Amplify, Not Multiply 
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
As 2026 kicks off—and with it our third and final year of JWN’s strategic plan—we are building on meaningful momentum. The focus of this year is Community Awareness, and I firmly believe this is our moment to amplify, not multiply.
This is not about doing more.
It’s about taking what we’ve built inward—and sharing it outward.
Our vision for the year is to expand JWN’s influence across the broader community by elevating what already works: our members, our mission, and the meaningful connections that define this Network. This year, amplification means visibility—making sure the impact women are creating through JWN is seen, felt, and recognized beyond our walls.
That means more purpose, more presence, and more partnerships—not for the sake of growth alone, but where alignment and impact truly exist. We will continue to highlight the talents and stories of our members, build bridges with community partners who share our values, and create spaces where every member feels seen, valued, and inspired.
And here’s where you come in.
I invite you to share your involvement across the community. Talk about the work you’re doing, the connections you’re making, and the ways JWN is showing up in your life and leadership. When you attend an event, meet with fellow members, volunteer in the community, or collaborate through this Network, take the picture, add it to the newsletter. Share the moment. Tag JWN and members. Help us amplify the story of JWN's influence across our region, a legacy decades in the making and a living, evolving force in our community today.
Yes, sometimes it’s all for the ’Gram!
More importantly, it’s about visibility, influence, and collective impact.
I’m also delighted to welcome several leaders to the JWN Leadership Team for 2026:
- Penny Zuber (JWN 2018), returning as President-Elect and Programs Chair
- Laura Boeckman (JWN 2018) and Wanda Willis (JWN 2022), returning as Directors
I’d also like to extend special thanks to Marilyn Feldstein (JWN 2023), Chair and Facilitator of our new Crossroads Conversations launching in February. Be sure to read more in the Mission in Motion section below—I think you’ll truly appreciate this thoughtful new offering, shaped by the Culture Care Committee’s commitment to what matters most to our members and led by Dale Beaman (JWN 2019).
And it feels especially fitting that two-term Past President Georgia Reed (JWN 1987) is taking on the role of Historian as we work to document nearly five decades of women’s leadership in our community. Thank you, Georgia, for stewarding this important legacy project.
As we begin this new term, I encourage you to reach out, rekindle an old friendship, forge a new one, invite someone to the Forum with you, or lift another woman up. Because what makes JWN powerful isn’t the programs or the emails we may or may not read.
It’s each other.
Between running a business and keeping up with family, my life is a beautiful blur of roles, and I am truly honored to serve as your President and work alongside so many friends in JWN. I notoriously forget to take pictures in the moment, so I’m committing to leaning in and sharing more snaps with you this year. I hope you’ll join me.
With gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead,
Angela Timberlake, President
INTRODUCING: CROSSROADS CONVERSATIONS
Since its inception, JWN has been a place where accomplished women come together not just to network, but to think together, grow together, and support one another through real crossroads of leadership and life. Our founders—just four women at the time—began meeting because they needed a space to speak honestly and work through challenges they were all experiencing.
Fast forward more than 40 years, and those same conversations still happen at JWN gatherings—often just off to the side, or in the moments before or after a meeting. Beginning next month, however, we will once again make intentional space for these conversations through a new offering: Crossroads Conversations.
The February focus will be on Career Crossroads. Are you standing at a professional turning point? Whether you’re navigating an active transition or simply sensing one ahead, you’re not alone. Over a working lunch, we’ll explore questions like:
- Are you staying in your current role out of passion—or out of habit?
- How do you decide between a lateral move and a full pivot?
- What is one thing you wish you had known before your last major career shift?
These gatherings will be small, intimate, and member-led—designed to support thoughtful dialogue around the moments that shape our careers and lives. Participation is limited to 10 members, and there is no fee to participate—it’s a benefit of your JWN membership. Bring your own lunch or order from the café on site.
