Celebrating Marin Women in Business 2023

Our community is filled with successful, inspiring business women. From interior designers and real estate agents to financial advisors and medical professionals, these individuals excel at what they do and the services they provide.

We recently invited some of our community’s best to celebrate with our annual Celebrating Women event, which took place this year on May 4 at the Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa. Check out the video below and photos here.

Video by Tim Shonnard

Read on below to get to know these purpose-driven women who ensure that our needs are met from home to health and beyond.

Sofia Jewelry

Sofia Jewelry

Sophie’s love of business came from her parents who started Sofia Jewelry in Mill Valley in 1994. It was there she learned how important small businesses are to the community. As the owner of Sofia Jewelry and Johann Paul Fine Jewelry, Sophie is honored to continue both boutiques as second generation jewelers. Stop by to find something unique for every occasion and every celebration!

80 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley, CA, 415-388-8776

Amy Svendberg

Amy Svendberg: Managing Partner, Poggio, Copita, and Convivo

Growing up in culture rich Chicago, IL, surrounded by culinary enthusiasts, it is no surprise that Amy Svendberg ended up leading a life in restaurants. After earning a bachelor’s degree in French Business and Translation from Northern Illinois University, Amy headed straight for Paris, where her true passion for food and hospitality came to life. In 2007, Amy made her move to San Francisco and soon crossed paths with Larry Mindel. She became managing partner of Poggio in January of 2008, pouring herself wholeheartedly into every aspect of the dining experience. In 2012, Amy added another role to her successful career, that of managing partner overseeing the opening and operations of Copita Tequileria y Comida. In 2016, Amy led the opening of Convivo Restaurant and Bar in the Santa Barbara Inn. The acclaimed restaurant was featured in the New York Times’ 52 Places to Visit in 2019. Overseeing three restaurants 300 miles apart is no easy feat but Amy finds the time to climb some of North America’s highest peaks and spend quality time with family and friends. Amy’s leadership role will grow in summer 2023 when Copita expands to the vibrant Willow Glen neighborhood of San Jose.

777 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA, 415-332-7771

Manes by Sara Salon

Manes by Sara Salon: Customized Hair Services

Manes by Sara is a luxury boutique salon in the heart of downtown Mill Valley. Sara Pinckney and her team are serving up some of Marin County’s most coveted hair trends- the perfect lived in blonde, rich dimensional brunettes, and flawless extension transformations. Founded in 2020, carrying a desire to harness deep meaningful connections with clients and create a sanctuary like space, this team is sure to provide anyone who comes through the door with nothing but the best!

415-895-8778

Kari Iverson, Massage Maven

Kari Iverson, Massage Maven: Certified Massage Therapist & Owner, HELLO Modern Massage

Kari Iverson was working in the stress-filled tech industry when she first experienced the sensation of chronic pain, something so fierce that she labels it as “a feeling you never forget.” She tried acupuncture, yoga, even visiting a chiropractor, but nothing helped.

Everything changed once she began getting massages regularly. Her pain dissipated, but her insatiable curiosity about the power of massage led her to attend a San Francisco-based massage and bodywork school and form her own practice, HELLO Modern Massage.

Today, Kari’s deep tissue techniques and firm pressure are sought out by her clients from all over Marin, many of whom overcome chronic pain and avoid uncomfortable surgeries by working with her regularly. Her therapeutic techniques do wonders for functional and postural issues related to aging and overuse, and she’s the massage therapist of record for UCSF’s ultrasound sonographers, helping them with their repetitive stress injuries.

Code MARIN25 for $25 off your first massage.

507 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley, CA, 415-823-2155

North Coast Tile and Stone

North Coast Tile and Stone: Design, Fabricate and Install

North Coast Tile and Stone walks hand in hand with the North Bay Community with an open, direct dialogue with homeowners to better serve their needs and wants. In doing all the work in house they guarantee the workmanship and final product to be exactly your vision.

NCTS has provided award winning service to their clients for over 30 years. NCTS has a dedicated team of 7 designers, the most talented tile and stone craftsmen along with the largest stone slab yard in the North Bay and gorgeous tile showroom that will bring your projects from idea to reality.

