Past WLS Speakers
At the Women’s Leadership Summit (WLS), we proudly feature a dynamic lineup of speakers who exemplify excellence and innovation across a range of disciplines. Each year, our stage hosts influential CEOs and pioneering entrepreneurs who share their journeys and strategies for success. Esteemed attorneys and leaders in the tech world offer insights on navigating their careers, while executives from major corporations discuss leadership and strategic vision. Wellness coaches lead empowering sessions on both personal and professional growth, and financial experts provide advice on managing wealth and much more. This diverse array of voices ensures that attendees are equipped with the knowledge and inspiration to lead with confidence.
Click on their photos below to learn more about our previous speakers.
Jennifer Barnhart
General Manager Mintek & Sales Director, Sales and Marketing Construction Materials
Carmeuse NA
Jennifer Barnhart
General Manager Mintek & Sales Director, Sales and Marketing Construction Materials
Carmeuse NA
With over two decades of expertise in B2B sales, marketing business development and operations, Jennifer is known for consistently driving company growth while developing high performing, passionate teams. Currently serving as the General Manager of Mintek Resources & Senior Director of Sales and Marketing Construction Carmeuse Americas, Jennifer is responsible for developing and executing the go to market vision & strategy to accelerate company growth into the growing, dynamic construction market. Throughout her career, Jennifer has demonstrated an ability to understand and quickly respond to market conditions and customer needs which has allowed her to quickly create significant ramp into new and under-performing markets. Jennifer is passionate about developing people-centric cultures that foster trust, creativity and transparency as she believes this is the best atmosphere for innovation and creativity. Her relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with her keen market insights, has been instrumental in shaping the success of the organizations she’s had the privilege to work with. Jennifer is married and the proud mom of two boys. When not working, she can be found watching her sons play soccer, reading, connecting to her local community and spending time in the great outdoors.
Nicole Beattie
CEO
Amrock
Nicole Beattie
CEO
Amrock
Nicole Beattie is Chief Executive Officer of Amrock and oversees the company’s daily title, appraisal and settlement operations.
Beyond education, Sabrina is passionate about emphasizing the art of networking and strategic marketing. Her belief: the perfect blend of “old school” and “new school” techniques cultivates genuine, lasting relationships.
A lifelong Michigander, Nicole has been with the Rocket Companies since 2004. She began her career in mortgage banking at Rocket Mortgage (formerly Quicken Loans), before transitioning to origination operations leadership. Since then, she has held numerous roles, expertly leading teams in underwriting, closing and servicing. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband, two children and three rescue dogs.
Sabrina Bier
Director of Digital Media and Education
Proper Title, LLC
Sabrina Bier
Director of Digital Media and Education
Proper Title, LLC
After a decade as a top-producing Realtor, Sabrina joined Proper Title to bridge the gap between real estate agents (and/or attorney agents) and title insurance through education and digital media. Known to “speak and think Realtor,” her unique insight has driven the creation of tailored educational programs, drawing large crowds for their relevance and timeliness within the industry. As a licensed CE and CLE instructor, her weekly classes and her online live show interviewing a myriad of real estate experts are a testament to her commitment to the industry’s professional growth while nurturing new partnerships and strengthening existing connections.
Beyond education, Sabrina is passionate about emphasizing the art of networking and strategic marketing. Her belief: the perfect blend of “old school” and “new school” techniques cultivates genuine, lasting relationships.
Sabrina’s personal journey — battling chronic illness, launching a career amidst a housing crisis, navigating 11 surgeries, co-founding a nonprofit, and fostering two teenage girls — has only fueled her ambition, deep empathy for others’ struggles and stands as a testament to her resilience and drive. Through every challenge and achievement, Sabrina embodies the ethos: “In every challenge, find strength; in every connection, find purpose.”; urging professionals to embrace their unique paths and finding strength in their relationships.
Connect on all socials: @sabrinabier
Kim Bosshardt
Owner, Board Certified Real Estate Attorney
Bosshardt Title Insurance Agency, LLC
Kim Bosshardt
Owner, Board Certified Real Estate Attorney
Bosshardt Title Insurance Agency, LLC
Kim Bosshardt is a board certified real estate attorney and the owner of Bosshardt Title in Gainesville, Florida. She attended the University of Florida, where she earned her bachelor’s and law degree. Kim and her husband Aaron successfully manage multiple businesses under the Bosshardt Family of Companies umbrella.
