This year, we are rolling out the carpet and setting the stage for seven ladies who are paving the way in creative and confident ways. Each of these women serves our community and families with dedication and passion. We hope their stories reflect an intentionality that inspires newfound dreams and encourages you to set the stage and tone for your own daily life.
Anne Barrington
Councilmember, Town of Parker
Owner & Employing Broker, The Barrington Group Real Estate
Co-Owner Barrington Paint & Design
Could you please share about your passion for Parker and what you do?
I love Parker because it’s a place where people truly show up for one another. Whether it’s backing local nonprofits, keeping our small-town charm alive, or making sure we grow the right way—this town just has heart.
As a Councilmember and small business owner, I’m all about working with our community to make sure Parker isn’t just getting bigger—it’s getting better.
What is your vision for the town of Parker?
My vision is where everyone—seniors, families, small business owners and our kids… the next generation—feels like they belong. That means attainable housing, strong partnerships and the kind of resources that make living here work for all ages.
What is your encouragement to women in our community?
Your voice absolutely matters. I never felt like I was the smartest or brightest in school…far from it—but I showed up, worked hard, and found my place. Whether you’re raising kids, leading a team, or making things happen behind the scenes—don’t doubt the impact you’re having. Show up, get involved, and know there’s always space for you at the table.
Debbie Blair
Program Manager, SECOR Cares
What is your passion?
I am a retired teacher with nearly thirty years of experience teaching in Douglas County Schools. After my retirement, I transitioned to become the Program Manager at SECOR Cares, an invaluable community resource providing a free food market in Parker. In my role, I oversee all aspects related to the experiences of our guests, ensuring that they are met with kindness, respect and efficiency. Every day, I work to foster an environment where our guests can experience dignity, support and hope.
What inspires you?
I am continuously inspired by the strength and perseverance of our guests. Every day, I see firsthand how resilient they are. Despite facing difficult challenges, they demonstrate unwavering determination and hope for a better future. Their courage fuels my passion and motivates me to keep pushing forward for our community.
What is your encouragement?
We need more women in leadership roles, particularly in our communities, where our voices and perspectives can have such a powerful impact. Don’t be afraid to pursue your dreams, even if the path feels daunting. Your courage, ambition and leadership can pave the way for others to follow.
Judy Nelson
Heart2Hand, Vice President
What is your passion?
I’ve always had a very inherent desire to serve others in need. After decades of volunteering for Special Olympics, food banks and other service organizations it was a natural step for my husband and I to launch our own nonprofit with a focus on getting food, diapers and other essentials to our most vulnerable populations facing food insecurity and other challenges. What I love most about our ministry is simply seeing the body language of these parents when we are about to help them. You can almost feel them breathe with relief, hope and gratitude. Our passion for serving is reflected in the name of our organization which is a symbol of us giving our heart (time and energy) to the hand of another person in need.
What inspires you?
I’ve always been inspired by Christ. He calls us to love one another and I want my life on earth to be reflective of His. My parents were also inspirational. My dad would always give food out from his restaurant as he never wanted anyone to be hungry. Also, being a breast cancer survivor has given me empathy for others facing health challenges.
Hannah Nuttall
Venue Manager/Co-Owner at Bonnie Blues Event Venue
What is your passion?
Bonnie Blues is incredibly special to me. My dad and I designed and built it from the ground up, and we even named it after my grandmother, Bonnie McCoy. Every day, I feel connected to her and what we created together. I also love being a part of such important milestones for people. It's truly special to witness families uniting and celebrating these new beginnings.
What inspires you?
My parents are my biggest inspiration. They both own several successful businesses and have always worked incredibly hard. I strive to emulate their dedication and provide for my family in the same way.
What is your encouragement to other women in our community?
If you have a dream, pursue it relentlessly! Don't let the fear of failure hold you back, because you'll likely stumble along the way. Learn from those setbacks, rise up and try again with even more passion. And never hesitate to ask for help—everyone needs it sometimes. The reward of pursuing your dream is well worth the effort.
Julia N. Romanow
Partner and Part Owner of Gasper, Romanow & Little, PLLC
What is your work and passion?
Public service has always been in my blood and I am passionate about helping people. In our family law practice, we focus on helping people who need guidance at a very difficult time in their lives. I believe my job is to inform clients about their rights and work with them to resolve the matter in a favorable way.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by those around me that are doing hard things. Every single day, there are people around me exemplifying this. Whether that is standing up against bullies or injustice, or combating bias and prejudice. There are people that are working and taking care of family members - either children or parents. These warriors are my inspiration.
What is your encouragement?
It is never too late to do the right thing and fight for a just result. We won’t always win the battles but sometimes in our lives, it is up to us to take a stand. I have never had regrets over the battles I have lost, I have always regretted not taking action where action is required.
Dr. Christina Sass
DO, Lead Hospitalist, AdventHealth
What is your role and passion?
I am the head of the department of hospital medicine at Advent Health Parker Hospital. A Hospitalist is a doctor, usually internal medicine (like myself) or family medicine trained, who provides care for patients while they are in the hospital. They manage the patient's care from the moment they arrive until they discharge. I manage the hospitalist team and act as a liaison to all the other services in the hospital.
What inspires you?
I grew up visiting hospitals, as my family has a strong predisposition for heart disease. My father had a heart attack and heart surgery at the young age of forty two. I was eleven and instead of being afraid, I was inspired by the care I saw him receive, and also by his courage in facing something so difficult. I think of him often when I am giving bad news or teaching patients. Illness is life changing at best. It helps to know you have someone there supporting you and rooting for you.
What is your word of encouragement?
This is a saying my father often told me as I was going through training and I live by it to this day "Have fun, learn a lot, try to do some good."
Nadia Shokohi
Wealth Manager, Shokohi Wealth Management Group
Could you share a little bit about the organization Women Inspiring a Network of Growth and Support (WINGS)?
WINGS is a nonprofit organization that empowers women by providing financial education and emotional support, particularly for those navigating divorce. We offer financial literacy programs, workshops and a free financial helpline. WINGS’ goal is to help women make informed financial decisions and build confidence for a secure future.
What inspires you?
My inspiration to grow and develop stems from my personal journey of overcoming financial challenges as a single parent raising three children. This experience ignited my passion for financial education and empowerment, leading me to become a dedicated teacher and financial planner.
What do you love about being in Parker?
I have called Parker home for twenty seven years and have had the privilege of being a business owner in the heart of downtown. There’s something truly special about this community—the perfect blend of small-town warmth and modern energy. I love the unwavering support from fellow business owners, the deep sense of connection among neighbors and the incredible beauty that surrounds us. Parker isn’t just where I live and work—it’s where I thrive.
WingsCo.org