigious Order of Australia Medal (OAM), Australia’s highest honor, for her activism and dedication to sport. Nominated by 2017 Athletes in Excellence recipient Mo’ath Alkhawaldeh
7. Esther Vergeer (Dutch Paralympian – Wheelchair Tennis) In 2004, Esther founded the Esther Vergeer Foundation to help children with a physical disability or chronic condition develop self-confidence through sport. After winning her first of seven gold Paralympic medals, Esther was regularly approached by parents and disabled children asking how they too could get involved in sports. She began her community outreach by hosting two clinics at a tournament she was in, eventually growing the initiative into the Esther Vergeer Foundation which gives hundreds of children with a physical disability the chance to play sports every week across the Netherlands. Esther serves on the Dutch Paralympic delegation and is a member of the Dutch Sports Council. She is also Director of ABN AMRO Open’s wheelchair tennis tournament. Vergeer is the recipient of the 2022 and 2008 Laureus Award for Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability. In 2016, she received the Fanny Blankers-Koen Career Award – the highest accolade for a Dutch athlete. In addition, she was named International Tennis Federation World Champion in women’s wheelchair tennis every year from 2000 to 2012, dominating the sport until her retirement in 2013. Having won 148 singles titles and 136 doubles titles over her career, Esther Vergeer has become a role model and advocate for female and male tennis players with a disability.
8. Jeff Williams (US – Olympian – Track and Field) Jeff Williams became a sprinter when his college track coach noticed his speed as a football player. After graduating with a degree in Physical Education Recreation and Sport, he continued competing and was ranked #2 in the U.S. and #3 in the world in the 200-meter dash from 1994 to 1998. He took bronze in that event at the 1995 World Championships, and in the 100-meter dash at the 1991 Pan American Games and earned a spot as a USA Olympic team member in 1992 and 1996. In response to Southern California school budget cuts eliminating physical education classes in the late ’90s, Williams co-developed the Psychomotor program which features activities that build agility, coordination, endurance, and cognitive development in children. Psychomotor is still in use nationwide as a YMCA program offering. Jeff was also an early participant in the Ready, Set, Gold! program, where he continues to spread the joy of sport to youth. Today, Jeff is a USATF Level II Certified Coach and a USATF Athletics Official and coaches high school track. In addition, he is the National Director of Track and Field for the non-profit Student Athlete International (SAI), overseeing track and field operations, and providing coaching, consulting, and mentoring services for the SAI track and field athletes. Nominated by 2014 Athletes in Excellence recipient, Candace Cable.
9. Kelly Worrell (US – Para Triathlete) A lifelong runner turned triathlete at 41, Kelly Worrell took silver in the 2018 Paratriathlon National Championship, was selected to represent Team USA, and has won gold and earned accolades like Elite Paratriathlon Development Athlete of the Year ever since. Currently ranked in the top ten in the world and second in the US in her sports class, she’s currently working towards the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Besides her role as Northeast Regional Programs and Community Relations Manager for Challenged Athletes Foundation, she’s an athlete mentor and coach to the U23 Para Triathlon Development Team, the co-founder of Swim Bike Run 4 Equality Foundation promoting diversity and inclusion in the sport of triathlon, and a volunteer assistant director/board member for the Athletes with Disabilities Network Northeast, an organization dedicated to bettering the quality of life for people with physical disabilities. Nominated by Challenged Athletes Foundation.
10. Shane Young (US – U20 National Team – Rugby) After leading his high school rugby team to three state championships and being named MVP his senior year, Shane founded Florida Gulf Coast State University’s rugby team, serving as club president and team captain. In 2012, at the age of twenty-two, Shane co-founded Memphis Inner City Rugby (MICR). With no budget, he leveraged the power of social media and funds from his teaching job to provide equipment, registration costs, rides, academic support, and case management to youth from some of the poorest zip codes in America. Over the next 5 years, MICR grew to serve hundreds of students and partnered with six schools. In 2017, Shane left teaching to focus on MICR full-time. Today, the program — which has been recognized as a best-in-class model of Sport-Based Youth Development — partners with fourteen schools and counts professional rugby players as alumni. Nominated by 2022 Athletes in Excellence recipient, Kevin Battle.