Kim is deeply involved in the Gainesville community, and is an active supporter of charitable endeavors focusing on the arts and children. She currently runs the Bosshardt’s Charitable Fund, and is on the board of the Community Foundation of North Central Florida. Previously, Kim has served on the PALS Community Advisory Board, UF Performing Arts Center Advisory Board, Dance Alive National Ballet Board, B’nai Israel Preschool Community Advisory Board, and UF Public Radio Advisory Board; and has chaired Children’s Home Society’s “Puttin’ on the Ritz”, American Cancer Society’s “Cattle Baron’s Bar”, and American Heart Association’s “Heart Ball.” She enjoys spending time with her three children Jack, Cosette, and Rose. Kim is also an avid reader, traveler, and home chef.
Yvonne Bourk
Vice President, Private Wealth Advisor
U.S. Bank
Yvonne Bourk
Vice President, Private Wealth Advisor
U.S. Bank
As a Private Wealth Advisor, Yvonne is responsible for providing comprehensive wealth management strategies tailored to her clients’ specific needs. These strategies encompass Investment Management, Private Banking, Trust and Estate Services, and Wealth Planning. Yvonne takes the time to understand her clients’ unique needs and directs teams of specialists — often working closely with other client advisors, such as attorneys and accountants — to provide services that help her clients work toward their goals.
Yvonne began her career in the banking and financial services industry in 1997. Prior to joining U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, Yvonne worked as a private wealth business manager at Merrill Private Wealth. Her professional background includes investment management, private banking and wealth planning.
Yvonne resides in Naples. When she is not at work, she enjoys volunteering for organizations that focus on the needs of at-risk children, women and education. Yvonne is an active and dedicated member of her community, volunteering as the 2013 as Sponsorship Chair for the Inaugural Dream Gala for the Children’s Museum of Naples, the 2012 Co-Chair of ‘Love that Dress’ to benefit Pace Center for Girls Pace Center for Girls and the 2014 Chair of ‘Wish Drive’ benefiting Make-A-Wish Foundation. She is a proud member of the Women’s Philanthropic Network and the Community Foundation of Collier County and was recognized as one of Collier County’s ‘Young Philanthropist’ by Naples Illustrated in 2014. Yvonne has been recognized as Gulfshore Life’s Magazine ‘40 under 40’ rising star, as well as The Buzz and Where Are They Now. She served as the Steering Committee Chair for the Southwest Florida Women’s Foundation and was one of the founders of ElevateHer. Most recently, Yvonne was nominated as a Woman to KNOW 2021, an organization dedicated to amplifying the voices of Female Leaders, Executives and Entrepreneurs. In addition, Yvonne recently graduated from Leadership Collier Class of 2022.
Amanda Brumbelow
Vice President of Operations
Allegiance Title of Arkansas
Founder, CEO, Business Coach
ARDU Business Advisors
Amanda Brumbelow
Vice President of Operations
Allegiance Title of Arkansas
Amanda Brumbelow has more than 23 years’ experience in the title industry with more than 50% of those years served in a leadership role including a role as an executive at a large title company. Amanda led multiple initiatives including the first eNotary closing in Arkansas and built the first of it’s kind Closing Agent Training Program. In 2014 Amanda was a 40/40 recipient and in 2019 she earned Top 10 Business Women.
In January 2022, Amanda founded her own company ARDÚ Business Advisors, LLC to help leaders of title companies across the country grow through process optimization, metrics, leadership development, and implementing a business framework. Amanda is a certified business coach for System & Soul, the only framework that combines the system and soul (humanity) of your business to create breakthrough.
In May 2022, Amanda joined two well-known and respected leaders in the title insurance industry, Patrick Curry and Brian Blackman at Allegiance Title Company of Arkansas. Amanda serves as the Vice President of Operations and is excited to balance her energy between ARDU and Allegiance.
Amanda currently serves as the president of the board of directors of Habitat for Humanity of Washington County, Arkansas and serves on the Community Council for the Mayor of Bentonville, Arkansas. Amanda and her husband, Keith live in Bentonville, AR where they raised their two daughters Bailey who recently joined ClosingLock as a Sales Development Rep and Dani who is attending college.
Carole Bullion-Mincy
Business Development Specialist
Liberty Title Agency
Carole Bullion-Mincy
Business Development Specialist
Liberty Title Agency
Carole Bullion, a Livingston County native, is the former Owner and President of Classic Title Agency in Brighton, Michigan. She has enjoyed over 37 years in the real estate and title industry conducting thousands of closings in southeast Michigan. Prior to opening her own title agency, she served as President of Stewart Title of Detroit where she was responsible for operations in the State of Michigan. She also served as Regional Director of Real Estate Development throughout 10 states in the Midwest for Stewart Title, one of the nation’s largest title insurers.
Licensed since 1985, Carole Bullion has a strong alliance with the real estate industry. As a certified instructor for the State of Michigan, each year she teaches Continuing Education courses required by the state for re-licensure. In addition to state licensing classes, she instructs the NAR Code of Ethics and has instructed seminars on Cyber Security and wire theft, Legislative Updates, RESPA compliance, teambuilding, mortgage fraud, and closing services both state and nationwide.
