PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

As the mom of twin boys, I’m reminded every day that creativity does not look the same for everyone.

One of my boys can spend hours building with Legos, completely focused, imaginative, and constantly creating. The other will walk right past them. His creativity shows up through sports and playing games, and sometimes creating his own rules as he goes. Some might call it cheating, I call it creative.

Same home. Same opportunities. Completely different expressions of creativity.

It is a perspective I carry with me into leadership. Creativity is not just about art or design. It is about how we think, solve problems, communicate, and show up. It is in how we approach challenges, invite ideas, and create environments where people feel safe enough to contribute their best thinking.

As leaders, we have the opportunity, and the responsibility, to create that kind of space.  Our April program, Everyday Creativity, is an invitation to explore just that. Not as a special skill reserved for a few people, but as a mindset all of us can access every day.

Because just like my boys, creativity does not look the same for everyone. But it shows up everywhere.

As leaders, the opportunity is to approach our work, our relationships, and our lives with intention, curiosity, and a willingness to see things differently.

So the question becomes: Are you creating space for creativity, in yourself and in others?

Angela Timberlake, 2026 President
Jacksonville Women’s Network 

PLEASE NOTE: This year, Penny Zuber and the Program Committee are intentionally designing more intimate experiences to foster deeper, more meaningful connections across our membership. By the time you read this, the April program may already be at capacity. If you are not able to secure a seat, we hope you will join us for a Luncheon Ladder or one of our new Crossroads Conversations in April. There are so many ways to stay engaged, and we want you in our circle!

Our mission continues in motion this April through intentional programming, meaningful dialogue, and expanded opportunities for connection. With experiences like Everyday Creativity, Crossroads Conversations, and Lunch Ladders literally all over the region, we invite you to explore what’s ahead and find your place in the conversations!

Creativity isn’t reserved for artists—it’s a mindset that shapes how we lead, communicate, and solve problems every day.

For our April program, Christie Rogers (JWN 2008), JWN Cultural Arts Category Chair, Studio Potter & Instructor, has curated a unique opportunity for members to explore how creativity shows up across very different professional environments—and why it matters more than ever.

This program brings together dynamic leaders whose work relies on creativity in entirely different ways:

Through conversation, creative exploration, and connection with fellow members, this evening invites you to rethink creativity—not as a specialized skill, but as a powerful approach to leadership, work, and everyday problem-solving. This is a unique opportunity for twenty-five JWN members to experience creativity in action—across industries, perspectives, and disciplines.

BONUS: Attendees will also enjoy an exclusive first look inside ruckus’ new offices at Dennis + Ives, a beautifully restored historic building in Jacksonville’s Rail Yard District.

THIS MONTH’S TOPIC:  Aligning Your Energy with What Matters Most

In February, we launched our first Crossroads Conversation on career transitions—and what unfolded was exactly what makes JWN so special: honest dialogue, shared experience, and meaningful connection.

In April, we continue the conversation with a focus that resonates deeply with many of us: Where is your energy going—and does it reflect what matters most?

At the end of the day, do you feel clear and purposeful…or accomplished, yet depleted?

This session is an invitation to pause and reflect alongside a small group of peers who understand the complexity of leadership. In a confidential, peer-led setting, we’ll explore where your energy is creating real return, what may be quietly draining it, and what small shifts could help you feel more aligned and centered.

Facilitated by Marilyn Feldstein (JWN 2023), this is not a workshop or presentation. There’s no teaching and no fixing—just thoughtful conversation in a trusted environment. REGISTRATION IS OPENING SOON - CHECK YOUR EMAIL!

As part of our Community Engagement efforts led by Michelle Hughes (JWN 2018), Chairman, JWN members are invited to a special evening with the Jacksonville Waves on Friday, May 15, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.

This inaugural Upshot League game marks an exciting new chapter for professional women’s basketball in Jacksonville—and JWN will be part of it. More details and ticket information coming soon—stay tuned!

Building on the success of The JWN Experience in 2025, JWN^x is designed as a TED-style inspired program for June. The goal is to bring forward the voices within our circle—women with remarkable depth of experience, insight, and perspective—in a way that is both meaningful and memorable.

This will not be a panel, and we are not seeking typical presentations. You don’t need to be a professional speaker—just someone with a story to tell, a lesson learned, or a perspective that could benefit others.

