About My Role
As Executive Vice President, I work closely with the President & CEO to direct, coordinate and support the work of the Foundation to ensure we are meeting the Foundation’s mission. My primary responsibilities include leadership and oversight for philanthropic initiatives and grantmaking, communications and marketing, and community education.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
Our mission is not only important for a multitude of reasons, it’s realistic and doable. To “optimize” means to make the best or most effective use of something. In our case, we are providing support and services to help people in our community be as healthy and well as they can be — in body, mind and spirit.

What are your words to live by?
“You Can’t Stop the Waves but You Can Learn to Surf” ― Jon Kabat-Zinn, Author – Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life

Where can we find you outside of work?
Spending as much time as possible with my kids and grandkids!

More About Me
I’m an avid sports fan, especially for my alma mater – FSU (Go Seminoles!). I’ve officially been with our organization since 1989 when I was hired to plan the grand opening of the original Crosby Wellness Center.

About My Role
As CFO of WPHF, I manage the finances of WPHF. My primary responsibilities include financial planning, tracking cash flow, loan compliance, analyzing the company’s financial strengths and weaknesses, and proposing any corrective actions as needed. I oversee the investment portfolio to ensure adherence to investment policy and guidelines and am responsible for the preparation and presentation of annual budgets, administrative operations, and facility operations.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
It is the reason I have been working with WPHF for more than 28 years. I am blessed to have a career that embodies all the components that make up the perfect job for me, in an organization where the purpose is focused on assisting members of our community to live healthier lives.

What are your words to live by?
“Success is getting what you want, Happiness is wanting what you get.”

Where can we find you outside of work?
You can find me at home working in our gardens; volunteering at Easterseals Florida, a truly rich and rewarding experience for the last 22 years; and enjoying time with friends and family.

More About Me
I graduated from Bryant College (now Bryant University) with a BSBA in Accounting. After working for a CPA firm for three years, I moved to Los Angeles and began a 10-year career in the development and construction field, working my way from staff accountant to Vice President of Finance (where I relocated to the Orlando division). I left the construction world seeking more purpose and was fortunate to join WPHF. I am grateful to have the opportunity to volunteer, in different capacities, for various local and state non-profits.

About My Role
In my role as Senior Director, Community Impact & Engagement, I provide strategic oversight and planning for our philanthropic community impact work and for our communications and marketing efforts that support WPHF’s owned partners, including the Center for Health & Wellbeing, the Crosby Wellness Center, and Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen. I also lead our portfolio of grantmaking, special events, brand initiatives, and digital and print content planning, production, and publication.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
I pursued a career in non-profit work because I sought to make a difference in people’s lives. At WPHF, we do that in the most important way – by supporting and bettering the very thing that matters the most, our health. From our grantmaking with our community partners to our education portfolio to our offering of healthy and delicious food at Nourish and beyond, WPHF touches the lives of so many with one simple goal and no ulterior motive. I find a lot of pride in knowing that the work we do makes people’s lives better, longer, healthier, and happier.

What are your words to live by?
My mantra has always been “grit and grace.” Grit reminds me to face challenges head-on, to remain determined, and to always see things through with passion and focus. Grace reminds me to find joy and fulfillment in the service of others, to never lose my sense of humor, and to look for the levity in every situation.

Where can we find you outside of work?
My husband Joe and I have a young daughter, Julia, with whom we spend most of our time, fostering our shared love of sports and physical activity, music, and spending time with our family and friends. I also love to cook and entertain, and I am perpetually decorating and re-decorating our 100-year-old home in downtown Orlando. Riding the Peloton, swimming, and playing tennis (not well!) provide me with a much-needed physical outlet and social connections that are so important to our overall wellbeing.

More About Me
Prior to joining the Winter Park Health Foundation team in 2018, I spent a decade in New York City working for the Women’s Sports Foundation (WSF), a 50-year-old nonprofit organization focused on advocacy and access for girls and women in sports founded by tennis champion and social justice icon Billie Jean King. I started as a media intern, then managed the Foundation’s digital communication and marketing efforts, PR, and sponsorships. Later, I started and directed the organization’s athlete leadership development program for collegiate and professional athletes transitioning out of competitive play. After my time at WSF, I was recruited to work as the Director of Digital Marketing and Social Strategy at Excelle Sports, a digital-first publishing start-up that provided news and feature content on more than 20 NCAA and professional women’s sports. I moved to Central Florida in 2018 to join WPHF, and love our close proximity to Florida’s beautiful beaches, the friendliness and hospitableness of our communities, and of course, the weather.  I grew up in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia and am a fourth-generation graduate of North Carolina State University. I am very proud to have continued my family’s tradition as a member of the Wolfpack. At NCSU, I earned a BA in Public Sector Leadership and was a scholarship member of the varsity swim team.