Carole has served as President of Women’s Council of Realtors, Livingston Chapter and a state officer for WCR. She has served as the Education Committee Chair for her local board, served for years on the ALTA Education Committee in Washington DC and coauthored the Ethics Training Program used by American Land Title Association throughout the United States and presented the program to members of Congress.
In addition to writing several industry related articles in national publications including “Recognizing Mortgage Fraud” in Title News, she is also author of the book “The Dark Side of the Closing Room” sold through Amazon.
Dennielle Casaletto
Vice President, Wealth Planner
U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management
Dennielle Casaletto
Vice President, Wealth Planner
U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management
As a Wealth Planner with U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, Dennielle works with teams of specialists to create customized financial plans to help clients work toward their goals. Her focus is on a range of financial strategies including asset allocation, retirement, education and wealth planning.
Dennielle has assisted high-net-worth individuals and families with their estate and financial planning needs since 2004. She began her career practicing law in Naples, at both Cummings & Lockwood, LLC and GrayRobinson, P.A. She was also a vice president and senior trust officer at U.S. Trust in Naples, Florida.
Dennielle joined U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management as a senior trust officer in 2013 and led the Florida trust department as trust managing director since 2018. It has been a natural transition for Dennielle to move to the role of wealth planner. She is an integral resource for the private wealth team, working several years with many of the clients and their families, now she will focus exclusively on assisting them with their planning needs.
Dennielle is active in her community as a member of the Estate Planning Council of Naples, the Collier County Women’s Bar Association, the Collier County Bar Association and the Florida Bar Association. She is a past Director for the Collier County Women’s Bar Association, Estate Planning Council of Naples and the Care Club of Collier County, Inc.
When not working Dennielle enjoys playing tennis, golf and traveling. She resides in Naples with her husband and son.
Ashley Cook
Founder and CEO
ZOCCAM
Ashley Cook
Founder and CEO
ZOCCAM
Ashley Cook, founder and CEO of ZOCCAM, is a licensed attorney in the state of Texas. She received her BA and Juris Doctorate from the Southern Methodist University. Prior to ZOCCAM, Cook built a legal practice focused on representing title companies and real estate brokers. This experience gave her the vision and passion for transforming payments in the real estate industry, in which she has been granted several patents.
Ashley serves on the SMU Dedman School of Law Emerging Leader Board; the Ebby Halliday Foundation Board; the Texas Land Title PAC Board; the University Park Firefighter Pension Board, the NAR RES Advisory Group of General Counsels. She is also an active member of the American Land Title Association and Texas Land Title Association.
Sarah Darr
Head of Financial Planning
U.S. Bank
Sarah Darr
Head of Financial Planning
U.S. Bank
As Head of Financial Planning, Sarah leads the strategy, platform and digital innovation of wealth management financial planning. Sarah is passionate about helping clients have better clarity and decision-making in their wealth journey.
Sarah began her career in financial services in 2002 and joined U.S. Bank in 2021. Prior to U.S. Bank, Sarah was an advice and planning leader at Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management working with teams to develop and execute key financial planning initiatives. Throughout her career, Sarah has a variety of experience in wealth management from planning, investment management, brokerage, strategy, and leadership roles. Her professional journey has brought unique insights in helping clients understand and achieve their financial goals.
Giving back to others is important to Sarah. She devotes time with her alma mater mentoring college students and preparing the next generation of women leaders as a Founding Board Member of The 25. Sarah is also a Board Member of Jack’s Basket, an organization focused on raising awareness and celebrating babies with Down syndrome.
Sarah and her husband Steve live in Shoreview, Minnesota with their three children. Outside of work they enjoy spending time outdoors, biking, cooking and golf.
Randy DeFoor
Senior Vice President, National Agency Counsel
FNF Family of Companies
Randy DeFoor
Senior Vice President, National Agency Counsel
FNF Family of Companies
Attorney Randle P. DeFoor (“Randy”) is with Fidelity National Financial Group as SVP, National Agency Counsel in their corporate home office located in Jacksonville, Florida. She obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of the South and her law degree from the Cumberland School of Law, Samford University. Randy joined FNTG in 2010 as Regional Major Claims Counsel and became a Senior Staff Underwriter in 2012 in the office of the Chief Underwriting Counsel. In 2014, Randy was promoted to National Agency Counsel reporting to the President of National Agency Operations. Under Randy’s direction National Agency Commercial Services was created which services agents across the country (“NACS”). In addition to NACS, Randy manages National Agency Support Services and Quality Assurance. Prior to joining Fidelity, Randy was Senior Corporate Counsel, VP, and Assistant Secretary with Regency Centers Corp., a real estate investment trust.
