And the Winners Are …

Below are the winners of the 365 Leadership Community Choice Awards for 2023. We will honor these leaders at an awards show and ceremony at 6:30 pm on Monday, November 6, the first night of the 365 Leadership Summit. You can still register at this link!

Gloria Reyes currently oversees Dane County Human Services, the county’s largest agency. Previously she was CEO of Briarpatch Youth Services and served as deputy mayor, school board member and president, and as a Madison Police detective. She is the founder of Adelante, an organization that supports people of color who run for public office. She ran for Mayor of Madison in 2023. She has also served on the boards of the Madison School Foundation, Porchlight, Madison Policing Foundation and Overture Center for the Arts. Gloria was the CEO of Briarpatch Youth services, now is overseeing Dane County Human services. She served on the school board.

Everett Mitchell is a Dane County Circuit Court judge, overseeing the juvenile division. During his tenure on the bench, Judge Mitchell has worked with colleagues to change court room policy so young people are not automatically placed in restraints when entering the courtroom, worked with the Madison Metropolitan School District to create an office of Youth Engagement that will provide a bridge to kids who are disconnected from any sort of educational programming, worked to ensure that children at Lincoln Hills receive haircuts on a regular basis, and connected the Black Law Students Association with our Local Detention Center so those students can eat lunch with children in detention. He has been an assistant district attorney and director of community engagement for the University of Wisconsin. He is also pastor at Christ the Solid Rock Baptist Church. He earned a degree in mathematics and religion at Morehouse College, a master of divinity at Princeton Theological Seminary and a law degree at the University of Wisconsin. 

Alvarado Real Estate Group is committed to exploring and challenging the way racism is embedded within the real estate industry as a whole. We practice this work in a way that is rooted in justice, transparency, and accountability to those most marginalized. Alvarado Real Estate Group contributes a percentage of profits on a quarterly basis to the Own It: Building Black Wealth Fund. The leadership is committed to hiring and supporting real estate agents of color and staff. The majority of the team identifies as BIPOC.

Quartz Health Solutions, Inc. (Quartz) is a Wisconsin-based, member-focused health insurance provider, jointly owned by Advocate Aurora Health, Gundersen Health System, UnityPoint Health, and UW Health. The company manages an array of provider-owned health insurance plans and serves as a third-party administrator for self-funded plans. With a robust network, Quartz delivers local, community-centric health care to nearly 370,000 customers across Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota.  In addition to community-specific care, Quartz is actively working to improve Health Equity through the identification and mitigation of health disparities. The organization is participating in the NCQA Health Equity Accreditation process, which focuses on outcomes such as prenatal and postpartum care, child well-visits, blood pressure control, and diabetes management. Elizabeth Priller, the Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, plays a pivotal role in Quartz’s health equity initiatives. She emphasizes that the company’s Belonging 2.0 learning experience aims to foster inclusivity by intentionally connecting employees with one another. This internal culture is instrumental in aligning the organization’s efforts to advance health equity both internally and in the communities they serve. Quartz is not just a health insurance provider; it’s an institution committed to meaningful community support, health equity, and tailored care for all its members

Faustina Bohling is an accomplished professional with a rich history in human resources, diversity and inclusion, program management, and nonprofit work. An alumnus of both the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Edgewood College, Faustina brings academic rigor to their extensive work experience. Currently the Vice President of People Operations at Education Analytics since December 2019, Faustina has also contributed to diversity and inclusion as a Program Manager at American Family Insurance and served in various roles at the United Way of Dane County, including Director of Human Resources. Prior stints include impactful roles at Second Harvest Foodbank and the Wisconsin Alumni Association. Complementing their professional life, Faustina actively volunteers at organizations like Kennedy Heights Community Center, City of Sun Prairie, and the Latinos Professional Association. Their career and volunteerism collectively speak to a deep-seated commitment to equity and community engagement.