About My Role
As Senior Director, CHWB Operations, I administer and oversee budgets, policies, and operations for WPHF services at the Center for Health & Wellbeing including management contracts for the Crosby Wellness Center and Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen; guest services; facilities management; and event/venue management. I also coordinate with AdventHealth on its services located at CHWB.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
I have spent the last 15 years of my career in the health, wellness, and education fields. I love to see people reach their full potential. I believe that health and wellbeing is not the sole purpose of life, but being healthy allows a person to serve their true purpose in life. I started my career as a personal trainer and loved seeing the “transformation” that would happen when clients would achieve the goals they set for themselves. This included physical transformations, but many times the positive mental and social changes I saw in people fueled my passion for my work. I love to serve others, lead people, and be involved in a community. I always enjoy coming to work and seeing the positive social interactions that happen every day. The mission of the Winter Park Health Foundation is the driving force in what I do.

What are your words to live by?
The Golden Rule- Matthew 7:12. “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

Where can we find you outside of work?
In my free time, I enjoy camping with my family, exercising at Crosby, playing sports, running, swimming, hiking, biking, and getting lost in a good book or documentary.

More About Me
I spent the last 16 years in the health, wellness, and education fields, most recently as the Director of the Crosby Wellness Center at the Center for Health & Wellbeing. I started his career as a personal trainer and advanced into a variety of roles within the industry, such as Assistant Club Manager, Membership Sales Representative, Member Relations Manager, and Center Director. I graduated with a B.S. in Physical Education with an emphasis in Sports Management from Eastern Kentucky University in 2007 and hold six Nationally Accredited Certifications in the fitness industry. I have also been a successful entrepreneur, business owner, consultant, and spokesperson in the health and wellness industry.

About My Role
As Community Education Director, I’m passionate about providing enriching, educational, motivational, and empowering experiences for our visitors to the Center for Health & Wellbeing and those we serve in the communities of Eatonville, Maitland, and Winter Park. Our mission is to create healthy communities of active and engaged people and through our community education offerings, we hope to provide the spark and ongoing support to help people live their healthiest, happiest lives.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
Our journey to wellbeing is a long and sometimes complicated one. We’re all at different points on that path, and sometimes, we wander off it and need guidance to get started again or motivation to keep moving forward. Our community education programs provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment to meet people at any step on their journey to health and wellbeing. By providing this unique and special environment, both at the CHWB and at our community education outreach programs, we’re showing our community members that we are here to support and encourage them on their personal journeys to health and wellbeing.

What are your words to live by?
“If I’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river. The extent to which you can walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food, it’s a plus for everybody. Open your mind, get up off the couch, move.” — Anthony Bourdain

Where can we find you outside of work?
When I’m not at work, I’m usually busy parenting my active, busy teenage daughter. My husband, daughter and I love to explore Florida and the world. Some of our favorite activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, skiing, exploring cities on foot, planning our next adventures (sometimes years in advance!), and attending as many concerts, musicals, and sporting events as possible. I’m also proud to serve on the Board of Directors at The Mayflower at Winter Park.

More About Me
Prior to joining the Winter Park Health Foundation team in 2021, I spent nearly 15 years at Growing Bolder, where I oversaw all editorial projects, including the media company’s nationally syndicated TV shows, radio programs and podcasts, its magazine, and popular social media channels. I am a three-time Emmy nominee, and I’ve also worked at WESH-TV in Orlando and in the Washington, DC, bureau of ABC News, where I produced long-time White House correspondent Sam Donaldson’s webcasts and national radio program. Throughout my 20+ years in journalism, I covered everything from the 2000 presidential election to the 9/11 attacks to the 2006 Winter Olympics in Torino, Italy. I’m a graduate of the SI Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. I’m a proud Pennsylvanian (and huge Philly sports fan. Go Birds!) but since I’ve now lived in Central Florida for 20 years, my Floridian husband and daughter are trying to claim me for the Sunshine State.

About My Role
As Controller, I am responsible for financial reporting, human resources, and the comprehensive safeguards and controls over accounting systems and the assets of the Foundation.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
I’m passionate about the WPHF mission because our work supports the community in such a unique way. We reach out to meet people where they are to assist them on a journey to wellbeing…whatever that may look like for them. The programs we fund make a difference in the lives of many.

What are your words to live by?
Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.

Where can we find you outside of work?
When I’m not at work you can find me spending time with my husband and daughters. I enjoy boating and traveling with friends and family. I am an animal lover with three horses, two dogs, and three cats.