In 2019 Randy was elected to the Jacksonville City Council for District 14 representing over 70,000 people.
Michelle Fraley
Life Coach anc Counselor
Michelle Fraley Counseling and Life Coaching, LLC
Michelle Fraley
Life Coach and Counselor
Michelle Fraley Counseling and Life Coaching, LLC
Michelle is a clinical counselor, certified holistic life coach, yoga/meditation teacher and inspired speaker based in Tucson, Arizona. With a background in Clinical Psychology, Coaching and Mindfulness, Michelle believes that a holistic approach is the most effective way to harness your unique energy, retrain your brain for success and create lasting joy and happiness in your life. Michelle works as an Integrative Wellness Specialist at Miraval Resort and Spa in Arizona and also has a private clinical practice where she specializes in positive psychology, personal growth and development and helping her clients cultivate confidence and balance in their busy lives. Michelle has spoken to groups across the country and her wisdom has been featured in Yahoo, Women’s Health, NBC, UpJourney, Bustle, Midlife Single and Cosmopolitan.
EDUCATION:
- BA Psychology, Purdue University 1999
- MA Clinical Psychology, Ball State University 2001
- Certified 200 Hour Yoga Teacher, Arizona Power Yoga 2011
- WPCC, Certified Life Coach, Coach Training World 2018
- Certified Confidence Coach for Women, Centre of Excellence 2020
- Certified Meditation Teacher, Centre of Excellence 2020
- Certified Chakra Healing, Centre of Excellence 2020
My journey helping others began in 2001 when I started my career as a therapist at a community mental health center. The goal of my practice has always been to help people recognize that the best version of them already exists. My objective isn’t to fix you, but instead to allow the best parts of you to shine! Now is the time for you to focus on you and truly connect with what matters most.
Combining my therapy background with training in holistic life coaching, yoga and meditation has given me the expertise necessary to help clients manifest a healthy and integrated mind-body connection. It is through these practices that real, tangible change takes place. Ditch feeling stuck and unmotivated and cultivate growth, confidence and meaning into your life!
Along with my private practice, I also work as an Integrative Wellness Specialist at Miraval, Arizona. My time at Miraval allows me the opportunity to host lectures, workshops, and conduct private sessions with guests on topics such as living a true life in balance, positive thinking and managing life transitions.
A little more about me…I am happily married to my high school sweetheart and we have been going strong for over 30 years! I am a Midwestern native, but have called Tucson home since 2003. I am the proud parent of one amazing teenage daughter and three fabulous fur babies. I enjoy hiking, live music and authentically connecting with others. When I am enjoying some “me” time, you’ll probably find me practicing yoga, taking long walks, journaling, watching documentaries, cuddling my pets and reading.
Linda Grahovec
SVP, National Agency, Director of Communications, Education, Marketing
FNF Family of Companies
Linda Grahovec
SVP, National Agency, Director of Communications, Education, Marketing
FNF Family of Companies
Linda has been in real estate transactions services since 1986. She was a full-time real estate broker for 10 years and still holds her local managing broker’s license to stay in tuned with the real estate community. She expanded her knowledge base by working for a law firm as a paralegal for 8 years. She worked closely with attorneys, lenders, realtors and consumers from negotiating contracts to escrow closings. The next open chair at the closing table was that of a title officer. Linda spent 8 years working in a direct operation with responsibilities from new construction escrow to sales team management. For several years she worked with title agents of all sizes in Illinois and then a 12 State Division. She now supports title agents nationally, emerging web and digital technologies, all media marketing strategies for FNF Agency, marketing consultations for title agents, national communications, instructional learning design, internal staff and agent education on a wide range of topics, both in person and virtually. Linda has presented for FNF, ALTA, several state LTA’s, FBI, HUD OIG, IDFPR, IRELA, NBI, October Research and other organizations across the country. She is part of the Fraud Task Force and administers compliance laws, industry best practices and risk management for title agents of Alamo Title, Chicago Title, Commonwealth Land Title, Fidelity National Title and National Title of NY. When not at her job, she enjoys her 6 children, 9 grandchildren, loves to cook, entertain, photography and water sports.
Mary Anne Harris
Founder and President, Real Estate Closing Path
Founder and President, Positively Balanced, LLC
Founder and President, Positively Closed, LLC
Mary Anne Harris
Founder and President, Real Estate Closing Path
Founder and President, Positively Balanced, LLC
Founder and President, Positively Closed, LLC
Mary Anne began her law firm career in 1990 and obtained her Paralegal degree in 1992. In 1997, she began as a law firm administrator where she reconciled escrow accounts.
During that time, she identified a need to provide the real estate industry with a more robust solution for escrow reconciliation.
