Alexandra Ingle, a Western North Carolina native, is the Marketing + PR Manager at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), the gateway to WNC. She focuses on strategically managing the airport’s marketing and public relations initiatives, helping shape how millions of travelers experience the AVL brand. In her eleven-year tenure at AVL, she has led numerous projects to enhance the passenger experience, grow utilization and curate a meaningful and impactful brand. In 2025, she led award-winning initiatives, positioning AVL as the most awarded airport marketing, communications and customer experience team in the industry across North America. Alexandra is a graduate of Appalachian State University and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design.
Alfred Green (Knowledge) is certified peer support specialist and founder of the nonprofit Young Struggle, which focuses on working with the youth and homeless populations in the area; he offers both resources and emotional support to these community members. He is especially proud of the 48 Hours of Peace event that he organized and the Halloween fundraising he does for kids. Alfred has been praised by his peers for his resiliency and relentless motivation, seeing the best in others when they can’t quite see it for themselves.
Alpha Cardenas-Silvestre is the Communication & Outreach Coordinator at OnTrack. She seamlessly balances responsibilities such as teaching workshops, developing communications materials, and leading outreach efforts. She has also created new tracking tools and coordination lists that ensure their clients are never overlooked. Her leadership is grounded in advocacy for the BIPOC community and a deep commitment to inclusion, and her work is deeply rooted in service to the Asheville community. She always takes the time to build meaningful relationships with community partners and her coworkers.
Amanda Sterwerf is a Managing Director at Forvis Mazars, a top 10 national CPA firm, based here in Asheville. Throughout her 15-year career at the firm, Amanda has remained committed to mentoring and developing emerging professionals, with a focus on building strong teams and cultivating future leaders. Beyond the firm, Amanda is actively involved in the community as a mentor with the Henderson County Pathfinders Program, where she supports middle and highschool students by providing academic, professional, and personal guidance to help set them up for longterm success.
Amy Dolendo Deter is a dynamic nonprofit leader with more than 14 years of championing youth and supporting families through the YMCA of Western North Carolina. As Executive Director for Youth Services, she leads passionate multi-site teams that expand access to high-quality programs for working families. She is known for her people-centered leadership and collaborative spirit. She is also actively involved in Leadership Asheville, Building Bridges of Asheville, and the Family Teacher Organization at Ira B. Jones Elementary. Most importantly, she is Amara and Merek’s mama.
Antoine Byndum is a nonprofit leader whose integrity, initiative, and commitment to excellence reflect the spirit of a PROpel Award recipient. He began at Eliada as a RISE Fellow, supporting high-acuity youth in Residential Treatment and quickly distinguished himself through dedication and impact. Promoted to Compliance, he advanced quality initiatives and helped secure COA reaccreditation and a 5-Star Child Development Rating. During Hurricane Helene, he coordinated on-site logistics to ensure safety and continuity of care. Now Development Coordinator, he leads Eliada’s largest fundraiser, welcoming 11,000 attendees and raising $100,000 in 2025, advancing the mission of “Helping Children Succeed.”
Blake Therrian works for A-American Electric and has been with the company for nearly two years. He currently serves in a Business Development and Marketing role. In this position, he is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with customers and the broader community. His primary focus is cultivating partnerships that drive community engagement and collaboration. With the future of A-American Electric in mind, fostering these relationships is essential to ensuring a sustainable future in Western North Carolina for both the community and the business.
Bonnie McKee serves as Marketing Manager at Sugar Hollow Solar, supporting clean energy solutions for homes and businesses across the Carolinas. After 3 years with the company, she grew into a leadership position in 2025. She continues evolving its community-focused marketing program by strengthening partnerships with local nonprofits, small businesses, and media. She balances professional leadership with life as a toddler mom and believes strong businesses are rooted in connection, purpose and lasting relationships. After their devastating experience with Helene led to her family relocating for a year, she is proud and excited to be back in Asheville working toward community resiliency.
Caleb Hall serves Western North Carolina as a Business Banking Relationship Manager for Bank of America and has nine years of experience in the financial services industry. He is dedicated to helping small businesses access the tools, resources, and expertise they need to succeed. Caleb is equally committed to community service, proudly serving as CoChair for Bank of America’s local volunteer initiatives and supporting numerous local nonprofits. His work reflects a genuine passion for strengthening relationships, supporting local growth, and contributing to a thriving WNC region.
