HARI BABU BOPPUDI, PHD Principal Software Development Engineer and Cloud Architect, Amgen Page 125 THE SEVEN HABITS FOR LASTING SUCCESS Page 36 THE IMPORTANCE OF ECO-FRIENDLY BUSINESS PRACTICES Page 76 A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine Twentieth Edition HONORING THE LEGACIES OF PROFESSIONALS FROM AROUND THE WORLD
Important Dates in History 1898 The original Broadway production of “The Sound of Music” first opened in 1959. It was the final musical written by the dynamic duo of Rodgers and Hammerstein. In the aftermath of World War II, the United Nations was established. Albert Nelson Marquis established Marquis Who’s Who. 1945 1959
Long-term occupancy of the International Space Station began in November 2000, following the station’s initial launch in 1998. 2000 Carl Sagan’s “Cosmos: A Personal Voyage” first aired in October 1980. The show has had a significant and lasting impact on science television programming. 1980 2020 During the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced human activity generated less pollution, which positively affected the environment and climate.
TABLE OF 8 Worldwide Biographies Meet our listees, distinguished professionals from around the world who have dedicated their lives to providing monumental services across all industries. 7Editor’s Letter An introduction to the Twentieth edition of Millennium Magazine, a reflection of our prestigious listees whose perseverance has garnered inspiration worldwide. Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine CONTENTS 4 36 Applying the Seven Habits for Lasting Success Stephen Covey’s framework for lasting success includes seven key habits. These habits offer a structured approach to personal growth and positive change.
MINDFULNESS 120 Transforming Mental Well-Being for a Fulfilling Life It’s important to prioritize mental well-being as life grows more complex. Here are some ways you can embrace mindfulness to cultivate a fulfilling life. 76 Sustainability in Business and the Growing Trend of Eco-Friendly Initiatives Sustainability is becoming more important than ever. Thankfully, there are many ways to integrate the latest eco-friendly practices into your own business. Millennium – Twentieth Edition 142 Why Informal Feedback is Key to Effective Leadership Traditional performance reviews often fail to meet a team’s immediate and evolving needs. Here are some reasons to offer regular, informal feedback to your employees. 5
MILLENNIUM BUSINESS LEADERSHIP Chief Executive Officer Erica Lee Chief Marketing Officer Kristine McCarthy Executive Vice President, HR and Organizational Development Deborah A. Morrissey Director of Recruitment Fran Bardio Vice President, Sales and Training Michael Swinarski Senior Sales Manager Nikki Masih Sales Manager Irmela Kastrat Customer Service and Compliancy Director Iris Cannetti EDITORIAL Director, Editorial Services Renée Dutcher-Pryer Director, Print Production John Sartoris Technical Administrator, Editorial Charles Varriale Senior Editor Lisa Diamond Staff Writer Morgan Murphy CREATIVE SERVICES Senior Graphic Designers Henry Monge Carlton Ramsey Millennium Magazine is a registered trademark published by Marquis Who’s Who Ventures LLC 350 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556 Copyright 2025 © All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means – including, but not limited to, electronic, photocopying, recording or otherwise – or used for any commercial purpose whatsoever without the prior written permission of the publisher and, if the publisher deems necessary, execution of a formal license agreement with the publisher. Manufactured in the United States of America. ISSN: 2577-6991 (Online) ISSN: 2577-7009 (Print)
Dear Readers, This season, we find ourselves in a tumultuous economic and political climate, which, while prompting varied degrees of uncertainty, also requires us to remain flexible and fluid. Like buoys in a rough tide, we rise and dip according to world events and professional changes, while remaining steadfast; our persistence and experience contribute to stability despite the challenges we face. This fortitude demonstrates our commitment to advancement as it serves ourselves, our connections and our industries. Successful professionals buck rigidity and focus on a bigger picture. It is important to grasp our journeys with this holistic approach in mind to forge unique paths that lead to success. The listees featured in the 20th edition of Millennium Magazine understand this philosophy well; any highlighted within are living testaments to humankind’s resilience and tenacity. Through trial and error, professional development and a bit of luck, our featured listees have become closely acquainted with diverse and often unexpected roads, rising above challenges that lead to enriching opportunities. Whether involved in the creative arts, education, medicine and wellness, the sciences, technology or legal services, the listees detailed in these pages all share one common value: determination. In addition to Millennium Magazine’s biographical narratives, we encourage you to peruse the several articles contained within. These include “Mastering Personal Effectiveness,” an inspiring, thorough editorial that describes Stephen Covey’s framework for the seven habits we can cultivate for lasting success, as detailed in his seminal book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Likewise, “Sustainability in Business and the Growing Trend of Eco-Friendly Initiatives” calls for integrating environmentally conscious practices into business operations for a greener future. Entering the latter half of 2025, we heed the wisdom and celebrate the achievements of the listees in Millennium Magazine. We, too, encourage you to harness such steadfastness and determination that testify to the resilience of the human spirit. With best wishes for continued prosperity, Lisa Diamond Lisa Diamond Senior Editor, Millennium Magazine EDITOR’S LETTER