Martha leads the showroom team in working with architects, contractors, designers and homeowners with a confident, thoughtful and professional attitude.

NCTS is a one stop shop that offers – design and installation services, as well as a wide variety of stone and tile. One client said, “Being in Martha’s showroom is like being in her own home. The care and time that was taken with my project made us feel like family.”

Open Monday thru Friday 8:30 to 5:00 and Saturday 9:00 to 5:00

3854 Santa Rosa Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA, 707-586-2064

Helen Abe

Helen Abe: Senior Vice President Financial Advisor

Helen Abe understands the importance of financial education. As a Financial Advisor and Wealth Manager, Helen often hears her clients lament that if they had been taught the basics of personal finance when they were young, they would be better off today. Her adult students tell her they wish they had learned this when they were younger.

Today, parents are searching for tools to help their children learn important financial skills.

Helen was fortunate to have lived in an immigrant household; where her parents taught hard work and the importance of having savings.

Helen hears the cry loud and clear and has set out to educate as many young people as possible. Helen is offering to teach financial empowerment programs to students in middle school, high school and college levels. The program will help them understand fundamentals of banking, budgeting, credit and investing.

Helen’s own experience with her mother’s modest background as an immigrant has inspired her to teach those not as fortunate as her when growing up.

Please contact Helen if you would like to invest in our youth.

Investment and insurance products offered through RBC Wealth Management are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency, are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, a bank or any bank affiliate, and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested.

RBC Wealth Management, 300B Drakes Landing Road, Suite 155, Greenbrae, CA, 415-445-8468

RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, registered investment adviser and Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

Dr. Shannon Wood Gallegos, ND

Dr. Shannon Wood Gallegos, ND: B12 Love

B12 LOVE is an empowered woman-founded, family-owned, Naturopathic practice based in Marin County. Dr. Shannon Wood Gallegos and her team of knowledgeable medical professionals go above and beyond to help a community of clients reach their health goals and achieve optimal wellness. B12 LOVE offers a variety of premium-grade nutrient IVs and shots in a relaxing, spa-like setting. B12 LOVE offers one-on-one personalized Naturopathic Medical care with onsite NDs for private consultations.

B12 LOVE can help you through personalized care, testing for various health conditions, and support through life’s changes. B12 LOVE Mill Valley offers non-surgical beautification services such as PRP Skin Rejuvenation, PRP Hair Restoration, and Microneedling to make you look as good as you feel from the inside out. They have eight Bay Area locations conveniently located to serve local communities. Walk in or schedule online, same-day appointments are offered for convenience. Take advantage of the new client special, $10 off a shot or $30 off an IV Drip. B12 LOVE is here to help you Nourish Your Life!

37 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley, CA, 415-569-2099

Remi Cohen

Remi Cohen: Domaine Carneros Winery

As CEO of Domaine Carneros, Remi continues a long history of female leadership at the iconic winery. “Sustainability, diversity, and excellence in winemaking and hospitality are the values that guide everything we do at Domaine Carneros, which align with my core values and leadership approach. I’ve enjoyed building upon the sustainability and equity initiatives established by founding winemaker Eileen Crane.”

1240 Duhig Road, Napa, CA, 800-716-2788

Skall + Glassman Group

Skall + Glassman Group: Trusted for experience, stability, and expertise.

The Skall + Glassman Group believes in relationships, quality of service, and the delivery of a real estate experience that is nothing short of exceptional. As Marcia and Jennifer have raised their children in Marin for a combined 37 years, they are deeply ingrained in our community and are familiar with Marin’s best schools, neighborhoods, and unique microclimates. Their successful backgrounds in corporate America have laid the foundation for their expertise in the art of negotiation, business ethics, and communication, all serving as the pillars for their clients’ satisfaction.

They were recently awarded Top Producers in Marin County at their brokerage, and have rightfully earned the confidence and trust of their clients. They are stewards of our communities, consummate professionals, mothers, and women who are dedicated to what they believe in—the power of partnership. From Belvedere, Ross, Mill Valley, Tiburon, Kentfield and beyond, they are here to serve your real estate needs. Whether maximizing the value of your home, or finding the home of your dreams, they invite you to discover the difference with them.

