| Marlee Lauffer
President of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
Foundation/ VP of Marketing and Communications, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
Ultimate Female Community Leader
Marlee Lauffer was appointed President of the Henry Mayo Hospital Foundation in September 2015 and serves as the hospital’s Vice President of Marketing and Communications. A 26-year resident of the Santa Clarita Valley, Marlee has been deeply involved with the local business and nonprofit communities, serving as Chair of the SCV Chamber and undertaking leadership roles on various boards and committees. Marlee is dedicated to the community where she lives, works and raises her daughter Katharine, and believes it is a privilege to help make the Santa Clarita Valley even more awesome! www.henrymayogiving.com |
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Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook
Chancellor of College of the Canyons
Ultimate Female Educator
Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook is serving in her 28th year as the CEO of the Santa Clarita Community College District. When hired in 1988 at the age of 37, Dr. Van Hook was then the youngest individual ever appointed as a California Community College CEO and was one of only five women to serve as a district-level CEO at that time. As California’s current longest-serving community college CEO, Dr. Van Hook has established a reputation for innovation and collaboration during her 45-year career as a higher education leader in California. She presides over a district that covers 365 square miles and serves an ever-increasing and diverse population numbering more than 250,000 people. www.canyons.edu |
| Laina McFerren
Co-owner of Wolf Creek Restaurant Brewing & Co.
Ultimate Medium Business (51-100)
When Wolf Creek Restaurant & Brewing Co. opened its doors, it was a dream come true. Laina McFerren met and married her husband Rob while they both worked at The Cheesecake Factory. One Christmas, Laina gave Rob a home brewing kit. After the first batch, a dream was born! Wolf Creek Brewing Company began its life in the McFerren’s garage as bottles of different home brews started filling all of the available space. Wolf Creek has become an award-winning community meeting place known for its great food, great brews and amazing desserts. Most importantly, Wolf Creek is known for friendly, knowledgeable staff that make guests feel welcome and at home.
www.wolfcreekbrewingco.com |
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Rachel Cosgrove
Co-owner of Results Fitness
Ultimate Female Fitness Professional
Rachel Cosgrove is Co-owner of Results Fitness in Downtown Newhall, located on Walnut Street, which is the longest-standing family-owned gym in SCV and has been named one of the Top Best Gyms in the country by Men’s Health Magazine. At Results Fitness, we
“change the way fitness is done!”
Rachel also has two best selling books published, The Female Body Breakthrough and Drop Two Sizes. She is a columnist for Women’s Health Magazine, a consultant for Nike and was named IDEA Health & Fitness Association’s 2012 Personal Trainer of the Year. www.rachelcosgrove.com |
| Dr. Kelly Smudde
Santa Clarita Advanced Dentistry
Ultimate Female Dentist
Dr. Kelly Smudde is a fourth-generation dentist whose grandfather was one of the first oral surgeons in Indiana. Her family has been in dentistry for nearly 100 years. Dr. Kelly graduated from Northwestern University School of Dentistry and completed her residency at UCLA Sepulveda Veterans Affairs Medical Center. She is married to Dr. Allen Smudde, who also came from a long line of dentists. Both Dr. Kelly and Dr. Allen actively support charities and educational initiatives in the Santa Clarita Valley. What’s their motto? Always give more than what is expected of you. www.yourvalenciadentist.com. |
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Pam Ingram
Realtor at RE/MAX of Santa Clarita
Ultimate Female Realtor
More of a consultant than a salesperson, Pam Ingram is one of the top Realtors at RE/MAX of Santa Clarita. She is a member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame and received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. She was awarded the Five Star Professional Award for Real Estate for 2014 and 2015, an accolade given upon the recommendations of past clients and affiliates. “Clients for a Lifetime” serves as her motto because 90 percent of their business is return or referred clients. Pam has always believed giving back to the community that supports her is very important, so along with SIGSCV, Pam contributes time and resources to many local non-profits.www.pamingram.com |
| Laurie Tucci Auger
Owner of Via Tucci
Ultimate Female Retail Owner
Laurie Tucci Auger is the proud owner, and primary salesgirl, at the one and only Via Tucci women’s clothing boutique. Though it has only been open about 18 months, the retailer has been going strong and enjoying growth and quick success. The moment customers enter Via Tucci, they will understand the experience is all about: them. Personal attention and catering to customers is alive and well
within the walls of this tiny boutique.
“I truly enjoy helping you find something that is unique, comfortable and, most importantly,
makes you feel fabulous!” Laurie said.