Dominic Ortiz serves as the CEO and General Manager of Potawatomi Casino & Hotel, overseeing both the Milwaukee and Carter, Wisconsin locations. A member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation of Kansas, Ortiz holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Accounting and Business Administration from the University of Kansas. He further refined his leadership skills through Harvard Business School’s GM/Executive Education Program. Ortiz’s career trajectory is marked by increasingly significant roles in the gaming and hospitality industry, beginning with a consulting position at Ernst & Young in 2002. He has since held pivotal roles at Harrah’s Entertainment, Prairie Band Casino & Resort, and Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino, before taking the helm as CFO at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort. In July 2021, he was appointed by the Forest County Potawatomi to lead Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, a role that was later expanded to include the Carter location. His experience and commitment to excellence make him a key figure in the industry.

Kurt Rose is a distinguished human resources professional who assumed the role of Employee and Labor Relations Manager with the City of Madison in April 2023. Prior to this, he served as the Director of Human Resources Operations for Madison Metropolitan School District and as Interim Human Resources Director for the University of Wisconsin’s School of Education. Highly invested in community leadership, Kurt is the current President of the Urban League of Greater Madison Young Professionals, a role that has seen him significantly boost the organization’s membership. He also sits on the board of directors for Madison Ballet and Think & Grow, LLC. His credentials are numerous, including certifications in Internal Investigations, People Analytics for HR, and Strategic Human Resources Business Partnership. A Certified Diversity Recruiter, Kurt holds a Professional in Human Resources® (PHR®) certification. He has been recognized as a ’40 Under 40 Honoree’ by InBusiness Madison Magazine and received the Richard L Garner Community Service Award for his positive impact on Madison’s African-American community. Kurt is also a member of the National Honor Society of Leadership & Success and holds leadership roles within Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.

Mentoring Positives mentors youth through entrepreneurial skills and practices. Mentoring Positives makes Off The Block food items as a platform for our youth to develop skills and confidence. Their mission is to strengthen Madison’s young people and their families by means of mentoring, leadership training, and social entrepreneurship. They have recently opened Muriel’s Place, a dine-in pizza restaurant staffed by the youth they serve.

Dr. Christina Outlay is Executive Director of Maydm, Christina has been a transformational leader dedicated to leveling the playing field in STEM for girls and youth of color. A Black woman with a formidable background in IT, she founded the nonprofit colorcoded before joining Maydm, amplifying her impact by scaling her mission. Under her stewardship, Maydm has blossomed into one of Madison’s leading nonprofits, securing critical partnerships and significantly increasing the number of internships offered. Christina’s resourcefulness also extends to high-level fundraising, exemplified by securing a $500,000 commitment from American Family Insurance, Maydm’s largest donation to date. Collaborative and visionary, she engages with various community stakeholders, including Madison College, Park Bank, and Black Girl Magic Educational Services, to bring innovative opportunities to youth. Outside of her professional commitments, Christina serves as the President of the Sun Prairie Police Commission and sits on the board of Wisconsin Literacy, Inc. With a long list of accolades including the 2023 YWCA Woman of Distinction and Brava Magazine Woman to Watch in 2017, Christina is more than just a chronic overachiever; she’s a community-centric leader devoted to creating systemic change. Her work in 2023 alone has led to a 30% increase in Maydm’s full-time staff, brought 538 students into Maydm’s programs, and placed 23 high school interns in paid positions across Dane County and Milwaukee.

Braelon Allen is a junior running back for the Wisconsin Badgers, hailing from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Standing at 6-foot-2 and majoring in Life Sciences Communication, Allen has already made a significant impact on the field. He’s been honored with numerous awards, including 2022 All-Big Ten second team and the 2022 Guaranteed Rate Bowl Offensive MVP. During his 2021 freshman season, he rushed for 1,268 yards, earning him a finalist spot for the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award and the Las Vegas Bowl MVP. Allen has continued to shine in his 2022 season, rushing for 1,242 yards, marking his second consecutive 1,000-yard season. With a knack for breaking long runs, including a 96-yard touchdown, the longest in Badger history, Allen has proven to be one of the most dynamic backs in the Big Ten. He has even showcased his versatility by completing two passes for touchdowns.A four-star recruit in high school, he made the WFCA all-state team on both offense and defense, underscoring his all-around athletic prowess.