Big thanks to Marilyn Feldstein (JWN 2023) for chairing this new effort on behalf of the Culture Care Committee and for facilitating this program. FUN FACT: Marilyn has led similar groups for more than 20 years! Expect meaningful insights and high-level conversations with your fellow JWN members.
Join Us
- When: February 20, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
- Where: Training Room, Jim Moran Institute (4651 Salisbury Rd, Suite 151)
- Cost: Included in your JWN Membership
- Registration: Limited to the first 10 members
Bringing the Conversation Home: The 2026 JWN Speaker’s Forum
For decades, the Jacksonville Women’s Network Speaker’s Forum has brought strong, inspiring women to the stage — and 2026 will be no exception. This year, however, the most powerful conversations may happen not only from the podium, but also at our tables as we tackle the difficult topic of human trafficking here in Northeast Florida over dinner.
Local Community Changemakers — women and men working on the front lines of anti-human trafficking efforts — will be seated throughout the ballroom to help guide honest, informed discussions about the realities happening here in our region. These leading voices from government, law enforcement, nonprofits, and service organizations will share their firsthand insight into this critical issue.
The evening will culminate in a keynote conversation on the main stage with Demi-Leigh Tebow — bestselling author, entrepreneur, former Miss Universe (2017), and global anti-human trafficking advocate. Her perspective is deeply personal, shaped by lived experience, including surviving a violent carjacking in South Africa. She will also share the work of her family’s foundation and its active involvement in anti-human trafficking initiatives, including both the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force and Her Song, a national nonprofit headquartered here in Jacksonville.
Know in advance that JWN is not suddenly adopting a nonprofit or advocacy agenda, and we are definitely not going to solve the human trafficking problem in one evening. Our goal is awareness — providing honest, local insight and practical resources to help attendees better understand the issue and the role we can each play. Expect an evening of candid conversations locally grounded and thoughtfully led — focused on education and awareness, and rooted in the belief that informed communities are stronger communities.
MEMBERS: Please plan to purchase tickets early! This is the only event JWN opens to the public each year, and we anticipate a sell-out crowd of 400+. We have opened a few additional table sponsorships; please reach out to Nicole Hamm (JWN 2024), Sponsorships Chair, for details.
⚡ Thunderclap Alert: JWN Needs Your Feed!
We all agree that JWN is a “Voice of Influence,” but this week, we’re asking the social media influencers among us to help harness that influence in a very intentional way. Cheryl Munn (JWN 2010) is leading a coordinated social media push on behalf of the 2026 Speaker’s Forum Committee. A “Thunderclap” simply means many voices sharing the same message at the same time — creating momentum, visibility, and reach that no single post could achieve alone.
If you’re active on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram, here’s how you can help in just a few keystrokes:
1. PERSONALIZE
Write 1–2 sentences about why you’re excited for this year’s Speaker’s Forum (“I was shocked to read the statistics about human trafficking here in NE Florida…” or I’m proud to be a member of JWN since…” or “I hope you’ll join me at…”)
Join the Jacksonville Women’s Network on February 26 for It Happens Here, featuring Demi-Leigh Tebow, for an important conversation about identifying human trafficking and understanding how informed communities help prevent exploitation.
2. PASTE & POST*
PASTE the hashtag image attached to this newsletter (black background with white lettering, #ItHappensHere) and post this exact link to the JWN website for tickets and info:
https://jaxwomensnetwork.com/Speakers_Forum_2026
3. STORM THE FEED
Take the same two steps above in each of your personal social channels — and like or engage with posts from fellow members.
FYI: Members with strong social followings will receive direct outreach with details and assets. If you’d like to help but haven’t received the information yet, please reach out to Cheryl Munn with questions, or simply use the attached assets. And if calendar this week is simply too full — no worries at all. Just liking and engaging with other members’ posts will help us amplify the message.
*JWN will get more reach if everyone creates their own post (versus simply resharing).
JOIN THE PROGRAMMING COMMITTEE IN JANUARY!
