- December 16, 2024
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PWFC President Vanessa Cole, Emerging Star Kay Click and Immediate Past President Diane Vidal. Courtesy photos
Professional Women of Flagler County's Woman of the Year: Lacy Martin. Courtesy photo
Vanessa Cole and Caroline Johnson. Courtesy photos
In her final moments as president of the Professional Women of Flagler County, Diane Vidal got a chance to brag a little about the women in the room.
“This isn’t just an event, it’s a movement,” Vidal said at the sold-out annual gala, held Dec. 12, at the Hilton Garden Inn. “We set out to make history, and guess what? We crushed it.”
The organization gave out $25,000 in Go Girl Grants this year, plus $2,500 in scholarships.
Just as important, Vidal said, is the network of women supported by other women.
“We dream big, we work hard, and then we show up looking fabulous,” she said.
The Executive Board for 2024 comprised Vanessa Cole, Dr. Erika Equizi, Tracie Cotto and Nina Guiglotto. Directors were Kara King, Sarah McPherson, Lora Fickett, Kathleen Rivera and Kelly Chapman. Chairs: Diane Campbell, Michelle Gordon and Christine Sullivan.
The incoming board is as follows: President Cole, Vice President Equizi, Secretary Chapman, Treasurer Cotto, Immediate Past President Vidal, Director of Events Lisa Byer, Director of Membership Amy Dumas, and Director of Marketing Stephanie Ellis.
Go Girl Grant recipients are as follows: Allyson Rucci, Anna Wieczorek, Monica Necula, Michelle Martin, Dr. Margaret Lessig, Tiffany Rufino, Kay Click, Caroline Johnson, Lauren Ramirez, Michelle Bartome, Derin White, Cheri Routzahn, Amy Dumas, Lacy Martin, Erica Flores and Andrea Williams.
Kay Click also won the Rising Star award. April Koehler and Stephanie Ellis were also nominated.
Business of the Year went to Teresa Rand Consulting, led by Teresa Rand. Also recognized: Tiffany Rufino Agency, led by Tiffany Rufino; and Salus Medical Training, led by Lauren Ramirez.
Woman of the Year was Lacy Martin. Also recognized: Erica Flores and Caroline Johnson.
Martin said it was an honor to receive the award. “It means that the values I hold dear — integrity, perseverance, and commitment to service — are seen and valued by others,” she said via email to the Observer. “This recognition is not just for me; it’s for the many women who work tirelessly to create positive change and break barriers.”
She said she hopes other women hear the same message: “Your voice, your skills, and your presence matter. Never underestimate the impact you can have. … When one woman rises, we all rise together.”