Candice Dvoran, Director of Hospitality for Wicked Weed Brewing, strives to create moments where every guest feels welcomed, valued, and at home. Over more than seven years with the company, she has mentored her team, refined service standards, and ensured that hospitality remains at the heart of everything they do. Beyond the brewery’s doors, she collaborates with South Slope and downtown businesses to support Asheville’s recovery and help bring energy, visitors, and vitality back to the city’s streets. Her passion lies in connecting people, place, and purpose through thoughtful, community-driven hospitality.
Cass Santander is a PR Manager at Explore Asheville. She has appeared on several regional and national media outlets, including the Weather Channel, Good Morning America, and CNN, to advocate for Asheville’s artists and creatives. Through her work at Explore Asheville, she has helped many local businesses make essential connections that have helped them thrive. In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, Cass has continued to connect the Spanish-speaking with the grants, information, and resources they needed to help rebuild their businesses and homes.
Darcy Wade is a licensed professional counselor, nonprofit leader, and multidisciplinary artist bridging mental health care, creative expression, and community leadership in Western North Carolina. With over fifteen years of experience across clinical, nonprofit, and arts-based settings, including work with at-risk youth and underserved populations, she serves as Executive Assistant at Open Hearts Art Center, a nonprofit day program supporting adults with disabilities through the arts. She strengthens organizational systems, fundraising, and community engagement, while maintaining a private psychotherapy practice offering trauma-informed, expressive, and somatic care. Known for empathy and creative problem-solving, she led the WNC STRONG fundraiser, raising $35,000.
Deja Benton is an Asheville native, devoted mother to her son, Lucas, and a visionary leader in justice reform. At Operation Gateway, she advances reentry initiatives that restore dignity and opportunity to individuals impacted by incarceration and mental health challenges. Once a high school dropout who faced significant adversity, Deja transformed lived experience into leadership. She earned her Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master of Arts degrees in Criminal Justice and now uses her voice to disrupt systems and champion second chances. Committed to youth empowerment and community transformation, Deja represents a new generation of bold, faith-driven leadership in Asheville.
Diana Moiseyev is a co-founder of S.O.S. Senior Oral-Health Services, serving senior communities since 2017. After recognizing that many seniors reach a stage where they can no longer maintain routine oral care on their own, she and her co-founders built a preventative care model to close a critical gap in access to consistent oral health services. By delivering weekly care directly into senior living communities, the S.O.S. team is elevating oral health as an essential part of whole-body wellness. She is honored to help lead a team committed to serving seniors with consistency, compassion, and purpose.
Dylan Carter has served as Branch Manager at Champion Credit Union since April of 2025. He brings a diverse professional background that includes honorable service as a Cavalry Scout in the U.S. Army, leadership roles in automotive sales management, and extensive experience in banking and branch management. Known for his commitment to service and community, Dylan values both professional excellence and community engagement. Outside of work, Dylan enjoys cooking, writing country music, and spending time with his German Shepherd mix, Athena Grace, and his lovely girlfriend, Christina.
Gwendolyn Dare Hageman is the founder and CEO of Darë Vegan Cheese, an artisan brand in the Asheville area redefining dairy-free cheese and proving that plants can _brie _better than the real thing. Under her leadership, Darë has earned placement in premium retailers including Whole Foods Market and built a loyal national following through direct-to-consumer growth. Gwendolyn is passionate about sustainable food systems, community-driven entrepreneurship, and mentoring emerging founders in the natural foods space. She doesn’t just want to make cheese, she wants to spread good.
Jake Bailey is a Project Manager at Blum Construction. He is reshaping perceptions of the trades through mentorship and hands-on leadership. Serving as a mentor through Blum Construction’s internship programs, Jake has advised numerous young people on career progression and leadership, helping them get launched quickly and seamlessly into new careers. He is also enrolled in the company’s 18-month leadership program, which is helping to hone his critical leadership competencies. He is a former Ambassador for Virginia Tech – School of Architecture and Urban Studies in which he helped recruit students from high schools, vocational schools and trade schools to further their educational opportunities.
Jared Champion is the Senior House Manager at FIRST at Blue Ridge, Inc. During his time there, he has demonstrated an incredible work ethic, working his way up from a Hygiene Coordinator to the House Manager to the Senior Manager after successfully completing a one-year curriculum. Through his work, he makes second-chance workforce development possible. Since his promotion, he has also taken on a leadership role by administering a learning series with Western Carolina Industries.