Programming is where JWN connections, curiosity, and community come together. This committee thoughtfully curates both learning opportunities and social gatherings, planning both small- and large-group experiences that keep members engaged and inspired throughout the year.
2025 programming took us everywhere from a private tour at MOCA with the Executive Director to a literal, hands-on look at the work being done to protect our coastline — and that’s exactly the kind of variety and creativity we love.
Our first full committee meeting of the year will be held via Zoom. Together, we will develop goals to align with JWN’s focus on increased engagement and delivering an exceptional member experience in 2026.
For an invitation to their organizational meeting and the Zoom link, please reach out to Penny Zuber, President-Elect and 2026 Programming Chairman.
HELP US AMPLIFY JWN IN 2026
The Communications Committee invites you to help us spotlight our members, moments, and impact — no committee meetings required!
#1. Let’s Play “Follow the Leader!”
Help us amplify JWN by following—and engaging with—our official channels. Likes, comments, tags, and shares help extend our reach and spotlight the incredible women in this Network. Follow us and we will follow you back!
- Facebook (Private Group): Jacksonville Women’s Network Member Group
- Instagram: @jaxwomensnetwork
- LinkedIn: Jacksonville Women’s Network
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#2 - “I Spy”… JWN in Action
Be our eyes and ears around town! If you spot great moments, meaningful conversations, or joyful connections—snap a quick photo. (Because if there are no photos… did it really happen?)
You’re welcome to text or email photos and copy points directly to our Communications Chair, Dea Sims, so we can share and celebrate in real time!
· Text to 904-537-7829 OR Email to [email protected]
A SWEET OPPORTUNITY TO RECONNECT
In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, our message to all former JWN members is simple: We miss you!
We understand that life happens. Careers change. Companies are sold. Email addresses change. None of that changes what brought you to JWN in the first place — or the value you bring to this Network as a leader in Northeast Florida.
In that spirit, our Board of Directors has voted to officially waive all penalties and reinstatement fees for any former JWN member whose membership has lapsed — whether that happened last year or decades ago.
NOW THROUGH FEBRUARY 14: If you were ever a JWN member (yes, even dating back to our Founders!), we warmly invite you to rejoin the Network (Levels: Active – $200 | Sustaining – $100). To make it even easier, no reapplication is required and no board approval is needed during this time frame. If you were not active in 2025, simply email Wendi Stewart, our JWN administrator ([email protected]), and she will coordinate new login credentials so you can step right back in.
Consider this your heartfelt invitation to reconnect, reengage, and be part of what’s next. We know JWN is stronger when your experience is part of the conversation!
Meet JWN members Terri Davlantes, a native entrepreneur and incoming Treasurer, and Cantrece Jones, a CEO and community strategist. Both joined in 2023, bringing a shared passion for leadership, community impact, and legacy.
TERRI DAVLANTES (JWN 2023)
Terri is the retired owner of JAX Cooking Studio
Are you a native of Jacksonville or a transplant? If you are not a native, what’s your hometown?
I’m an enthusiastic Jacksonville native! I grew up in St. Nicholas with my eight brothers. I’ve also lived in Gainesville for education and in Charlotte for work.
What’s your favorite part of being a member of JWN?
I am blown away by the strong, talented women from diverse backgrounds in JWN. I especially like that I can be as involved as my schedule permits. The activities I have most enjoyed are participating on the Program Committee and in the Lunch Ladders. These small groups offer the opportunity to get to know other JWN members on a more intimate level than other large women’s organizations provide.
What JWN committee(s) do you currently volunteer with?
I have served on the Program Committee for three years. I’m a new member of the JWN board and will serve as treasurer in 2026.
What organizations are you involved with in the community, and why?
I am on the Bishop Kenny High School Academic Board and Finance Committee. My four children and I all attended BKHS. It provided us with a strong Catholic and academic foundation that prepared us for life and propelled further studies. I also volunteer to teach cooking classes at Morning Star Catholic School, the only special education school in the Diocese of St. Augustine. I am always amazed at how much fun these children have cooking and how proud they are of what they made. And I get to teach them the important life skill of cooking, so everyone wins!
