02/15/2026
We are so excited to share this news and even more proud of our wonderful Donna Goodbread!
VIA Connects 2026 Conference, Speakers Reveal
Breakout Session, 11:15am–12:00pm
Meet the speakers of our second breakout session, exploring career pivots, transferable skills, entrepreneurship, and purpose-driven leadership — and how women build meaningful impact through work, service, and community.
Dana Karstensen: Human Resources Specialist with the Jekyll Island Authority, bringing local roots and lived experience across nonprofit leadership, education, and public service—offering insight into translating skills, volunteer work, and early-career experience into new opportunities.
Judith Núñez Romero: Community educator, psychologist, writer, and co-founder of ELLA | English Language Learning Academy & Continuing Education, advancing bilingual education, immigrant inclusion, and belonging through language, culture, and shared learning.
AJ Alston: Entrepreneur and founding partner across multiple ventures, with experience spanning military service, healthcare, technology, and economic development—committed to strengthening local entrepreneurship and community growth.
Tanya McDowell: Executive Director of the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition and strategy consultant, leading community-centered initiatives that preserve culture, expand opportunity, and champion people-first leadership.
Stacy Taylor: Founder of Cakique, LLC, and tenured public school educator, blending culinary artistry with entrepreneurial vision. Drawing from family traditions and a love of history, Stacy transforms her passion for baking into a thriving business rooted in creativity, precision, and heart.
Donna Goodbread: Community Care Liaison with Affinis Hospice, dedicated to educating families and strengthening awareness around compassionate end-of-life care. With decades of experience in healthcare, Donna leads with encouragement, relationship-building, and a deep commitment to serving others.
Join them: Saturday, March 7, 11:15am–12:00pm
Registration begins at 9:00am
Stembler Theater, College of Coastal Georgia
Entrance on Altama Avenue
Early Bird Tickets: $40 (lunch included)
Get yours now: https://shorturl.at/y1Qnk