Category Archives: Press Releases

RecognizingMaria D. Pizarro

 

For over a decade, Maria D. Pizarro has led the Research and Development Department in the U.S. and Singapore where she applies unprecedented expertise in her field.  As Executive Vice President and VP of Research and Development, she is involved in all aspects of the business including acquisitions, mergers, and new developments as well as standing in as acting Division General Manager when the President is away.  Additionally, Ms. Pizarro works with doctors on new developments and clinical trials and works directly with auditors and the finance team.

After studying Engineering at Texas A&M University, Ms. Pizarro started her career in aerospace and defense before transitioning into the field of medical devices, as she always had a passion for solving medical problems.  She was also the first female National President of an engineering organization, MAES (Society of Mexican American Engineers & Scientists, a 501(c)3 organization) and is currently on the National Board of Directors.

Moving forward, Ms. Pizarro looks forward to setting up a company of her own and becoming a mentor to inspire young women by applying her mantra, “giving up is not an option.” In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and is an avid reader.

Women’s Networking Association Member, Maria D. Pizarro, can be found on the Association Directory, where she is looking forward to networking with you.
 

RecognizingHerna van Dronkelaar

Herna van Dronkelaar is a designer, creator, and artist, and has about four years in the field. A true entrepreneur, she owns her own company, Herna’s Atelier, and makes all the clothes herself. She specializes in wedding dresses and business suits for women.

Herna earned her Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Communications from Schoetrers University in 2005, and recently had an article published about her successes. She is most proud of being true to herself in her business, and is very well known for her outgoing personality and perseverance.

When not making beautiful clothing, she enjoys walking and painting. She is working diligently toward continued growth at Herna’s Atelier, and is looking forward to networking and connecting with other like-minded professionals, and to gaining the recognition and credibility of being a member.

Women’s Networking Association Member, Herna van Dronkelaar, can be found on the Association Directory, where she is looking forward to networking with you.

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RecognizingKerry Dorfer

 
Kerry Dorfer owns her own Consultancy, where she manages the Change and Transformation in Human Resources for Global Organizations. The transformation is invariably driven by the implementation of an HR Technology platform. Recent consulting roles have included Global Human Resources Change Lead at Verisure (the leading provider of professionally monitored security solutions and smart alarms in Europe), and Denstu Aegis Network (the holding company of global media brands including Carat and iProspect). With over 17 years of professional experience, Kerry oversees the human side of change management and transitions, working closely to adapt company culture and behavior, facilitate communication, and adjust HR functions where applicable. In January, Kerry also became Director and Non-Executive Advisor of a start-up, a consultancy and temporary employment agency which serves the repatriation of Armed Forces.
 
After earning a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the University of the Witwatersrand, Kerry went on to launch her career in sales and consulting. She then branched into recruiting, working her way up the ranks with Michael Page, BAE Systems, and Fidelity Worldwide Investment. Prior to starting her own firm, Kerry was the Sage People Project Manager and Talent Lead at Colart, a Global Art Manufacturer.
 
Kerry holds a Certificate in People Analytics from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School, and a Certificate in Project Management, Initiating and Planning Projects from the University of California at Irvine. She is currently studying at Cornell University’s Transforming Human Resources program. Kerry has also been part of a number of speaking panels regarding HR Change and has published articles in relation to transforming Recruitment services.
 
Today, Kerry is based in London, United Kingdom. She is passionate about pushing the boundaries and bringing out the best in teams, and has a particular fascination with analytics and digital technologies. Kerry was inaugurated into the Worldwide Association of Professional Women in 2018,
 
Outside of professional endeavors, she enjoys cooking, is an avid reader and a mum.
 
Women’s Networking Association Member Kerry Dorfer can be found on the Association Directory, where she is looking forward to networking with you.
 

RecognizingJulie Kassab

Julie Kassab is an Audit Partner at Deloitte & Touche ME, part of Deloitte & Touche Tohmatsu Limited, commonly referred to as Deloitte, a multinational professional services network. With over two decades of experience in audit and financial advisory, Julie conducts financial analysis and external audits, reviewing accounts and compiling reports for large banks, multinational clients and complex industries.

After earning a master’s degree in Finance from Saint Joseph University in Lebanon, Julie went on to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) from the State of New Hampshire board of accountancy. She launched her career in Lebanon, serving large banks and financial institutions, and also gained experience in retail, manufacturing and management. During her career Julie relocated to the United States of America and worked part of the financial service team.

Julie credits her success to determination and having a passion for her work. She resides in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where outside of her professional endeavors she enjoys tennis, swimming, travel and reading. In addition to her lifetime membership in the WNA, Julie is a member of the American institute of certified public accountants (AICPA) and the Chartered Global Management Accountants (CGMA).

Women’s Networking Association Member Julie Kassab can be found on the Association Directory, where she is looking forward to networking with you.

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RecognizingDr. Robynn M. Poortvliet, DC, DABCA

Dr. Robynn M. Poortvliet, DC, DABCA is a Chiropractic Acupuncturist at Advanced Relief Chiropractic & Acupuncture in Oklahoma City. She has two locations to better serve the population. After receiving her Bachelor’s of Science from Bowling Green University, Robynn went on to earn her Doctorate in Chiropractic and a Diplomate from Cleveland Chiropractic College. She is also a National Recognized member of the CCA in Acupuncture and is also a member of the OKC Birth Network, American Chiropractic Association, South Oklahoma City Chamber, NFID, and is Webster Certified to treat newborns. She is also certified in injections for spine and joint pain, as well as trigger point relief.

Utilizing her education to treat all ages and a vast variety of conditions, Robynn brings over 21 years experience helping the Oklahoma City area. She draws upon her extensive experience and education to treat all ages and a vast variety of conditions. She was recently honored to have been selected as one of the doctors officially helping The Oklahoma City Ballet Company and as a former gymnast herself, she feels she has a better understanding treating athletic injuries. When not engaged with work, Robynn enjoys travel, sailing and yoga, but most of all being the mother of a three and six year old.

Women’s Networking Association Member, Dr. Robynn M. Poortvliet, can be found on the Association Directory, where she is looking forward to networking with you.

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