Nellis Auction is thrilled to announce a festive initiative aimed at spreading joy and cheer during the holiday season. In collaboration with the local community, Nellis Auction is organizing a Toy Drive at its Dean Martin location (7440 Dean Martin Dr Suite 204, Las Vegas, NV 89139) from December 1st to 15th.
LAS VEGAS, Dec. 15, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Nellis Auction is thrilled to announce a festive initiative aimed at spreading joy and cheer during the holiday season. In collaboration with the local community, Nellis Auction is organizing a Toy Drive at its Dean Martin location (7440 Dean Martin Dr Suite 204, Las Vegas, NV 89139) from December 1st to 15th.
To kick off this heartwarming campaign, Nellis Auction is making a generous donation of 200 bicycles, reinforcing its commitment to making a positive impact in the community. The company encourages its valued customers and community members to join in the giving spirit by contributing new, unwrapped toys.
Currently, the response has been overwhelming, with hundreds of presents already received. We expect this number to grow as the community rallies together in the spirit of giving.
The highlight of the event will be the collaboration with Toys for Tots, a program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve. On Saturday, December 16th, at 11 am, the United States Marines will be on-site at Nellis Auction’s Dean Martin location to collect the donated gifts. These contributions will directly benefit Toys for Tots, ensuring they reach those in need and spread joy to children during the holiday season.
Nellis Auction is known for its commitment to community engagement and philanthropy, and the Toy Drive with Toys for Tots is an embodiment of the company’s dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those in the local community.
“We believe in the power of collective giving and the joy it brings, especially during the holiday season. Our Toy Drive in partnership with Toys for Tots is an opportunity for our customers and community members to come together and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children. We are grateful for the support we have received so far and look forward to a successful conclusion of the event on December 15th,” said Spencer Chupinsky, CEO at Nellis Auction.
Nellis Auction invites everyone in the community to participate in this heartwarming Toy Drive, contributing to the joy and happiness of children in need through the Toys for Tots program.
Women We Admire is pleased to present The Top 50 Women Leaders of Arkansas for 2023
NEW YORK, Dec. 15, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Women We Admire is pleased to present The Top 50 Women Leaders of Arkansas for 2023. From the Hot Springs National Park to the unique Crater of Diamonds State Park, Arkansas features a rich geography characterized by scenic beauty and natural wonders. The state’s diverse landscape contributes significantly to the dynamism of its economy. Aside from traditional industries such as agriculture, technology, and healthcare, the commerce sector thrives with major headquarters and corporations located in Arkansas, including notable names like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and Dillard’s.
This year’s leaders are spearheading organizations in areas including supply chain, operational efficiency, and shaping consumer experiences. Their considerable impact plays a crucial role in the growth, resilience, and sustainability of the state’s business landscape.
Among this year’s awardees, Sherece West, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation, stands out for her unwavering commitment to uplifting marginalized groups and eradicating poverty. Under her leadership, the Foundation has undergone significant reinvention and achieved tremendous growth in the past decade. Another recipient, Amy Fore, serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Mercy Clinic Fort Smith, leading part of one of the top 20 highly integrated healthcare systems recognized nationwide. Additionally, as the Chief Wellness Officer of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Linda Worley has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions for her outstanding contributions to leadership, psychiatric education, and overall professional achievement.
We commend these individuals for their commitment to the organizations they serve. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Arkansas for 2023.
Megan Timberlake (Procter & Gamble), Tanya Silvio (Gap), Amy Tu (Tyson Foods), Linda Worley (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences), Mary Ward (Acxiom), Marie Findlay (Acosta Group), Shannon Letts (Big Lots Stores), Lisa Bridgers (VMLY&R), Amy Carrasquillo (Dillards), Sherece West-Scantlebury, PhD (Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation), Cassie Bell (NAPA Auto Parts), Danna Caldwell (Friendship Community Care), Karomy Kimbel (Kimbel Mechanical), Susan Steelman (Univ. of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Library), Katie Redmond (Simmons Foods), Jennifer Milwee (RWS Group), Michelle Hurst (FORVIS), Jamie Pafford-Gresham (Pafford Medical Services), Trenda Ray (UAMS), Megan Marie Bolinder, PhD (NorthWest Arkansas Community College), Crystal Gates (North Little Rock Public Library System), Kathleen Myers (Arkansas Tech University), Stacey Harral (Merrill Lynch), Sarah Smith (Independent Living Services), Nicole Mendoza Shoblom (Addium), and many others.
