HL | Milestone Series – Honors NAWBO NYC

HL | Milestone Series – Honors NAWBO NYC

May 9, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors NAWBO NYC

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs and Expanding Economic Opportunity

For nearly five decades, the National Association of Women Business Owners has served as one of the nation’s most influential advocates for women entrepreneurs. Its New York City chapter, NAWBO NYC, continues that legacy by supporting women business owners across one of the most competitive and dynamic markets in the world.

NAWBO NYC’s milestone is defined by its unwavering commitment to helping women entrepreneurs build stronger companies, expand their networks, and gain access to the resources needed to grow and thrive.

NAWBO NYC will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

Through educational programming, strategic networking, mentorship, and public policy advocacy, the organization provides women business owners with practical tools and meaningful connections. Its members represent a wide range of industries, including professional services, technology, finance, healthcare, creative industries, and consumer businesses.

Beyond individual business success, NAWBO NYC plays a critical role in advancing the broader conversation around women’s economic leadership. The organization creates opportunities for members to connect with corporate partners, government agencies, and fellow entrepreneurs while championing policies that foster entrepreneurship and economic inclusion.

In a city defined by innovation, resilience, and ambition, NAWBO NYC continues to provide a powerful platform where women entrepreneurs can learn, collaborate, and lead.

At the 2026 HL | Milestone Series – New York, we are proud to recognize NAWBO NYC for its enduring contribution to entrepreneurship and for helping shape a stronger and more inclusive business community.

Milestone Highlights

  • Supports women business owners through education, mentorship, and strategic networking.
  • Connects entrepreneurs with corporate partners, procurement opportunities, and community resources.
  • Advocates for policies that strengthen women-owned businesses.
  • Builds a collaborative community of accomplished women entrepreneurs across New York City.
  • Helps expand economic opportunity through leadership and business development.

Website: NAWBO NYC

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

Westchester County: Where Wealth, Access, and Influence Continue to Shape the Future

Westchester County: Where Wealth, Access, and Influence Continue to Shape the Future

May 7, 2026 | Business

Westchester County: Where Wealth, Access, and Influence Continue to Shape the Future

by Richard Sandoval, for HL and Home, Tu Casa

For generations, Westchester County has represented a unique intersection of wealth, proximity, education, and influence.

Located just north of New York City, Westchester has long attracted corporate executives, entrepreneurs, financial professionals, healthcare leaders, athletes, entertainers, and an increasingly influential multicultural professional class seeking both opportunity and quality of life.

Today, the county continues to evolve not simply as a suburban extension of Manhattan, but as a powerful economic region in its own right.

For HL, Westchester represents more than affluence. It reflects a broader conversation about access, ownership, generational opportunity, and how communities continue redefining influence in one of the nation’s most competitive economic corridors.

A County Built on Access

One of Westchester County’s greatest assets has always been location.

Residents can access Manhattan by rail in under an hour while maintaining proximity to some of the Northeast’s most desirable residential communities. Over time, that accessibility helped fuel a concentration of wealth tied to finance, law, healthcare, media, technology, and corporate leadership.

Communities such as Scarsdale, Rye, Bronxville, White Plains, and New Rochelle have become synonymous with strong school systems, real estate stability, professional networks, and long-term investment potential.

At the same time, Westchester’s economic story continues expanding beyond traditional perceptions of wealth.

A growing number of Latino professionals, entrepreneurs, healthcare executives, small business owners, and civic leaders are helping reshape the county’s business and cultural landscape building companies, purchasing homes, supporting educational advancement, and creating pathways for future generations.

Westchester County by the Numbers (2025–2026)

  • Median Household Income
    $118,976
    Among the highest median household incomes in New York State.
  • Per Capita Income
    $72,705
    Reflecting the county’s concentration of high-earning professional households.
  • Median Single-Family Home Price (2025)
    $985,000
    Up approximately 6.5% year-over-year.
  • Average Single-Family Home Price
    $1.31 Million
    Demonstrating continued strength in the luxury and executive housing markets.
  • Residential Real Estate Sales Volume
    More than $6.3 Billion
    Westchester residential sales volume increased over 10% in 2025.
  • Number of Households
    Approximately 373,000 households
    Supporting a large, affluent suburban economy tied to New York City.

Real Estate Remains Central to Generational Wealth

Like many affluent regions across the United States, real estate continues to play a defining role in wealth creation throughout Westchester County.

Homeownership in established communities has historically provided families with long-term equity growth, financial stability, and intergenerational opportunity. Even amid changing market conditions, Westchester real estate remains among the most competitive in the region.

For many families, ownership is not simply about property value it represents stability, education access, business leverage, retirement planning, and legacy building.