Laila Edwards, a groundbreaking 6-foot-2 forward on the University of Wisconsin ice hockey team, is set to make history as the first Black woman to play for Team USA in the 2023-2024 Rivalry Series. Currently in her second season with the Badgers, Edwards has rapidly emerged as a force on the ice. In her rookie season, she appeared in all 41 games for the National Championship team, amassing 27 points through 13 goals and 14 assists, earning her spots on the WCHA All-Rookie Team and the NCAA All-Tournament Team. Prior to joining Wisconsin, Edwards led the U.S. to a silver medal at the 2022 IIHF Under-18 Women’s World Championship, where she was named MVP and Best Forward. Off the rink, Laila attended Bishop Kearney High School in Rochester, New York, where she tallied an impressive 413 points in 287 games from 2018-2022. Born to parents Robert Edwards and Charone Gray-Edwards, Laila is one of five siblings. Her sister Chayla also plays hockey for Wisconsin, a choice motivated by the school’s superior academics and atmosphere. With a range of honors, including WCHA Rookie of the Year Finalist and multiple Rookie of the Week awards, Laila Edwards is not just breaking barriers but also setting new standards of excellence in hockey.

Alayna West, standing at 5’9″, is a rising basketball star set to graduate in 2024. She has caught the attention of numerous NCAA Division I programs, with offers from Bradley, Butler, California State Bakersfield, Central Michigan, Cleveland State, College of Charleston, DePaul, Eastern Illinois, Green Bay, Illinois Chicago, Middle Tennessee, Murray State, North Dakota, Southern Illinois Edwardsville, Tennessee Tech, and Wichita State. During her junior year, West put up staggering numbers, averaging 28.3 points and 15.6 rebounds per game. According to WisSports, these stats ranked her second and fourth in the state, respectively. 

Rising Star – High School

Natania Julius is a standout 10th-grader known for her exemplary character and broad range of talents. A crucial member of her school’s debate team, Natania has mastered the arts of articulation and critical thinking, qualities that have earned her the role of class representative, reflecting the trust and confidence placed in her by both peers and educators. Beyond the academic sphere, Natania is deeply committed to community service; she is an active volunteer at her church and contributes her time and energy to several school clubs, including the School Volunteering Club and MedLife. Her creativity and commitment to charitable endeavors were particularly evident when she devoted over 60 hours to crafting a paper dress for a charity ball. On the academic front, she has consistently excelled, securing a spot on the High Honor Roll and receiving the Kiwanis Award in 8th grade for her behavior and academic prowess. In every arena, Natania demonstrates a level of dedication and discipline that distinguishes her as both an outstanding student and an invaluable community member.

Laila Edwards is a rising star in women’s ice hockey, currently in her second season as a 6-foot-2 forward with the University of Wisconsin. Set to make history in November as she takes the ice for Team USA in the 2023-2024 Rivalry Series, Edwards has already made a name for herself with an impressive track record. In her freshman year, she scored 27 points across 41 games and earned a spot on the WCHA All-Rookie Team. Before her collegiate career, she shone at the 2022 U-18 World Championships, where she was named MVP and Best Forward. Edwards’ accolades also include being a WCHA Rookie of the Year Finalist and appearing on the HCA Rookie of the Year Watch List in 2023. She has been named WCHA Rookie of the Week twice and was a member of the NCAA All-Tournament Team in 2023.

Kelly Jackson is a globally acclaimed artist of Native American heritage, has showcased her distinct and evocative artworks on stages throughout the United States. Specializing in Native Americana, her creative oeuvre blends elements of folk, jazz, country, hip-hop, and rock, all enriched with indigenous sounds like drums, shakers, bells, and the resonant tones of the native flute.