Pictured: Skall Glassman Group: Marcia Skall and Jennifer Glassman

Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty

Marcia Skall, MBA, 415-533-5721 • [email protected] • Lic #01077678

Jennifer Glassman, 415-309-5331 • [email protected] • Lic #02059113

Village Child

Village Child: Emily Rich and Mary Price

What started as two moms with a dream has steadily become a flagship business and community gathering place in quaint Old Town Novato. Village Child provides their local community with more than just a great selection of children’s clothing. Co-owners Emily Rich and Mary Price have made it part of their mission to incorporate an authentic sense of community into their “Wear, Gather, Grow” logo.

“We wanted for our local families to feel like they had a real partner to walk with on their parenting journey,” says Founder and President of the Downtown Business Association Emily Rich. “We’ve intentionally focused on creating enriching activities for our downtown to provide families opportunities to connect and build relationships. Our First Fridays on Grant and Princess Storytime events are great examples of that.”

The journey to build community for Downtown Novato continues in 2023 with the opening of Village Collective, a space that features handmade goods from local artist and will soon be the home of a large immersive mural highlighting local Novato landscapes. Weekend pop- ups with local food artisans are also a common occurrence in their new space.

869 Grant Avenue, Novato, CA, 415-493-6924

Now Power Yoga

Now Power Yoga: Building Strength, Community and Friendships

Susan Hauser’s yoga journey began 18 years ago in Marin County. Experiencing the physical and mental benefits made her enthusiastic about her practice. Her passion grew and she opened NOW Power Yoga in 2015. Beyond being a business owner she loves teaching and sharing the benefits of yoga. Hauser enjoys making a difference in people’s lives which in turn enriches her practice and life.

She teaches an all level Vinyasa Style Power yoga class. People are skeptical with “all levels classes” especially beginners, but she gives options for the majority of the poses. Her class is a combination of Yin (Greopening connective tissues) and Yang (building strength). She incorporates upbeat music with a fun vibe which creates a positive environment for everyone. Their staff is filled with an array of talented, experienced and vibrant instructors all with unique styles of teaching. Come check out the brand new studio opening in May of 2023 at 59 Tamal Vista Plaza Corte Madera.

59 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera, CA, 415-891-3764

FB: nowpoweryoga | IG: nowpoweryoga | Tiktok: nowpoweryoga

Kathryn Najafi-Tagol, M.D.

Kathryn Najafi-Tagol, M.D.: Eye Institute of Marin

In 2004, Dr Kathryn K. Najafi-Tagol founded Eye Institute of Marin with the intent to be a regional leader in comprehensive eye care emphasizing personalized treatment and patient education. With her highly trained staff, Dr Najafi-Tagol continues to provide first class Ophthalmologic care in a state-of-the-art facility for all her patients’ needs. This includes the best technology available for the treatment of routine as well as serious eye conditions including Cataract, Glaucoma, Diabetic Eye, Macular Degeneration, and Dry Eyes.

After graduating with honors with a BS in Chemistry from UC Davis, Dr. Najafi-Tagol completed her doctoral degree at UCLA Medical School in 1995. Throughout her career as clinical researcher, author, inventor, physician and surgeon, she has been at the forefront of medical and surgical treatment for eye diseases. As well as the Director of the Eye Institute of Marin, Dr Najaf-Tagol is currently the Chief of Ophthalmology and Vice Chair of the Department of Surgery at MarinHealth Medical Center.

Credentials and accolades aside, the hallmark of Dr. Najafi-Tagol’s practice is that she listens. “I believe in offering the best quality care possible to my patients,” she says. “This starts by being a good listener. You can identify many problems just by listening to your patients’ description of their problem.” A natural extension is patient education. “I want each patient to thoroughly understand his or her condition and I encourage questions. I also stress the importance of regular vision check-ups and screenings for eye diseases.”