More About Me
I graduated from the University of Central Florida with an undergraduate degree in accounting and a master’s degree in business administration. I am a Certified Public Accountant and began my career at a local CPA firm in Orlando with a focus on the healthcare industry. I then worked as the Controller for organizations in the fields of pharmacy and home healthcare services. I am a Florida native who grew up on the Space Coast of Florida.

About My Role
As the Community Engagement Manager, I support the planning and implementation of strategic marketing and communications campaigns and events for the Center for Health & Wellbeing. I manage the content creation of blogs, newsletters, and social media for the Center and its operating partners including, the Crosby Wellness Center and Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
I am passionate about the WPHF mission because as humans, we don’t always advocate for our health and wellbeing – sometimes, we don’t know how. The WPHF creates an environment and encourages and educates the community to focus on their whole-person health including physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Being a part of the WPHF team has helped me become more open with advocating for my own wellbeing.

What are your words to live by?
My favorite quote is a poem written by Rupi Kaur. “What’s the greatest lesson a woman should learn? That since day one, she’s already had everything she needs within herself. It’s the world that convinced her she did not.” This quote inspires me to be confident in my work, step out of my comfort zone to share ideas, and to keep my chin up.

Where can we find you outside of work?
You can find me in a theme park! I love going to Universal and Disney World in my free time and posting my adventures on my social channels.

More About Me
I studied at Roosevelt University in Chicago, IL, and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management with a concentration in Event Planning. I later realized that I loved the marketing and communications that went into planning events and received a Master’s Degree in Marketing. In my past professional experience, I’ve planned and implemented events, marketing campaigns, and communications for a Park District, Middle School, and Shopping Center.

About My Role
As an HR Generalist, I ensure that all HR-related operations run smoothly and effectively so that the entire organization gets maximum value.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
Life can be challenging at times. However, to make a positive impact on people’s lives, it’s essential to fill your mind and body with positive energy. The WPHF is a prominent figure in the community, spreading these positive vibes.

What are your words to live by?
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the fortress of my life—Of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27-1

Where can we find you outside of work?
When I’m not working, I love taking my two-year-old French bulldog, Stormy, to explore dog-friendly islands, coffee shops, and malls.

More About Me
I hail from South Mississippi, where my love for the outdoors and good food was nurtured. I earned my undergraduate degree in Sociology from Florida State University and later obtained a Master’s in Human Resources from Rollins College. To sum it up, I enjoy immersing myself in environments that expose me to diverse cultural and social elements on a daily basis.

About My Role
As a Facilities Manager, I am responsible for keeping buildings properly maintained, clean, and safe. The role combines management tasks such as supervising contractors and internal staff. Also, oversight such as managing budgets, accounts payable, CAPEX, and advising on long-term energy efficiency is related to my responsibilities.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
I have dedicated the majority of my twenty-plus years in facility management to the not-for-profit sector. I have a sense of purpose and connection when working in an environment that is committed to people and the community.

What are your words to live by?
Life has no limitations, except the ones you make.

Where can we find you outside of work?
At the beach, kayaking looking for alligators, or playing the drums.

More About Me
I was a paramedic and police officer for ten years, before entering the career of facility management.

About My Role
As a Graphic Designer, I am part of the Communications and Marketing team. I design visually compelling communication pieces that bring creative solutions to the messages we share with the community. You can find examples of my work in CHWB’s monthly publication; Wellspring, and digital and print signage all throughout the Center, and inside Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
Learning and practicing things like mindfulness, meditation, proper nutrition, and exercise have truly helped me through my personal health struggles and have transformed my life. This is why I am passionate about WPHF’s holistic approach to health and wellbeing. I love that the WPHF takes the initiative to support its community by providing tools and resources to help others on their path to whole-person health.

What are your words to live by?
I don’t have a favorite quote but I have a favorite mantra that has helped me look for the good in every situation: “Stay grateful.”

Where can we find you outside of work?
You can find me online: Instagram @noem.design or at my portfolio website https://noemely.myportfolio.com/.

More About Me
I received my BFA from Miami University of Art and Design and since have been in the industry for more than six years. My favorite corner in the world of design is creating visual brand identities. I am a creative at heart and my goal is to always deliver meaningful and well-crafted work to purpose-driven businesses.

About My Role
As a Receptionist, I serve as the initial contact for all callers and visitors to WPHF. I also provide administrative and clerical support to various departments within the organization. This includes coordinating with vendors regarding maintenance of the facility, ordering supplies, setting up meeting rooms, typing, filing, photocopying, scanning, and mailing documents.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
I worked in the medical field for many years and saw the difference excellent healthcare made in an individual’s life. Improved physical health stimulates positive mental health and encourages increased social interactions and relationships, all of which contribute to a person’s wellbeing. WPHF provides access to such care for the young, the aged, and those in-between within the local community. It’s an honor to work with people whose hearts are devoted to giving and giving and giving even more.