8 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES PHILIP ROY BROWN JR. HEAD OF GIRLS WRESTLING COACH Saugerties High School Ellenville, NY Philip Roy Brown celebrates over 30 years of professional success as a physical education teacher and coach. His interest in sports began at a formative age when he took up wrestling to help him feel closer to his late father. Furthermore, he developed a passion for helping others, which led him to explore a career in the field of academia and physical education. Mr. Brown began teaching in the 1990s, notably accepting a physical education position at Kingston High School in 1999. He continues to serve as a faculty member at Kingston High School today, overseeing the general physical education curriculum for students in grades 9-12. Additionally, he leads the wrestling clubs and coaches track and wrestling for other schools throughout the district. Since 2024, Mr. Brown has primarily operated as the head girls’ wrestling coach at Saugerties High School, where he previously spent three years as head of boys’ wrestling. He considers his long service to the Saugerties and Kingston High School communities to be the highlight of his career. Likewise, he is proud to have seen many of his former students go on to participate in state and national championships or in the military. Before beginning his vocational journey, Mr. Brown honorably served in the United States Army, first in an Army Reserves unit and then as a commissioned second lieutenant in the Army proper. He would remain in the military for the following 21 years, ultimately retiring at the rank of lieutenant colonel after serving internationally and participating in Army sports as a member of the United States Army World Class Athlete program. During his time in the Army athletics program, Mr. Brown excelled at both freestyle and GrecoRoman wrestling and participated in all-Army championships. He subsequently took part in the United States Army Europe Championship and World Championship before qualifying for the Olympics. To wit, he was ultimately selected as an alternate for the United States wrestling team at the 1992 Summer Games in Barcelona. Mr. Brown continued his education while still in the military, earning a Bachelor of Science in physical education teaching and coaching
9 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Accounting for his accomplishments, he credits his success to the influence of his parents, the support of his many coaches and mentors, and his sense of duty to others. In the coming years, Mr. Brown looks forward to continuing to teach students. In particular, he hopes to prepare one of his current students to pursue her goal of becoming the first female New York state wrestling champion within the next year. He advises others to focus on integrity, building connections, and cementing a positive legacy. Personally, he aspires to set an example for his family, colleagues and students. in 1992 at Morgan State University, where he attended on a full athletic scholarship. He was a four-time national qualifier and two-time NCAA Wrestling All-American champion. In 2024, he was inducted into the Morgan State University Athletic Hall of Fame. He returned to school as a mid-career professional, achieving a Master of Science in humanistic multicultural education by SUNY New Paltz in 2010. As a fixture in his community, Mr. Brown is honored to have taught generations of students and takes special pride in being able to coach and teach his former students’ children.
10 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES ELIZABETH A. TEDESCO OWNER, MUSIC EDUCATOR Putnam Music Center Mahopac, NY Elizabeth A. Tedesco is a proven leader in music education, management and development. To wit, she leverages over two decades of experience in her role as the owner of the Putnam Music Center in Mahopac, New York. The business is well-regarded for providing fun, high-quality, foundational music education services to students of all ages. As a specialized music educator, Ms. Tedesco teaches her students how to play the violin and viola, instruments she has been teaching for 22 years. Ms. Tedesco’s love of music began during her childhood, as she began dancing lessons when she was two and started playing the violin at age five. This passion for music inspired her to pursue a higher education in music at Concordia College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree. She subsequently continued her studies at Campbellsville University, where she ultimately achieved a Master of Music in performance and education. In addition to her academic credentials, she holds certifications in Kindermusik and Musikgarten. Adjacent to her primary vocational endeavors, Ms. Tedesco is a dedicated member of the World Civic Orchestra, where musicians from different countries meet for a week every two years to create unique concert experiences. She has been a member of the organization since 2010 and continues to actively participate as a supporter of international music events. She is also an active member of the National Association for Music Education. Ms. Tedesco has also been involved with the Songcatchers after-school music program since she joined the group’s early childhood music program when she was 17. This volunteer experience provided her with valuable teaching experience and confirmed her passion for pursuing a career in music education. Since beginning her time as a strings teacher, she has significantly transformed the store, which was previously owned by a guitarist who toured with Chubby Checker. Leveraging her background in music education, Ms. Tedesco has introduced five new group classes and converted a back room into a group classroom. Her goal is to involve kids more in community events and highlight
11 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES and digital media, to stay relevant in the field. Additionally, she believes that kindness is crucial to her teaching approach. Ms. Tedesco always considers her students’ diverse abilities and disabilities, ensuring they can progress and feel proud of their achievements. In the coming years, Ms. Tedesco strives to underscore the importance of arts subjects and encourage greater participation and appreciation for the arts within her community. She believes that music, art and science are interconnected and should be given more emphasis. Through her work at the Putnam Music Center, she hopes to accomplish this goal while enriching the lives of young individuals. For more information about Ms. Tedesco and her business, please visit https://www.putnammusiccenter.com. how much music can enrich their lives. For her work at Songcatchers, she was named the Music Teacher of the Year in 2011 and received the Outstanding Volunteerism Award in 2013. Ms. Tedesco believes that music education enriches all aspects of life, and she is proud to have earned a Master of Music while balancing her responsibilities to her three children and working full-time. Though the process was difficult, she overcame the challenges of the experience and regards it as the most rewarding achievement in her adult life. Reflecting on her career, Ms. Tedesco attributes her success to remaining current with the everevolving world of digital music and computer software. She understands the importance of adapting to new technologies, such as recording