What is a piece of advice you'd give your younger self?
Eventually, I knew I owed it to myself to give entrepreneurship a try. Leaving the comfort of a paid salary with benefits to take the plunge into business ownership was the scariest thing I have ever done. But that angst paid off! I loved everything about owning JAX Cooking Studio—from developing my business strategy, to hiring and mentoring my team, to marketing, to networking, to interacting with customers, to tracking performance metrics, to name a few. Although I would have liked to spend many more years as an entrepreneur, I hesitantly decided to retire to start traveling with my already retired husband to see grandchildren and the world.
What’s the last book you read?
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt, a novel about a widow’s unlikely friendship with a Pacific octopus residing at an aquarium.
What are your hobbies?
I really enjoy growing my own fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Kayaking in the marshes of the intracoastal is like meditation. And planning travel to international destinations is fun and educational. Since I retired, I have also taken up guitar and pottery (thanks Christie Rogers for introducing me to this fun and frustrating hobby!).
What’s the first concert you ever attended?
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list?
What’s one item you can’t live without?
My notes app on my iPhone. I would be in big trouble if all that information went away!
CANTRECE JONES (JWN 2023)
Cantrece is the CEO, Acuity Design Group, Inc. & Aura Plant Studio
Are you a Jacksonville native or a transplant?
Transplant. If you are not a native, what's your hometown? Hampton, Virginia
What’s your favorite part of being a member of JWN?
I appreciate the opportunity to be in proximity to women who are leading in business, leadership, and service across Jacksonville, while still holding space for authenticity. It keeps me grounded in purpose and reminded that impact is amplified when we build together.
What organizations are you involved with in the community and why?
In my world, I sit at the intersection of civic stewardship, community wellbeing, and place-based strategy. Through my service with the JAX Chamber Board of Directors, Visit Jacksonville Board of Directors, and the Winston YMCA Board of Directors, and through roles like United Way Marketing Council Member and COMTO NC Communications Co Chair, I see firsthand how progress moves when trust is strong and communication is clear. My membership in the U S Green Building Council, the American Planning Association, and the American Horticultural Therapy Association also keeps me grounded in the belief that healthy communities are designed, cultivated, and cared for on purpose.
Jacksonville Women’s Network stands out because it gathers women who do not simply want to succeed, they want to contribute. It is where influence meets integrity, where collaboration becomes a strategy, and where you leave not just motivated, but reminded of your responsibility to lead with vision and build with others in mind.
What is your personal mantra?
I choose myself without apology. I protect my peace, honor my purpose, and build a life where my health, joy, and legacy can thrive.
What keeps you going every day?
I am driven by purpose that is bigger than my mood. I am building a legacy, not just a business, and I am committed to impact, credibility, and care for my community. I am a strategist with a nurturer’s heart, and I am called to create, to lead, and to raise the standard.
If you could choose anyone as a mentor, who would you choose and why?
I would choose the highest version of myself as my mentor because she already holds the blueprint. She has the discipline I am developing, the boundaries I am learning to honor, and the clarity I access when I stop negotiating with doubt. She is not motivated by urgency or applause. She is led by alignment, legacy, and truth.
What is a piece of advice you'd give your younger self?
Choose alignment over approval, and let your no be a full sentence.
What’s one thing — either industry-related or not — you learned in the last month?
In the last month, I learned that clarity does not always come from doing more, it comes from deciding more. When I slowed down long enough to name what actually matters, the next steps became obvious. Not because the work got easier, but because my standards got sharper.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I enjoy grounding myself outside, especially standing barefoot in the grass, slowing my breath, and letting my body settle back into the present.
What’s the last book you read?
Strong Ground – Brene Brown
What are your hobbies?
Pilates is one of my favorite parts of my life now. It started as a workout, but it has become my lifestyle rhythm, how I stay strong, centered, and consistent.
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list?
Guyana…scheduled for Summer 2026 ☺
What's your favorite thing to do when you have free time?