SUBMIT YOUR IDEA: We are seeking JWN members who feel called to share one idea about an insight, a lesson, or a project that impacts lives personally, professionally, or within the Northeast Florida community.

To be considered, submit your name, a proposed talk title, and a brief description of your idea (2–3 sentences), along with why it matters to you, to Penny Zuber, President-Elect and Programs Chair, via email to [email protected] on or before April 15, 2026. 

We look forward to seeing the ideas our JWN community brings forward!

Nominations for 2027 will be open before we know it, and now is the perfect time to start thinking about who you want to invite into JWN! Here are a few simple ways to help you keep track of potential nominees over the next two months:

• SCREENSHOT AS YOU GO – See someone impressive on LinkedIn in your category? Screenshot it and save it for later.

• THINK BEYOND YOUR IMMEDIATE CIRCLE – Some of the best candidates aren’t already in your network.

• LOOK BEYOND DUVAL – While we’re named Jacksonville Women’s Network, our membership spans the broader region.

• PAY ATTENTION TO WHO IS SHOWING UP – Events, panels, boards, community leadership—notice who stands out.

• ASK YOURSELF: Would I want to be in a room with her? – That’s usually your answer.

Strong nominations don’t happen at the last minute—they happen by paying attention all year long. Thanks in advance for helping make the Class of 2027 our best year of nominees to date!

Lunch Ladders were jamming this month—great energy, great conversations, and plenty of photos (because if there’s no photo… did it even happen?).

Interested in leading one? Lucy Reep (JWN 2005) would love to hear from you—and yes, whoever is designated as the leader for the month gets to pick the date and location!

Looking to connect beyond events? Laura Boeckman (JWN 2018) is launching a member-led book club and is inviting others to join! The group will be collaborative and flexible, with members helping shape the reading list—ranging from fiction to nonfiction and everything in between. Whether you’re an avid reader or just looking for a fun way to connect with other JWN women, this is a great opportunity to be part of something new. Please email Laura directly ([email protected]) if you’re interested!

2-MINUTE MEMBER CHECK-IN COMING SOON

In late April, you’ll receive a short Pulse Survey from JWN via email.

This quick, three-question check-in (about 2 minutes) is designed to better understand your experience of connection and belonging across the network.

The Culture Care Committee is leading this effort as part of JWN’s commitment to listening to members and strengthening the overall experience. Your input directly shapes what we build, offer, and prioritize.

From thought leadership at AFP and a strong presence at Generation W to entrepreneurial milestones and new leadership roles, JWN members continue to shape our community in meaningful ways. Let’s take a moment to celebrate their impact!

Congratulations to Dawn Emerick (JWN 2010) on her new role as Managing Director of People, Operations & Strategy for City Year Jacksonville, and to Allishia Bauman (JWN 2022) on her new role as CEO of the Women’s Center of Jacksonville.

We’re proud to see JWN alumnae continuing to lead, grow, and make a meaningful impact across our community!

JWN was well represented at the recent program, The Power of Women’s Giving: How Gender Shapes Philanthropy, presented by the Association of Fundraising Professionals First Coast Chapter, with three of our members (l to r) taking the stage. Wanda Willis (JWN 2022) served as facilitator, while Sabeen Perwaiz (JWN 2016) and Erin Gordon (JWN 2024) shared their perspectives as panelists.

The conversation highlighted how women are reshaping philanthropy through trust-based giving, collaboration, and values-driven decision-making—proving that women aren’t just influencing where dollars go, but redefining how philanthropy works!

Cheers to our Immediate Past President, Jeanne Maron (JWN 1998)!

Her business, The Gifted Cork & Gourmet in St. Augustine, is celebrating 17 years in business—an incredible milestone and a true testament to her vision and leadership. Now that’s something to celebrate!

Great to see so many JWN members and alumnae out in force at Generation W last week - and kudos to Donna Orender (JWN 2016) leading on stage!

Ever wonder how best to let your JWN friends know about events, programs, and initiatives you’re involved with BEYOND JWN? This is the place - Active and Sustaining members are invited to share so fellow members can explore, support, and engage beyond JWN. If you submit clickable hyperlinks for more information, we can include those as well.  

IMPORTANT: Please submit your content by the 20th of each month to [email protected] to be included in the following month’s publication.

There’s still time to show your support for Nicole Hamm (JWN 2024) as she dances her way toward the disco ball trophy in Dancing with the Stars Jacksonville—all to benefit the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus! 

