At NFTE, we are proud to celebrate the inspiring women on our team who are committed to creating lasting change in their communities. Through their leadership, they are not only advancing the mission of NFTE but also working tirelessly to uplift others, especially women and marginalized communities. From launching initiatives that provide essential resources to mentoring the next generation of leaders, these women embody the spirit of empowerment and equity.
In this series, we spotlight four remarkable women whose dedication to service, mentorship, and community transformation continues to make an indelible impact. Their stories reflect the diversity of leadership within our organization, each one working toward a common goal: raising up women, fostering inclusion, and creating spaces where all can thrive.
Jennifer Finnegan, Lead Program Associate, Southeast
In addition to her important work in the NFTE Southeast region, Jennifer Finnegan is the founder of The Giving Closet Project in Jacksonville, FL—an organization that provides essential clothing and hygiene products to students in need. Through their online portal and community events, The Giving Closet Project has served a total of 1,644 students, providing $164,400 worth of basic necessities. They have collaborated with 98 schools and 47 agencies/social service organizations throughout Duval County.
Through their Essential Angels program, the organization extended service to over 1,200 students at the Riviera Beach Preparatory and Achievement Academy in Palm Beach County. In their Thanksgiving giveaway, The Giving Closet Project adopted 100 families, providing turkeys and all the fixings for a complete dinner. Their Christmas giveaway supported 10 families (55 children total), offering hot meals, gift cards, and a “shopping” experience inside their Duval hub to ensure families had a joyful holiday season. Jennifer’s leadership exemplifies how the women in our NFTE ecosystem empower others and create lasting change in their communities!
Denise Berkhalter, Director of National Communications
With over three decades of marketing and communications experience, Denise Berkhalter is also deeply committed to mentoring women in her community. As a volunteer mentor for Momentum Leaders, a nonprofit organization supporting women leaders nationwide, Denise is passionate about empowering others. She also mentors young women pursuing their APR national certification as a member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).
Beyond her professional and personal work, Denise finds renewal by escaping to the Gulf Coast, where the feel of sand between her toes offers a sunny escape and a chance to recharge. Denise’s work, both in mentoring and communication, reflects her deep belief in the importance of supporting women in leadership and ensuring their voices are heard.
Vanee Brown, Lead Alumni Associate
Vanee Brown is the founder of Better Days Productions LLC and is a passionate advocate for emerging artists and entrepreneurs in South Florida. Through her work with Better Days, Vanee exemplifies her commitment to fostering a thriving creative community. She produces high-quality visual media, hosts live events, and creates strategic opportunities to help local talent grow their brands and careers.
Vanee’s mission is to empower artists, musicians, and storytellers by offering essential resources, collaboration, and professional development. She is especially dedicated to elevating women in the creative industry, offering them a platform to showcase their art through in-depth interviews, music features, and social media content. Vanee also directed a documentary that provides a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the lives of young musicians in South Florida, capturing the struggles and triumphs they face as they navigate the local creative scene. Through her work, Vanee is shaping a more inclusive and sustainable path for creatives in the entertainment and business industries.
Cheyanne Ornelas, World Series of Innovation Program Manager
Cheyanne’s leadership journey was shaped by the example of powerful women in San Antonio who inspired her to take action. When she first began volunteering with For Her, she was too young to participate in the outreach or group support activities. But instead of being discouraged, the team found a space where she could contribute in a way that aligned with her passions. The team suggested offering childcare to moms who otherwise would be unable to attend sessions. It was through this experience that Cheyanne learned the importance of community-centered leadership, showing her that leadership can happen in many forms—sometimes in quiet acts that enable others to thrive.
Cheyanne’s commitment doesn’t stop there—she also started her own project, The Solo Warrior Project, in honor of her late grandmother. It was her grandmother who taught her the importance of looking out for our neighbors and showing up for one another. The Solo Warrior Project provides wellness kits to single mothers in historically overlooked communities, many of whom face challenges like those her grandmother experienced throughout her life. Cheyanne’s work reflects her belief that leadership is about empowering others and fostering strong community connections.
Strength in Unity, Power in Purpose
As we look toward the future, the work of these extraordinary women reminds us of the power of community-centered leadership and the importance of empowering others along the way. Their stories exemplify what can be achieved when women lead with passion, purpose, and a commitment to equity. At NFTE, we believe that when one woman rises, we all rise. And together, we will continue to break down barriers, build opportunities, and create a more equitable world for generations to come.
Let’s celebrate and learn from these leaders and commit to being a part of the movement that lifts up all women, everywhere, this month and beyond.