I began my career in the communications industry and transitioned into the pharmaceuticals industry in search of a career that challenged me. I felt the pharmaceutical industry would provide just that. I found the most challenging position I could find in my geographical area, for relocating was not an option as I was the caretaker of my Mother.

I obtained a BBA in Economics from the University of Miami and then an MBA in Economics from the University of New Haven Graduate School of Business. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Business Management with a concentration in Strategy and Innovation from Capella University.

I am an older woman and came up in my career when there were few opportunities for women. I was an athlete in college, a swimmer. There were NO women's sports. I became involved in getting women's sports recognized and with help from my friend's father manged to get scholarships for women through Title 9. I was the first female member for an all male business fraternity, Alpha Kappa Psi.

In corporations, assertive women are looked at as being bossy, while their male counterparts are seen in a different light. We are conditioned to curb how we approach issues because of this perception.

My greatest strengths include my abilities to create and to understand the "big picture" and then provide a creative solution that fits - a much needed aspect of transactions.

I feel that along the way, I have made an impact for women beginning with getting that scholarship for Title 9 girls. I have personally been the first women representative in several lines of businesses that are considered male oriented, such as electronics, telecommunication, and pharmaceuticals. I feel I have shown that women can add value to a business and it is important for society to see that.

I plan on finishing my PhD. and would like to develop a methodology, formula, or algorithm to determine a company's readiness for innovation in their own organizations. I plan to teach and consult. Prior, I was an Adjunct Professor at Post University for 15 years and taught Economics, Diversity in the Workplace and International Business.

What inspires me most is my desire to learn and to help. I care about making things better.

I would like to be remembered for having made an impact on women in business and helping them flourish.

• The Licensing Executive Society

I led a Panel at the HitLab Innovation Summit and I have been listed in the following publications:

• Top 1,000 Women Executives
• Who's Who in the World
• Who's Who of Female Executives
• International Who's Who
• Who's Who in Business and Finance

I love to walk my two Yorkshire Terriers. I also enjoy reading, spending time with my friends, and mentoring people.