In 2000, Positively Balanced was created to help law firms and title companies become more compliant and reduce risk. In 2020, Positively Closed was created to provide virtual closing support to real estate firms to fill in the gaps for clients in need of more support from experienced closers. In 2021, Real Estate Closing Path was created to provide training and workshops in the real estate closing industry.
Kathi Kulesza
Owner
Kulesza Training & Consulting LLC
Kathi Kulesza
Owner
Kulesza Training & Consulting LLC
Kathi Kulesza uses her experience over the last three decades in management, training, customer service, loyalty, marketing, and executive leadership, to inspire audiences to lead with assertive confidence. She is a certified coach who can relate to the challenges you and your team face as you attempt to obtain work-life harmony.
Jenny Martin
SVP & Chief Business Development Officer, National Division Manager
Futura Title & Escrow, LLC
Jenny Martin
SVP & Chief Business Development Officer, National Division Manager
Futura Title & Escrow LLC
Jenny started her career in the title industry in 1994. Her areas of responsibility included holding various operational, business development, and management roles prior to joining Alliance Title in Idaho in 2005 as VP and County Manager. In 2006, she was promoted to VP & Corporate Business Development Director and tasked with identifying and growing regional/national business and establishing a corporate marketing department. In 2008 and 2009, her role expanded temporarily to include VP of Regional Escrow & Long Term Escrow Services. In 2012, she was promoted to Senior Vice President. With the addition of AmeriTitle in 2013, Jenny’s role changed to Futura and included working on behalf of all brands.
She currently serves as Senior Vice President & Chief Business Development Officer with responsibility for overseeing corporate marketing services to support the growth of over 70 offices and 4 brands. She also serves as the National Division Manager with responsibility for overseeing the national division sales and operations with a focus on growth. She graduated from Boise State University with a degree in Business Administration, Finance.
Jenny currently serves locally in her community as a member of the Board of Directors and the Downtown Development Task Force for the Treasure Valley YMCA. She serves the industry as Education Chair for the Idaho Land Title Association; Co-Chair for the ALTA Registry Committee; Member of the ALTA Membership Committee: Co-Chair of the ALTA Membership Retention Sub-Committee; and Member of the ALTA Industry Business Steering Committee.
Outside of work, Jenny enjoys spending time with family and friends and participating in many of the outdoor activities that the Northwest has to offer.
Erica Meyer
CEO and Publisher
October Research, LLC
Erica Meyer
CEO and Publisher
October Research, LLC
Erica Meyer is Owner and Publisher of October Research, LLC. October Research is dedicated to educating and empowering professionals in the real estate transaction to strengthen their business and enhance their position in the marketplace, ensuring the integrity of home ownership. The company provides education through their five B2B publications, annual conferences, webinars, websites, email newsletters, marketing and advertising services, social media and custom publishing.
Prior to purchasing October Research in 2011, Ms. Meyer worked in the online business unit at Sears Holdings Corporation and spent 10+ years with UPS in sales management, technology, revenue management and marketing.
Ms. Meyer earned her BA from the University of Dayton and MBA from National-Louis University. She has been a member of Specialized Information Publishers Association (SIPA), Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), serves on the Talent and PR Committees for the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and works closely with numerous industry associations. She has completed the Aileron Course for Presidents, spoken at the Kent State 2019 Spirit of Women in Business conference and other industry conferences.
In 2019, Ms. Meyer was recognized by Crain’s as a Notable Woman in Entrepreneurship and in 2014 a Women of Influence in Housing by HousingWire Magazine. In her free time, she has tutored high school students for the ACT, fundraised and coordinated numerous community service events, ran half marathons but her favorite pastime is spending time with her husband and kids.
Mary O’Donnell
CEO
Westcor Land Title Insurance Co.
Mary O'Donnell
CEO
Westcor Land Title Insurance Co.
Mary O’Donnell is the Chief Executive O icer of Westcor Land Title Insurance Company in Maitland, Florida. Under Mary’s leadership, Westcor has achieved a national presence through geographic expansion and superior service to title agents. Mary’s focus on continuous innovation and the use of advanced analytics and technologies has made Westcor a valuable distribution partner. As a result, Westcor has achieved substantial premium growth and market leading profitability.
Mary is actively involved with industry issues and developments. She is a member of the American Land Title Association’s Board of Governors and serves on several of its committees. As a known innovator and leader in the title industry, Mary is frequently asked to speak at industry events.
Mary is an honor’s graduate of the University of She ield College of Law. Prior to her involvement with the title insurance industry, she practiced real estate law in New York. Mary is licensed to practice in both New York and Florida and is a member of each state’s bar association.
She resides in Florida with her husband Kevin, and they enjoy playing tennis and traveling.
