Unstoppable, visionary, unpredictable, connector of ideas—these words come to mind when describing this fearless group of five. Each distinguished woman featured here has forged her own path while keeping their prospective wagon on track.
As we hit the spring of 2025, Conroe boasts a burgeoning number of women-owned businesses. In 2017, more than six million women worked in industries supporting the state economy. The number of women-owned companies in Texas has risen by 146 percent over the last 20 years, outpacing growth at the national level. Not only do women hold almost half of the state's 12.4 million jobs, but the fairer sex also creates jobs through their ongoing entrepreneurial efforts.
We interviewed each of this year's Notable Women to learn about their backgrounds, routines, and what inspires them. Here are their responses:
Elena Garcia, M.D.
Affiliates of Family Medicine and Conroe Aesthetics Weight and Wellness
In her free time, Dr. Garcia enjoys traveling to exotic destinations and attending concerts at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. She is passionate about audiobooks and often listens to five or six each month, which she considers her Zen time.
She gets some of that listening time in during her commute. "Even though I don't live in the Conroe area, I have had my businesses here for 23 years. I love the people—they are the kindest, most genuine, and loving individuals. I drive 50 miles a day because there is nothing like the Conroe community."
A typical day begins with coffee and some quality time with her dogs. Then, she is off to work at her two businesses. "Make sure you love what you do because going to work every day is then a joy and not a dread," says Dr. Elena Garcia, owner of Affiliates of Family Medicine and Conroe Aesthetics Weight and Wellness. "I love medicine and helping to make people feel better physically and mentally through both my medical and wellness clinics."
"I went to High School in El Paso, graduated valedictorian, and entered Rice University as a pre-med student," says the doctor. It stands to reason that her favorite subject to this day is still biology. She stayed in the Houston area and went to the McGovern School of Medicine for medical school and Memorial Southwest for her residency.
"My focus at this time is regenerative aesthetics, which aims to stimulate the body's natural healing to restore damaged or aging skin," she says. "I hope to expand my wellness clinic to include functional medicine, which focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of aging and illness and not just treating the symptoms.
"I emphasize the benefits of preventive medicine in our practice, where we care for all ages," she says. "My devotion to wellness/longevity medicine also sparked my interest in the aesthetic industry, leading to our Conroe Aesthetics Weight and Wellness concept. We focus on optimizing hormones in men and women, helping them through weight struggles with our comprehensive weight loss program, and helping them achieve their natural aesthetic goals with the best products and services."
Yet, with all of these accomplishments, the achievement of which she is most proud is being a mother.
Courtney Galle
IOM Marketing and Communications Manager, Lone Star Family Health Center
Courtney Galle's days unfold after coffee and a quick check of social media and the news. "Then, I jump into getting ready. Fun fact - I hate to be late."
She lives in New Caney but calls Montgomery County/Conroe her home. "If I had to live anywhere else besides my hometown of Brenham, it would be here," says Galle, who oversees marketing and communications at Lone Star Family Health Center. "I have always felt welcome here and at home. The adage about how you can have roots and wings is so true to my life! I have lived here for over 20 years and have no plans to ever leave." She recently bought her first home here but defers to he hometome for at least one thing.
Her favorite indulgence is Blue Bell Ice Cream. "You can take the girl out of Brenham, but you can't take the Brenham out of the girl!" laughs Galle. "Some call me an ice cream snob, but I will always defer to my hometown ice cream!
She may not take advice on ice cream, but when it comes to career advice, she has plenty of people to lean on. "I always rely on my sister for advice or to vent, but in this community, it's my friends here!" says Galle. "They have become a second family to me. Whether it is personal or professional, I know I can count on them for the best advice."
Galle counts herself as one of the luckiest professionals ever because she's had such outstanding people help contribute to her success. "When I moved here in 2003, I got a job with the Conroe CVB at the Conroe Chamber and worked for Danielle Scheiner," she says. "Not knowing anyone, this was the best thing I did because it opened up many doors with the business leadership centered in Conroe. I moved to a position at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and worked for a dear friend, Cindy DuBois, and later, Shannon Wilson. Cindy and I attended Leadership Montgomery County together, and that is how I learned about the job. I was lucky enough to work for a friend, something I don't think people often get a chance to do, but I learned so much from her."
"Working in the live music business definitely prepared me for my future jobs because, in that industry, anything can change at any time, no matter how prepared you are. After the Conroe Chamber, President Scott Harper hired me, and boy, did I learn so much! I had been doing events but never did fundraising, and that is very different. I was at the Chamber for seven years and made incredible connections with our members and the community."
Under her leadership, the Conroe Chamber began the ATHENA Leadership Luncheon in 2018 with 200 guests, and now it has grown into a signature event with 500+ attendees. "It was something I wanted to bring to Conroe, and I am very proud of how it has grown after I left the Chamber. That is a tribute to Scott Harper, his team, and the committee."
