When it comes to movers and shakers, Montgomery County is blessed to have many women who make a difference every day. These business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, and philanthropic volunteers have helped grow our community and are influencing the future. Conroe City Lifestyle is honored to give them some well-deserved recognition.
Jennifer Millington
As the owner of Primrose School in Conroe, Jennifer Millington believes in making the first five years count and offers a six-week-old through kindergarten program. "They are so little when they come to us, and they grow up with us," she says. "Then they are off to public and private schools, well-prepared for the future."
As a former classroom teacher and instructional specialist in Spring ISD, Jennifer is skilled in classroom management, lesson planning, curriculum development, public speaking, and teacher training. She fell in love with Primrose when her son attended. She noted that the teachers were supportive and that the children thrived. "This positive culture is ongoing," says Jennifer. "Some teachers stay with us eight, nine, and even ten years."
Jennifer volunteers in the community to ensure the continued success of former students and the success of the Conroe community as a whole. "I love people, relationships, and my town," she says. This year, she is the chairman of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber and a member of the Leadership Montgomery Class of 2024.
She and her husband, Rick, are raising Luke, their 17-year-old son, and Hope, their 10-year-old daughter.
Learn more at primroseschools.com/schools/conroe.
Farralyn Withrow
Farralyn Withrow's entrepreneurial talent is astounding. She opened Main Street Market, a popular weekend farmer and artisan market at 301 N. Thompson Street in Conroe, and owns Small Town Famous, a shop at 312 Metcalf Street that sells vintage western wear and local handmade apparel.
In February, she also opened Conroe Collective, a unique indoor marketplace with 20-plus shop owners under one roof in downtown Conroe. What began as a pop-up shop grew into a collaborative "shop local" boutique with a wide array of goods.
Conroe Collective helps establish shop owners with lower overhead costs and higher exposure. "Something all small businesses have in common is how to get started," says Farralyn. "Now you can rent space and get yourself out there without leasing a storefront."
Born in Montgomery County, Farralyn moved to Katy but returned to raise her daughters, Katey and Libby, in Magnolia. She moved to Conroe three years ago and fell in love with downtown and seeing it grow with her daughters, who are involved in her businesses. "Bringing attention to downtown is part of the vision. It's such a gem," she says.
Learn more at mainstreetmarketctx.com.
Rebecca McDonald
Rebecca McDonald's career at Woodforest National Bank began as a part-time teller in high school. She became a branch manager, regional manager, and senior vice president–retail community banking manager and will soon be celebrating 25 years of service in August. What aspect of Woodforest appeals to her the most? "The ownership culture keeps me there," she responds. "The people we work with, the customers we serve, and how we give back to the community are all meaningful."
The Woodforest Charitable Foundation supports Montgomery County through numerous events, including a popular annual charity run that Rebecca has chaired for many years, drawing people to scenic downtown Conroe. She exemplifies servant leadership by sitting on the boards of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Conroe. She also serves as the vice chair of grants on the Montgomery ISD Education Foundation. She is also involved with her alma mater, Sam Houston State University. In addition, she sits on advisory boards for the Center of Community Engagement and the Executive MBA in Banking and Financial Institutions program.
Rebecca is a native Texan and enjoys living in Montgomery with her husband, son, and their English Bulldog and Australian Shepard.
Phyllis Weisbrook and Pat Leddan
As an "accidental volunteer," "Phyllis Weisbrook retired from Allstate after 23 years and wanted to donate her wardrobe. She talked to a volunteer at the Assistance League of Montgomery County thrift shop, toured the facilities, and joined the organization. Today, as outgoing president, she's held two board positions and served on numerous committees. Her devotion is reflected in the dedicated 200-plus members who volunteer on seven different philanthropic program teams.
"There's Something for everyone and so many ways to help," says Phyllis. The Assistance League is a totally self-governing, dues-paying organization, and the thrift shop is 100% managed by volunteers. The Conroe Chapter, formed in 1985, is one of 120 national chapters across the country. It gives back around 80% of donations and sales to Montgomery County and has grown into an 11,850-square-foot facility at 126 N. San Jacinto Street.
President-elect Pat Ledden, a former kindergarten teacher, will fill the role beginning June 1st and continue to evaluate the community's needs, relevant programs, and future membership. "At a recent Red Star Brunch, one member said it feels like she joined a league of sisters. That's how I feel, too," says Ledden.
Learn more at assistanceleague.org/montgomery-county/.