That conversation increasingly resonates with younger professionals and first-generation homeowners seeking to establish long-term roots while remaining connected to New York City’s economic ecosystem.

As housing inventory, interest rates, and affordability continue shaping national conversations, Westchester remains an important case study in how location, infrastructure, and community investment influence long-term value.

The Evolution of Influence

The image of Westchester County is also evolving.

Today’s leadership community reflects a wider range of voices and experiences across business, media, healthcare, education, public service, and entrepreneurship.

Professionals who once viewed Westchester primarily as a commuter destination are increasingly investing directly into the region’s business ecosystem launching companies, opening offices, supporting nonprofits, and participating in civic and cultural initiatives.

That evolution mirrors a broader national trend:
Influence is no longer defined solely by title or institution. It is increasingly measured by visibility, access, collaboration, and the ability to create opportunity for others.

For HL, that perspective aligns directly with the ongoing conversations surrounding culture, leadership, business growth, and community impact.

Why Westchester Matters to HL

For more than 30 years, HL has documented the stories of leaders, entrepreneurs, organizations, and communities shaping culture and influence across the country.

Westchester County represents an important part of that conversation.

Its proximity to New York City, concentration of professional talent, evolving demographic landscape, and long-standing connection to finance, media, healthcare, and education make it one of the most influential regions in the Northeast.

As HL continues expanding its presence in the New York market through the HL | Milestone Series, the county offers important insight into how wealth, leadership, and community continue to evolve together.

The future of influence in America will not be defined by a single city or industry.

It will be shaped in communities like Westchester  where access, ambition, culture, and long-term investment continue to intersect in real time.

More Stories

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Rhina Valentin

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Rhina Valentin

May 7, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Rhina Valentin

Elevating Culture, Community, and Creative Expression in New York

Rhina Valentin is a powerful creative force whose work continues to shape New York’s cultural and media landscape.

A native New Yorker of Afro-Boricua heritage, she has built a career defined by authenticity, advocacy, and artistic expression using media, entertainment, and storytelling to elevate multicultural communities and amplify the voices of working-class women of color.

Rhina Valentin will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

As founder of La Reina Del Barrio, Inc., she continues supporting independent creators and cultural institutions through production, marketing, and storytelling initiatives rooted in community engagement.

Her original programming reflects both her creative vision and commitment to advocacy. Through projects including Colors Of Rhina and Rhina Gets Lean, she explores multicultural identity, wellness, transformation, and healing. She is currently developing five episodes of Park Buzz’N w/ Rhina, further expanding her role as a producer and cultural storyteller.

Her television and film work includes HBO’s Betty la Flaca, nationally syndicated commercials, and the 2024 Afro-Latino pilot The Amigo Family, featured during the Essence Festival alongside actress Tatyana Ali.

In 2024, Rhina was honored as a special guest at the White House’s inaugural Afro-Latino Heritage Celebration recognizing her growing impact as both a creative professional and community advocate.

Her work has earned numerous honors including the 2024 NYC Celebrates Women Award, the 2024 Mujer Legendaria Award presented by Ford Motor Company, the 2022 Latin Impact Award, and recognition as the inaugural Latina “Creative New Yorker for New York.”

Beyond media and entertainment, Rhina continues to invest in community and personal wellness. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Bronx Council on the Arts and Boundless Theater, while also serving as a production consultant for Casita Maria’s South Bronx Culture Festival.

She is also pursuing certification in Transcendental and Primordial Sound Meditation, believing in the transformative power of meditation and healing-centered practices.

Milestone Statement

Her milestone is defined by elevating culture, amplifying community voices, and creating meaningful representation through storytelling, advocacy, and creative leadership.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series — Honors Anita Martinez Lepp

HL | Milestone Series — Honors Anita Martinez Lepp

Apr 18, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series — Honors Anita Martinez Lepp

A Legacy Defined by Leadership, Influence, and Endurance

The HL | Milestone Series recognizes individuals whose leadership, influence, and legacy reflect a lifetime of contribution, resilience, and impact across our communities.

Anita Martinez Lepp represents a remarkable example of perseverance, discipline, and long-term influence. From humble beginnings in Texas to building a thriving accounting practice in California, her journey reflects not only personal success but the empowerment of generations of entrepreneurs and families.

Anita Martinez Lepp will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — Orange County, taking place on April 30, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details: https://bit.ly/4qEref1

A Commitment to Lifelong Learning

Anita’s path into finance began with curiosity and determination. Her early studies at East Los Angeles Collegeintroduced her to accounting, sparking a passion that would shape her career.

She continued her education through coursework at University of California, Los Angeles and California Institute of Technology, expanding her expertise and staying ahead of an evolving financial landscape.

Her pursuit of knowledge did not stop with formal education—she continued learning well into her later years, reinforcing her belief that growth is ongoing.