Sheri Olsen
SVP, National Director Banking Services
First American Trust, FSB
Sheri Olsen
SVP, National Director Banking Services
First American Trust, FSB
Sheri Olsen, SVP, National Director Banking Services at First American Trust, has been working in the title industry for over 20 years. She recently accepted a new role managing the Agency Banking sales initiative. Prior to these responsibilities , Sheri managed PCN Network, Agent Advantage, and the Mountain Region states for the Agency Division.
Sheri grew up in the title industry, as her father managed a title agency that was eventually purchased by First American Title. She began her title career in high school scanning files into microfiche. She also gained experience working as a commercial real estate appraiser. Sheri accepted a position as Executive Director of the Utah Land Title Association in 1999, and the following year she joined First American Title as a sales representative for the Agency Division.
Sheri graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. Sheri has served on the Utah Land Title Association board since 2015, First American’s Women in Leadership Board since 2018 and is currently a board member for the Boys & Girls Club of Utah.
Sheri has three amazing children: Matthew (29) who is married to Miranda, Millie (26) who is married to Trent, and Eliza (21) who is married to Josh and three amazing grandchildren Thea, Jack and Lucy. She enjoys reading, running and spending time with her family.
Laura Perry
Division President, Tennessee
Stewart Title
Laura Perry
Division President, Tennessee
Stewart Title
Laura is the founder of Homeland Title LLC in Franklin, Berry Hill, Spring Hill & Columbia, TN. Her company has handled over 42,000 real estate transactions since it began in 2003. She sold the company to Stewart Title after 19 years as an owner operator and now serves as the Division President for Stewart Title in Tennessee. Laura current position has her leading 7 managers who lead70 employees.
Laura is passionate about real estate and the title insurance industry. She is a real estate attorney and a real estate investor. She invests in residential long term and short term rentals, residential and commercial raw land, and commercial buildings. She believes that Americans generate wealth by investing in real property in the US.
She participates as a guest speaker at seminars and workshops for REALTORS®, (as a TREC approved Instructor) Attorneys (as a TNCLE approved instructor) & Mortgage Bankers concerning real estate, residential lending, contracts & title insurance.
Laura celebrates 30 years of marriage to her long time sweetheart, and fellow title attorney, Jon Perry on August 15, 2022. Together they have two children, Ryan (24) and Tanner (22). Laura enjoys riding bikes and playing pickleball in Key West with her husband.
Beth Pritchard
Former President & CEO of Bath & Body Works
Board Member for numerous recognizable companies
Beth Pritchard
Former President & CEO of Bath & Body Works
Board Member for numerous recognizable companies
Beth Pritchard is an icon and a pioneer with years of accomplishments at some of the most recognizable brands in the world! She is brought her experience to the WLS2023 stage to help Advance the Leaders of Tomorrow.
Ms. Pritchard served as Principal and Strategic Advisor to Sunrise Beauty Studio, a company developing third party personal care products and fine fragrances 2009 – 2017. Ms. Pritchard also served as North American Advisor 2008-2013 for The Alshaya Group; the world’s largest franchisee group based in the Middle East. Ms. Pritchard brought her American-style specialty retail knowledge to the operations of Alshaya, a global operation with over 70 brands and vast brick-and-mortar holdings in 19 countries and over 2,800 stores throughout the Middle East and North Africa to Russia, Turkey and Europe.
Previously Ms. Pritchard was President and CEO, then Vice-Chairman of Dean & DeLuca where she oversaw the revamping and revitalization of the catalog and web businesses as well as establishing their Middle East franchising operations.
Perhaps best known for her role as President and CEO of Bath & Body Works, a purveyor of healthy, natural, good-for-you beauty products, Ms. Pritchard grew a tiny company based in Columbus, Ohio into a national chain of over 1,600 stores with sales over $2 billion, establishing Bath & Body Works as the fastest-growing specialty retailer of the decade. With virtually no advertising, Ms. Pritchard created a powerful and vibrant brand recognized by more than 95% of American women. During the same period, Ms. Pritchard founded and served as CEO for The White Barn Candle Company with sales of $200 million. She also was CEO of Victoria’s Secret Beauty with sales of $400 million.
Prior to joining Bath & Body Works, Ms. Pritchard was the first woman to become Vice President at SC Johnson, a family-owned company in Racine, Wisconsin. There she supervised the global insect control brands, including Raid Insecticides and Off! repellants and established ground-breaking strategic alliances with major multi-nationals in Germany.
Ms. Pritchard earned her MBA at Marquette University, studied International Business Management at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management in Lucerne Switzerland and has attended and spoken at numerous international business seminars.
Ms. Pritchard currently serves as the Lead Independent Director on the Board of Directors for e.l.f. Cosmetics, Inc. Ms. Pritchard previously served on the Boards of Intimate Brands, Albertsons, Borders Books, Ecolab, Shoppers Drug Mart (acquired by Loblaw March 2014), Zale Corp (acquired by Signet May 2014), Borderfree, Inc. (acquired by Pitney Bowes June 2015), Bpeace.org (non-profit), Cabela’s, Inc. (acquired by Bass Pro Shops September 2017), Vitamin Shoppe, Inc. (serving the maximum term of 10 years) and Loblaw Companies Limited.
