Diana Van Riel, married to Charlie for 54 years, has lived in Apple Valley since 1994. A proud wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she enjoyed a long career, including 20 years at Victorville Superior Court before retiring. Diana’s community work includes seven years with The Bundles of Hope Project, a meaningful way for her to give back. She’s active in two Tole Painting chapters and volunteers for Rockin' Our Disabilities. Her superpower? Time and friendship. Fun fact: Diana loves classic cars and once owned a 1955 Chevy Pro-street, and she’s a 10-gallon blood donor for LifeStream.
Karin Etheridge is the proud recipient of the 2024 President's Award from Today's Woman Foundation. Born in Germany, she moved to California and began her career with BEST Opportunities, an organization dedicated to providing services for adults with developmental disabilities. Karin's commitment to this work is fueled by the joy she witnesses daily from the individuals they serve. She has contributed to the organization's growth, from its first facility in Barstow to new locations in Apple Valley and Hesperia. Her proudest achievements include raising two exceptional sons and leading BEST Opportunities as it continues to thrive.
Nadia Altamirano, a 19-year-old entrepreneur, owns Nadi Crepes & Mini Pancakes. Starting at 16 with a small booth in Hesperia, she quickly built a loyal clientele, secured permits for farmers markets, and purchased a food truck—all while balancing high school and college. Now running her food truck full-time, Nadia finds joy in seeing her treats bring happiness to customers and inspiring young entrepreneurs. Her superpower is relentless determination and entrepreneurial spirit. Nadia’s proudest achievements include graduating high school at 17, earning an associate’s degree at 18, and receiving the Mayor's Award for community impact.
Aubrey Rumford, founder of Recreate Reminiscences by Aubrey, launched her business in 2020 to diversify her financial portfolio and bond with her mother. Passionate about creativity, she experiments with balloon designs, securing contracts like St. Mary’s inaugural Black History Month event. As event coordinator at Silverado High and a participant in Today's Woman Foundation, Aubrey is active in her community. She excels in basketball, softball, and track, maintaining a 4.1 GPA while managing her business. Planning to attend LSU, UCLA, or USC after graduation, her success is driven by dedication and a love for cotton candy-flavored treats.
Kathy currently volunteers with God's Hand Extended and Mission Crest Elementary's parent center. Her proudest achievement is raising her children to successful careers and caring for her neighbor's son after his mother passed, integrating him into her family. Over four years, she has progressed from assisting with food giveaways to leading the clothing closet and food pantry, helping the unhoused. Her superpower is compassionate dedication, providing consistent care to her community. A fun fact: Kathy and her husband appeared on Supermarket Sweep twice! She also enjoys baking breads, cookies, and sewing aprons and blankets in her spare time.
Lorrie A. Denson, originally from Topeka, KS, has been a High Desert resident since 1996. Alongside her husband, Bishop David Denson Jr., she has led Burning Bush Church for 28 years, helping build it into a recognized faith community. The church runs various programs, including food distribution and health services. During the pandemic, Lorrie managed the church’s COVID-19 testing site. She also served on the Victor Valley College Board and is a Behavioral Health Commissioner. Lorrie holds degrees in Early Childhood and Educational Administration. Her superpower is her compassionate heart and advocacy for those in need.
Dr. Lakieta L. Emanuel, known as Dr. Elle, is a passionate advocate with over 20 years of experience in Speech and Language therapy, focusing on Autism. A businesswoman, author, and community leader, she empowers women and girls to discover their purpose and transform their lives. Dr. Elle’s proudest accomplishments include founding businesses, self-publishing a poetry book, and raising two children attending HBCUs. She also served as the chartering president of an Alpha Kappa Alpha chapter. Her superpower is inspiring others to unlock their potential. Fun fact: Dr. Elle creates herbal remedies and dreams of studying homeopathic medicine abroad.
Monica Feasel transitioned from the hotel industry to serving as Principal’s Secretary at Phelan Elementary School for over 15 years. Dedicated to community service, she assisted FEMA during Hurricane Katrina and managed a 24-hour shelter for the unsheltered. After retiring, she now works in Human Resources at High Desert Hospice, continuing her commitment to helping others. As a survivor of child abuse, she ensures no one feels unloved. She cherishes the connections she builds with the community. Her superpower is her gift of love and authenticity. Fun fact: Monica was a wrestler, roller derby player, and a top female bass angler, sponsored in Idaho tournaments.
Ann Miner is an author of books for adults and children, a columnist, and a passionate advocate for those affected by Parkinson’s disease. She founded and facilitates a support group, writing about Parkinson’s for a local newspaper. At 70, she published her first book, I Lift My Eyes, and celebrated by skydiving. Ann is proud of overhauling a 1974 VW Bug’s engine and earning a degree as a grandmother. Her superpower, which she attributes to the Lord, is her perseverance and adventurous spirit. She enjoys writing, traveling, family time, and observing wildlife in her backyard. She believes that any “superpowers” she may have come from the Lord.
Lucie recently graduated from UC Riverside with a degree in Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology, along with minors in Business Finance and Spanish. She’s worked in the ABA field for three years, finding fulfillment in helping individuals with developmental disabilities. Lucie’s proudest achievements include graduating with honors, becoming a Clinical Supervisor, and earning her degree while holding three part-time jobs. She is pursuing a Medical Assistant Certificate with plans to apply to Physician Assistant school. Lucie’s superpower is her passion for helping others, driving her to create positive change through volunteering and advocacy for accessible housing.
Theresa, born in Huntington, West Virginia, is the eldest of the sixth generation of the Peyton Polley family, known for their historic 2012 victory in the longest “Runaway Slave Case” in U.S. history. A proud mother and grandmother, Theresa has spent 55 years in education, mentoring students in the arts. She holds degrees from West Virginia State University and Marshall University. Her artwork is featured in the Smithsonian and the National Afro-American Museum. Recognized in Who’s Who of American Teachers, her superpower is inspiring others through teaching and art. Fun fact: she loves stargazing, guided by her grandmother’s wisdom.
Our Mission:
Empower our diverse community of women through education, advocacy, and resources to enhance body, mind, and spirit.
Through our work in the community, we remain committed to listening and learning from the women we serve.