Building a Business Through Trust and Relationships

Encouraged early in her career to pursue entrepreneurship, Anita launched her own accounting firm in the late 1970s. Serving small business owners across Southern California, she became a trusted advisor to contractors, landscapers, and entrepreneurs navigating complex financial systems.

Her expertise included working with the Internal Revenue Service and supporting clients in accessing opportunities through the Small Business Administration.

Her business grew not through marketing campaigns, but through relationships—built one conversation at a time, often starting in a local coffee shop. Trust, consistency, and credibility became the foundation of her success.

Balancing Business, Family, and Purpose

Anita’s journey reflects more than professional success—it highlights a deep commitment to family and responsibility.

She balanced long workdays with raising her children, preparing meals, and attending classes at night. That discipline and structure defined her approach to both life and business.

Her ability to manage multiple roles without compromise demonstrates a form of leadership that extends beyond titles—one rooted in responsibility and care.

A Legacy That Spans Generations

Today, Anita’s influence reaches across five generations. She remains active in her business, continuing to serve clients while mentoring family members and those around her.

Her story is not simply about building a career—it is about building a legacy grounded in values, resilience, and belief in one’s own potential.

As shared in her nomination:
“Anita exemplifies what a true Latina of Influence looks like… a trailblazer who refused to accept limitations and instead defined her own path.”

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone – Silicon Valley

HL | Milestone – Silicon Valley

Apr 12, 2026 | Events, Milestone

A curated reception, leadership forum, and awards experience designed to recognize those shaping business, community, and culture.

Event Overview

Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Blanco Urban Venue – 12 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110

Event Schedule 

5:00 PM
Registration • Networking Reception • Hosted Refreshments

5:30 PM
Welcome Remarks

5:45 PM
Leadership Forum
A conversation featuring industry leaders discussing leadership, influence, innovation, and community impact.

6:30 PM
Milestone Recognition Ceremony
Honoring individuals and organizations whose leadership and accomplishments have helped shape Silicon Valley and beyond.

Partial Listing of the evening honorees (click on the names for their profiles) 

7:00 PM
Networking Reception

7:30 PM
Program Concludes

Attire: Business Casual

* Program subject to change without notice

A Curated Reception

Each Milestone Series event begins with a private, curated reception that brings together a select group of professionals, decision-makers, and community leaders.

This is a space designed for intentional connection where conversations are meaningful, relationships are strengthened, and the people in the room reflect a shared commitment to leadership and progress.

Luis D. Alvarado is Co-Head of Global Fixed Income Strategy at Wells Fargo where he provides analysis and insights on economic trends, capital markets, and investment strategy. He works with clients and advisors to help interpret market developments and their impact on investment decision-making.

A respected voice on fixed income markets and the economy, Luis frequently shares perspectives on the forces shaping financial markets and the opportunities and challenges facing investors, business leaders, and entrepreneurs.

At the HL | Milestone Series — Silicon Valley, Luis will present insights on the economic environment and the trends influencing wealth creation, capital allocation, and strategic decision-making in a rapidly changing world.

LEADERSHIP DISCUSSION - The Future of Wealth: Innovation, Capital, and Decision Making in a Changing Economy

At the core of the experience is a leadership forum focused on timely conversations shaping today’s business and community landscape.

Discussions may include:

  • Generational wealth and economic opportunity
  • Real estate and housing market insights
  • Business leadership and growth strategies
  • Community influence and long-term impact
  • Regional trends unique to each host market

These conversations are designed to provide perspective, clarity, and insight connecting ideas with real world experience.

Moderator | Gloria Mirazo Gregor

Gloria Mirazo Gregor is a Senior Market Manager with Wells Fargo Home Lending, overseeing one of the company’s highest-performing regions. She leads a team of mortgage professionals serving communities throughout Northern California and is recognized for her commitment to leadership development, customer service, and community engagement. With extensive experience in financial services and housing finance, Gloria brings a practical and forward-looking perspective on wealth creation, homeownership, and economic opportunity. Her leadership has helped countless families and professionals navigate important financial decisions while building stronger communities.

Panelist | Jennifer Garcia

Jennifer Garcia is a dynamic leader with exceptional vision and business acumen, serving as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Latino Business Action Network (LBAN). LBAN is a Silicon Valley-based nonprofit and partner of Stanford University with a bold mission of advancing Latino entrepreneurship in the United States. Jennifer has played a pivotal role in driving this mission forward and delivering meaningful impact to Latino business owners nationwide.

LBAN is the largest and most sophisticated network of Latino and Latina business owners. Under her leadership, LBAN facilitates the Business Scaling Program and the Startup Accelerator at Stanford University, conducts foundational research on Latino-owned businesses, and builds an ecosystem of scaled Latino-owned companies, mentors, capital providers, and corporate partners. Jennifer’s vision has enabled entrepreneurs to access capital, public and private contracts, resources, and access to ongoing education.