Your eyesight is a precious gift. Dr. Najafi-Tagol can help you preserve it for a lifetime!

10 Paul Drive, San Rafael, CA, 415-444-0300

Susan Gilmore

Susan Gilmore: North Bay Children's Center

From preschool teacher to social entrepreneur, you could describe Susan Gilmore as visionary, passionate, relentless, innovative, nimble, problem solver, and change maker! Armed with a degree in early education and nine years of teaching experience, Susan founded the North Bay Children’s Center (NBCC) 35 years ago at the age of 28. Today NBCC’s programs have grown into a leading, regional safety-net organization with thirteen sites throughout the North Bay that has helped thousands of families while addressing two nationally recognized problems that threaten the futures of our children: the education achievement gap, and the childhood obesity epidemic.

Recognizing the direct correlation between the lack of affordable childcare and the high cost of employee turnover; and quality early education with later academic success; Gilmore set out to create a model for full-day, year-round childcare for families across the income spectrum with a focus on breaking the cycle of poverty for vulnerable families within our communities.

As President and CEO, Susan’s next project is leading the Bright Futures Capital Campaign to complete the construction of a vibrant, 21st-century child development center at the decommissioned Hamilton Airforce Base. Once complete, NBCC’s headquarters will double the number of children served and continue to promote early education and healthy eating to as many young minds as possible for years to come. Visit NBCC’s website to learn more.

932 C Street, Novato, CA, 415-883-6222

Architectural Design Carpets

Architectural Design Carpets: The Foundation of Your Home Starts with US

Debbie Duering, owner of Architectural Design Carpets, and her team of creative, dedicated flooring experts, have been leaders in the Bay Area flooring industry since 1990. Kate Googins has been Debbie’s right hand for over 20 years; Nicole Kerr has been with ADC for 10 years; Lisa Almquist joined the team just last year. They have a passion for exquisite design and vivid colors and their customer service is personalized to your lifestyle while taking into account your project’s future design style.

Using ingenuity, these women constantly think outside the box. Their attention to detail is not only a level of standard at ADC but part of their creative nature. These ladies excel in the top flooring trends ranging from carpet, hardwood, custom area rugs to commercial flooring. ADC Carpets works with the Bay Area’s top interior designers, architects, and realtors on both residential and commercial properties.

1111 Francisco Blvd East, San Rafael, CA, 415-458-1717

Lamperti Contracting and Design

Lamperti Contracting and Design: Women in Business is Essential for Innovation

Lamperti Contracting & Design recognizes its talented team of women innovators that lead the way to inspired spaces and projects in the design-build industry.

Women are creators not only in construction and residential design, but in many industries of business. Lamperti Contracting & Design is a business with diverse perspectives because of its innovative female team, that continue to pave the way for success in the demanding arena of construction and design.

Kylie Rankin, Designer and Showroom Manager, is an Interior Architecture graduate from Sacramento State. She excels at space planning, cabinet design, product procurement, and project management. Casey Mazzoni chose a career as a Residential Designer because she enjoys the creative process of making a home renovation project a beautiful reality. Danielle Castrejon, Office, and Project Manager is highly organized, determined, and a problem-solver. She excels at client relations and keeping the office performing at the highest level.

As owners, Jennifer, and Sean Kelly value their talented team of designers and recognize their contribution in making Lamperti Contracting & Design the best design/build firm in Marin County. The Lamperti Contracting & Design team is eager to collaborate and create the kitchen, bathroom, and home of your dreams – from custom cabinetry, flooring, luxury finishes to high-end appliances.

Come Visit the Showroom!

1241 Andersen Drive, San Rafael, CA, 415-454-1623

Hot Yoga Republic

Hot Yoga Republic: Betting On You.

Being a female entrepreneur is a full contact sport, one that requires unimaginable vision, stamina, guts and grit. As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, well-meaning friends will try to stop you from “making a mistake”. Their fears will be masked as “I’m just worried about you!” You will be told your idea sucks, you will run out of money, banks will laugh in your face, and you will be drained from the crushing exhaustion of cleaning your own toilets… be they literal or metaphorical.

