CHAPTER 212
Women to Watch
“Ignore the glass ceiling and do your work. If you’re focusing on the glass ceiling, focusing on what you don’t have, focusing on the limitations, then you will be limited.” – Ava Duvernay
Dr. Carolina Lucia Mercado recently joined Lighthouse of Collier’s Board of Directors.
Margaret Antonier, owner of Miromar Development Corporation, was honored by Gulf Coast University when it named the largest academic building, which houses The Water School and other STEM programs, Margaret Antonier Hall.
Laura Georgelos recently joined Naples Therapeutic Riding Center’s Board of Directors.
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Pam Beitlich, DNP, APRN, RN and Stephanie Havens Costello, Ph.D were recently appointed to Senior Friendship Centers’ Board of Directors, reinforcing organizational strength, community partnerships, and long-term philanthropic impact.
Teri Hansen, APR, founder, president and chief creative officer of Priority Marketing, was recognized by the International Network of Creatives as one of its 2026 Distinguished Artists for her steadfast leadership and community impact.
The Naples Italian American Foundation announced its 2026 scholarship award winners, including: Mileyda Lopez-Figueroa, Ida Alonzo-Dever Memorial Scholarship; Hadley Payne Renato, Stella Special Needs Scholarship; and Jennifer Bates, NIAF Special Needs Scholarship.
PROMOTION
Liz LaForce
Promoted to Concierge
Edison National Bank
NEW HIRES
Sarah Blanchette
Administrative Assistant
Home Base Florida
LaShaun Middlebrooks Collier
Strategic Partnerships and Social Innovation Officer
David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health
Lilia Cunningham
Director of Family Literacy
Grace Place for Children & Families
NEW HIRES
Jennifer Denike
Chief Development Officer
Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida
Michelle Fonte
Director of Bright Beginnings
Grace Place for Children & Families
Nukhet Hendricks
President and Chief Executive Officer
Freedom Waters Foundation
Brenda Jacobson
System Director of Central Development
Lee Health Foundation
NEW HIRES
Isabella Leon
Marketing Coordinator
Preferred Travel & Company
Jill Striz
Principal of Freedom Ave Maria
Freedom Institute of Collier County
For consideration in Women to Watch, email a recent success story of a woman you’d like to celebrate, along with her high-resolution photo, to inspireme@ebellamag.com. This might include a big accomplishment, award or honor received, appointment to a Board, educational achievement, etc.