12 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES to teach at Arizona State University and serve as a state climatologist for the State of Arizona. Dr. Brazel began working at Arizona State University as an assistant professor of geography in 1974. He subsequently became the geography department chair in 1991. He then served as the director of the School of Geographical Sciences in 2007 before ultimately retiring in 2011. Moving forward, Dr. Brazel hopes to be remembered for his commitment to honest research and his drive to push the boundaries of his field. He believed in making contributions that extend beyond existing knowledge, and he achieved that through direct, hands-on discovery in the field. While he admits that data analysis and artificial intelligence are useful tools, he highlights the importance of fieldwork. At the age of 83, he continues to actively review articles, demonstrating his ongoing engagement and contribution to the academic community. Dr. Anthony James Brazel has cultivated a fulfilling career as a notable geographer and dedicated educator. To wit, he is one of the first geographers to model aspects of alpine climatology using digital and numerical surface climate models. He also completed extensive research on dust storms and desertification of the Southwestern United States. Following his retirement in 2011, he was named a member of the emeritus faculty at Arizona State University, where he taught for over three decades. Prior to his career, Dr. Brazel attended Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, where he earned a BA in mathematics in 1963 and an MA in geography in 1965. While at Rutgers, he connected with a professor who offered him a position in Alaska as a research assistant, which launched his career in Arctic outline research. He spent much of his career on Arctic research, continuing his education at the University of Michigan and graduating with a PhD in geography with an emphasis on climatology in 1972. His focus shifted with he moved to Phoenix, Arizona, ANTHONY JAMES BRAZEL, PHD EMERITUS FACULTY Arizona State University Tempe, AZ
13 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Tracy A. Calla boasts nearly two decades of experience as a rising leader in horticulture and academia. Since 2025, she has served as the director of education at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. She began her career with the garden in 2013 as a greenhouse grower and moved into the education department in 2017. She notably operated as the senior manager of school and family programs for the organization between 2019 and 2020. Though she departed in 2020 to pursue other opportunities, she subsequently returned in 2024, taking on her current leadership position. Ms. Calla holds a BA in theater and horticulture from The Ohio State University and a bachelor’s degree in landscape and horticulture from Palm Beach State College. She discovered her passion for plants after completing her theater degree, when she turned to gardening to help manage anxiety. Inspired to pursue horticulture as a career, she enrolled in Palm Beach State College, graduating in 2012. During her studies, she worked at various nurseries in sales and education roles before joining Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Reflecting on her career, Ms. Calla believes her most notable professional achievement was her success in building the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ mangrove curriculum and field trip program, which she introduced in 2017 while serving as a youth program manager. She and a local eco-tour boat collaborated on an education initiative to introduce marine science to middle and high school students in Sarasota, Florida. Within a year, it became the gardens’ most popular field trip. Moving forward, Ms. Calla strives to introduce a horticultural therapy program to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. The local community has faced many challenges, including two hurricanes, which have left many residents stressed and mentally exhausted. By establishing a formal horticultural therapy program, Ms. Calla hopes to build mental and emotional resilience within the community. In addition, she is developing a therapeutic horticulture initiative for female veterans. Millennium Magazine Featured Listee TRACY A. CALLA DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Nokomis, FL
14 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES To commemorate his accomplishments, Dr. Munski was recognized by the University Continuing Education Association in 2007 for his contributions as an educator. Furthermore, the University of North Dakota honored him with the Outstanding Course Development Award in 2021. He has also received a Distinguished Teaching Award at the National Level from the National Council for Geographic Education, as well as a National Academic Advising Award. Dr. Munski credits his success to his upbringing, which emphasized the importance of education, and to the teachers who provided direction for him as a young person. In the coming years, he plans to continue teaching at the University of North Dakota. He hopes to be remembered as a helpful individual who showed his students, staff, administrators, colleagues and alumni the importance of paying kindness forward. Since 1978, Dr. Douglas C. Munski has served as a professor in the department of geography at the University of North Dakota. In his role as an educator, he primarily teaches courses for first and second-year students in human, regional and North American geography. He is proud to have taught third-generation students and considers it an honor to have had an impact on young minds as far back as the 1970s. As a teacher, he strives to see his pupils excel and thrive in whatever careers they pursue post-graduation. Dr. Munski pursued his own higher education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he achieved a BS in education and geography in 1974, an MA in geography in 1975, and a PhD in geography in 1978. In addition to his role as a professor, he notably served as the chair of the geography department at the University of North Dakota from 1999 to 2001 and again from 2020 to 2023. Outside of teaching, he is a member of the Grand Forks County Historical Society board and a supporter of the Dakota Science Center. DOUGLAS C. MUNSKI, PHD PROFESSOR University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND
15 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Her interest in gerontology emerged during the early stages of her career. Ever committed to her vocation, she has remained active in various professional, industry-related organizations for decades. To wit, she is a founding member of the Tarrant Area Gerontological Society. Between 2004 and 2016, Ms. Oderberg served as the director of social services for Cancer Care Services. She accepted her current position as an instructor in the department of internal medicine and geriatrics at the University of North Texas Health Science Center in 2017. Furthermore, she entered a board member role with Cancer Care Services the following year. At the University of North Texas Health Science Center, Ms. Oderberg works with assisted living facilities and outpatient providers to teach courses for family caregivers of patients with dementia. Her work includes developing community partnerships for educational outreach and creating resources for providers and the public. Ms. Oderberg is a member of the American Society on Aging, for whom she has written extensively on topics in gerontology and has been honored with awards, including Texas Christian University’s field instructor of the year award and a social worker of the year award. She considers her work on training manuals and patient education to be the highlight of her career and advises others interested in gerontology to explore the specialties available to them and find the one that best suits their passion. Ms. Oderberg credits her success to the support of her family and mentors and to her ongoing dedication to making a difference to patients and the community. J ane Oderberg is a social worker with more than four decades of experience in serving the needs of elderly patients and their caregivers and families. A multifaceted professional, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in English language and literature from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Arts in education and counseling from Loyola University. JANE FREEMAN ODERBERG INTERNAL MEDICINE AND GERIATRICS The University of North Texas Health Science Center Fort Worth, TX
16 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES State Alumni Association and local high school scholarship funds. Well-regarded for his creative output as well, Mr. Walzer is well-versed as a poet and writer. His most recent work, a poem titled “His Name Was Steve,” was published by Eber and Wein Publishers in 2024. He has also authored over 60 letters in the Akron Beacon Journal between 2007 and 2023. He has also been featured in the Wall Street Journal and Forbes Magazine. In light of his fulfilling career, Mr. Walzer has largely attributed his success to his upbringing. Likewise, he is thankful for the support of his high school principal and role model, Richard Averitte. Accounting for his accomplishments, he is particularly proud to have received a plaque from one of his students in 1983. In the coming years, Mr. Walzer looks forward to spending more time with his family and continuing in his efforts as a writer. He may also return to substitute teaching. Having accrued nearly five decades of practiced expertise, Michael J. Walzer has established himself as a proven leader in the field of education. For much of his career, he operated at the Akron Public Schools, notably teaching science, mathematics and history for grades five through nine from 1976 to 2006. During the same period, he also served the schools as a soccer and track coach. Afterward, he joined the Summit County Schools, where he worked as a part-time substitute teacher from 2008 to 2019. As part of his vocational journey, Mr. Walzer pursued his own formal education at Kent State University, where he ultimately achieved a BS in elementary education in 1976. Now retired from full-time work, Mr. Walzer dedicates himself to various academic and volunteer causes. Chief among these endeavors, he has volunteered with the Mustill Store Museum, as part of the Cascade Locks Park Association, since 2012. He has also been a member of the Akron Hiking Club since 2012. Furthermore, Mr. Walzer has donated to various organizations, including the Kent MICHAEL J. WALZER TEACHER, COACH, VOLUNTEER Akron Public Schools Akron, OH
17 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Dr. Tommy E. White has cultivated more than four decades of collective experience in engineering and academia. Since 1996, he has taught at Wayne State University, beginning as an adjunct professor before becoming an assistant professor in 2023. Wellversed in his field of study, he primarily teaches engineering courses focused on statics, dynamics and mechanics. Adjacent to his efforts as a teacher, Dr. White excelled in the engineering industry proper for many years, notably operating as a staff research engineer at General Motors from 1984 to 2004. Furthermore, he held senior engineering roles at Navistar Inc. and Chrysler Group LLC from 2011 to 2016. As part of his vocational journey, Dr. White pursued his own formal education at Wayne State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1994 and an MEng in manufacturing engineering in 1996. He subsequently received an MBA from the University of Detroit Mercy in 1996 and a PhD in industrial and systems engineering from Oakland University in 2013. Accounting for his accomplishments, Dr. White is proud to have been among the early adopters at General Motors to serve as both a product engineer and a process engineer, having held both roles for the 1992 new product development on the CH product team, showcasing his versatility. Additionally, during his time at General Motors, he successfully moved a taxing manufacturing process to the Orion assembly plant in Lake Orion, Michigan. This transition significantly improved the overall throughput of the new car line. Dr. White also developed one of the first power-fold mirrors for the 1999 Pontiac Envoy, a feature that has since become widely utilized in the automotive industry. To commemorate his achievements, Dr. White has received several honors from Wayne State University, including recognition as a Distinguished Alumnus in 2025. He attributes much of his success to his perseverance and strong support system. In the coming years, he aims to utilize his research in manufacturing and digital trends to assist companies in enhancing their global competitiveness. Millennium Magazine Featured Listee TOMMY E. WHITE, PHD ASSISTANT PROFESSOR Wayne State University Rochester Hills, MI