But here’s something you should know, Hot Yoga Republic is betting on you.

Every day Hot Yoga Republic’s team of passionate, powerful, crazy-ass fitness instructors transforms the minds, hearts and bodies of entrepreneurs just like you, sending them back out into the world so they can double down and win. Exhilaration, joy, defeat, incredible highs, terrifying lows, the rise, the fall, the redemption… the studio is here to strengthen and support you through it all. They know chasing your dream is a gamble, but their money is on you.

4050 Redwood Highway, San Rafael, CA, 415-300-6533

Cara Mia Lembi

Cara Mia Lembi: Real Estate Partner

When choosing a real estate partner, Cara Mia believes it should be about you. Her relationships are built on clear communication and collaboration. With a background in psychology and design she trusts her instincts and her clients do too. She becomes your steadfast champion and your loyal confidant. She ensures you feel understood, supported, and empowered as you embark upon the next chapter of your life.

415-786-5995, [email protected]

Traci Thiercof and Beth Sasan

Traci Thiercof and Beth Sasan: Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty

Beth and Traci are top agents in Marin County, consistently recognized as part of the top 1% of teams in the US by Real Trends. With over 30 years of combined experience, they possess an intimate understanding of the local real estate market and have a passion for helping people find their perfect home.

They pride themselves on easing the stress of the buying or selling process for their clients and have an extensive network of industry connections, enabling them to provide unparalleled guidance throughout the process. They have also established strong partnerships with architects, developers, contractors, and stagers, which, combined with their superb marketing skills, helps their clients achieve their real estate goals.

As creative thinkers and skilled negotiators, they are committed to going the extra mile to help their clients find their dream home or successfully sell their current one. With their team of experts, Beth and Traci provide exceptional service every step of the way, inspiring clients to create their own Marin story.

500 Drakes Landing Road, Greenbrae, CA

Traci: 415-793-0111, [email protected]

Beth: 415-990-7186, [email protected]

California Girl Jewelry

California Girl Jewelry: There's Only One

California Girl Jewelry is the love child of Mariel Baker and Denise Forbes, mother/daughter designer duo who believe every piece of jewelry begins with an exquisite colored gemstone. Each piece is made without the intention of mass- production. They are leaders in colored gemstone high jewelry. One-of-a-kind jewelry by women for women.

Strawberry Village Shopping Center, Mill Valley, CA, 650-504-0646

Chambers + Chambers

Chambers + Chambers Architects

Not only is Barbara Chambers the 2018 winner of the Julia Morgan Award for her excellence in the contemporary practice and support of classical architecture, her brand is instantly recognizable. From kitchens to cabinets, beamed ceilings to bedrooms, her hands-on, full-service approach to design results in comfortable rooms that are as relaxing as they are refined.

Penna Omega

Penna Omega: Owner, Rims & Goggles Optical

“The eye exam experience has always felt a little bland, so we jumped at the chance to put our spin on the traditional Dr’s visit– turning it into a chic experience!” Rims & Goggles will soon offer vision exams in their new tele-optometry atelier! The opticians you know & trust + handmade eyewear + the ease of tele- medicine is a win-win for our clientele!

606 Strawberry Village, Mill Valley, CA, 415-383-9480

Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine

Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine: Empowering Women with the Highest Level of Aesthetic Care

Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine is led by Dr. Faye Jamali, who envisioned a concierge medspa offering today’s leading services. The end result of her vision is Belle Marin- an elegant space complete with state-of-the-art aesthetic care.

Belle Marin offers the newest non-invasive technologies to create a customized plan for each patient. Dr. Jamali strives to meet the needs of patients with the most innovative treatments available on the market. They are excited to be one of the top providers in the country offering AviClear. It is the first FDA- cleared energy device to treat mild to severe acne that is a great alternative to Accutane. They will soon be launching Secret Pro, which features a combination therapy of microneedling with radio frequency and CO2 laser.

Dr. Jamali performs all medical treatments herself to ensure the highest quality in care. She offers dedicated consultations, so her patients may be well-informed and make the right decisions for their treatments. Her incredible aesthetician Victoria performs all medical grade facials, and makes you feel like you are in a world-class spa. Their entire staff is here to provide elite care.

