Introducing the Fall 2024 Transforming Leaders Goodmon Fellows
Leadership Triangle is pleased to introduce the 24 graduates of our Fall 2024 Transforming Leaders Program. Each graduate joins the lifelong Goodmon Fellowship, now encompassing 1200+ leaders across the Triangle.
Graduates of the Transforming Leaders program have successfully completed rigorous leadership development curriculum, investing in themselves while learning and growing alongside their cohort members. During the program, Transforming Leaders receive 1:1 leadership coaching, complete a leadership assessment, and complete several assignments to articulate their own leadership philosophy. Please join us in celebrating their significant achievement!
Read about the 2024 Transforming Leaders Goodmon Fellows below. We encourage you to connect with and support each of them.
Aaron Dye — My professional background started early on at my grandparents’ dairy farm. I got to help feed and care for 200 head of dairy cattle. I got to learn how to bale hay and stack hay in the summer. At 9 yo, I started my own lawn cutting business that I ran through high school. At 13 yo, I started learning how to care for Harbor Seals. At 19 yo, I was hired on a seasonal basis at SeaWorld of Ohio Animal Care team, where I went full time after 4 seasons. After 4 years of full-time work working with Dolphins, Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, and penguins. I left to become a middle school teacher in North Carolina. I taught a Self-Contained Cross Categorical Class of 14 students all with severe learning disabilities and behavior issues. The following year, I was a resource teacher for 7th grade Language Arts and Math. The following year, I finished my licensure for Middle Grade Education and took over as a 7th Grade Math and Science Teacher as well as coaching the boys Football and Basketball teams. After 5 + years of teaching regular education, I left to become the Director of Life Enrichment Penick Village in Southern Pines, NC. My job was to know all 200 residents on campus in all three levels of care (Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing) and develop a Life Enrichment program that would engage all 200 residents; and foster environment that would allow for the building and strengthening of relationships among all residents and residents with staff. In 2011, due to some family needs, I left this position and went back to working with animals at The North Carolina Museum of Life and Science as the Animal Care Manager. And I have been here since.
Carly Apple — I have worked in the informal education field for 20 years, proudly serving students and families through a diverse array of STEM programming. I have a background in Ecology, out-of-classroom learning, and environmental non-profits. I’m working at the Museum of Life and Science as part of the fantastic Education & Engagement Team, using informal science education to improve scientific literacy and critical thinking skills with the people of North Carolina.
Christy Austin — Christy Austin is a dedicated and mission-driven nonprofit executive with a proven track record in revitalizing and fortifying organizations to achieve significant financial and operational impact. With experience in both nonprofit and for-profit leadership roles, she excels in managing daily operational functions, financial planning, grant writing, and fundraising. Christy’s expertise includes financial reporting, budgeting, strategic planning, and the development and execution of comprehensive financial plans. Christy holds an MBA in Nonprofit Management from Johnson & Wales University and a BFA in Studio Arts from Texas A&M University. In her most recent role as Business Manager at the Creative Arts Center of Dallas, she spearheaded the post-pandemic financial recovery, implemented data-driven forecasting models, and led daily operations during a critical executive leadership transition. Christy’s commitment to social impact is evident in her role as a leader, driving community outreach programs focused on equality, diversity, and inclusion. With a history of successful grant proposals and reporting for state, federal, and private funding, Christy Austin is a dynamic professional dedicated to making a positive difference in her community.
Dara Demi — Dara Demi is the Chief Communications Officer for Wake County Government. She leads a stellar team of 21 and is responsible for the county’s external and internal communications, as well as its web content, social media, graphic design and video production. Prior to joining Wake County in 2015, Demi spent eight years managing media relations and marketing for the N.C. Department of Transportation. Before moving into the communications field, Demi spent nine years working in television news. She helped southern Arizonans start their day as morning anchor at KVOA-TV in Tucson. She also worked as an investigative reporter and anchor at WCTI-TV in New Bern, N.C.; KNWA-TV in Fort Smith, Ark. and KOMU-TV in Columbia, Mo. Demi graduated with honors from the University of Missouri School of Journalism in Columbia, Mo. with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and a history minor. She cheers emphatically for the Tigers, despite living in ACC country. In her spare time, Demi enjoys cycling, yoga, scuba diving, hiking and introducing her teenage twin daughters to 80s pop culture.
Dosali Reed-Bandele — Dosali Reed Bandele, originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has called Durham home for over two decades, residing there with her husband and four children. Dosali serves as the Executive Director of the West End Community Foundation, a community-rooted organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals residing in the West End (Southwest Central Durham area) and the broader City of Durham. She deeply values people, relationship-building, and community development. Dosali finds fulfillment in empowering individuals to pursue their personal and professional aspirations. It brings her joy when she can help families find resources that will enrich their lives and leverage relationships that can lead to more opportunities. She also values collaborations with other community organizations to ensure that everyone in Durham thrives.