Cast your vote here:  https://www.rivercitydwts.com/nicolehamm2026 and cheer her on ahead of the big event on the 25th. Let’s rally behind one of our own! 💙

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This month, we’re featuring two Jacksonville natives who are making a meaningful impact in our community—and who both know how to balance purpose with personality. One is a former international acting competition finalist who finds joy in singing and time by the ocean. The other? A self-proclaimed music lyric savant who can’t resist a good podcast and still remembers attending the Jackson 5 Victory Tour at the Gator Bowl. Different paths, shared passion for leadership, service, and bringing a little personality to everything they do!

Rachael Tutwiler Fortune
President, Jacksonville Public Education Fund
JWN Member since 2022

Are you a Jacksonville native or a transplant? If you are not a native, what's your hometown?
I am a proud Jacksonville native, born and raised. This city shaped me, and it’s an honor to serve it.

What’s your favorite part of being a member of JWN?
The community of women who are both accomplished and deeply committed to lifting others as they climb.

What JWN committee(s) do you currently volunteer with?
While I’m not currently serving on a committee, I value staying connected and engaged with the network in meaningful ways.

What organizations are you involved with in the community, and why?
I’m deeply engaged with organizations focused on education, healthcare, and civic leadership because I believe strong communities are built at the intersection of opportunity, well-being, and shared responsibility. In addition to JPEF, this includes Baptist Health, Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, City Year Jacksonville, the University of North Florida, and Jacksonville University’s Master of Public Policy Institute. 

What is your personal mantra?
Be the bridge.

What keeps you going every day?
The belief that every child deserves access to opportunity and that our collective leadership can make that real.

If you could choose anyone as a mentor, who would you choose and why?
Michelle Obama, for her authenticity, grace under pressure, and unwavering commitment to purpose-driven leadership.

What is a piece of advice you'd give your younger self?
Trust your voice earlier. You don’t need permission to lead.

What’s one thing — either industry-related or not — you learned in the last month?
That stepping outside of my usual environment, like spending time in the mountains, can be deeply grounding and clarifying in ways I didn’t expect.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I once placed as a finalist in an international acting competition in Los Angeles during college.

What’s the last book you read?
Set Free to Live Free: Breaking Through the 7 Lies Women Tell Themselves By Saundra Dalton-Smith 

What are your hobbies?
Singing, sitting by the ocean, and creating space for meaningful conversations with the people I love.

What’s the first concert you ever attended?
Hillsong Worship 

What’s the next place on your travel bucket list?
Lithuania and a broader European trip with my family. Visiting my husband’s best friend will be a chance to explore, reconnect, and experience new cultures together.

Are you currently binge-watching any shows?
I’ve been doing more reading than watching TV lately, but when I do watch, it’s to get caught up on my guilty pleasures – televised singing and dancing competitions like the latest seasons of Dancing with the Stars, The Voice, and American Idol. 

What's your favorite thing to do when you have free time?
Be fully present and make new memories with my family—those moments matter most.

What’s one item you can’t live without?
My Bible and my journal. The Bible is my foundation, and my journal is a tool that helps me reflect, process, and stay grounded.

The best-kept secret in Jacksonville is...The power of its people. When we come together, there’s nothing we can’t do.

Susan Masucci
Founder & CEO, ruckus
JWN Member since 2022

Are you a Jacksonville native or a transplant? If you are not a native, what's your hometown?
Jacksonville, FL native  — rockin’ with The 904/Duval since 1978

What’s your favorite part of being a member of JWN?
is learning about the amazing journeys, contributions, and talents held by the array of women in this community.

What JWN committee(s) do you currently volunteer with?
I had to step back from committee involvement this year due to other community and business obligations. However, I have enjoyed serving with the Programs committee and supporting the Speakers Forum committee in 2025.   

What organizations are you involved with in the community, and why?
I am a strong believer in giving back — an example set by my mom and dad.

I currently serve on the Ambassadors Council for Bishop Kenny High School and both the Honors College Advisory Council and the Stein College of Arts & Sciences Advisory Board at Jacksonville University. In both instances, it’s an incredible privilege to give back to two institutions and many administrators, faculty and staff that poured into me, while ensuring they exist to benefit students and families in the future. 

I’m a member of Rotary Club of Jacksonville, serving on its board, its Foundation board and in several committees. I’m very excited to be the President-Elect Designee (2027-28 Presidential term). I have also served as a Board member for Guardian Catholic School since 2019. In addition, I’ve served in several volunteer roles with 904WARD — an organization whose mission is very aligned with my personal beliefs and vision for what a better world looks like. 