18 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Dr. Kevin R. Grady boasts nearly 40 years of expertise working with students with instructional support needs. Now retired from fulltime work as a special education teacher, he currently operates as an adjunct professor in the Los Rios Community College District, where he has taught since 2003. Throughout his time in the field, Dr. Grady has specialized in teaching leveled English and math classes and providing assessments and individualized instruction as needed. Having previously pursued his own formal education, Dr. Grady holds a PhD from Trident University International. Prior to moving into higher education, he spent 25 years as a teacher and special education resource specialist for the Sacramento County Office of Education. Dr. Grady is the author of several books, curriculum guides and journal articles; he hopes to publish an updated edition of his 2009 book, “Notes for Better Math Performance,” in the coming years. In light of his fulfilling career, he credits much of his success to his dedication to helping others. Furthermore, he is immensely grateful for the support of his wife and family. ADJUNCT PROFESSOR OF HUMAN CAREER DEVELOPMENT Los Rios Community College District Sacramento, CA Michael Connolly is a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and professor at the College of Southern Nevada, where he has taught for more than 25 years. He enjoyed a wealth of success as a support technician, programmer and electronics technician before becoming a professor in 1999. He teaches system networking, including CCNA classes, and he is proud to have positively impacted the lives and futures of his students. A veteran of the United States Air Force, Mr. Connolly honorably served for four years before earning a BS in physics at the University of Nevada Las Vegas in 1972. In addition to his academic credentials, he holds numerous technology industry certifications. Adjacent to his primary professional pursuits in academia, Mr. Connolly is active in community theater and has directed several large productions. Furthermore, he has been an active member of the American Legion for more than 50 years. In recognition of his dedication, he was previously named as his regional chapter’s Adjutant of the Year. PROFESSOR College of Southern Nevada Las Vegas, NV KEVIN R. GRADY, PHD MICHAEL CONNOLLY
19 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Millennium Magazine Featured Listee From a young age, John Wesley Humphries found fulfillment through music, notably taking piano and organ lessons before and throughout high school. This inspired him to major in music at Gardner-Webb University. Focusing his studies on the organ, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music education. He then earned a master’s degree in church music at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Mr. Humphries taught music in the Jefferson County Public Schools until his retirement in 2018. Prior to his retirement, he oversaw six to eight classes a day in which students learned the fundamentals of music, including small and handheld instruments, singing, and a musical regiment. Reflecting on his professional journey, Mr. Humphries considers his most notable achievement to be planning and coordinating various music programs for students. To wit, he put considerable effort into making these programs a multicultural experience, featuring music from around the world. In the coming years, he plans to travel more and collaborate with other community members on unique projects. MUSIC TEACHER (RETIRED) Jefferson County Public Schools Louisville, KY JOHN WESLEY HUMPHRIES EDUCATIONAL DIAGNOSTICIAN, PROSPER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT OWNER, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ENDEAVOR EDUCATION LLC Frisco, TX Dr. Christopher Khoury has dedicated over two decades to improving academic programs and supporting students with disabilities. Since 2018, he has served as an educational diagnostician at the Prosper Independent School District, diagnosing students with disabilities and developing individualized academic plans. He has also served as a senior contributing faculty member at Walden University since 2013. Additionally, Dr. Khoury is the co-founder and president of NextGen United Champions Sports Foundation and the owner and chief executive officer of Endeavor Education LLC. Dr. Khoury received a BS in sports management from North Carolina State University in 2004. He then attended the University of North Texas, achieving an MEd in special education in 2005 and a PhD in educational psychology in 2014. To commemorate his accomplishments, Dr. Khoury was named the Special Education Educator of the Year in his school district in 2021. He also received a Faculty Excellence Award from Walden University in 2022 while serving on several committees, ensuring equity, diversity and inclusivity for the university. Looking ahead, he is working on a book to inspire those who have been overlooked and help educators and parents better support all children. CHRISTOPHER KHOURY, PHD