Jewell “Jake” Feldman is the Business Development and Property Operations Lead at The Phoenix Asheville. He began his career as a writer and recording artist, earning dozens of songwriting credits across film, television, and the music industry. In 2024, Jake intentionally shifted toward purpose-driven work, and in April 2025, he transitioned into his current role. His leadership style is grounded and human, and he takes pride in the impact he has had mentoring young professionals on the team. He takes time to coach team members in communication, decision-making, and leadership, helping them build confidence and clarity in their roles.
Jordan Bell is a Branch Manager at First Bank, where he leads teams focused on relationship-driven banking, community engagement, and operational excellence. He is known for developing high-performing teams, coaching emerging leaders, and fostering a culture centered on trust and service. Jordan’s leadership has guided his branch through change by strengthening team culture, supporting professional growth, and deepening community relationships. Passionate about giving back, Jordan is actively involved in building connections across Buncombe County and supporting initiatives that strengthen local businesses and families. He is committed to creating meaningful impact through leadership, collaboration, and service.
Kasey Jones recently graduated from the University of North Carolina Asheville with a B.S. in Business. During her time there, she was named to the Chancellor’s List each semester she attended. She was also honored to receive two departmental awards, membership in Sigma Beta Delta, and a departmental distinction. In her final semesters and following graduation, Kasey strengthened her passion for helping others and found her place in Talent Acquisition. She is committed to creating equitable and people-centered hiring experiences. Most recently, she has expanded her involvement with Inclusive Hiring Partners (IHP) as well.
Katie Bledsoe is CEO of Bracket Co., a people-first advisory and tax firm she started with her partner, Justin. Together, they set out to build a firm rooted in trust, clear communication, and systems that truly serve clients. Katie oversees operations and client experience, ensuring the firm remains proactive, accessible, and relationship driven. She is actively involved in the local community and believes that strong businesses should play a meaningful role in supporting the people and organizations around them.
Katie McDonald is the founder and owner of Full Moon Tea Company, a vibrant loose-leaf tea brand based in Asheville, North Carolina. Since launching in 2023, she has grown the business through community-driven storytelling, sustainable sourcing, and playful, wellness-focused blends that invite connection and ritual. Her work supports local collaboration, women-led entrepreneurship, and accessible moments of joy in everyday life. Katie is passionate about building meaningful community through tea and creating beautiful, intentional products that help people slow down, gather together, and savor the present moment.
Katie Reph is a healthcare entrepreneur and accessibility advocate focused on improving inclusion, usability, and real-world access in communities across the country. She is the founder of Accessible Towns, a growing national initiative that evaluates and maps the accessibility of businesses, public spaces, and destinations to help people make informed decisions before they go. Katie partners with universities, community organizations, and local leaders to expand accessibility awareness, engage students in service-learning initiatives, and drive meaningful change that makes communities more welcoming, navigable, and equitable for everyone.
Kavik Carter is an Asheville-based entrepreneur, student leader, and community builder at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Information Technology with an Artificial Intelligence concentration. As President of the FBLA Collegiate chapter, Kavik mentors students, strengthens campus engagement, and leads service projects that support the community—including fundraising for a local children’s home and organizing impactful guest speakers. Kavik also owns Kavik’s Customs LLC, blending creativity and business strategy through high-end automotive customization. With a strong entrepreneurial mindset, Kavik is preparing for the future of AI by exploring responsible, practical innovation that helps people and organizations thrive.
Kelcey Geisendorfer is a Financial Solutions Advisor at Bank of America/Merrill Lynch. She was promoted after working with Bank of America for 5+ years, and in this role, she works with clients to deliver comprehensive financial strategies, helping individuals and families make informed decisions that support long-term stability and growth. Kelcey leads by example through her integrity, consistency, and willingness to support others; she’s always eager to celebrate team wins leads by example. For 2 years, she has served as the Co-Chair for the Community Volunteering team, which focuses on community engagement.
Kelsey Maxwell is the Manager of Business Development & Client Relations for Friday Services, where she plays a vital role in building and maintaining strong client partnerships. She earned her Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification while working full time, embodying her commitment to professional growth, continued education, and staying current on HR best practices. Kelsey also enjoys being a role model for new recruits and young professionals within the organization; she’s eager to share her experience, offer thoughtful advice, and coach with thoughtfulness and passion.
Kensley Hendrix is the Head of Business Development for Christie’s Lighting Gallery and Silver Fox Gallery, where she builds strategic partnerships by day and referees sibling negotiations by night. As Chair of Western North Carolina’s Professional Women in Building, she proudly champions the women who actually keep projects… and people – in line. She’s currently pursuing her General Contractor’s license, recognizing that women are better suited for delegating, scheduling, and multitasking (just kidding but not really). A mom of three, Kensley runs on caffeine, confidence, and calendar reminders – firmly believing women don’t just build businesses… we build everything.