Women We Admire provides news and information on today’s women leaders in business, entertainment, sports, motherhood, medicine, law, and many other fields. We cover a broad range of topics and areas of interest aimed at recognizing the achievements of exceptional women while inspiring others to aim high and continue their journey towards reaching their full potential. Women We Admire and its affiliates circulate its content to over 32,000 individuals and businesses.
Dr. Treat’s goal is to leverage technology and data to create individualized treatment plans designed around each pet’s unique needs and characteristics. To that end, Dr. Treat has built its own Patient Information Management Software to make it easy and seamless for its teams to offer the highest quality of care, consistently.
Dr. Treat’s clinics are built to fear-free standards to create a low anxiety environment for pets. Both clinics offer a reduced-stress environment to pets, pet parents and the veterinary care team in a ‘state of the heart’ environment. Additionally, all members of the Dr. Treat team are Fear-Free certified. Both clinics offer state-of-the-art surgical, diagnostic, and dental equipment onsite, as well as a pharmacy. The San Francisco clinic was recently named one of five Merit winners in Design360’s 2023 Hospital Design Competition.
“We are building one of the most technologically advanced veterinary care companies and creating aesthetically designed spaces for anxiety-free experiences,” said Rakesh Tondon, co-founder and CEO of Dr. Treat. “Our goal is to provide best-in-class quality of care for pets and an amazing experience for pet parents, while also driving down costs through the use of technology.”
In 2022, Dr. Treat received $10.5M in seed capital from many Silicon Valley-based investors who recognized the potential of the company’s tech-focused approach to veterinary care. The funding round was led by Y Combinator, Liquid2, Epic Ventures, Quarry Ventures, Builders VC, Garuda Ventures, Scrum Ventures, UpHonest Capital and the Rebel Fund, among others. In addition, Dr. Treat had significant interest from animal lovers and angel investors, including Ben Silbermann (Founder/CEO of Pinterest), Divesh Makan (Founder/CEO of ICONIQ Capital), Ravi Sajwan (COO of 5 Hour Energy), Mick Murray (ex-CFO of Blue Cross) and Caterina Fake (Founder of Flickr), among others.
Dr. Treat’s Burlingame clinic will open at 220 Primrose Rd. in late January 2024. For more information, visit Dr. Treat at www.drtreat.com or on social media at @itsdrtreat.
About Dr. Treat
In 2020, Rakesh Tondon and Hetal Shah were one of 12.6 million households to welcome a new pet into their lives. Their three-month-old puppy, Coco, offered them a first-hand look at the shortcomings of the traditional veterinary industry. At that time, there were long waits for veterinary care because clinics were understaffed and overworked, and clinics lacked use of even basic technology and tools to help them be more efficient.
That is when Rakesh and Hetal decided to use their backgrounds in technology, hospitality and marketing to revolutionize veterinary care. They created Dr. Treat to help pets like Coco access better healthcare and provide a better experience for pet parents like themselves. Dr. Treat offers highly personalized & preventative care, in-clinic and virtually, based on pets’ unique personalities, breeds, health markers, diet and lifestyle, among other factors. Along with co-founder Charlie Bowman, they opened the first Dr. Treat location in San Francisco, Calif., in August 2020, with the mission to deliver accessible veterinary care through the use of data and technology. They anticipate opening a second location in Burlingame, Calif., in October 2023.
With plans to scale nationally, Dr. Treat is developing a next-level data platform to reshape veterinary care. The company’s technology-driven approach has the potential to drastically improve the quality and consistency of care and radically reduce long-term care costs of companion animals.
