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25 Women Who Will Shape the Future in 2025

## Forget fairy tales, this data queen is rewriting the future. Move over, glass slippers – Emily Saras is here to shatter glass ceilings with a spreadsheet and a heart full of purpose. This rising star in Tallahassee isn’t just crunching numbers, she’s using them to champion change. In a world obsessed with tech, Gizmoposts24 is spotlighting the women driving innovation for good, and Emily Saras, a trailblazer featured in the Tallahassee Democrat’s “25 Women for 2025,” is leading the charge. Get ready to meet the data queen who’s proving that technology can be a force for positive change.

The 2025 Honorees: A Diverse Tapestry of Achievement

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Leaders in Their Fields

Political and Community Leaders: Champions of Change

Among the 2025 honorees, political and community leaders stand out as champions of change, driving significant progress in their respective domains. Alva Swafford Smith, Leon County School Board member for District 1, has been a pivotal figure in education policy, advocating for equitable resources and innovative educational strategies. Her leadership has led to the implementation of programs that have enhanced educational outcomes for students in her district. Similarly, Jacquelyn Colson Steele, chief consultant and CEO of The HR Concierge, LLC, has been instrumental in fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, helping organizations navigate the complexities of human resources.

Business Leaders: Driving Economic Growth and Innovation

The business leaders among the honorees are driving economic growth and innovation, setting new standards in their industries. Annmarie Small, director of Cornerstone Learning Community, has revolutionized early childhood education through her innovative programs. Her work has not only improved educational outcomes but also stimulated local economic growth by creating job opportunities and attracting new families to the area. Emily Saras, CEO of Knowli Data Science, exemplifies the intersection of technology and social impact. Her company leverages data science to solve real-world problems, contributing to both economic development and social good. Emily’s journey is a testament to the power of data-driven decision-making in achieving meaningful change.

Educational Leaders: Shaping the Future of Learning

Educational leaders are shaping the future of learning, ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow. Dr. Iris Davis Pendleton, faculty lead at the Early Childhood Education program at Tallahassee Community College, has been a driving force in developing curricula that prepare students for the demands of the modern education landscape. Her programs focus on practical skills and innovative teaching methods, producing graduates who are ready to make a difference in classrooms across the region. Dr. Sue Ebbers, founder of Change By Design, has been a trailblazer in educational reform, introducing programs that emphasize creative problem-solving and critical thinking. Her initiatives have not only transformed local schools but have also set a national benchmark for educational excellence.

Inspiring Stories of Resilience and Innovation

Overcoming Adversity: Stories of Resilience

Many of the honorees have overcome significant adversity to achieve their goals, serving as beacons of resilience. Cheryl Collier-Brown, retired teacher and chair of the Frenchtown Neighborhood Improvement Association, has dedicated her life to revitalizing her community. Despite facing numerous challenges, she has led initiatives that have transformed Frenchtown into a thriving neighborhood. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and community-driven change. Similarly, Lizbeth Murphy, CEO of the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend Region, has navigated personal and professional obstacles to become a leader in early childhood education. Her resilience has inspired countless educators and parents, demonstrating that adversity can be a catalyst for growth and innovation.

Innovative Solutions: Honorees Making a Difference

The 2025 honorees are at the forefront of innovative solutions, addressing pressing issues with creativity and determination. Patricia Griffin, business banker at TC Federal Bank, has introduced financial products that support small businesses, driving economic growth in the region. Her innovative approach has helped countless entrepreneurs access the capital they need to succeed. Michelle Nickens, senior vice president with the Institute for Intergovernmental Research, is another honoree making a significant impact. Her work in public policy has led to the development of programs that enhance public services and improve the quality of life for residents. Her innovative solutions have set new standards for public administration.

Women in STEM: Breaking Barriers and Shattering Stereotypes

Women in STEM fields are breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes, paving the way for future generations. Emily Saras, with her groundbreaking work at Knowli Data Science, is a prime example. Her company’s use of data science to address social issues has not only advanced the field but also inspired young women to pursue careers in STEM. Dr. Ebbers, with her innovative educational programs, is another trailblazer in STEM education. Her emphasis on creative problem-solving and critical thinking has opened doors for students who might otherwise have been deterred by traditional educational methods. These women are not just breaking barriers; they are redefining what it means to be a leader in STEM.

The Next Generation: 5 Young Women to Watch

Academic Achievers: Students Making a Mark

The next generation of leaders is already making its mark, with academic achievers like Nonye Brantley from Leon High School and Brooklynn Crawford from Florida State University. Nonye’s dedication to her studies and extracurricular activities has earned her recognition as one of the top students in her class. Brooklynn, on the other hand, is making waves in her field of study with her innovative research projects. These young women are setting the standard for academic excellence and are poised to make significant contributions to their respective fields in the years to come.

Young Entrepreneurs: The Future of Innovation

Young entrepreneurs are the future of innovation, and among the 2025 honorees, Sujin van Hoeij from Lincoln High School stands out. Sujin has already made a name for herself with her entrepreneurial ventures, demonstrating a keen business acumen and a passion for innovation. Her work is a testament to the potential of young minds to drive change and create solutions that can impact the world. These young entrepreneurs are not just the future; they are the present, making significant strides in their fields.