Their goal is to make their patients feel like the best versions of themselves. Belle Marin strives to offer the most advanced options for results- driven services, all while creating a beautiful boutique environment with top-tier service.

250 E. Blithedale Avenue, Suite B, Mill Valley, CA, 415-887-8718

Nikita Khandheria

Nikita Khandheria: CEO, Ditas Marin

Nikita Khandheria, a Marin County-born individual raised in India, displays an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a deep desire to make a difference. From early school days, she sought exemptions to exceed her course load, recognizing knowledge as key to a better world. At thirteen, she became certified to conduct pap smears and breast exams, showcasing her maturity and dedication to feminine healthcare. At seventeen, Khandheria’s impromptu pitch for Ditas, a brand with global potential, impressed investors, who took a chance on her.

Today, she remains committed to her vision for Ditas, immersing herself in industry research and working in various roles. Her unwavering passion, ambition, and determination drive her to create a positive impact on the industry and the world. In conclusion, Khandheria’s remarkable achievements, visionary mindset, and dedication to excellence make her a force to be reckoned with, and her future endeavors are sure to be extraordinary.

562 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA, 415-758-8762

Sutton Suzuki Architects

Sutton Suzuki Architects: Excellence in Design and Service

Along with partner Elizabeth Suzuki, the women of Sutton Suzuki Architects, Diane Martin – Project Architect, Alexandra Rose- Designer, Pilar Vives – Designer, Karli Montick – Architectural Designer and Gail Janin – Office Manager/Operations collaborate on creative solutions that are innovative yet timeless and always unique to each client’s needs.

39 Forrest Street, Suite 101, Mill Valley, CA

Dr. Gila C. Dorostkar, DDS

Dr. Gila C. Dorostkar, DDS, Dedicated to Children's Oral Health

Meet Dr. Gila C. Dorostkar, a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist whose clinical expertise and focus on preventive care helped her build one of the most well-respected and influential pediatric dental practices in Marin. Dr. Gila, as she’s known to her young patients, opened her first office in Marin in 1997 to meet the growing need for specialized pediatric dental care. With two locations in Greenbrae and Mill Valley, Dr. Gila and her team of pediatric specialists provide comprehensive care to thousands of children, teens, and children with special needs.

Key to her success is a philosophy that a lifetime of good dental health begins at an early age through education, healthy habits, and a positive experience at every office visit. Her specially trained clinical team, board-certified partner doctors, and award-winning offices are all intended to meet the unique needs of children in a fun, compassionate environment. Her practice is known for its focus on prevention and the resulting good dental health of her patients. When treatment is needed, modern dental techniques such as a revolutionary dental laser minimize discomfort and help ensure optimal results.

Dr. Gila’s dedication to children has gained both statewide and national attention. She recently concluded a term as the president of the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry and currently serves as a Trustee on the Board of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry where she hopes to have a positive impact on children’s health at a national level.

1300 S. Eliseo Drive, Suite 100, Greenbrae, CA | 650 Blithedale Avenue, Suite C, Mill Valley, CA | 415-448-8120

Cannell Insurance Group

Cannell Insurance Group: The difference between having insurance and being insured.

“We have worked with Stephanie insuring our homes and cars for 10+ years. Stephanie is thorough, professional, personable and always a fast turn around time, when I’ve left things to the last minute. Thank you Stephanie!”

~ Nancie B., Mill Valley

“Stephanie is a stellar, savvy, personable and dedicated agent in every respect. She is truly outstanding and in a league of her own. I enthusiastically recommend Stephanie if you want to be certain that you are in the very best of hands with your insurance needs.”

~ Margaret A., Pacific Palisades

“Stephanie is the consummate professional and an absolute pleasure to work with. She is detail oriented, listened intently to my needs and offered suggestions that I would have never thought of.”

