Naressa MacKinnon
Co-Founder, VitaMedics & OasisRX
Harris County ESD 9 Commissioner
Share a brief bio about yourself
I’m an entrepreneur, healthcare innovator, and public safety leader who built my career from the ground up. Starting at the front desk, I rose to Chief Operating Officer of a multi-state neurology group before building multiple companies in the wellness and performance space. As a former collegiate volleyball athlete, I bring that same discipline and competitive mindset into how I lead and build.
As co-founder of Cypress-based VitaMedics, I lead a team delivering advanced work in IV therapy, advanced performance and recovery protocols, and metabolic health, and am launching a new nationwide digital platform through VitaMedics designed to expand access to wellness services and support patients beyond the clinic setting. I am also co-founder of OasisRx, a Cypress-based testosterone therapy company focused on hormone optimization and long-term vitality.
In addition to my work in healthcare and entrepreneurship, I proudly serve as Board President for Harris County Emergency Services District 9, where I help oversee fire and EMS services for our large and rapidly growing Cypress community. I also serve as Board President of Camp SHiEld, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women veterans as they transition into civilian life and rebuild with strength and purpose.
Nearly three decades of coaching Special Olympics athletes has played a defining role in shaping how I lead, reinforcing my perspective on resilience, discipline, and what it means to truly show up for others. That commitment has extended into my family, with my three children now carrying that tradition forward as SOTX Unified Partners in volleyball and tennis, embodying the spirit of unified sports and advocating for athletes with special needs.
I’ve built my career without a traditional roadmap and credit that path for how I lead today: decisive, grounded in my faith, and focused on impact.
Who has mentored or inspired you in life?
My parents have been the biggest inspiration. My mother led our family with a balance of grace and strength that I didn’t fully appreciate until I got older. She showed me what real leadership looks like…consistent, grounded, and willing to make hard decisions when it matters.
My stepfather was an entrepreneur who taught me the value of building something of your own and taking ownership of your future. And my father, who served in the Navy, taught me how to stay grounded in my faith and to be honest about my flaws so I could continue to grow.
Each of them shaped how I lead today in different ways, and I carry that with me in both my business and my life.
What’s your favorite “guilty-pleasure”?
Ordering takeout when I absolutely have food at home, usually paired with a Netflix binge I know is going to keep me up too late.
What’s your favorite local hidden gem?
One of my favorite local spots right now is Pickleball Social. It’s such a fun, high-energy environment and a great example of how fitness and community can come together. Whether you’re competitive or just there to have fun, it’s one of those places that brings people together and keeps you coming back.
How do you invest in the community and why is it important to you?
For me, investing in the community means being actively involved in the things that directly impact people’s lives. Through my role with the emergency services district, we focus on public safety and making sure our first responders have the resources they need to serve effectively. Through Camp SHiEld, we support women veterans as they transition into a new chapter of life. And through Special Olympics, I’ve had the opportunity to work with athletes who redefine what determination and resilience really look like.
It matters because strong communities don’t happen by accident. They’re built by people who choose to show up, stay involved, and take responsibility for making things better.
Nicole Travis
Director of Membership Development - Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce
Share a brief bio about yourself.
I serve as the Director of Membership Development at the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce, and I’m passionate about building strong relationships, connecting businesses, and supporting the growth of our local community. In my role, I work closely with members to ensure they have the tools, resources, and opportunities to succeed in an ever-changing business landscape. With the continued growth in the Cy-Fair community, I am especially focused on meeting new business owners and inviting them to connect with the Chamber.
In addition to my Chamber role, I bring over a decade of leadership involvement with the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) and its local league, Cy-Fair Express Network (CYFEN). I’ve been a proud member for over 14 years, served on the Board in multiple capacities, and had the honor of serving as President in 2015. My contributions and commitment to advancing women in business were nationally recognized when I was named one of ABWA’s Top Ten Business Women of 2022, earning the distinguished title of “Forever Top Ten.”