Kira Blankenship is a Green Goods Coordinator and Plant Buyer at Reems Creek Nursery. From teaching educational workshops to supplying community members with beautiful and healthy plants, she leads with a passion for plants and a love for getting others as excited about plants as she is. She is driven, organized and motivated. Kira started at the nursery as a cashier, and through hard work and strong natural leadership skills, she quickly rose through ranks. In her role she has trained seasonal staff with excellence, maximized efficiency of procedure and supported the overall growth of the nursery.
Kwadwo Som-Pimpong is the founder and chief craftsman of Crafted Glory, a luxury handmade furniture studio in Clyde, NC. His sculptural, heirloom-quality pieces blend Ghanaian artistic heritage with elevated design sensibility — warm, textured, and deeply intentional. A manufacturing professional at Eaton Corporation since 2012 and a Carnegie Mellon-trained engineer, Kwadwo brings both technical mastery and cultural storytelling to his craft. His work has been featured on NBC Nightly News, CNN, and in an Etsy Olympics campaign, and his creations live in homes and spaces across all 50 states.
Kyla Morton is the Chief Operating Officer of The Christine Avery Learning Center, where she provides strategic leadership for the multi-site organization serving more than 220 children and employing 30+ staff across Western North Carolina. With a Master of Public Health and graduate training in nonprofit management and early childhood education, she advances equitable access to high-quality care and educational opportunities for families in need. A national conference presenter and award-winning leader, Kyla comes from a family of educators, carrying forward that legacy through her dedication to strengthening community, empowering families, and building systems that help children thrive.
Kylie McCarty is the Restaurant Manager of Red Stag Grill in Asheville, where she creates memorable hospitality experiences grounded in warmth, precision, and genuine connection. She is dedicated to mentoring her team, fostering professional growth, and elevating talent within Asheville’s hospitality community. Following Hurricane Helene, Kylie co-led a collaborative charity event with Maker’s Mark and local restaurateurs, raising over $15,000 for the Always Asheville Fund. She believes hospitality goes beyond service—it uplifts people, strengthens community, and creates meaningful, lasting moments.
Lauren Van Epps is a brand strategist and creative leader based in Asheville, NC, currently serving as Brand Manager at Kudzu Brands and Studio Manager at Drop of Sun Studios. She partners with businesses and organizations across Western North Carolina to translate big ideas into clear, strategic marketing rooted in thoughtful storytelling, data-driven decision making, and creative execution. Lauren also serves on the board of Lamplight AVL, a local arts nonprofit that supports community-focused programming and creative placemaking. Her background spans hospitality, small-business marketing, and music, and she is known for blending creative vision with thoughtful follow-through_.__
Mary Lansden is the CEO at B.B. Barns, where she is focused on continuing B.B. Barns’ legacy of focus on plants, people, and local community. ML is responsible for culture, cross-team communication, safeguarding the company’s financial health, and heading up special projects that support long-term growth. With an MBA from Columbia Business School and a love for both numbers and people, she brings clarity, focus, and heart to everything she does. Since she joined the team, B.B. Barns’ leaders have improved their internal communication, management styles, and approach to strategy & problem solving. The company has also seen a sharp increase in profitability.
Matthew Giangrosso is an Associate Attorney at Allen Stahl + Kilbourne. Throughout his career, he has handled a wide range of cases in civil, business, real estate, and intellectual property litigation. This year, Matt was honored as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers of North Carolina, a prestigious recognition awarded to only 2.5% of attorneys in the state with fewer than 10 years of experience. As one of the founding members of the Asheville Young Professionals (AYPROS), Matt remains deeply involved in both their networking and volunteer events, collaborating with other passionate individuals dedicated to making a positive impact in their community.
Megan Carroll is an Executive Officer at the Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains (BABRM). Under her leadership, the association has grown from roughly 800 members to about 1,300, making it the 13th largest builders association in the nation. Her strong, consistent leadership played a key role in BABRM’s work being recognized with five national Association Excellence Awards from the National Association of Home Builders, including Executive Officer of the Year. Through partnerships with organizations like BeLoved Asheville, Megan has worked to protect homeowners and support ethical contractors during rebuilding.