That job led her to an opportunity to work for Karen Harwell at Lone Star Family Health Center in April of 2021 in communications and marketing. "I did not have a background in healthcare, but I loved the mission of providing compassionate care for the underserved community. Karen has been such a wonderful mentor to me during this time. She is always available and really took the time to teach me the ins and outs of healthcare," says Galle. "I have been very lucky to work for the people I have. I have always said it is about connections. I have been able to grow in my career by the connections that I have made here. You never know who you will meet and where that could bring you."
Jennifer Huffine
President and CEO, Community Assistance Center
Powerhouse Jennifer Huffine begins her mornings with two solid standbys - Caffeine and Jesus! As President and CEO of the Community Assistance Center, she distills career advice into these three key principles:
- Show Up, Even When You're Scared or Unsure –Showing up—whether for a new challenge, an uncomfortable conversation, or an opportunity you feel unprepared for—sets you apart and helps you grow into the person who can handle it.
- Honor Your Commitments—Success isn't just about talent; it's about consistency. People remember those who can be counted on, and over time, that dependability opens doors to new opportunities.
- Lead by Example—True leadership isn't about titles; it's about actions. Whether you're in a formal leadership role or not, setting a standard through your behavior—how you treat people, handle challenges, and hold yourself accountable—truly matters.
When seeking business or personal advice, Huffine already has her go-tos picked out. "My husband Michael is my greatest sounding board, especially when I'm facing a daunting challenge. He knows how to listen, offer perspective, and help me think through solutions in a way that gives me clarity and confidence. I turn to tools like Google and ChatGPT when I need to explore different viewpoints or spark new ideas. Between his support and digital research, I find the direction I need to move forward."
Huffine is an enthusiastic product of the Conroe High School Class of 1993. English and dance class were her favorite subjects. "Go Tigers!" says Huffine before continuing to answer our wide-ranging questions ranging from what books she reads to influences on her career. "I just finished The Evolution of a Leader by Terry Weaver. I highly recommend it is an exceptional read," she says. "My next personal goal is to run a 50k before I turn 50 this June."
"Professionally, one of the achievements I am most proud of is having the opportunity to lead the Community Assistance Center. It is an honor to serve in this role and to work alongside such a dedicated, compassionate, and talented team," says Huffine. "Together, we are committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of our neighbors in need, and I am constantly inspired by the heart and hard work of those around me. Being part of a mission-driven organization that uplifts individuals and strengthens our community is deeply fulfilling and something I take great pride in every single day."
"On a personal level, my greatest and most cherished achievement is being a mom," she says. "There is no title more rewarding. We have five children- two whom I brought into the world and three bonus children that the Lord blessed me with. Watching my children grow into the remarkable adults they are today has been the greatest joy and blessing of my life. Their resilience, character, and kindness continually inspire me, and I am so proud of the people they have become."
Her go-to indulgence is nature. "Anything outdoors fills my soul," she says. Country music is her favorite, and while she dreams of traveling to Greece one day, Huffine finds joy in staying close to home.
"I've lived in Montgomery County my entire life, and it's been incredible to watch Conroe grow and evolve over the years. These days, our downtown is one of my favorite places to visit." She explains, "I love the vibrant atmosphere, the variety of restaurants, and the ever-expanding entertainment options. I'm especially excited to see the continued revitalization of downtown and all the opportunities it will bring to our community."
"Scott Perry has had a significant influence on my career," Huffine says. "As a dedicated community leader, he played a key role in opening the door for me to join the CAC team. Throughout my time here, Scott has been more than just a colleague—he has been a mentor, a friend, and a steadfast advocate for both me and CAC. His guidance and support have shaped my professional journey, reinforcing my passion for service and community engagement. His leadership continues to inspire me, and I am grateful for the impact he has had on my career."
Sonya Brazeal, Founder of Amazing Window Cleaners
Meaningful takeaways about integrity and leadership from Character Matters and Other Life Lessons from President George H.W. Bush by former Chief of Staff Jean Becker really stuck with Sonya Brazeal.
"Raising my two wonderful daughters is by far my greatest accomplishment," says the bubbly Brazeal, the founder of Amazing Window Cleaners and 35-year veteran of Southwest Airlines, where she began as a flight attendant and now serves as a Crew Accommodations Board Member. "I'm also proud of starting my own business and being a dedicated employee at Southwest Airlines—all milestones that have shaped who I am today."
For Brazeal, Carol Gooch, a Notable Woman in CCL back in 2022, was a great influence on her success as a business owner. With Gooch's coaching in business development, she learned to translate innovative ideas into measurable outcomes.