20 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ACADEMIA, EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES PRINCIPAL Pneuma Christian Academy Miami, FL Since 2022, Silvia M. Ruiz has served as the principal of Pneuma Christian Academy, driving significant growth. Under her leadership, the student population has risen from approximately 100 to 165, reflecting a 40% to 50% increase over three years. Through strategic partnerships, Ms. Ruiz has expanded services, enabling the school to accommodate more students and establish a high school. This expansion has significantly boosted middle school enrollment for sixth through eighth grade, contributing to the institution’s overall success. Before joining Pneuma Christian Academy, Ms. Ruiz taught mathematics and consumer finance for over a decade. Earlier, she worked as a financial services representative and business consultant. In pursuit of her own higher education, she earned a BA in political science at Florida International University in 1998 and an MS in human resource development in 2007. Alongside her professional achievements, Ms. Ruiz honorably served in the United States Marine Corps for six years. Looking to the future, she aims to continue making impactful contributions to the field of education. SILVIA M. RUIZ Leveraging over five decades of experience, Dr. Michael L. Pinedo is an expert in operational risk and scheduling theory. Since 1997, he has served as the Julius Schlesinger Professor of Operations Management at the NYU Stern School of Business. He is also a fellow of the Production and Operations Management Society and the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences. Adjacent to his work in academia, he has consulted for Xerox, Goldman Sachs and International Paper. Dr. Pindeo achieved a PhD in operations research at the University of California, Berkeley in 1978. Shortly thereafter, he began his faculty career in 1980 as an assistant professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology. He went on to teach at Columbia University from 1982 until 1997, at which point he accepted his current role at NYU Stern. Well-regarded for his scholarly output as well, Dr. Pinedo has published extensively on scheduling, process management and technology. His book, “Scheduling: Theory, Algorithms, and Systems,” is one of the most adopted graduate-level texts on the topic, with sales of over 50,000 copies. JULIUS SCHLESINGER PROFESSOR OF OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT NYU Stern School of Business Brooklyn, NY MICHAEL L. PINEDO, PHD
22 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND REAL ESTATE JOHN FÜLÖP OWNER, ARCHITECT John Fülöp Associates, Architects and Planners West Stockbridge, MA John Fülöp celebrates over five decades of experience and distinction in the fields of architecture and design. Over the course of his career, he has helmed major projects throughout the United States, including work for Carnegie Recital Hall, partnerships with design firms across the country, and a housing design portfolio including innovations in solar energy integration, community living, and mobile homes. He holds a BS in architecture and engineering from the City University of New York and achieved an MArch at Yale University in 1968. While he was still a student, Mr. Fülöp was awarded the 1967 Koppers Prize and an honorable mention in the PPG Competition, among other honors. Mr. Fülöp began his career with several years of pertinent internships, working with fellow architects such as Robert Levien, Ulrich Franzen, Andre Halasz and Alden Berman, and major firms, including Lathrop Douglass, Moore-Turnbull Architects, and Bull, Field, Volkmann and Stockwell, Architects. Through the early 1970s, he worked with Hardy, Holzman and Pfeiffer Architects, Edward L. Barnes, and Zachary Rosenfield & Partners, Architects. He began his own independent architectural practice during this time. Since 1974, Mr. Fülöp has served as the owner and lead architect of John Fülöp Associates, Architects, and Planners, a practice specializing in sustainable and zero-energy architecture. He has developed a portfolio of residential projects with a thoughtful approach to the concerns of both the built and natural environments and a focus on lifestyle and client needs. He describes his process as “adjusting the ambition” of each project to ensure all parties are comfortable with any additions or changes. Likewise, he strives to avoid design ideas that do not honor the structures, clients and communities they serve. Through the 1970s, Mr. Fülöp pursued many fine art, film and design projects, alongside his architectural work. From 1971 until 1976, he was the editor, production chief and primary photographer for John Fülöp Slide Film Productions, producing commercial slide films for companies and educational purposes, including projects on suburban growth for the
23 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND REAL ESTATE to several New York City hospitals, schools and apartment buildings. Mr. Fülöp is the president of the board of trustees of the Community Land Trust of the Southern Berkshires, a role he has held since 2014. For more than 25 years, he was also involved in the Little Big House Project, creating a prototype passive solar energy starter home plan, which was promoted in Popular Science and raised awareness of zero-energy living and the “tiny home” concepts with the larger public. Mr. Fülöp credits his passion for architecture and dedication to community and sustainability to his family’s experiences in Germany during and after World War II. Furthermore, he is grateful for the early creative influence of his mother, a musician and teacher. A lifelong swimmer and volunteer coach, he hopes to remain active in civic advocacy for the rest of his life. In light of his fulfilling career, Mr. Fülöp attributes his success to his willingness to continue learning and innovating. American Institute of Architects. His slide film and projection work extended to production and design for the LIDD Light Show Group and the New York City Parks Department’s “Movies in the Park” program. He played a key role in the design of inflatable projection screens and a mobile projection booth for use in showing experimental films and slide presentations and became known for his experimental video, photography and projection work throughout New York during the 1970s. During this decade, Mr. Fülöp was an associate of William Richardson, working on communityfocused projects throughout Eastern Kentucky, including schools and residential buildings. In 1978, he created the “Step by Step” New Age Community Masterplan, a design for an intentional community and artist colony in upstate New York. His emphasis on sustainability and environmentalism continued to develop during the 1980s with major energy conservation projects, including energy audits and retrofits