~ Christopher L., Belvedere

232 E Blithedale Avenue, Suite 206, Mill Valley, CA, 415-388-7979

Donna Seymour

Donna Seymour: Proprietor, Cucina sa

Donna moved to San Anselmo in 1998 to open a neighborhood spot downtown. She was ready to leave San Francisco for a more family-focused community, and San Anselmo had that small town appeal. Cucina sa quickly became a go-to spot for both families, first dates, and important occasions. The vibe is grown- up but comfortable, a welcoming spot to hang out with friends. She recently launched Happy Hour from Tuesday-Friday, 3-5pm.

510 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA, 415-454-2942

Claudia Muralles

Claudia Muralles: Empowerment Through Education Marin Community Foundation

Marin Community Foundation celebrates Claudia Muralles for her work in education. “Growing
up in Guatemala, my father instilled in me the importance of education, despite only having a third grade education himself,” she says. “I migrated to the USA as a teenager to attend school, but the new environment and language, along with the cultural shift, made me an extremely disengaged high school student. But I persevered.”

“I am now pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Environmental Sciences, Geography, and Management, with a minor in Geology, from Sonoma State University; I’m scheduled to graduate in May 2024,” she continues. “My goal is to pursue a Ph.D. degree in Emergency and Natural Disaster Management, Urban Planning, or Environmental Health and Policy. My passion lies in engaging and serving underrepresented communities through environmental justice projects, land planning, and natural disasters mitigation and adaptation. I want to be a role model not only for my four daughters, but to other females in my community.”

“Most recently I attended the Oxford Consortium for Human Rights Fellowship, in Hertford College, University of Oxford, to support my research and efforts in mobilizing communities for environmental change and non-violent activism,” she says. “I realized that education is much more than just creating a financially stable life for my future; it is also a rewarding and empowering experience.”

5 Hamilton Landing, Suite 200, Novato, CA, 415-464-2500

Hawser Marine Insurance Services

Hawser Marine Insurance Services: Samantha Fazio

Samantha Fazio will be the one who answers your call when you ring Hawser Marine Insurance Services. President and owner of the maritime insurance brokerage, Sam is a specialist who takes pride in that old fashioned service of actually being available to people. When you are insured through Hawser, you can be assured that the voice on the other end of the phone is a hardworking, knowledgeable, local woman.

You can expect thoughtful attention from an experienced broker who will evaluate your circumstances, answer your questions, and take your unique needs to heart. “I enjoy educating my clients, being a partner with them to find the best solutions to their insurance needs, above all else, I want to help people”. Sam was born on the delta in Stockton California and for the last 26 years has resided in Mill Valley with her family. Her office is located in the Marinship area of Sausalito.

[email protected] | 3030 Bridgeway, Suite 125, Sausalito, CA, 415-887-9486

Bear Flag Fitness

Bear Flag Fitness: Targeted, High-Intensity, Low-Impact

Alissa and Cassie turned a passion project into a reality rooted in supporting their strong, healthy, and happy Marin community. They are brought together by a drive to create and serve a unique line-up of authentic fitness classes including Bootcamp, Bounce, and Barre. By joining their knowledge and movement expertise (Cassie is a Physical Therapist), each class is focused on creating an elevated and smartly-driven fitness experience.

208 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, CA, 415-785-7547

Monica Gray-Fong

Monica Gray-Fong, Co-Owner: Nice Guys Delivery

Two weeks after the birth of their first son, Nice Guys Delivery was incorporated in 2016 by Monica Gray-Fong and her husband Adam Fong. The couple, Marin County residents, saw firsthand how cannabis brings relief to people with illness as both of their fathers had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease that same year but they struggled to obtain quality cannabis and service in the area. Hence, Adam and Monica started Nice Guys Delivery, a knowledgeable, high-level enterprise that offers the highest-grade flowers, edibles, lotions, teas, tinctures and more.

Monica grew up in Mill Valley CA and attended Old Mill, Mill Valley Middle School and Tamalpais High School. After graduating from Tamalpais High School, Monica attended UCLA where she obtained her BA in World Arts and Cultures. Directly after graduating, she flew out to New York City and spent 7 years working in product development in Footwear and Apparel where she worked at Calvin Klein and J Crew. She then moved to Los Angeles and worked at Skechers before moving back to Marin to work at a startup footwear company located in San Rafael called Vionic Shoes.