Talk to Laurie for a personal shopping experience, or check out the latest fashions on
Facebook. www.viatucci.com |
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Jennifer Gerard
President and CEO of Southern California
Whitening Lighting & Gerard Cosmetics
Ultimate Female Community Spirit
Jennifer Gerard is President and CEO of Southern California companies Whitening Lightning (2010) and Gerard Cosmetics (2014). Her business philosophy is: “My customers are the reason I am in business and the driving force behind my success.” A philanthropist and strong supporter of Santa Clarita businesses, Jennifer Gerard contributes to non-profit organizations, sponsors charity events and donates her time to coach people through the challenges of running a 21st Century business. Her products are hot on the celebrity circuit and sold worldwide. www.whiteninglightning.com,www.gerardcosmetics.com |
| Martha Aguilera
Owner of Kokolita’s Cakes & More
Ultimate Female Young Entrepreneur
Kokolita’s Cakes & More was established in 2011 by owner Martha Aguilera, who was
once a single teen mom struggling through some hard life lessons.
“I love to have a bakery that’s more than just your average cupcake shop,” Martha said. “Not only do we make delicious and unique cupcakes and cakes, but also I added my Chilean background twist with our signature empanadas. Kokolitas bakery takes you back to the 1950s and sends your taste buds into savory flavor frenzy.”
A committed entrepreneur, she has recently made her next business move with Costco Wholesale, one of the largest wholesale companies in the United States. www.kokolitacakes.com |
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Shannon Mee
Co-owner of Egg Plantation
and Newhall Refinery
Ultimate Female Resturant Owner
If there’s one thing you should know about Shannon Mee, owner of Egg Plantation and Newhall Refinery, it’s that she loves her job.
“If you would have asked me 17 years ago if I thought I would own two restaurants, I would have said no,” Shannon said. “But I couldn’t imagine doing anything else now.”
For about 15 years, Egg Plantation has been serving breakfast and lunch under our ownership. Newhall Refinery has been serving lunch and dinner for more than two years.
“Never stop learning and improving is my business and life mantra. Treat people genuinely and with kindness, and you will get the same back,” she said. www.newhallrefinery.com,www.eggplantation.com |
| Missy Skinner
Director of Membership and Marketing,
Valencia Country Club
Ultimate Female Rising Star
Missy Skinner is no stranger to the Santa Clarita Valley. Born and raised here, Missy has always been very active in her community through volunteer work. She is a former Henry Mayo Silver Rose Debutante and served as the 2013-2014 Henry Mayo Hospital Guild President. She is currently the Director of Membership and Marketing for Valencia Country Club and just celebrated her 16-year anniversary in October. A business mantra she has always liked throughout the years has been “success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” Missy was also a recipient of the 40 under Forty Award in 2014. www.valenciagolfclub.com |
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Michele Mittelman
Co-owner of Preferred Glass & Windows
Ultimate Small Business (1-50)
Michele Mittelman and her husband together own Preferred Glass & Windows. Although the business has been family owned since 1969, the Mittelmans have been in ownership for 18 years. Preferred Glass & Wondows’ specialty is expert installation and superior workmanship, helping them earn the trust and confidence of the community over the years, they have been recognized by the élite Magazine, Daily News, The Signal and Santa Clarita Valley Living.
“My business philosophy is to provide the highest quality product at the most reasonable price, while also providing a high level of customer service,” Michele said. “Please visit our state-of-the-art showroom!” www.preferredglassandwindows.net |
| Jaimie Ronchetto, DMV
Owner of Cinema Veterinary Centre
Ultimate Female Veterinarian
Dr. Jaimie Ronchetto is a small animal veterinarian and owner of Cinema Veterinary Centre in Valencia. A Santa Clarita native, Dr. Ronchetto graduated from Hart High School with honors and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree from University of California, Davis. She was accepted to Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, where she spent over two years on the island of St. Kitts in the Caribbean completing class and laboratory work, prior to being matched to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine for her clinical training. She has worked and served the SCV as a veterinarian for five years and opened Cinema Veterinary Centre three years ago. www.cinemavet.com |
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Kylie Patterson
Director of PR, Events and Recruitment for
Scorpion Design
Ultimate Large Business (101+)
Kylie Patterson has been with Scorpion Design since 2011, where she founded the company’s charitable branch, Scorpion Cares. She has held the Director title since 2013, with a focus in public relations. She also spearheads the company’s recruiting efforts and corporate event planner.
Prior to Scorpion, she attended UCLA, earning her degree after just three years. Kylie is a die-hard Bruins fan and even named her Labradoodle Royce after the college’s famed performing arts center, Royce Hall. A self-professed bucket list conqueror, her philosophy is to “live with intention and be a person of integrity.”
www.LinkedIn.com/in/KylieCPatterson |
| Denise Placencio
Attorney, Managing Partner at
DaCorsi Placencio P.C.