Community Champions: Youth Making a Difference

Community champions are making a difference at a young age, with Chase Corine Leonard from Lincoln High School and McClain Stroud from FAMU DRS leading the way. Chase has been actively involved in community service, using her skills to support local organizations and initiatives. McClain, with her dedication to social justice and community development, is making a lasting impact on her community. These young women are not just the future; they are already making a difference, inspiring others to get involved and contribute to their communities.

The Power of Recognition: Implications and Practical Aspects

The Ripple Effect: The Impact of Recognizing Women Leaders

Inspiring Future Generations: The Power of Role Models

The recognition of women leaders has a ripple effect, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams and achieve greatness. The stories of the 2025 honorees serve as powerful role models, demonstrating what can be achieved with determination and hard work. Emily Saras, with her groundbreaking work in data science, is a prime example of how recognition can inspire young women to pursue careers in STEM. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring data scientists and innovators. Similarly, Dr. Pendleton’s innovative educational programs have inspired countless students to pursue careers in education, demonstrating the power of role models in shaping the future.

Fostering a Culture of Support: Encouraging Women to Lead

Recognition fosters a culture of support, encouraging women to step into leadership roles and pursue their ambitions. The 2025 honorees are not just leaders in their fields; they are also advocates for women’s empowerment. Alva Swafford Smith, with her work on the Leon County School Board, has been a vocal advocate for women in leadership roles. Her efforts have led to the implementation of programs that support women in education and beyond. Similarly, Jacquelyn Colson Steele’s work in human resources has emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive workplace culture, where women can thrive and reach their full potential.

Driving Change: The Impact of Recognized Leaders on Their Communities

Recognized leaders have the power to drive change, making a tangible impact on their communities. The 2025 honorees have used their platforms to address pressing issues and implement innovative solutions. Emily Saras, with her work at Knowli Data Science, has used data to address social issues, making a significant impact on communities in need. Her work has not only improved outcomes but has also inspired others to leverage data for social good. Similarly, Dr. Ebbers’ educational programs have transformed classrooms across the region, demonstrating the power of recognized leaders to drive change and improve outcomes.

Practical Applications: Leveraging the Honorees’ Expertise

Collaboration Opportunities: Partnering with the 2025 Honorees

There are numerous collaboration opportunities with the 2025 honorees, allowing organizations to leverage their expertise and drive meaningful change. Emily Saras, with her background in data science, offers valuable insights into data-driven decision-making. Organizations can partner with her to implement data-driven strategies that can improve outcomes and drive growth. Similarly, Dr. Ebbers’ expertise in educational reform can be leveraged to develop innovative curricula and teaching methods that enhance educational outcomes. These collaborations can lead to significant advancements in various fields, making a lasting impact on communities.

Learning from the Best: Mentorship and Networking Opportunities

The 2025 honorees offer unparalleled mentorship and networking opportunities, allowing aspiring leaders to learn from the best. Emily Saras, with her successful career in data science, can provide valuable mentorship to young women pursuing careers in STEM. Her insights and guidance can help aspiring data scientists navigate the challenges of the field and achieve their goals. Similarly, Dr. Ebbers’ innovative educational programs offer mentorship opportunities for aspiring educators, providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to make a difference in their classrooms. These mentorship and networking opportunities can lead to significant personal and professional growth, paving the way for the next generation of leaders.

Implementing Success Strategies: Lessons from the Honorees’ Journeys

The journeys of the 2025 honorees offer valuable lessons in success strategies, providing insights into what it takes to achieve greatness. Emily Saras’ journey in data science demonstrates the importance of leveraging data for decision-making and innovation. Her strategies have led to significant advancements in the field, making her a role model for aspiring data scientists. Similarly, Dr. Ebbers’ educational programs offer lessons in innovative teaching methods and curriculum development. Her strategies have transformed classrooms across the region, demonstrating the power of innovative thinking in achieving meaningful change. By learning from the journeys of these honorees, aspiring leaders can gain valuable insights into what it takes to succeed and make a lasting impact.

As we celebrate the achievements of the 2025 honorees, it is clear that their impact extends far beyond their individual successes. These women are not just leaders in their fields; they are catalysts for change, inspiring future generations and driving innovation. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and leadership, making them role models for aspiring leaders and a beacon of hope for the future.

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of Emily Saras’s remarkable story, it’s clear that she embodies the perfect blend of data-driven innovation and social responsibility. The article “25 Women for 2025: Emily Saras is driven by data and doing good” highlights her leadership role in harnessing the power of data to drive positive change in her community. From leveraging data analytics to improve educational outcomes to developing innovative solutions for non-profits, Saras’s work serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, expertise, and a commitment to social good come together.

The significance of Saras’s work extends far beyond her personal accomplishments, however. It speaks to a broader shift in the way we approach problem-solving and community development. As data becomes increasingly integral to decision-making, Saras’s exemplifies the importance of combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of social needs and values. This intersection of data-driven insights and social responsibility holds immense promise for creating more equitable, sustainable, and just communities – and it’s an approach that we can expect to see more of in the years to come.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that women like Emily Saras will be at the forefront of shaping a more compassionate, data-driven world. Her work serves as a powerful reminder that even the most complex challenges can be addressed through creative partnerships, innovative thinking, and a commitment to doing good. As we look to 2025 and beyond, one thing is certain: the future will be shaped by trailblazers like Saras who are harnessing the power of data to create a brighter, more just world for all.