Panelist | Leo Robles

Leo Robles is a nationally recognized real estate executive, entrepreneur, and growth strategist serving as Chief Growth Officer of the Designated Local Expert Network. Throughout his career, he has helped drive business growth, market expansion, and strategic partnerships within the real estate industry. Known for his expertise in leadership, branding, and relationship-building, Leo works with professionals and organizations seeking to create long-term value through innovation and community engagement. His experience offers unique insights into wealth creation, entrepreneurship, and the evolving housing marketplace.

Panelist | Josh Krakower

Josh Krakower is a Private Mortgage Banker and member of the prestigious Leaders Club at Wells Fargo Home Lending. He specializes in serving affluent clients, business owners, and professionals with sophisticated lending solutions tailored to their financial goals. Recognized for his expertise in residential financing and wealth-building strategies, Josh helps clients navigate complex financial decisions while aligning mortgage planning with broader investment and wealth management objectives. His experience provides valuable perspectives on capital access, market trends, and long-term financial planning.

Gloria Gregor

Gloria Gregor

Jennifer Garcia

Jennifer Garcia

Josh Krakower

Josh Krakower

2026_MilestoneHonoree_HildaRamirez_1920LR

FUNDING PARTNER

Wells Fargo Logo

HL | Culture & Influence is proud to announce Wells Fargo as a Funding Partner of the HL | Milestone Series “an invitation-only” leadership experience recognizing individuals and organizations shaping business, community, and culture.

As part of this collaboration, Wells Fargo will support the Milestone Series across three key markets in 2026: Orange County, New York, and Silicon Valley.

“We are proud to collaborate with Wells Fargo as a Funding Partner of the Milestone Series,” said Richard Sandoval, Storyteller | Producer | Connector, HL | Culture & Influence. “Their support allows us to elevate conversations, recognize leadership, and create spaces where relationships and ideas can move forward with purpose.”

MILESTONE HONOREES

Milestone | Judith Valles

HL | Milestone SeriesFor generations, Mayor Judith Valles represented the very best in public service. As an educator, trailblazer, and the first Hispanic elected Mayor of the City of San Bernardino, she dedicated her life to expanding opportunities for others while...

A Question Worth Asking

HL | Milestone SeriesHow a conversation between a high school student and artist Carlos Pérez became one of the most memorable moments of the HL | Milestone Series in Silicon Valley.Photos and article by Richard SandovalArtist and designer Carlos Pérez with Nicholas...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Jazmin Diaz

Growth • Purpose • Impact When Jazmin Diaz founded Flourish Learning & Development, she transformed a lifetime of personal resilience, professional achievement, and leadership experience into a mission dedicated to helping others grow with intention, confidence,...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Paleta Planeta

Family • Vision • Impact Some businesses begin with a business plan. Others begin with family. For brothers Luis Salazar, Mauricio Salazar, and Gabriel Salazar, the journey that would become Paleta Planeta started during one of the most uncertain periods in recent...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Hilda Ramirez

Leadership • Opportunity • Impact For Hilda Ramirez, leadership has never been defined solely by transactions or titles. It has been measured by the opportunities she creates for others, the professionals she mentors, and the families she helps move closer to...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Rocio Medina van Nierop

Purpose • Influence • Courage When Rocio Medina van Nierop co-founded Latinas in Tech in 2014, she set out to create opportunities for Latina professionals in an industry where representation at leadership levels remained limited. What began as a vision to support and...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors OSI Engineering

Leadership, Innovation & Community Impact Some companies are built to generate revenue. Others are built to create opportunity. OSI Engineering has accomplished both. In Silicon Valley, success is often measured by innovation, growth, and market influence. Yet the...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Gloria Mirazo Gregor

Leadership, Influence & Legacy Throughout her career, Gloria Mirazo Gregor has helped families achieve one of life's most important milestones homeownership. As a respected mortgage banking executive and community leader, her influence extends beyond lending,...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Dr. Marilyn Flores 

Breaking Barriers. Expanding Opportunity. Transforming Lives. When Dr. Marilyn Flores was appointed President of San José City College, she became the first Latina president in the institution's more than 100-year history a milestone that reflects decades of...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Julian Cañete

Culture • Influence • Legacy Some leaders advocate for business. Others dedicate their careers to creating opportunities that allow businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities to thrive. Julian Cañete has spent more than two decades doing exactly that. As President and...

THE EXPERIENCE

A curated, invitation-only reception

A leadership forum featuring market-relevant insights

Recognition of selected honorees

An elevated setting designed for meaningful engagement

Upcoming Events

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Honoree Moments