Ultimate Female Lawyer
Denise Placencio is a family law attorney and Managing Partner of DaCorsi Placencio, P.C. Focusing exclusively on family law, Denise has built her law firm by referrals and consistent results since 1997. She credits her success to unparalleled preparation for all cases, keen listening skills and achievement of the client’s objective. She has been named a Super Lawyer of the Year since 2013 and one of Southern California’s Top Female attorneys. Denise is a Valencia resident and is highly involved in Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley (SISCV). She is also a board member of Single Mothers Outreach. www.dacorsi.net |
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Ingrid BlancoProfessional Dancer, Instructor and
Choreographer Co-owner of D’Wilfri
Dance Art and Entertainment
Ultimate Female Performing Artist
Ingrid Blanco, a member of the NDCA of Professional Dancers and Competitors, was born in Costa Rica and started dancing when she was 18 years old. She has danced with the Cuban Ballet Company, and was named Salsa Champion from 2001 to 2004 with her partner Willy Arroyo. For seven years, Ingrid has been working as a Professional Dance Instructor, while competing in and performing for special events, honing her talents in all forms of ballroom dance and choreography. She has performed on Univision’s international TV show, Sabado Gigante, as well as on USA Television Network.
“It’s more than just dancing,” Ingrid said. “We change peoples lives through dance.”
www.santaclaritadanceclasses.com |
| Elizabeth Hopp
Executive Vice President Chief Banking
Officer for Bank of Santa Clarita
Ultimate Female Bank Professional
Residents for 35 years, Elizabeth Hopp and her husband Steve have two sons and four wonderful grandchildren. She has been in banking for over 40 years, and with Bank of Santa Clarita since its inception in 2004. Elizabeth currently serves as Executive Vice President/Chief Banking Officer, taking responsibility for the branch, business development and customer service functions. Bank of Santa Clarita provides an unparalleled caliber of personalized service to both business and consumer clientele. Elizabeth has been active in several local community organizations, including SCV Chamber, Boys & Girls Club of SCV, Child & Family Center, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, Michael Hoefflin Foundation, and SCV Committee on Aging.
www.bankofsantaclarita.com |
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Cynthia Smith
Clinical Skin Care Esthetician & Medical
Assistant at Ivy Day Spa
Ultimate Female Beauty Expert
Cynthia Smith is a Licensed Clinical Esthetician and Certified Medical Assistant servicing the Santa Clarita Valley and Beverly Hills for 15 years. She currently works at The Ivy Day Spa and Linage Dermatology in Valencia. Cynthia’s approach with regard to recommending treatments, products and regimens goes back to basics.
“I always use top quality products and always take into consideration the lifestyle and budget of my clients,” she said. “My mantra? Less is more, simple is better, and consistency is key.”
Most concerns are better treated with a more simple and strait-forward approach. Cynthia keeps herself informed, educated and up-to-date with the latest in skin care treatment, technologies and products. theivydayspa.com,
www.linagedermatology.com |
| Julie M. Sturgeon
Certified Public Accountant
Ultimate Female CPA
Julie M. Sturgeon, CPA provides professional accounting and tax services. Since 1991 they have served local individuals and businesses. They are committed to providing prompt and personal customer service through regular meetings with the stakeholders/shareholders. The company’s principal strength lies in applying tax and accounting techniques to the actual day-to-day functions of running a business. Collaboratively, they assist clients with maintaining compliance and manage records accurately for the best possible elimination of risk. Their services include tax planning along with representation with various taxing authorities, bookkeeping, payroll, bank reconciliations, general ledger and financial statement assistance and QuickBooks training. www.santaclaritatax.com |
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Eve Bushman
President of Eve Bushman Consulting
Ultimate Female Consultant
Eve Bushman has been consulting for well over two decades, currently as president of Eve Bushman Consulting “EBC,” formerly known as Eve’s Wine 101 Consulting, which she founded in 2012. EBC provides business and marketing advice for both wine and non-wine related businesses, specializing in creating and implementing out-of-the box marketing ideas, management/networking tools, social network training, press releases, event assistance, newsletters, advertorials and website content. Eve Bushman can help you “bring them in and bring them back,” so you can keep those customers you get. Let Eve help you “unlock your
business potential.”
www.evebushmanconsulting.com |
| Lindsay Schlick
Owner/Photographer SchlickArt
Ultimate Female Photographer
Lindsay Schlick has been a co-owner and photographer at SchlickArt for more than 4 years. A husband and wife photography and video team, SchlickArt specializes in telling women’s stories. SchlickArt’s signature is their Luxury
Pampering Photo/Video Sessions.
“I love telling every woman’s story, while capturing her beauty – inside and out!”
Lindsay said. Lindsay’s expertise in women’s portraiture, marketing, social media, volunteering and networking has catapulted her business into one of the most well respected photography studios in the Santa Clarita Valley. Lindsay is originally from the UK and now lives in Valencia with her husband Brian, who is co-owner and filmmaker at SchlickArt. www.schlickart.com |
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