Speakers / 2024

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Zeneta B. Everhart

Zeneta B. Everhart, a Buffalo, NY native, is currently serving as Buffalo Common Councilwoman and is a Board of Trustee at Villa Maria College. She holds degrees from Canisius College and Villa Maria College. Everhart began her career in news and media, starting as a breaking news photographer at Spectrum News Buffalo. She rose through the ranks to become a Producer, accumulating six years of experience before transitioning into politics. Formerly the Director of Diversity & Inclusion for NY State Senator Tim Kennedy, Everhart transitioned to politics after her son's injury in the 5/14 massacre. In response, she advocated for stricter gun laws, leading to the enactment of the Safer Communities Act. Everhart is deeply committed to equity, community, and legislative action. She co-founded initiatives like Single Moms Club Buffalo and Zeneta & Zaire’s Book Club. Passionate about ensuring equity through legislation, policy, and resource distribution, she takes her role as Director of Diversity & Inclusion seriously, striving to ensure her community has a seat at the table. Born and raised on Buffalo's East Side, Everhart's commitment to her hometown remains steadfast.

Director, Community Outreach and Philanthropy at Angela's Hospice

Jennifer Dale

With over 25 years of marketing and philanthropy experience, Jennifer Dale, holds degrees in nonprofit management, journalism, and communications. Formerly Chief Strategic Development Officer at the Center for Neurological Studies, she's contributed to organizations like Meridian Health Plan and Children's Hospital of Michigan.

Medical Social Worker, Angela Hospice

Amanda D. Glaze

Ms. Glaze, a devoted medical social worker, brings over eight years of transformative service to Angela Hospice, specializing in guiding adults and pediatric patients through grief. With degrees from Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, she's been a beacon of support, offering counsel, advocacy, and bereavement services. Her compassionate nature fosters resilience and solace for families facing life's toughest moments.

School Principal, St. Joseph Academy

Marlene Figuroa, M.Ed.

Marlene Figueroa, an immigrant to Wisconsin at age 6, overcame challenges as a first-generation graduate. Committed to inspiring educators, she values each child's unique assets. With qualifications in English as a Second Language, a master's in education, and a Reading Specialist License, Figueroa pursues ongoing education for up-to-date leadership. ¡Síse puede!

Felician Sister, Co-Director of Vocation

Sr. Jane Gawlik

Sr. Jane Mary Gawlik, a native Texan and Felician Sister since high school, continues her vocation work, leveraging experience as co-vocation director. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a master’s degree in pastoral ministry, and certificates in Youth Ministry and Spiritual Direction. Dedicated to education, she served in California, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

CEO/President, St. Joseph Academy

Tabia Jones, Ed.D.

Dr. Tabia N. Jones, with 29 years in education, is CEO/President of St. Joseph Academy, Milwaukee. Formerly Chief of Schools for Universal Companies, she held leadership roles in districts like Shorewood, Waukesha, and Menomonee Falls. She earned her degrees from Lincoln University and Alverno College, and a Doctorate from Nova Southwestern University. Committed to excellence, she advocates for children's diverse needs.

Grief Counselor, Angela Hospice

Jasmine Kendrick

Drawing from nearly a decade of grief counseling, Ms. Kendrick supports children and adolescents, sharing her personal journey of growing up with grief. Holding degrees in psychology and social work from Wayne State University, she's a certified group psychotherapist dedicated to restoring mental health for grieving youth, instilling hope and healing along the way.

Area Vice President, Heartland Home Health Services

Jennifer Kirkland

Jennnifer Kirkland has worked in hospice services for over 20 years and is an adjunct assistant professor in the Aging Studies Department at Madonna University. With degrees in gerontology, long-term care administration, and education, she also serves as an Area Vice President for Heartland Home Health Services.

Felician Sister, Felician Mission: Haiti

Sr. Marilyn Minter

Sr. Marilyn's journey from New Jersey to becoming a Felician Sister began with her education at St. Thomas Aquinas High School and FelicianCollege. Embracing her passion for music, she formed a rock band before answering her call to faith. In 2010, she and Sr. Mary Inga Borko founded a mission in Haiti, providing essential services and programs to uplift the community without fostering dependency, showcasing the transformative power of faith-guided service.

Felician Sister, EVP Mission Integration

Sr. Jeremy Marie Midura

Sr. Jeremy Marie Midura, Executive Vice President of Mission Integration, Felician Services, Inc., oversees mission integration policy for all sponsored ministries and leading the Mission Integration Team. She brings over 20 years ofpastoral ministry experience where she facilitated spiritual ministry, social awareness, and community involvement activities and programs. Formerly a science teacher and elementary principal, she holds degrees in biology, chemistry, and pastoral studies.