KinFolk Soul Music, originating from Madison is a versatile R&B ensemble that came together in the late 2000s under the artistic direction of lead vocalist Anthony Ward. The group was formed to address Madison’s shortage of soul, neo-soul, and R&B musical offerings. In addition to Ward, the band features vocalists LaVar J. Charleston and Marcus Fleming, along with a four-piece instrumental section led by Corey Saffold, the group’s Musical Director, who also plays bass. Known for their eclectic musical range, Kinfolk traverses various genres including traditional jazz, mainstream R&B, rock, funk, as well as Latin and Jamaican rhythms, not to mention their own soul-stirring originals. The band has garnered acclaim for their electrifying live shows, characterized by emotive harmonies and raw vocals that evoke nostalgia while also hinting at exciting possibilities for the future.

JP Hair Design is a distinguished salon, celebrated not just for its quality services and economical pricing, but also for its community leadership and commitment to diversity. Rooted in a family-friendly atmosphere, the salon prioritizes professionalism and genuine hospitality, earning it numerous awards over the years. These accolades include the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce’s 2018 “Ground Floor Award” for Small Business Leadership, the 2014 Dane County Small Business Award from UW-Madison Small Development Center, the 2013 Small Business Workplace Diversity Award from the Urban League of Greater Madison, and many more. At JP Hair Design, clients are more than customers; they’re considered family, reinforcing the salon’s guiding philosophy that “family takes care of family.”

Dr. Angie Hicks is an exceptional administrator whose influence transcends conventional norms, driving educators to excel in their roles and serve their scholars with unparalleled commitment to equity. Known for her commanding presence and inspirational energy, she effortlessly captivates rooms filled with hundreds, earning the unforgettable respect of students, families, and staff alike. A Madison native, Dr. Hicks has journeyed from custodian to Assistant Superintendent, embodying the essence of resilience and serving as an indelible role model for the community. She is particularly lauded for transforming Wright Middle School into Wisconsin’s first AVID demonstration school and earning the title of ‘Administrator of the Year’ in MMSD for her visionary leadership. Her ceaseless dedication to her scholars and community sets a gold standard in educational administration, earning her widespread admiration and influencing the careers of educators, including myself, in immeasurable ways.

Paula Tran is a transformative leader in public health and equity, currently serving as the Division of Public Health Administrator and State Health Officer with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services since August 2021. Concurrently, she is the Senior Health Equity Advisor at the UW Population Health Institute, where she formerly led the Mobilizing Action Towards Community Health (MATCH) Group from 2017-2021. Paula’s extensive experience includes roles as the Assistant Director at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Center for Community and Nonprofit Studies, Health Equity Coordinator for Transform WI, and Founding Coordinator of Thrive WI. She is also the Founding Chair of the Wisconsin Public Health Association Health Impact Assessment/Health in All Policies Section and has been a Population Health Service Fellow with the Wisconsin Division of Public Health and Wisconsin Center for Health Equity. Her professional service spans across several high-profile committees, including the National Association of County and City Health Officials, Forward Community Investments Board, and the Governor’s Health Equity Council. Recognized for her accomplishments, Paula received the 2023 de Beaumont Foundation 40 under 40 in Public Health Award and the 2014 WPHA Excellence in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Award. Known for her humanistic leadership approach, Paula excels in fostering an inclusive and equitable work environment, while being actively engaged with health officers across Wisconsin to uplift communities. Her leadership style is lauded for its focus on equity, transparency, and strategic empowerment, setting her apart as an exemplary figure in the public health sector.

Madison Black Chamber of Commerce has, for more than a decade,  been an integral part of the Greater Madison business landscape. Established in 2006, the organization has grown to represent more than 700 member businesses in Dane County, solidifying its role as the leading network for Black-owned businesses in South Central Wisconsin. Dedicated to empowering the Black community through entrepreneurship, the Chamber believes that Black-owned businesses are essential to Madison’s economic vitality. To that end, it provides comprehensive economic development and technical service assistance, creating a supportive ecosystem that connects community leaders, business owners, and service providers. Through its expansive network and targeted support, the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce continues to make a lasting impact on the region’s economic well-being.