Spend time with my Grandbabies
What’s one item you can’t live without?
Peace of Mind.
The best-kept secret in Jacksonville is... Aura Plant Studio, a quiet refuge disguised as a plant shop, where the air feels lighter, the pace slows down, and healing happens the way it should: naturally, gently, and without performance.
December was anything but quiet for our fellow JWN members! From national leadership summits and television appearances to community impact, parade-worthy teamwork, and a well-earned retirement, these women closed out the year leading, serving, and shining!
December was very busy for Dr. Valerie Morrison (JWN 2024) who represented the Florida Nurses Association as President-Elect at the American Nurses Association 2025 Leadership Summit - kudos!
Ascension St. Vincent’s Pediatric and Primary Care Medical Director, Dr. Pauline Rolle (JWN 2026) was featured on WJXT News4JAX to discuss flu and RSV viruses and steps families can take to stay healthy. Watch the interview at: https://www.news4jax.com/video/health/2025/12/19/local-pediatrician-shares-how-you-can-protect-your-family-from-rsv-flu/
Meg Folds (JWN 2005) and Amy Davis (JWN 2020) traveled to Pasadena, CA late last month to help bring the Rotary International float to life for the Rose Bowl Parade - a pretty cool way to close out the calendar year! Meg is President of the Rotary Club of San Marco, and Amy is the Immediate Past President. They spent the day placing purple carnations, asparagus fern, opening carnations, and roses on the float, all in support of Rotary’s theme, “Unite for Good.”
Dr. Cynthia R. Griffin (JWN 2022) is starting the new year in whole new role - she’s retiring after an extraordinary 42 years of service! As Vice President of Medicare Pharmacy Programs at Florida Blue, her career reflects a legacy of service-driven leadership, professional excellence, and lasting impact on healthcare in our community. Best wishes as you begin this well-deserved new chapter, Cynthia!
CONNECT BEYOND JWN
Active and Sustaining Members are invited to share events, programs, and initiatives they’re involved in so fellow members can explore, support, and engage beyond JWN—complete with easy, clickable links for more information. IMPORTANT: Please submit your content by the 20th of each month to [email protected] in order to be included in the following monthly newsletter.
Leadership Jacksonville Applications Now Open
Applications are now open for Leadership Jacksonville and will be accepted through Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 11:59 PM. LJ’s flagship 10-month program brings together 50+ mid- to upper-level leaders to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping Northeast Florida—fostering open dialogue, fresh perspectives, and innovative solutions. FUN FACT: Many, many JWN members are also proud LJ alumni, too! If you haven’t been accepted to the program yet, 2026 could be your year!
TedX Jacksonville is this Saturday, January 17th and we want you to SHOW US YOUR SNAPS! We are looking at you Georgia Reed (JWN 1987) and Lucy Reep (JWN 2005) - who else in the network will be in the audience this year?!
Annie Grogan (JWN 2025) with the Jacksonville Women’s Business Center and Laurie Lee (JWN 2005) with The Legal Department is presenting a four-part workshop series, “Legal Matters” kicking off on January 22.
Jennifer Ryan (JWN 2022) and her team are all set to celebrate the 10th Annual Women with Heart Luncheon on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026. Expect an inspiring luncheon of connection, purpose, and philanthropy in support of Volunteers in Medicine Jacksonville.
Sheryl Johnson (JWN 2025) with Hearts4Minds invites you to enjoy Pickleball for a great cause at their 3rd Annual Dinks and Drives for Dragonflies Pickleball Tournament on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at The Yards in Ponte Vedra Beach. Expect a day of friendly competition, delicious food, and live music while supporting Hearts 4 Minds' mission to break the stigma of mental illness and connect people to essential mental health resources.
Penny Zuber (JWN 2018) with the YMCA invites everyone to participate in the 3rd Annual Racing Against Hate Run/Walk happening at the Winston Family YMCA on Riverside Avenue on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 1 PM.