Eli Bell — Eli is the Director of Asset Management at CBC Real Estate, overseeing commercial leasing and asset management for nearly 2 million square feet of office, multifamily, and mixed-use properties. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Mississippi State University and is a licensed real estate broker in North Carolina. He lives in Durham with his wife, Maddie, and their son, Leo.
Glenda Polanco — My name is Glenda Polanco. I am originally from El Salvador. I obtained my MBA from Meredith College and have devoted my career to helping others, especially the Spanish-speaking community. Growing up as a first-generation Latina and TPS holder, I have experienced how hard it is to obtain resources when attending school, as well as having to work extra hard to move up. It is a passion of mine to become a great leader for younger generations who are Undocumented/Dacamented and facing similar hardships. I also want to be a resource for the Latinx community to help them become leaders in our community.
Ja’Nell Henry — Ja’Nell Henry is a dedicated community leader and a proud native of the Bull City. A graduate of Guilford College with a BA in Spanish and Business, she co-founded Black August in the Park and the Black Farmers’ Market, exemplifying her commitment to fostering community, promoting local agriculture, and supporting Black entrepreneurs. As the Executive Director of the Black Farmers’ Market, Ja’Nell is at the forefront of cultivating healthy communities and empowering local businesses. Recently elected as a Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor of Durham, NC, Ja’Nell continues to champion sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. She is a member of the Stagville Descendants Council, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and Pi Alpha Alpha. Guided by her passion for creating spaces where others can learn, grow, and experience joy, she remains unwavering in her commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and community empowerment.
Joylyn Day — I have over thirty years of experience in hospitality and customer service, where I gained the ability to observe, recognize, and anticipate the needs of others. My education and training include business clerical and crisis management. Currently, I am the Virtual Opreations Manager, responsible for planning, managing, and executing our virtual programming to include weekly webinars, recruitment events, and facilitating, at times, our digital literacy class for our senior participants. I also plan, update, and deliver volunteer training sessions to those interested in administering career development coaching to our participants.
Julie Knaack — Julie Knaack has worked in various healthcare and nonprofit sectors for over 20 years. Currently, she is a County Engagement Manager at Blue Cross NC. In this role, she leads a team of Regional Liaisons who collaborate and align with community leaders on health-related initiatives and topics. She received her MPH in Maternal and Child Health in 2007 after working for nearly a decade on childhood obesity, diabetes, and feeding intolerances as a pediatric dietitian. She developed her enduring love for NC while working with the state-wide non-profit Prevention Partners, helping school, hospital, and business leaders create strong cultures of wellness. She lives in Durham with her husband, William and dog, Ginger.
Katie Zinke — Katie Zinke is originally from Carlisle, MA, and now resides in Mebane, NC. She earned her Bachelor in Science from Elon University in 2021. She will earn her Masters of Education in Learner-Centered Practices in August 2024 from Spalding University. She is passionate about supporting youth in developing skills that help them become better problem solvers, critical thinkers, and strong, confident individuals. She has ridden horses since she was young, and horses continue to play a large role in her life. In her free time you can find her riding her horse, April, teaching lessons to adults and children, training horses, and mentoring youth in the community at the barn. Additionally, she is the Program Manager for Boomerang Youth Inc., in Chapel Hill, NC. Katie manages the Strive program, an alternative to suspension program, for students on short term out-of-school suspension within Orange County. One of Katie’s goals is to create a learning center that ties outdoor education, horses and social emotional learning work all together, and reimagines what learning can look like for students! She is excited for the future!
Kelly Marks — Kelly Marks is the Exhibits Manager for Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. For more than 15 years, she’s worked to design spaces where people can learn, play, and grow. She is a lifelong learner, a lover of words and obscure trivia, and an enthusiastic maker. A native North Carolinian, she has BAs in graphic design and children’s development from NC State, and a Masters in Journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill. Using her skills to help people understand the world around them is one of her favorite things. Some others include her family, Dr. Pepper, road trips, and biscuits.
Margot Schein — I am a Jewish, anti-capitalist, feminist, and passionate advocate for justice and equity work, with a strong focus on reproductive healthcare. With a background in public health and experience working both domestically and internationally, I bring a unique perspective to my professional and personal endeavors. Currently, I serve as an Associate Client Success Manager at Mental Health First Aid under the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, where I am dedicated to enhancing the skills and knowledge of MHFA Instructors. Leveraging my expertise in digital engagement and educational content development, I strive to create innovative and supportive learning experiences. My approach centers on team collaboration and the effective use of digital platforms to amplify our outreach and impact. Outside of work, I am a certified yoga instructor who integrates social justice into my practice, and I love to bake, read, and spend time with my cat.