I am also a Realtor with Texas Realty Select. With over 15 years of experience, I hold the professional designation of Certified Home Marketing Specialist (CHMS), which highlights my strengths in real estate and home staging. Through this certification, combined with my natural eye for design, I help sellers present their homes in the best possible light to maximize marketability.
My husband and I moved to Houston in 2003, where we are raising our daughter. In my free time, I enjoy swimming, playing golf, traveling, and spending quality time with my family.
Who has mentored or inspired you in life?
My husband. He has always been a huge supporter of my career journey. We have been married for almost 35 years.
What’s your favorite “guilty-pleasure”?
Floating in my pool drinking a good prosecco!
What’s your favorite local hidden gem?
Mak’s Pub & Grill – Great food and relaxing environment
How do you invest in the community and why is it important to you?
I truly enjoy my role at the Cy-Fair Chamber! I love being able to connect with our many community members to ensure our community continues to thrive.
J Franco, MBA, MCM
CEO Franco Innovative Media & Marketing
Share a brief bio about yourself.
I’m a digital marketing strategist, CEO, and founder of Franco Innovative Media & Marketing, a content marketing agency focused on helping service-based business owners turn their social media presence into a consistent client acquisition system.
In 2026, I was named American Business Woman of the Year by the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA), an honor reflecting my commitment to advancing women in business, leadership, and economic growth at local and national levels.
I hold two Master’s degrees, including a Master’s in Communication Management from USC Annenberg, and have earned multiple honors, including Global Stevie Awards for Social Media Manager of the Year (2024 and 2025). I’ve also been named a Top 100 Global Influencer in Advertising and Marketing, a multi-year recipient of Houston’s Best Marketing Consultant, and my agency was recognized by Expertise.com as Best Marketing Agency from 2021 to 2025.
I’m passionate about empowering women to step into their expertise, build profitable brands, and create long-term impact through strategic content and intentional business growth.
Who has mentored or inspired you in life?
The person who has mentored me the most is actually someone who is now sharing this Women of Influence honor with me, which is surreal.
Nicole Travis has been more than a mentor for over eight years. She’s an advocate, a champion, a door-opener, and the big sister I didn’t know I needed. When I first met her, I was new to the ABWA. Nicole saw something in me I couldn’t yet see myself. She’s been a constant in my leadership journey.
Because of Nicole's encouragement and belief in me, I now serve as President of the largest league in ABWA, not only have I been named the 2026 American Business Woman of the Year for the nation but I’ve been recognized as a Top Ten Business Woman, and serve as Co-Chair of the Business Development Committee for the Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce. And I know my journey there isn’t done.
Nicole’s impact is meaningful because it’s not just professional, it’s personal. Her actions remind me that mentorship isn’t about titles or achievements but about doing life together. She’s poured into me as a woman, as a wife, and as a person. And I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.
What’s your favorite “guilty-pleasure”?
It isn’t one thing, it’s a routine. Making espresso in a moka pot completely changes your relationship with coffee. It’s not rushed. It’s intentional. It hits different when you take the time to make it yourself. I make my espresso, grab my Alpha Prime Bites protein brownie, and head out to my back patio with my Bible. It’s my time to sit in His presence before anything else demands my attention. There’s something so peaceful about watching the espresso, milk, and foam come together, taking that first sip, and opening my Bible. I don’t rush through it. I let the Word sit with me, settle into my spirit, and guide how I move through the rest of the day.
What’s your favorite local hidden gem?
Andy’s Bar & Grill off 290. I’m a self-proclaimed burger connoisseur. For years I’ve had a running list of the best burgers in Houston, and Andy’s made that list without question. My go-to drink is a smoked old fashioned, pear-smoked with Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, extra cherries. It’s smooth, a little bold, and just the perfect pairing with that burger. But what really makes Andy’s stand out is the experience. It’s one of those places that just feels like a good time every single time you go.
How do you invest in the community and why is it important to you?
I invest heavily in professional women and business owners right here in Cypress through two organizations that mean a lot to me.