What are your words to live by?
This scripture from Psalms 46:10 encourages me when my world goes mad: Be still and know that I am God.

Where can we find you outside of work?
When I’m not at work I’m usually at home with my family or meeting with friends. I enjoy reading so I joined a women’s book club, and those women became my closest friends and confidants. I like hunting for bargain treasures in antique shops and garage sales, visiting small old towns in Florida, and exploring museums, state parks, and botanical gardens.

More About Me
I obtained an AA Degree from Valencia Community College and then married and had three daughters. While my children were young, I gained certification as a Medical Transcriptionist, a position I held for many years. Later, I returned to Valencia College and was certified as a Medical Office Specialist. In 2021 I began working with the good people at WPHF and am happy for the opportunity to share in the mission to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

About My Role
As Community Education Coordinator, I work on all aspects of the education programs for the Center for Health & Wellbeing. I coordinate the day-of logistics for programs and collaborate with our presenters to ensure they have everything they need for the program to run smoothly.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
Each aspect of our heath is interconnected, working together to create a positive sense of wellbeing. Being involved in the creation of programs for the Center that contributes to this mission and seeing the impact our various programs have on our attendees’ wellbeing is extremely fulfilling.

What are your words to live by?
“When you’re given an opportunity to change your life, be ready to do whatever it takes to make it happen. The world doesn’t give things, you take things.” – Taylor Jenkins Reid, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Where can we find you outside of work?
I’m usually baking new desserts or trying to make a new dinner dish and forcing my friends or family to try it! I also love reading the newest romantic comedy or thriller book, rewatching my favorite sitcoms, or spending time with my family and friends.

More About Me
I grew up as an Army brat moving around until I went to Texas A&M University for my undergraduate degree in Parks and Recreation. Shortly after I finished my Master’s, I moved to Orlando to start my job at WPHF.

About My Role
As the Multimedia Producer, I create multimedia content on behalf of the Winter Park Health Foundation and its partners, including the Center for Health & Wellbeing, the Crosby Wellness Center, and Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen. This includes producing and editing video content as well as capturing photography around the Center for Health & Wellbeing.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
I love that I get to combine my video and photography skills in support of making a positive impact on our communities’ physical, mental, and social health and well-being.

What are your words to live by?
“Take what you got and fly with it.” – Jim Henson

Where can we find you outside of work?
I often can be found having fun at the local theme parks here in Orlando or hanging around the community enjoying my other passions.

More About Me
I am a Florida native, with a passion for storytelling through video and content creation. Prior to joining Winter Park Health Foundation, I worked professionally in broadcasting, live corporate events, and commercial video.

About My Role
As Staff Accountant at WPHF, I handle all Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable for WPHF and its owned operating partners, including the Center for Health & Wellbeing and Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
I believe that a little physical, mental, and social stimulation can solve a lot of the daily issues we as people feel.

What are your words to live by?
Be yourself, Everyone else is already taken!

Where can we find you outside of work?
At home with my wife and two dogs.

More About Me
I have my Bachelors’s in Accounting from UCF. I’m an avid sports fan and cheer for the Michigan and Detroit teams in all sports.

About My Role
As Program Assistant, I provide administrative assistance to all departments at WPHF, with a focus on grant administration and the Community Education Programs provided at the Center for Health & Wellbeing.

Why are you passionate about the WPHF mission to “make a positive difference in people’s lives by optimizing physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing”?
I have a firm belief that we were all created to be generous with what we have, whether it be money, special abilities, or emotional support. I love that WPHF was created solely to help people and that it generously improves people’s lives through its philanthropy. It is exciting to come to work each day with the attitude that I can make a difference simply by being a part of this team.

What are your words to live by?
“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” -Walt Disney

Where can we find you outside of work?
When I am not at WPHF, I can be found working in my garden. I love how a single morning of working in the sunshine can give me not only a beautiful place to sit and read my books but a feeling of joyful accomplishment.

More About Me
I grew up in Winter Park and always expected to be a teacher. I received my degree in education at UCF and then quickly realized I wasn’t created for the classroom. I needed more variety and the ability to change focus at a moment’s notice. I found this as a stay-at-home mom who homeschooled. My family led a life of exploration and adventure instead of sitting in a chair with a book. Once my children graduated, I was lucky enough to find a position at WPHF that allows me the freedom to do many different tasks, and to spend my time in service to others.