Mentoring Positives, Inc. is a transformative community organization in Madison, founded by Will Green, that focuses on empowering underserved youth in the Darbo Worthington neighborhood. The organization offers mentorship programs, athletic opportunities, and entrepreneurial education, notably through its social enterprise, Off the Block Salsas and Frozen Pizzas. Committed to both individual and community uplift, Mentoring Positives has initiated annual events like the Darbo Peace Walk and is credited with life-changing impact on Madison’s youth. Will Green, the driving force behind the organization, has also founded the Darbo Council to amplify residents’ voices and established Muriel’s Place as an additional supportive environment. His dedication has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Mayoral Proclamations and awards from educational and community institutions. With a vision that transcends mere intervention to create a family of supporters, Mentoring Positives is not just an organization; it’s a movement for sustainable change.

The OuttaDeeBox Podcast, helmed by Dee Star, has rapidly gained acclaim for its focus on the stories of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals and their families. Since its excerpts began airing on WORT’s evening local news program in August 2022, it has become one of the station’s most popular features, regularly receiving positive feedback from listeners. Dee, who juggles hosting and producing the podcast with a full-time job, has an innate ability for securing guests with compelling histories. His talent has been recognized with a 1st place award for “Best Interview” from the 2022 Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Awards For Excellence in the Large Market Radio News and Talk division. Dee has also been profiled by multiple media outlets including the Cap Times, Wisconsin Public Radio, and Madison Magazine in the past year. Committed to community engagement, he has shared his podcasting expertise in workshops, notably one hosted by Madison Public Library, as he continues to provide a vital platform for historically underrepresented voices.

Annie Weatherby-Flowers is a transformative leader and advocate who has dedicated decades to community building, racial justice, and healing in Madison. With a long-standing career in the City of Madison’s Department of Civil Rights and as the Community Engagement Coordinator at Madison Public Library, she has been an invaluable resource and mentor to individuals across various backgrounds. Annie is a Licensed Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor and holds both a BS in Psychology and an MA in Education. Her activism spans from founding Madison’s Juneteenth celebration and the Kujichagulia Center for Self-Determination to serving on the Board of All of Us and being a foster parent and church leader. Focused on substantive impact, Annie has led initiatives concerning poverty, mental health, economic development, and social justice, among others. She’s navigated significant institutional resistance and racism with compassion and an unwavering commitment to justice. Recognized for her work, she received the 45th YWCA Annual Women of Distinction Leadership Award in 2019 and was named one of Madison365’s 51 Most Influential Black Leaders in 2020. Whether it’s through her role in institutional planning or her active engagement in community dialogues, Annie Weatherby-Flowers remains a catalyst for transformational change, inspiring many to work for justice and community.

Dr. Jack E. Daniels III, who became President of Madison College in 2013, has profoundly transformed the institution and the wider Madison community. A visionary and committed leader, Daniels has elevated Madison College into an epicenter of innovation, economic growth, and educational partnership. Prior to Madison, he held presidential roles at institutions including Los Angeles Southwest College and Lincoln Land Community College. During his tenure, he led the development of Goodman South Campus, designed to serve south Madison’s community explicitly, and instituted a shared governance model that underlines participatory decision-making. His administration has broadened academic programs, initiated transfer agreements with four-year colleges, and crafted responsive curricula to meet a fluctuating workforce. Daniels has been steadfast in addressing societal challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic, while fortifying the college’s unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Under his leadership, the number of students and employees of color at Madison College has seen significant growth. In recognition of these efforts, the college received the Eduardo J Padrón Award for Institutional Transformation in 2022, and Daniels was named one of Wisconsin’s Most Influential Black Leaders by Madison365 in 2015. Moreover, he seeded the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship, signaling personal commitment to social justice. As he approaches retirement in June, Daniels is resolute that the college “will continue to innovate, create, and improve,” leaving an indelible legacy of change and impact.