24 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND REAL ESTATE DOROTHY “DOTTIE” HERMAN VICE CHAIR, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Douglas Elliman Real Estate New York, NY Dorothy “Dottie” Herman is a real estate professional celebrating more than 30 years of success in global real estate and property sales, management, and development. In 2003, she became the chief executive officer of Douglas Elliman Real Estate, a firm specializing in sales and rental of luxury properties, including new builds. For more than 20 years, she has led the company’s expansion, overseeing growth across various services, including property management and development marketing. In addition to her role as the chief executive officer, Ms. Herman has also served as the company’s vice chair since 2018. Ms. Herman began her career at Merrill Lynch in the early 1990s as it attempted to rebrand from a brokerage firm to a full-service financial management house. Though it was originally established as a brokerage, the business eventually began focusing on diversification, seeking to incorporate other banking products, including mortgages, alternative investment categories and real estate. Ms. Herman initially joined Merrill Lynch’s national real estate arm, working as a regional manager for the Northeast region. In her position, she oversaw operations, staffing, sales, and development for New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Boston, Massachusetts. She quickly developed a positive reputation for her wellrounded and multifaceted expertise, with a focus on superb achievement and building fruitful relationships with clients and stakeholders. Recognizing Ms. Herman’s aptitude and the value of developing its real estate brand, the company provided her with extensive additional training and professional development. She recognizes this training as a key factor in helping her develop a global approach to real estate during an era in which the industry was largely hyperlocal. As a longtime voice of leadership in the real estate industry, Ms. Herman remains active in various real estate organizations, including the National Association of Realtors, the Long Island Board of REALTORS, and the board of governors of the Real Estate Board of New York. In addition to her industry leadership roles, she is well-regarded as a philanthropist
25 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND REAL ESTATE The Answer’s “Eye on Real Estate” show, which has been a fixture of the network since 2013. Likewise, she began hosting the human-interest focused “Real Talk” show in 2023, also as part of AM970 The Answer. In light of her fulfilling career, Ms. Herman credits much of her success to the training and support she received at Merrill Lynch. Furthermore, she is proud of her professional and personal resiliency, which she has developed throughout her life. Outside of her work, Ms. Herman recently finished her first book, and she looks forward to branching further into the fields of writing and publishing in the coming years. and member of the board of her alma mater, Adelphi University. To wit, she pursued a formal education at Adelphi University at the onset of her vocational journey, ultimately earning a bachelor’s degree. In addition to her academic credentials, she is also a fully certified financial planner and real estate broker. Adjacent to her primary professional pursuits, Ms. Herman continues to participate as a popular public speaker, keynote presenter and media host. Her speeches are known for weaving together real estate industry insights with her own personal experiences. As part of these endeavors, she operates as the host of AM970
26 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND REAL ESTATE Peter Frederick Dessauer leverages several decades of experience as a historical architect for the National Park Service, where has helped ensure the future and use of historic structures since 1978. Since 1992, his primary focus has been Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, a 3,700-acre site with 152 classified structures and more than 50 buildings with designated historical significance. His work involves managing and collaborating with a team of officials, contractors and planners to research and create plans for the preservation and maintenance of landscape and building elements. As the site of numerous key events in the American Revolutionary War, Harpers Ferry has been designated a sesquicentennial park. Many of Mr. Dessauer’s recent projects have been focused on preparing for national celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2025. Mr. Dessauer holds a bachelor’s degree from Tufts University and an MArch from the University of Florida. His passion for architecture began while studying abroad in Florence, Italy, and subsequently traveling throughout Central Asia and Southern Europe, where he was struck by the emphasis on historic sites and their stewardship that he witnessed. After completing his undergraduate studies, he completed postgraduate coursework at Syracuse University, Clemson University and the Victorian Society School. Before his work on the Harpers Ferry site, Mr. Dessauer was responsible for major projects in New York City, Denver and Boston, including the renovation of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Faneuil Hall and Boston’s Old State House. He and his work have been featured extensively in the media, and he has been the recipient of many honors, including a Presidential Design Award for his work on Ellis Island. Mr. Dessauer credits his success to the influence and support of his family and his many mentors. He is honored to be playing a part in preserving American cultural heritage sites for generations to come. PETER FREDERICK DESSAUER HISTORICAL ARCHITECT National Park Service Harpers Ferry, WV