Cy-Fair Express Network of the ABWA–the largest league in the nation and I’m especially passionate about our fundraisers supporting education and advancement for women in our community. We support the Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund, providing scholarships, grants, and business training as well as continuing education for our members. I co-chair our Business-to-Business Strategy Roundtable, for business owners focused on goal setting, KPI tracking, and real conversations about growing a business.
Through my role as Co-Chair of the Business Development Committee with the Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce I help identify topics and resources local business owners need and build programming around that, facilitating quarterly masterminds to help business owners breakthrough where they feel stuck.
For me, investing in the community isn’t just about showing up. It’s about creating real opportunities, building confidence, and helping people move forward in a tangible way.
Janet Ryan
Executive Director, Cy-Fair Helping Hands
Share a brief bio about yourself.
After living up and down the east coast, plus two European countries, I’ve been back in Houston for the last 11 years. I’ve been involved in the nonprofit world for more than 20 years, first serving on the Board of Directors for several organizations and later shifting my career to the staff side of nonprofit work. For the past four years, I’ve served as Executive Director of Cy-Fair Helping Hands, where I’m passionate about guiding the organization as we expand services, add new programs, and continue our fifteen-year mission of bringing hope to the homeless and hungry in our community.
On a personal note, I’m a proud mom of four and grandmother to five wonderful grandchildren!
Who has mentored or inspired you in life?
I’ve recently come to realize just how profoundly my mom has shaped who I am. My love of words, curiosity to understand every detail of a subject (and the desire to correct you if you’re wrong on one of those details!), fierce devotion to family, and belief that strong communities are built when we care for one another – all come directly from her. I’m also continually inspired by women who choose to take charge of their lives. There’s something incredibly powerful about a woman recognizing her worth, reclaiming her direction, and moving forward with purpose.
What’s your favorite “guilty-pleasure”?
If no one can hear me, I absolutely love singing in the car – very loudly and very badly! My playlist is usually a mix of 70s classics and current country music. But I might throw in some old boy bands or even Elvis, and put them on repeat, as long as they’re perfect for belting it out.
What’s your favorite local hidden gem?
I’m still discovering the hidden gems around Cypress, but I especially love the quieter corners of the community – local coffee shops, independent small businesses, and the places where creativity and connection seem to happen naturally.
How do you invest in the community and why is it important to you?
I’ve always believed in creating spaces where people can truly connect with one another. Over the years, that belief has taken many forms – helping launch and manage two community farmers/artists markets, owning an artisan-focused business, establishing a community garden, and even spearheading the creation of a community labyrinth. Today, I carry that same passion into my work guiding programs that support people who are struggling. By building partnerships between Cy-Fair Helping Hands and local businesses, organizations, churches, and individuals, I help create opportunities for people to serve together. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful that can be. When we intentionally create spaces for people to come together, we strengthen the entire community.
Bevin Gordon
Region 4 Director of Communication
Harris County ESD 9 Commissioner
Share a brief bio about yourself.
I am the Director of Communications for Region 4 Education Service Center, where I have the privilege of telling the story of public education and supporting school leaders and educators across our region. My career in education spans nearly two decades, including leadership roles in health services and marketing in Cy-Fair ISD.
Before my work in education, I proudly served eight years in the United States Navy, providing secure communications around the world while stationed in Illinois, Hawaii, and Greece. After receiving an honorable discharge as a Petty Officer Second Class, I used the Montgomery GI Bill to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and later my Master of Science in Nursing Administration.
In addition to my professional role, I serve as a Harris County ESD #9 Commissioner, a Trustee for the Cy-Fair Educational Foundation, a Board Member for HCA Houston Healthcare North Cypress and Kingwood, and a Trustee for Camp SHiELD.
Who has mentored or inspired you in life?
I’ve been inspired by strong, steady leaders who lead with both confidence and compassion. My perspective has been shaped by military leaders who modeled discipline and resilience and community leaders who navigate complex challenges with grace. From the very best, I’ve learned that true leadership is rooted in service. They’ve demonstrated that lasting influence doesn’t come from authority alone, but from the way you treat, support, and uplift others along the way.