Ms. Pritchard is married and has a daughter.
Stephanie McEwen Samuels
Vice President
MongoDB
Stephanie McEwen Samuels
Vice President
MongoDB
Stephanie Samuels is an executive with over 26 year experience selling technology. In her most recent Leadership roles at MongoDB, she has led Enterprise Sales teams in Chicago, ran Corporate Sales for all of North America, and most recently was tapped to lead the global team responsible for the relationship with Google focused on Generative AI- today’s hottest technology!
In her leadership roles, Stephanie has been laser focused on hiring, developing, and sponsoring women to reach their full career potential. She is a founding member of the Sell Like A Girl organization within MongoD focused on recruiting and developing outstanding female talent and Lead Like A Girl which embraces promoting women into Leadership positions. As the highest ranking female in the Sales organization at MongoDB, Stephanie is uniquely positioned to empower women to achieve their potential and excel in their careers at MongoDB and beyond.
Aside from being an established tech leader, Stephanie is a Mom of a Freshman at THE Ohio State and understands the struggles that many women face balancing career, family, and fun!
Victoria Saxton
Chief Financial Officer
Small Business Assistance Corp.
Victoria Saxton
Chief Financial Officer
Small Business Assistance Corp.
Victoria Saxton is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the Small Business Assistance Corporation (SBAC). In her role, she oversees cash flow planning, preparing and reviewing budgets, and tracking operational metrics. She has worked with SBAC for 7 years and has a total of 14 years of work experience in non-profit accounting.
Victoria completed her BBA in Accounting at Savannah State University and received her Master of Accounting Degree (MAcc) at Georgia Southern University. She is a graduate of the Savannah Area Chamber Leadership Savannah Class of 2019-2020 and sits on the City of Savannah Taskforce Subcommittee for Economic Empowerment and Wealth Development.
Lindsay Smith
Chief Strategy Officer
Title Alliance
Lindsay Smith
Chief Strategy Officer
Title Alliance
Lindsay focuses on developing strategies to strengthen their family of companies and to position them for success. Her emphasis is on overall growth, communication, and strategic development from both a corporate and joint venture perspective. As one of the culture drivers in the organization, Lindsay is integral in creating recruitment and retention strategies providing an environment that recognizes the team members as both employees and as humans with families outside of the office. In 2021, Lindsay identified and implemented a strategic 180-day onboarding program as well as developed a people centric approach to employee relations through the addition of a Director of People and Employee Experience Manager. On the growth side, Lindsay works closely with partners during the sales cycle to assure cultural alignment and the proper expectations are set and executed upon. Since 2016, under Lindsay’s strategic leadership, Title Alliance’s Western Division has increased by over 700% in profits. Lindsay is an inspirational leader that inspires and focuses on goal setting, personal growth opportunities and motivation for team members and partners in both live and virtual formats. Attention to detail and standards of excellence are apparent in all events, meetings, and client gatherings. Lindsay graduated from LaSalle University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and English Writing, Cum Laude in 2004. She has post-graduate education in Survey Design, Data Analysis & Statistical Charting, and Social Networking. Lindsay is also an expert in Meeting Planning. She joined the Title Alliance Family in 2005 and has made valuable contributions to the team as she has climbed each rung of the corporate ladder. Lindsay is the mother to three children, an Alumnae Member of the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, a member of the COO Alliance, a Founding Member of the GoBundance Women’s Tribe and an XChange Certified Facilitator. She has been a featured speaker for NS3; at RESPRO and has been on Podcasts including the Second In Command and The World’s Greatest Woman. She is also the co-host for Title Alliance’s Podcast, Title Alliance Live.
Mary Schuster
Chief Knowledge Officer
October Research, LLC
Mary Schuster
Chief Knowledge Officer
October Research, LLC
Mary Schuster serves as Chief Knowledge Officer at October Research, LLC.
Her unique career spans more than 25 years in the industry as a Closing Officer and Agency Manager, Corporate Marketing Director, Software Specialist and regulatory expert. She is a nationally recognized speaker to groups of title & settlement providers, lenders, realtors and attorneys.
While she didn’t set out to become a regulatory nerd, RESPA Reform and later TRID provided an opportunity to blend her talents in industry, software and education, when Mary helped lead title and settlement companies through learning and implementing those changes.
She recently moved to Galena IL, where she lives with her partner Dan and their two doggies, Grace and Shelby.