Mary Brooks Rice — Mary Brooks is a Chapel Hill native. She is a graduate of Meredith College with a BS in Interior Design. Her professional experience includes design, finance, non-profit fundraising and event management. Mary Brooks has three adult children, Drew who lives in Washington, DC and twins Sarah who lives in Greenville, NC and Abby who lives Austin, Texas. Mary Brooks is dedicated to excellence, positive energy, a can-do attitude and an interest to learn from others.
Michelle Wright — Michelle Wright is a daughter, sister, cousin, and friend. She grew up in rural NC and attributes her creative energy and strong values to her family. Strong family and community bonds motivated her to explore how she could find resources to meet the needs of others in her career. Weaving together skills from her background in counseling, public health, and racial equity work has led her to center the principle of liberation, personally and professionally. Liberation is the north star of her clinical services and community organizing. She firmly believes in the power and abundance of community.
Nicole Quallen — I am a family lawyer and mediator, a mother, an ex-spouse, a co-parent, an empath, a big-hearted entrepreneur, and an advocate. Two Families Law is my heartfelt attempt to provide radically better divorce than what I see in the traditional world of litigation. It is a labor of love built to serve and support. I earned my law degree from UNC Chapel Hill in 2010 and then began family law practice in Wake County, NC. When I worked in the traditional, adversarial divorce system (the one in the movies with the depositions and the private investigators and courtrooms), I saw a really broken process. I saw families losing money and health and peace of mind in a time when they most needed support and stability. Two Families Law is a response to this system, and a bit of a loophole around it. It’s also a practice that is built on healthy lawyers and a healthy team. Two Families Law is a modern, rebellious, activist law firm. We are a collaborative family law firm that works exclusively outside the court system to help families separate, divorce, or navigate legal marriage through nonviolent communication and respectful communication.
Reem Morin — Currently representing the Bull City, Reem has had a lasting impact in music and entrepreneurship. Getting his start producing in Miami for big acts such as Denzel Curry, Ghostwridah and Sunni Colon to name a few, he’s also the founder of Wonderpuff, a vegan organic cotton candy business started right in the Triangle. Currently the owner of OnlyUs, a music collective and production company.
Richard Averitte — Richard is a North Carolina native with deep roots in Raleigh. He believes community and civic service is essential. He currently serves as Executive Director of the American Cancer Society of Central & Eastern NC. He currently resides in Raleigh with his wife Lisa and two children Lucy and Felix.
Salem Carriker — Salem Carriker is the Healthy Communities Coordinator at The Conservation Fund’s Resourceful Communities Program, where she provides technical assistance and capacity building across rural North Carolina with a focus on economic development, local food access, and the environment. She uses her previous experiences as a nutrition educator and community health project coordinator to help groups develop programs, engage partners, and address the root causes of health disparities in rural communities. Salem grew up in North Carolina and holds a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of South Carolina.
Stephanie Schaben — Stephanie Schaben, originally from Southeast Iowa, is an active member of the nonprofit sector in the Triangle. With a passion for community engagement and social impact, Stephanie currently serves as the Volunteer & Donor Engagement Coordinator at Read and Feed. As a Goodmon Fellow, she looks forward to collaborating with fellow leaders to continue driving positive change and empowering communities across the region!
Stephanie Perun — Stephanie Perun is a Healthcare Payor Management Professional with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in driving strategic initiatives that align with business goals. As a leader, she manages a team of skilled business architects who collaborate across the enterprise to deliver transformational projects that create tangible value. Stephanie thrives on finding innovative solutions to complex challenges and embraces adversity as an opportunity for growth.
Tish Womack
Tony Reckker — Tony is a Commercial Real Estate Advisor dedicated to serving his commercial real estate clients in the ever changing market. He strives every day to be a trusted advisor that partners with clients to reach their investment and use goals. As a dedicated member of Blanton Commercial team, Tony has a track record of employing his passion for real estate. Though his primary focus is on retail and industrial investment sales, he is flexible in his practice to meet client needs. Tony is a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) Candidate, a Member of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), the National Association of Realtors(NAR) and the Charlotte Regional Commercial Board of Realtors (CRCBR). Tony is also a volunteer at the Habitat For Humanity of Wake County.
Valerie Padilla — A proud North Carolina native, Valerie brings over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector, driven by a passion for advancing meaningful causes through strategic fundraising and community engagement. As a Senior Development Manager with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, she leads high-impact initiatives that provide vital support for innovative programs, essential resources, and community-focused efforts. Valerie’s expertise includes cultivating strong donor relationships, implementing creative campaigns, and managing impactful events that bring people together for a common purpose. She is committed to fostering collaboration, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring that all efforts align with the mission of driving long-term, positive change. Outside of work, Valerie is passionate about connecting with local communities and empowering others to make a difference.
