Each year, McKinney and Prosper Lifestyle magazine publisher Sharon Duffy Thomas brings together the remarkable women who help shape our community—valued advertising partners and influential leaders whose impact extends far beyond business. This year’s ladies’ event was an elegant tea party held at The Bingham Estate, where 21 inspiring women gathered for a morning of connection, conversation, and appreciation. After pausing last year’s event during Sharon’s breast cancer diagnosis, this gathering carried even deeper meaning. Her strength and resilience made the occasion especially powerful—a celebration not only of community, but of support, perseverance, and the women who continue to lead it forward.
Kim Hughes: Grace To Change
Kim leads Grace To Change, a McKinney-based nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals and families overcome addiction through faith-centered recovery programs. With a focus on long-term healing, the organization provides counseling, support groups, and resources that empower participants to rebuild their lives and strengthen connections within the community.
AJ Micheletto: Burress Law, Burress Community Foundation, The Rook McKinney
AJ serves as Marketing and Community Relations Director across several Burress entities, helping connect business with purpose throughout McKinney. From supporting legal clients at Burress Law to philanthropic outreach through the Burress Community Foundation and community engagement at The Rook, AJ also contributes to local growth through service on the McKinney Community Development Corporation board.
Heather McGregor: Gotcha Covered McKinney, Allen, Frisco
Heather is the owner of Gotcha Covered McKinney/Allen and Frisco, specializing in custom window treatments that blend style and functionality for homes and businesses. With a showroom in Adriatica, Heather works closely with clients across North Texas to create tailored solutions that elevate everyday living spaces.
Maylee Thomas-Fuller: Guitar Sanctuary, Love Life Foundation, The Maylee Thomas Band, Texas Home Grown Music
Maylee is the owner of Guitar Sanctuary in McKinney, a premier destination for musicians and music lovers alike. She is also the founder of Love Life, a nonprofit focused on supporting women and families in need. As a former First Lady of McKinney, Maylee continues to champion community connection and service.
Stephanie Talley: Academics Plus, McKinney Rotary Club
Stephanie is the owner of Academics Plus, a McKinney-based tutoring center dedicated to helping students build confidence and achieve academic success. In addition to her work in education, she serves as President of the McKinney Rotary Club, where she leads initiatives that support local service projects and community development.
Alexis Jacobs: McKinney + Prosper Lifestyle Magazine, Edwards Floral Design
Alexis has spent the past four years as a staff writer for McKinney and Prosper Lifestyle magazine, highlighting the people and stories that shape the McKinney and Prosper communities. She also works in marketing and sales at Edwards Floral Design in McKinney, combining creativity and connection to help bring meaningful moments and events to life.
Angela Poen: Community Garden Kitchen
Angela is the President and Founder of Community Garden Kitchen, a McKinney nonprofit focused on addressing food insecurity through fresh, chef-prepared meals. By partnering with local volunteers and organizations, the initiative provides nutritious food and fosters dignity, connection, and care for individuals and families in need.
Shawn Wills: Boys and Girls Clubs of Collin County
Shawn serves as CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Collin County, leading programs that support youth development across McKinney and surrounding areas. Through mentorship, education, and enrichment opportunities, the organization provides a safe and inspiring environment where young people can grow, learn, and reach their full potential.
Dr. Stephanie Robinson: Volunteer McKinney
Dr. Robinson is the Executive Director of Volunteer McKinney, an organization that connects residents with meaningful service opportunities throughout the city. Under her leadership, the nonprofit strengthens community engagement by mobilizing volunteers to support local nonprofits, schools, and initiatives that enhance quality of life in McKinney.
Nikki Carter: North Texas Job Corps
Nikki serves as a Workforce Specialist with North Texas Job Corps, helping young adults in the McKinney and Prosper area gain the skills and training needed for sustainable careers. Through guidance, education, and career placement support, she plays a key role in preparing individuals for long-term success in the workforce.
Mallory Gilbert: Kung Fu Academy of North Texas
Mallory is the owner of Kung Fu Academy of North Texas, where she empowers students of all ages through martial arts training. Based in the McKinney area, the academy focuses on discipline, confidence, and personal growth, creating a supportive environment that extends beyond physical training into everyday life.
Melody Krill: Community Food Pantry of McKinney
Melody serves as Executive Director of the Community Food Pantry of McKinney, which provides essential food assistance to families facing hardship. Through strong community partnerships and volunteer support, the organization works to reduce hunger while offering hope and stability to those in need across the area.
Monica Szewczyk: Texas Property Sisters, Coldwell Banker Apex
Monica is part of Texas Property Sisters with Coldwell Banker Apex in McKinney, where she helps clients navigate the real estate market with expertise and care. Known for her community involvement, Monica combines local knowledge with a client-first approach, building lasting relationships throughout McKinney and Prosper.
Rachel Ralston: Dermatology Center of McKinney
Rachel is the Practice Manager at Dermatology Center of McKinney, overseeing daily operations and patient experience. She plays a vital role in ensuring high-quality care, supporting both medical and cosmetic dermatology services while helping the practice serve the growing needs of the McKinney community.
Hannah McGregor: Gotcha Covered
Hannah is part of the team at Gotcha Covered, working alongside her family to support clients with custom window treatment solutions. Based out of the Adriatica showroom, she contributes to the business’s continued growth and strong community presence.
Dr. Brook Jones: Stronger Women
Dr. Jones is the Founder and CEO of Stronger Women, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women through education, support, and personal development. Serving the McKinney area, the organization provides resources and programs that help women build confidence, resilience, and meaningful connections within their communities.
Marci Patton: Ketagenics Psychotherapy
Marci leads Ketagenics Psychotherapy, offering a unique approach that integrates mental health care with nutritional and metabolic support. Her work focuses on helping individuals improve emotional well-being through personalized, holistic treatment plans.
Elizabeth Johnston: Cornerstone Assistance Network North Central Texas
Elizabeth serves as Senior Director of Growth and Advancement for Cornerstone Assistance Network of North Central Texas, a nonprofit dedicated to breaking cycles of poverty. Through strategic partnerships and community outreach, she helps expand programs that provide housing stability, job training, and essential support services.
Christina Burress: Burress Design Group, Burress Law, Burress Community Foundation, The Rook
Christina leads multiple ventures across McKinney, including Burress Design Group, an award-winning luxury interior design firm that crafts timeless, sophisticated residential and commercial spaces. She is also involved with Burress Law, the Burress Community Foundation, and The Rook, blending business leadership with a strong commitment to community impact.
Cynthia Elliot VanLandingham: Cynthia Elliot Boutique
Cynthia is the founder of Cynthia Elliot Boutique, a long-standing fashion destination on McKinney’s historic downtown square. Known for its curated selection and personalized service, the boutique has played a role in shaping the local retail landscape while continuing to inspire style and confidence.
Julie Williams: Texas Property Sisters, Coldwell Banker Apex
Julie is part of Texas Property Sisters with Coldwell Banker Apex in McKinney, where she specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the local real estate market. With a strong focus on relationships and results, she brings a thoughtful, client-centered approach to every transaction in the community.