Mitchell Blackmon is the founder, operator, and systems builder of Town Mountain Maids, which has grown into one of Asheville’s most people-focused and operationally disciplined home service companies. Mitchell leads with transparency, empathy, and high expectations. Every employee at Town Mountain Maids begins on the Green Team — an entry-level tier with clear opportunities for promotion. He believes that raising industry standards improves the lives of service workers across the region, and to that end, he regularly mentors other local cleaning business owners and offers advice on hiring, systems, and scaling.
Payton Byrnes is a PR Manager at Explore Asheville. Her work behind the scenes has enabled the PR team to move quickly and confidently when launching and supporting press conferences and media activations tied to events such as the PGA Tour’s Biltmore Championship Asheville, the Big South Baseball Championship, the NAIA Track and Field Championship, the SoCon Championship, and the Asheville Sessions. Her recent promotion from coordinator to manager reflects trust earned through performance and positions her as a strong role model for emerging professionals.
Pearl DeBellott is a community leader, School Resource Officer, and entrepreneur dedicated to uplifting youth and families. She co-leads Stella Stellar Network, a culturally responsive childcare initiative, and creates spaces for connection through her book club, The Main Characters. Pearl mentors young people, supports community programming, and advocates for underserved populations. A proud homeowner and single mother, she is completing her academic journey while preparing to pursue a degree in law, using education, leadership, and storytelling to build meaningful impact in her community.
Ryan Appleton is the founder and owner of The Lazy Tiger Hostel, operating since September 2023. Navigating a challenging tourism climate post-Helene, he has steadily increased revenue while earning consistent five-star reviews and maintaining a 42% repeat guest rate. As a deeply hands-on operator, Ryan focuses on thoughtful design and personalized hospitality, creating an environment where travelers can easily meet new friends and form lasting memories.
Sabrina Hill is the founder and Flavor Magician behind Spice Witch, an Asheville based specialty food company crafting bold, layered chili oils, chili crisps, and hot honey designed to make home cooking easier and more joyful. Founded in 2022, Spice Witch has grown into a nationally distributed brand carried in more than 60 retail locations across the United States. A longtime creative entrepreneur and photographer, Sabrina blends culinary curiosity, community building, and thoughtful sourcing to create products that inspire confidence in the kitchen and celebrate flavor without fuss.
Sarah Humphries serves as Chief of Staff at UNC Asheville, where she advances strategic priorities and supports executive leadership. She brings 14 years of experience in the University of North Carolina System, including a decade at UNC Asheville and four years at UNC Charlotte, where she led consecutive cycles of record enrollment growth as Director of Undergraduate Admissions. A longtime Asheville resident, Sarah is deeply committed to strengthening UNC Asheville’s role as an economic and educational driver for Western North Carolina. She holds bachelor’s degrees in English and Spanish from Appalachian State University and a master’s degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences from UNC Asheville.
Stacey Sessions, a Western North Carolina native, is committed to strengthening the trade-based workforce that shaped her upbringing. She is passionate about empowering woodworkers and craftsmen to build a thriving future for skilled trades. Drawing on her background in occupational therapy, she champions a “People First. Always.” philosophy at her family’s business, Forest Millwork. Stacey promotes mental health awareness, encourages young people to pursue hands-on careers, and invests in the long-term well-being of her team. She also collaborates with local businesses to coordinate essential donations, supporting neighbors and uplifting communities across the region.
Troy Edwards is the Lead Physical Therapist at WildHawk Physical Therapy, where he practices as an empathetic, evidence-based clinician who treats every patient through an individualized and holistic approach. An Asheville native, Troy is dedicated to serving his community by mentoring current and future clinicians, hosting free injury prevention workshops, and partnering with local businesses to strengthen interprofessional collaboration and continuity of care for patients.
Vivian Rodriguez is the Manager of the WIN Program at Western Carolina Medical Society, where she leads efforts to advance equitable healthcare access through professional medical interpretation services. A Western North Carolina native and WCU graduate, Vivian joined the organization in 2024 and quickly rose into leadership, now overseeing three staff members and more than 40 contract interpreters. In 2025 alone, WIN fulfilled over 6,200 appointments in 43 languages, including hundreds of free visits for patients in need. Vivian serves on the agency’s Leadership Team and is dedicated to strengthening language access and health equity across the region.
With visionaries, mentors, and organizers like these, Asheville’s future is incredibly bright. We can’t wait to celebrate their accomplishments at this year’s PROpel AVL Awards Celebration. Join us for an evening of professional inspiration, fantastic food, and community connection. Get your tickets here.