27 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND REAL ESTATE In 1985, Joan Marie Price co-founded Custom Installers LLC, an interior architectural construction business, along with co-founder Jack W. Price. She subsequently founded Custom Installers of Colorado LLC in 2005. She has since led the company as the chief financial officer, executive management and safety director, handling day-today operations, forecasting, business tax, determining products, and the direction of employees and management. She frequently visits job sites to ensure quality, safety and the financial management of all projects. Ms. Price is also the founder of CI Woodworkers of America, a private adult training and commercial architectural education school, specializing in architectural commercial finish carpentry. In this capacity, she serves as an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety program director for herself and her students, training in OSHA regulations through the University of South Florida and the commercial architectural industry. She has successfully guided students through multiple fouryear apprenticeships, educating over 100 students and employees while overseeing the completion of more than 9,600 projects. Ms. Price holds multiple degrees, including an MBA in small business management and an MBA in finance and financial management services from Westwood College - Denver North and a BSBA in small business administration from the School of Professional Studies at Regis University. In light of her accomplishments, she attributes her success to her ability to listen to others and solve problems through research and garnering visionary future outcomes in management and finance. Reflecting on her career, Ms. Price considers her most notable achievement to be testifying against several financial institutions in an approved courtroom setting in Salida, Colorado, to support small businesses affected by bank closures during the Great Recession. She conducted research and shed light on the economic hardships faced by small business owners. Furthermore, she authored a proposal to Congress advocating for reforms in the income tax system. Moving forward, she plans to continue her advocacy for small businesses at the national level. JOAN MARIE PRICE FOUNDER, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, SAFETY DIRECTOR Custom Installers of Colorado LLC Windsor, CO
28 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine For 25 years, Sam Rodriguez has cultivated a wealth of success in the real estate industry. As a recruiter, he has worked with large national companies, such as Keller Williams Realty, RE/MAX and Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, as well as luxury boutiques in both single and multiple markets. Since 2023, he has worked with Epique Realty as a member of the board of directors, focusing on global expansion as a contractor and consultant. Additionally, he supports his personal organization, which represents about half of Epique Realty. Mr. Rodriguez began his professional journey in 1999 at firms including Dyson and Dyson Real Estate, Keller Williams Realty Inc. and HK Lane Real Estate (now the Windermere Real Estate Services Company). He gravitated toward leadership early in his career, starting with a recruiting role that led to opportunities to run offices, manage regional business, and serve as vice president of United States and international growth for eXp Realty. During his time there, he successfully grew the company from 2,600 agents to over 53,000 in less than five years, gaining significant recognition. Mr. Rodriguez’s passion lies in building businesses from the ground up. To wit, he views growth and expansion as his core strengths and focus. He is proud of his work and accomplishments in expanding eXp Realty, which cemented him as a key recruiter on both the local and international levels. Ever committed to his profession, he also remains active as a member of the National Association of REALTORS and the California Desert Association of REALTORS. Mr. Rodriguez remains an integral part of Epique Realty's US and global growth and expansion as well as leveraging his professional contacts as Epique stands up verticals in mortgage and title insurance. Reflecting on his career, he is grateful for his past learning experiences, which shaped him into the professional he is today. SAM RODRIGUEZ BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBER Epique Realty Las Vegas, NV ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND REAL ESTATE
29 Millennium - Twentieth Edition ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND REAL ESTATE At the onset of her tenure with Ashley Furniture Industries, she worked in Shanghai, China, later becoming the visual manager of international accessory sourcing in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. In 2017, she immigrated to the United States to serve as a visual manager in Tampa, Florida. Ms. Shan began her career in interior design by working with JB Style Design in Shanghai, starting as a designer and decorator and ultimately becoming a project director between 2007 and 2013. The small team accomplished ample feats and published their work in Shanghai real estate interior design magazines and books. She also coordinated media interviews and magazine publications, contributing to nearly a dozen magazines and interior design books. These experiences helped her understand customer needs, and she has since moved on to grow in the B2B and B2C business, expanding her expertise in both wholesale and retail. In addition to her career experience, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in early childhood education and a Bachelor of Arts in interior design from East China Normal University. Utilizing her bachelor’s degree, she taught kindergarten classes at Shanghai Nanyan International from 2001 to 2007. Looking ahead, Ms. Shan aims to continue pursuing her passions in art and her career. To wit, she strives to inspire others and achieve milestones with her team at Ashley Furniture Industries. She attributes her success to the hard work and dedication of her team, who achieved $13 million in international revenue for the business in 2024; they seek to reach $1 billion by 2028. While this is a lofty goal, they are focused on driving substantial growth and are fully committed to achieving this target. S ince 2021, Becky Yu Gehling née Shan has served as the director of international merchandise and visual for Ashley Furniture Industries, where she specializes in artistic interior design. Since originally joining the company in 2013 as a regional visual manager, she has helped it grow into a million-dollar business. BECKY YU GEHLING NÉE SHAN DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL MERCHANDISE AND VISUAL Ashley Furniture Industries Rochester, MN
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