Ashley Rowe: Business Development Officer, LGE Community Credit Union
As I’ve grown both personally and professionally, I’ve realized that success isn’t about titles or accomplishments; it’s about the ripple effect you create. Women play an essential and dynamic role in shaping the future of Woodstock. We are often the connectors, the ones who build relationships, nurture, and create spaces where people feel seen and supported. I would tell the next generation that kindness is one of the most powerful leadership tools you’ll ever have. It opens doors, builds trust, and creates meaningful connections with incredible people. I’d also share the advice my dad gave me growing up—the “three S’s”:
Smile (you have a great one). See (always make eye contact). Spirit (bring positivity wherever you go). These simple principles can take you farther than you imagine and help you lead with both authenticity and grace.
Katie Pearson: Chief Operating Officer – Northside Hospital, Cherokee
Purpose is often developed over time through real experiences, meaningful work, and a willingness to keep growing. For the next generation of women leaders, success begins with cultivating skills that truly matter, clear thinking, strong communication, follow-through, and independence. Leadership can be deeply fulfilling, but it also demands resilience, humility, and thoughtful decision-making. Stay grounded, lead with integrity, and aim to create lasting value. Trust your voice, but remain open to learning. Take care of your body, mind, and spirit along the way. Meaningful leadership isn't about seeking attention; it is built through character, consistency, and the impact you leave over time. Serving at Northside Cherokee has reinforced that belief every single day. When you work with a community that trusts you with their health and their families, you understand that true leadership is measured by the lives you touch.
Dana Cox Mallett: Director of Development and Marketing, The Mill on Etowah
I didn't know much about Canton until we began redeveloping the historic mill in 2018, but it has become truly meaningful to me. Since then, our company, our tenants, and my career have become deeply rooted here. To me, success is seeing this community thrive. Working alongside small businesses and inspiring women has further fueled my passion. Women play a vital role in shaping Canton's future through vision, collaboration, and heart. There is an incredible opportunity here to support residents and strengthen this community. My advice to the next generation is simple. Plant your roots and grow where you are.
Kim Bishop: Public Relations Director, GA Impact & Cherokee Youth Foundation
To me, success is defined by how well you love the people in your community. I have seen mountains moved by people who simply love well. As I have grown in my position, it has become abundantly clear that if you can share your love and passion for helping and serving others, you will never go wrong. Each day I get to serve is one I do not take for granted, and I pray that what I do makes a lasting and meaningful impact not only on our community but also on my children and grandchildren.
Patty Pan: Public Information Officer, Cherokee Sheriff’s Office
To me, success today means impact, not accolades. After more than 25 years in television, I measured success by the stories I told and the ratings earned. Now, working in law enforcement, success is rooted in building trust and serving the public in meaningful ways. Flipping the camera's sides shifted my perspective; it’s no longer about recognition but about connection. This second career has given me renewed purpose, and success now is measured by the difference I make every day. Never forget that words and actions have the power to change how people see the world.
Tiara Brown: Events Director, New Ground Foundation & Chick-fil-A Canton
My commitment to leadership and giving back to the Canton community is rooted in my faith and Christ's example of servant leadership. As a mom of three, my first ministry is my family, where I strive to model faith in action. That same heart guides my roles at Liberty Elementary, on the Atlanta Flames semi-pro volleyball team, with FCA at Reinhardt University, and at New Life Church. Now, as the Community and Events Director at Chick-fil-A Canton and the New Ground Foundation, I seek to serve with excellence and to impact lives by being the hands and feet of Jesus in my community. I believe women are uniquely called to lead with compassion, and when we pour into others with intention, the impact stretches far beyond what we can see. My advice to the next generation is to lead where you are planted and trust that faithful service always bears fruit.
Dr. Deborah Murdoch: Chief School Leadership and Operations Officer, CCSD.
I grew up right here in Cherokee County and graduated from Cherokee High School. Years later, I returned as its principal, and that full circle moment shaped everything I believe about leadership. It taught me that investing in your community always comes back to you. Along the way, I have served as a science teacher, an assistant principal, and now as Chief School Leadership and Operations Officer for the Cherokee County School District. Every role has deepened my belief that education is the foundation of a thriving community. Women play a powerful role in shaping Canton's future because we lead with compassion and purpose. We build the connections that hold a community together. My advice to the next generation? Know your why. Be purposeful in every interaction. Show up for people consistently, and never underestimate the lasting impact of simply making someone feel seen.
Aundi Lesley: Economic Development Manager, City of Canton
What inspired my commitment to leadership in the Canton and Cherokee community? It's how intentional our community leaders are about quality of life and creating places people genuinely want to be. I've come to learn that the people are what make this place so special. There's a sense of pride here that makes people choose Canton, and it's what makes my work so meaningful. Our businesses play a major role by creating experiences that draw people in. Their dedication and authenticity set our community apart and drive me to continue investing in its success. It's an honor to play a small part!
Jenn Geller: Founding Attorney, Geller Law
Growing up in Cobb County, I loved being part of that community. But as a wife, mother, and attorney in Cherokee County, I didn't just want to be part of Canton; I wanted to help shape it alongside my incredibly talented, female-driven team. Success used to mean titles and wins. Now it means alignment. If I'm doing meaningful work, providing for my team and family, and not burning out, that's success. I'm not chasing validation anymore; I'm building something that feels right. When I take a vacation or show up for my kid's school event, the firm keeps running. That's real success.