Melanie Thomas
Director of Business Development
Frontdoor
Melanie Thomas
Director of Business Development
Frontdoor
Melanie Thomas, Director of Business Development at Frontdoor, has more than 20 years experience in strategic partnerships across many industries including Home Services, Real Estate, Insurance, Mortgage and Banking, FinTech and SaaS. She leads cross functional teams to create and launch diverse sales strategies. In addition to business development, Melanie has served as M&A Integration Officer for two acquisitions and is a charter member of Frontdoor’s Diversity and Inclusion Council.
Melanie is completing her certification for the National Association of Corporate Directors. She is also a wife of 22 years, mother of 3 children, and fitness trainer who enjoys water sports, hiking, snow skiing, and cross-training.
Heidi Thorne
Director of Agency Operations
Agents National Title Insurance Co.
Heidi Thorne
Director of Agency Operations
Agents National Title Insurance Co.
Heidi has been in the title insurance industry for just over ten years, with industry experience in customer service, operations, compliance and vendor management. She began working with Agents National in 2011 as an Agency Services Representative and has since supervised customer support, continuing education, licensing, website interface management, integration implementation and operations management.
Heidi graduated from Columbia College in 2010 with a degree in Business Administration and Marketing with an emphasis in Environmental Science. She is a member of the American Land Title Association and serves on both the ALTA Registry and Membership committees. She is also a member of the Missouri Land Title Association, serving as chair of the Education Committee.
Heidi is an active member of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish. She is married to Cody Thorne and has three children, Gracyn, Connor and Tyler. She and her family reside in Columbia, Missouri.
Sam Verma
CEO
PrivoCorp
Sam Verma
CEO
PrivoCorp
Sam Verma is the CEO of PrivoCorp. She is a mortgage & title industry veteran with 25+ years of experience. She spent two decades originating mortgages and managing origination teams and is a go-to consultant that advises mortgage processors on how to work smarter to drive down costs and close loans faster.
Jolene Wall
Private Wealth Advisor
U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management
Jolene Wall
Private Wealth Advisor
U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management
As a Private Wealth Advisor, Jolene is responsible for providing comprehensive wealth management strategies tailored to her clients’ specific needs. These strategies encompass Investment Management, Private Banking, Trust and Estate Services, and Wealth Planning. Jolene takes the time to understand her clients’ unique needs, and she directs teams of specialists — often working closely with other client advisors, such as attorneys and accountants — to provide services that help clients work toward their goals. Jolene began her profession in the financial services industry in 2006. Prior to joining the Private Wealth Management team, Jolene served as a private banker, hired in 2015 by U.S. Bank Wealth Management, working at the Mankato, Minnesota office. Over her career she has received steady promotions with national financial organizations to grow her knowledge and skills, deciding to commit her focus to serving high net worth individuals, families and business owners. She has been recognized in each of her positions as a leader and champion for building a team culture, while delivering exceptional client service. Jolene relocated to Naples, Florida from Minnesota in 2021. She has a passion for working with organizations that focus on children, healthcare and food insecurities and will continue to commit her time and energy to non-profits that serve those groups in Southwest Florida. When not working, Jolene enjoys being active outdoors, playing golf, boating and spending time with her husband and two children.
Eastan Weber
Gender Equality Advocate
Eastan Weber
Gender Equality Advocate
Joyce Weiland
President
SoftPro
Joyce Weiland
President
SoftPro
Joyce Weiland began her career at SoftPro as a Sales Consultant in 1994. She advanced quickly to become SoftPro’s Director of Sales and Marketing and was promoted to her current position of President in 1999. Under Joyce’s leadership, SoftPro was ranked one of North Carolina’s 50 fastest growing technology companies for 2 years. In addition, she successfully transitioned SoftPro from a privately held corporation to a subsidiary of Fidelity National Financial in 2001. Joyce has overseen SoftPro’s impressive growth in becoming the title industry’s leading software with over 14,000 customer sites nationwide.
Leslie Wyatt
Director of Regulatory Compliance
SoftPro
Leslie Wyatt
Director of Regulatory Compliance
SoftPro
Leslie Wyatt is the Director of Regulatory Compliance at SoftPro. She began her career in the real estate industry over 20 years ago, and joined SoftPro in 2002. She currently oversees the Compliance Department with her primary focus being on regulatory issues at the Federal, state and county levels.
Leslie is a member of the ALTA Implementation Task Force, the Title Action Network Steering Committee, the ALTA Government Affairs Committee, the ALTA Membership Committee, the ALTA Education Committee and the TLTA Federal Issues Committee. She has represented ALTA at a congressional briefing regarding the CFPB and the TRID changes. Leslie travels though out country speaking on our industry’s hot topics with a focus on regulatory and compliance. Leslie continuous to work with the CFPB on various projects regarding TRID, UCD, MISMO and other industry hot topics.