My wife and I support many other institutions and organizations across our community that are working to improve children’s health, arts and culture, and access to education and well-being opportunities for all people.

What is your personal mantra?
Impossible is nothing. 

What keeps you going every day?
I am driven by curiosity and a determination to contribute something positive every single day. I feel extraordinarily fortunate that the work (paid, unpaid, seen, unseen) that I “get to do” keeps those fires burning.

If you could choose anyone as a mentor, who would you choose and why?
I’ve had some fantastic mentors and people who have contributed greatly to my personhood — starting with my parents (Ron & Susan) and my Dolphin Arts Summer Camp parents Sally & Jimbo Deming; and in more official ways with incredible local women like Dea Sims, Marty Lanahan, Melanie Husk, Mary Jarrett, Margaret Coupe,  Fran Kinne, and Stephanie Cost. My wish list includes local heroes like Darnell Smith, Donna Orender, and Mayor Donna Deegan … people who have been able to scale their positive impact in business and across communities, and who are held in great esteem.

What is a piece of advice you'd give your younger self?
I think this might have been the hardest question for me to answer … I'm not sure my younger self could have heard what I most needed to know. I feel that wisdom isn’t just information. It’s information arriving at the moment you’re ready to receive it. It’s trusting the timing of your own becoming.

Some recent wisdom in the form of quotes that I keep near me is: “Faith and fear both demand you believe in something you cannot see. You choose.” — Bob Proctor, and “There will be people in this life who’ll cut you open just to see what you are made of — show them it is love.” — Donna Ashworth

What’s one thing — either industry-related or not — you learned in the last month?
In my line of work, I’m truly learning every day — whether it is about a client’s business or industry, their work, or our own (since platforms, channels, and opportunities for communication change almost daily). What I’m most focused on learning right now is about brain health — how and why it can and should be enhanced, especially to protect our capabilities and long-term functionality in the attention-deprived times we live in today. When you “think” for a living, it seems like an imperative right now.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I love cutting up. I can be very unserious. I’m a pretty good dancer. I’m a very average singer, but it doesn’t stop me from belting it out around the house. I am also something of a savant when it comes to music — most genres — and have a fascinating recollection of lyrics that play in my mind pretty regularly.

What’s the last book you read?
I confess, I’m most successful when I listen to books. The ones I’ve finished most recently were The House of Hidden Meanings (RuPaul), Indivisible (Denise Hamilton), Hidden Potential (Adam Grant), Caste (Isabel Wilkerson), Tiny Beautiful Things (Cheryl Strayer), and Four Hundred Souls (Ibram X. Kendi). I’m looking forward to starting You With the Sad Eyes (Christina Applegate) and, after hearing her on Good Hang, I want to read Finding Me (Viola Davis).

What are your hobbies?
So, I had to ask my wife (Katie) about this one — she said, “working out, billing, volunteering, and watching sports.” Obviously, I have some work to do there. I’m slightly obsessed with listening to podcasts (when cycling, walking/running, getting ready in the morning, driving, cleaning, etc.). I have a few favorites that I listen to weekly: My Favorite Murder, I Said No Gifts, Wiser Than Me, Handsome, Criminal, and more. The storytelling and/or laughs are what keep me hooked.

What’s the first concert you ever attended?
The Victory Tour (featuring all six Jackson brothers), July 1984 at the old Gator Bowl.
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list?
We have a small list we’re keeping: Ireland/UK, Greece, Amalfi Coast, New Mexico …

Are you currently binge-watching any shows?
Katie and I have a standing date on Friday nights to watch The Pitt: Season 2. We’re eagerly awaiting the new season of Hacks.

What's your favorite thing to do when you have free time?
Here we go again with this free time nonsense (lol). Honestly, sleep is important. I’ll say I am MUCH better at getting ~ 8 hours per night in the last five years.

What’s one item you can’t live without?
I have a Rosary and a laminated prayer card from my dad’s funeral that I must have with me.

The best-kept secret in Jacksonville is...I feel like there are so many “secrets” — people, places, moments that deserve exposure. If I could leave you with just one thing, it would be to encourage each of us to go out of our way to connect with places, experiences, and people off our beaten paths. Discovery is really what brings about “awe” — and awe is a really, really good thing. 

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