Meet the Team!
Executive Director
WOC & MDB
Jan holds an undergraduate degree in education from the University of Maryland. and a graduate degree from Syracuse University. After moving to Ithaca from Washington, D.C. in the 1970’s, she helped organize and served as a co-coordinator of the Ithaca Chapter of the National Organization for Women.
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She has worked in several local nonprofit organizations, including the Tompkins County Mental Health Association, Family & Children’s Services of Ithaca, and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chemung County. In addition to her work in the nonprofit world, Jan has been a freelance writer since 2008. Her stories and photos have appeared in numerous regional and national magazines. In March 2021, she accepted the position as Executive Director with the Women’s Opportunity Center and in June 2021, her book Begged, Borrowed & Stolen published by Rowman & Littlefield, was released. She has three very grown children, one perfect granddaughter, and co-habits in Freeville with a frenemy cat named Leslie/Luther.
Operations Manager
WOC & MDB
Meet Mel, the multifaceted Operations Maven at WOC, bringing beauty to both women's lives and the intricate dance of spreadsheets. From sculpting styles in her salon to orchestrating operations, Mel’s journey has been a canvas of vibrant experiences.
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With five wonderful kids and a bonus daughter, her heart overflows with family adventures, relishing beach getaways and cozy game nights alike. A connoisseur of organization, hailed as the “Spreadsheet Queen” and the versatile “Jack/Queen of All Trades,” Mel's forte lies in finely tuned tasks and detail-rich endeavors, mirroring the radiance of her treasured sunsets.
Amidst the cheers for football games, she’s crafting a sunny February wedding in Florida, infusing warmth into every detail. Her passion for WOC's mission fuels her operations wizardry, where the pursuit of beauty isn't confined to flawless spreadsheets but extends to a life artfully lived.
In Mel's world, beauty sparkles in every meticulously placed cell and in the vivid hues that paint the sky at dusk. Join her in celebrating the symphony of life's beauty, love, and the exquisiteness of an immaculately organized existence.
Strategic Life Coach
We are excited to announce that Stefania Ianno has joined our team as a Strategic Life Coach! Stefania brings a wealth of expertise to our organization with her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and years of experience in the world of development, donor relations, and customer service.
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She is also the inspiring founder of Breaking Stalking, providing education on stalking awareness and prevention; her passion for this topic is commendable.
We are fortunate to have Stefania on board and look forward to the valuable contributions she will undoubtedly make.
Marketing Associate
Meet Brandi Maynes. She is the Marketing Associate at our Liverpool office. She loves spending time with her dog, who frequently comes to the office with her, and is a mental health awareness advocate. Mental health awareness is a cause close to her heart, and she believes in creating open conversations that break down stigma and empowers others.
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Skilled in a variety of digital marketing disciplines, she dedicated to supporting our businesses growth and customer engagement. With a strong focus on social media marketing, content creation, and client engagement, she uses media insights to develop impactful campaigns and measure our businesses success. She is here to help our business grow while also advocating for women’s mental and physical well-being.
Resource Navigator
Sam has rejoined us in the role of Resource Navigator. As the primary point of contact for WOC, she will be working diligently to connect our community with essential resources and support.
With Sam's deep knowledge of our organization and her passion for serving the community, we are confident she will be a valuable asset in helping us achieve our mission.
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A vibrant force of nature who's rewriting the rules and shattering expectations. Born and raised in the heart of Delaware near the beaches, and love for Boston sports, Sam's journey is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and an unyielding passion for making a difference.
From dreaming of standing in front of a classroom to crafting compelling narratives as a journalist, Sam's career path has been as dynamic as she is. Today, she's channeling her energy into empowering women as a resource Navigator at the Women's Opportunity Center.
Balancing a demanding career with the joys of motherhood and a love for life, Sam is the epitome of modern womanhood. Her infectious enthusiasm and unwavering belief in the power of community have made her a beloved figure in her circle.
With a knack for storytelling and a heart of gold, Sam is more than just a professional. She's a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to all who cross her path. Join her on this exciting adventure as she continues to make waves and leave a lasting impact on the world.
Sam's story is a reminder that with determination, compassion, and a sprinkle of sass, anything is possible.
WOC Cares Coordinator
Introducing Ronnise Way, the dynamo driving Mary Durham Boutique, where style meets social impact. As the force behind this chic second-hand haven, Ronnise crafts a space where fashion fuels empowerment. Her mission? To equip women reentering the workforce with trendy clothing and accessories while championing sustainability through reuse and repurposing.
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But that's not all—Ronnise is a multitasking maestro. Balancing her role at the boutique, she's pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Community and Human Services at SUNY Empire State College. Her studies reflect her dedication to nurturing communities, blending trendy fashion with a heart for community impact.
Trendy fashion meets social change in Ronnise's world. Her flair for style harmonizes seamlessly with her passion for empowering women. With each curated piece at WOC Community Closet, Ronnise amplifies the ethos of sustainability and upliftment.
At the intersection of fashion and social impact, Ronnise shines, proving that empowerment and chic style go hand in hand. Join her on this stylish journey where trendy threads meet a heart dedicated to making a difference. Together, let's weave a tapestry of empowerment, sustainability, and fabulous fashion!