While continuing to navigate the complexities of the cannabis industry, Monica also volunteers on the Board of Directors at the Center for Domestic Peace, which leads a comprehensive community effort to end domestic violence in Marin County.

415-855-5914, [email protected]

Rebecca Hobbs

Rebecca Hobbs, Headlands Preparatory School "The Hidden Gem by the Bay"

Founding Director, Rebecca Hobbs opened Headlands Preparatory School in 2017. Headlands Prep quickly established itself as a thriving school in the Marin community, offering a quality program responsive to the needs of its students. While the majority of Headlands Prep families live in Marin, a growing number of students cross the Golden Gate Bridge each day to attend school in beautiful downtown Sausalito.

Headlands Prep is a WASC-accredited, college preparatory school for grades 6 through 12 with a long history of helping students succeed through its one-to-one, mastery learning model. From highly gifted learners who find a traditional classroom limiting, to students with learning differences who benefit from a specialized teaching approach, Headlands Prep meets students where they are to maximize both their learning and their academic self-esteem. While the individual is the focal point of the learning experience, HPS has a vibrant sense of community among its students and faculty. Students form friendships based on common interests discovered through our small group electives, lunch time social clubs, and community building and service activities.

1050 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA, 415-944-2254

Lauren Friis

Lauren Friis, Surf + Sand

Lauren moved to Mill Valley given her love of Marin and the vibrant community. As a breast cancer survivor and working mother, she values living life to its fullest. Lauren left the tech industry to follow her passion, opening Surf + Sand in 2022. Offering sustainably made goods for coastal living, Lauren is paving the way for positive change in fashion.

55 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley, CA, 415-634-8272 | @surf.sand.co

Creating Chronos Academy

Creating Chronos Academy, Celeste Ezell, Head of School

When Celeste’s husband had a crazy idea, this time for a school that integrates every lesson to a single historical timeline, she responded, “We can do that.” And she did. She created a curriculum: a four year schedule of weekly topics in history, math, science, grammar, art, and literature, writing assignments and Making projects. Then she wrote and recorded 200 short songs for memorizing weekly history, skip counting math, the countries of the world and a 15-minute timeline medley spanning the past ten thousand years.

A school was born. Chronos Academy reaches kids who otherwise languish in traditional curricula. These children breeze through their assignments or understand the topics deeply and wait for their class to catch up. But Chronos Academy turns on the academic firehose and offers students a drink. Gifted and talented students are motivated by that challenge.

A gifted child herself, Celeste challenges her English and Latin students to grow their skills, recruits new families, trains teachers, and choreographs the history songs to make them even more memorable and fun. Her greatest gift to her students is her social emotional coaching: caring for each child and helping them individually navigate their challenges and celebrate their successes throughout the day.

110 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, CA, 415-383-2283, [email protected]

Morpheus Medical Aesthetics

Morpheus Medical Aesthetics, Dr. Marisha Chilcott and colleagues

MORPHEUS MEDICAL AESTHETICS is a woman owned and operated Medical Spa with locations in Larkspur and Santa Rosa, CA. Morpheus Medical Aesthetics prides themselves on constantly providing the most impactful and innovative treatments for their patients. They are all about women empowerment, and feeling good in your skin, always. No matter where you are at in your aging journey, they are there to help you correct, maintain, or restore your skin health.

Morpheus Medical Aesthetics is excited to be the first in the area to offer the newest radiofrequency microneedling Matrix ProTM treatment, with the all-new Profound MatrixTM system from Candela Medical. This treatment helps to build new collagen, and improve the overall skin appearance and texture, including fine lines and wrinkles. Morpheus Medical Aesthetics believes that you are beautiful and powerful just as you are, but if there is anything they can do to help you feel more ready to take on the world, they are here to help. Give them a call or send an email to schedule your free consultation with one of their skilled providers, today!

5 Bon Air Road, Suite 107, Larkspur, CA, 415-924-1330, [email protected]