What’s your favorite “guilty-pleasure”?
Traveling with family and friends is my favorite “guilty pleasure.” I love exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and making memories with the people I care about most. Travel allows me to disconnect from the day-to-day demands of life and reconnect with what matters most—relationships and shared experiences.
What’s your favorite local hidden gem?
My favorite local hidden gem is Pvolve, my gym. Pvolve is more than a workout. The incredibly inspiring ladies who train and support us there have built a community that helps me stay strong, focused, and energized. The intentional, low-impact strength training keeps me grounded physically and mentally. In my work and volunteer roles, I need constant energy and strength, and making Pvolve my second home helps me to prioritize my wellness!
How do you invest in the community and why is it important to you?
I believe investing in the community means showing up consistently and serving with intention. As an elected Harris County ESD #9 Commissioner, I proudly support the exceptional members of the Cy-Fair Fire Department who provide the highest-quality fire and EMS response to our community. As a Trustee for the Cy-Fair Educational Foundation, a Board Member for HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood/North Cypress, and a Trustee for Camp Shield, I support initiatives that directly impact students, families, and healthcare access in our region.
Professionally, I invest in our community by amplifying the stories of students, educators, and leaders who are making a difference. When we highlight what’s working and celebrate one another’s successes, we build trust and strengthen the foundation for future generations.
Community matters deeply to me because this is my home. It’s where families grow, students dream big, and neighbors step up to help one another, and I’m honored to do my part.
Katie Kaisinger
Program Director, CY‑HOPE Mentoring + POP
Share a brief bio about yourself.
I am a mom, mentor and relationship-centered community leader. I serve as the Program Director of Cy-Hope's Mentoring and Providing Opportunities Scholarship Programs. I grew up in Cy-Fairbanks ISD, and now I have the honor of walking alongside middle and high school students as they grow, helping connect them to mentorship, develop as leaders and access opportunities that support their future.
I’m passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow. I naturally gravitate toward building connections and helping people recognize their value.
Outside of work, you'll usually find me in the crowd or at a live event - I love saying yes to fun experiences with friends and family...especially anything that brings people together.
Who has mentored or inspired you in life?
I’ve been coached and inspired by so many people and mentors along the way, especially those who lead with authenticity, kindness, and consistency. I am inspired daily by the students and volunteers that I work with. Their resilience, honesty and growth remind me why mentoring matters and why investing in relationships can truly change lives. But my greatest inspiration is being a mom to my teenage daughter, Kira. She challenges me to keep growing, be present, and to live out the values I care about most in life. She reminds me of what matters and inspires me to lead with both strength and compassion.
What’s your favorite “guilty-pleasure”?
If I’m being honest, one of my favorite guilty pleasures is being right up front (or in the pit) at a pop-punk concert. I love the energy, the excitement, and just being fully in the moment. I let myself dance and sing a little louder than I probably should! And I’ll admit, I also secretly love blasting Pitbull...It's impossible not to have fun when his music comes on!
What’s your favorite local hidden gem?
For a local hidden gem, I love a great patio spot around Cypress or Jersey Village. The kind of place where conversations linger, laughter comes easy, you can stay awhile and really be present with the people you’re with. Those tucked-away patio spaces feel like a little escape and are some of my favorite places to unwind and connect.
How do you invest in the community and why is it important to you?
Community is something I invest in very intentionally. I try to show up for people, build genuine relationships, and create spaces where others feel like they belong whether that’s through mentoring, supporting local events, or simply being someone who listens and encourages. I truly believe none of us are meant to do life alone. Through Cy-Hope Mentoring, I work to create a space where we connect students to other caring adults and community leaders. We help students feel seen, encouraged, and challenged to grow as leaders of our community. When people feel connected and supported, they know that they matter—and when our community thrives, we all thrive. When we invest in kids today, we strengthen families, schools, and our entire Cypress community.