"Carol participated in Leadership Montgomery County, which inspired her to start her own women's networking group, Montgomery County Association of Business Women (MCABW)," recalls Brazeal. "It was the first women's networking group I joined when I started my business, and it played a big role in my early growth. Carol has been a wonderful supporter of women business owners and a champion for the success of local businesses in Montgomery and Conroe."
"I graduated from Aldine High in 1985, then Texas State University in 1990, majoring in Public Relations with a minor in Spanish," says Brazeal. "I've always had a passion for communication and connecting with people, so PR was a perfect fit for me."
"One of the best pieces of advice I've received came from my amazing business coach, Jim Dubois: 'Revenue is for vanity, profits are for sanity.' It is such a powerful reminder to focus on building a strong, sustainable business rather than just chasing numbers."
She took his guidance to heart and now can say, "We are in the process of building the new Amazing Window Cleaners headquarters, and it's one of my most exciting goals right now. I can't wait to see it come to life—it's a major milestone for our business."
"When I am facing a challenge, I turn to my husband, Kevin Brazeal—he is an experienced pilot with Southwest Airlines of 32 years and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. His calm demeanor, leadership experience, and unwavering support are invaluable to me. I also find strength and guidance in my mom, who has been a source of wisdom and encouragement."
"I start my day with a daily devotional. It provides me with the inspiration and motivation I need to take on the day with purpose.," she says. "My playlist mixes pop and country—I love the energy and vibe of both genres," she reflects. "Fiji is at the top of my dream vacation list—it just looks like absolute paradise."
"I unequivocally love living here," Brazeal confides. "It is the perfect blend of country charm and urban convenience, with great schools, a strong sense of community, and amazing local businesses to support. It is a wonderful place to raise a family. Our daughters help us with digital marketing and social media, so they are continuing our legacy."
"Celebrating life's wins (big or small) with a great margarita is one of my favorite indulgences," she confides.
Debbie Glenn, Serial Entrepreneur and Entertainer, Owner of Glenn Properties, The Red Brick Tavern, Lucy Blues
Debbie Glenn recently opened her second music venue, Lucy Blues at 711 Madeley, not far from where the circa 1947 Bluebird Courts stood with its lavender lobby on 1000 N. Frazier (you know the spot where Elvis spent the night in 1955). Lucy Blues stands on the site of the oldest bar in Montgomery County, formerly called Tuts, which was owned by Charles Tullos. She founded her first resturant/music venue, The Red Brick Tavern in 2012, where a young Parker McCollum got his start at age 14. Both of these businesses are in addition to her insurance agency and real estate firm, Glenn Properties, but that is all.
Glenn's other businesses help her focus on her real passions—songwriting and singing with her band, Southern Disposition, and nurturing new talent in the music industry.
"I'm hooked on the story behind the song," Glenn says. She weaves her personal tapestry of contributions to Conroe the way she writes a song—collaborating with great artists, calling to friends for feedback, and lifting the purpose to its highest expression. It works for her. On opening night at Lucy Blues, Glenn's soulful rendition of Three Chords and the Truth by Sara Evans moved members of her audience to tears.
Glenn's sister, realtor Lisa Wong, brings a sports fan component to Lucy Blues, and daughter Sarah Glenn helps with special events like the recent one honoring the late Don Rollins. Rollins wrote It's Five o'clock Somewhere, which was covered by Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett.
In the 90s Glenn worked for Wiesner Buick GMC in the finance department, helping people get loans. She married and had her first daughter during that period, so getting home at 10:45 pm after work was not on the mommy plan.
"I stepped out, opened Glenn Insurance, and started investing in downtown Conroe. I am blonde and not real smart, but Conroe is the county seat," she says with a wink. "I thought it was a good investment."
Glenn surrounds herself with the best minds and experienced leaders in the businesses where she's chosen to thrive. An alum of Leadership Texas 2014, she has been serving as president of the Montgomery County Restaurant Association since 2022. In addition she served and on both the Love Heals Youth Board and the Access Builds Children (ABC) board from 2021-2023.
"I tell people I'm just good at catching the blessings God tosses me out of Heaven! I'm just a barefoot, playing-in-the-dirt little girl from Oklahoma City."
When asked about the best advice she'd ever been given, she laughs, "Don't sweat the small stuff."
"I love the people—they are the kindest, most genuine, and loving individuals. I drive 50 miles a day because there is nothing like the Conroe community." - Dr. Elena Garcia
"I did not have a background in healthcare, but I loved the mission of providing compassionate care for the underserved community." - Courtney Galle
"It is an honor to serve in this role and to work alongside such a dedicated, compassionate, and talented team," - Jennifer Huffine
"We are in the process of building the new Amazing Window Cleaners headquarters, and it's one of my most exciting goals right now. I can't wait to see it come to life," - Sonya Brazeal
"I'm just good at catching the blessings God tosses me out of Heaven! I'm just a barefoot, playing-in-the-dirt little girl from Oklahoma City," - Debbie Glenn