Member Spotlight
June Spotlight
Diana Miller
I worked for the Federal Government for 35 years to support my family. I have 5 children and 14 grandchildren. I was able to breast feed all of my children until they were at least 6 months old even while working.
I married a poet and have been married 55 years. However, I taught my husband how to cook and that led him to think that he could brew his own beer (Wow! Editor's edit) and he turned that hobby into a paying job. He retired as the brew master from Blackstone and his retirement pension is all the beer that he wants.
My husband has been a big influence on my faith. Although I had been baptized in the Congregational Church and married in the Presbyterian Church and my husband was raised as a Lutheran, we received instruction in the Anglican (or Episcopal) Church and were both received into that faith. We then received instruction in the Catholic faith and have been Catholic since 1976. We pray the Angelus, Lauds, Vespers and Compline from the Divine Office every day as well as the Rosary.
Why I joined NCBWL:
Nancy Poll asked me to join NCBWL in 1998 and now I have been a member for 25 years. At first, I was reluctant to join NCBWL because I was a government employee and not a businesswoman. However, I have really enjoyed meeting women of all ages who are talented in many different occupations.
NAME: Diana Miller
Parish: Assumption
Job/Business/Vocation: Social Security Technical Expert (Retired)
Diana's picture was taken in St. Peter's Square with a group of Catholic Women's League of England who adopted her because she was travelling alone!
Patricia M. Smith
Her Voice Works
Parish:
St. Matthew Church
Job/Business/Vocation:
Long-time communications liaison for government and non-profit work; evolved to self-employed voice talent.
What you should know about me:
What you should know about me: incorrigibly curious. I review scripts for medical instructions, historical documentaries, elder care, gaming scenarios, vacation spots, and all manner of communications. I don't choose to record and submit in all those categories, but it's opened my mind to our wide world. This is airing on BizTV in Dallas/Houston. https://bit.ly/3lG8NdQ
My interest in voice work began as a lector at Holy Name Parish. Preparing to proclaim the Word for others invited closer review and enhanced appreciation for the gift of our faith. As I train lectors now, I remind them the congregants have performed many tasks before arriving: waking, eating, dressing, organizing others, driving, parking! So many actions to be accomplished before settling in the pew. We need to respect that potentially scattered attention span and bring our best presentation as a ministry.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I want to enjoy the enthusiasm that comes from women focused on serving the Lord through their communities.
Anne Sawasky
Investor Coach
Paul Winkler, Inc.
Parish:
Our Lady of the Lake
Job/Business/Vocation:
I help people Relax About Money® by educating them about investing, mistakes people make and what academic science tells us is the best way to invest, and help them become confident investors. I was a practicing attorney in Wisconsin for many years, first working for a major insurance company and then in my own law firm, working with Fortune 500 banks, businesses and families, and advising business owners on the valuation and sale of their businesses. Currently, I work at Paul Winkler Inc., a fiduciary investment advisory firm assisting families and business owners by educating them and helping them invest confidently. I spearheaded a program to educate and empower independent women to be financially successful through workshops, personal financial education and planning. I appear monthly on The Investor Coaching Show, Saturdays 3-6 p.m. on WWTN FM Nashville, and our podcast. www.paulwinkler.com
What you should know about me:
I am a cradle Catholic married to my best friend, Dave, and we have a daughter and two sons. I have always been active in my church and volunteering, and I currently serve on the board for We Speak Color, Home | WSC Inc. (wespeakcolor.org) to help people learn sustainable employment. I head the prayer ministry for our Nashville Magnificat women’s ministry and am working to bring healing ministry to our parish community.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I wanted to get to know and network with other professional Catholic women, and I enjoy the various talks and teachings at the meetings. This is a wonderful, welcoming group of very accomplished women and even better, they share my Catholic faith! I joined NCBWL because I felt I needed a group of Catholic women to help me live my faith in a fuller way.
Janine Moore
League Secretary
NCBWL Board Member 2021-2023
Parish:
St. Philip's Catholic Church
Job/Business/Vocation:
I am happily retired from the world of paid work for 30 years, having been a community volunteer for this entire time. It allowed me to contribute, but to be present to raise our kids.
What you should know about me:
I currently serve as a library trustee for Williamson County Public Library, a Meals on Wheels deliverer, a CGS teacher for 3- to 5-year-olds at St. Philip Catholic Church, the food coordinator for St. Philip Habitat Builds, and leader of a book club at Brookdale Retirement home.
I have three kids and two grandsons and one husband who refuses to retire. I enjoy traveling, cooking, traveling and spreading joy.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I joined NCBWL because I felt I needed a group of Catholic women to help me live my faith in a fuller way.
Cindy Zwickel
Parliamentarian
NCBWL Board Member 2021-2023
Parish:
Holy Family Catholic Church
Job/Business/Vocation:
Retired. Former Senior HR Professional, Employee Development Manager
What you should know about me:
I retired to have more time with my family. My husband, Jim, and I have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. Being involved in their lives is a great joy for us. My mother, 1 sister and 1 brother also live nearby so we can maintain the close relationships we have experienced throughout our lives. I also enjoy Pilates and gardening.
Why I joined NCBWL:
During most of my career, I focused on helping people develop their strengths and set goals. NCBWL's mission to help young Catholic women experience a quality education seemed to be a good fit for my strengths and goals. Growing in my faith with outstanding Catholic women has been an incredible bonus: to share our faith with others, support other Catholic women in our community, and collaborate with other organizations that align with our mission.
Marianne Ahlgren
Manager of Operations
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Nashville
Parish:
Cathedral of the Incarnation
Job/Business/Vocation:
Manager of Operations at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Nashville
What you should know about me:
My husband, Brad, and I are originally from Illinois. We have lived in Nashville for almost five years now – and we love it! Between us, we have five children – his two grown daughters live in Illinois; Hailey is a medical assistant and Paige is a vet technician. My oldest, Annie, completed her Masters in Digital Marketing and works for The Melting Pot headquartered in Tampa, FL. Sarah just graduated from Vanderbilt Law School and is moving to DC to work for the Department of Homeland Security. David just finished his Criminal Justice degree at MTSU and is trying to get into the DC Secret Service.
Why I joined NCBWL:
Ever since moving to Nashville, I kept seeing notices in the church bulletin announcing an upcoming NCBWL meeting and while I had always desired to attend one and check it out, I never did. Well a little over two years ago I began working for Catholic Charities at the Catholic Pastoral Center (CPC), where we share the building with the Diocese. Over that time, I feel that my faith has deepened - possibly because of daily Mass offered at the CPC; or maybe it’s the monthly confession that is available here too; or even the fact that there are five chapels in this building – all ways that have helped me grow in my Catholic faith. Looking back, I believe, all of that led me to wanting to meet other Catholic faith-based women and NCBWL was the answer!
Kim Teter
Author and Educator
Parish:
Christ the King, but a frequent visitor of St. Matthew
Job/Business/Vocation:
I have a background in teaching and education. Several years ago, my love of history and research led me to write a historical novel for Young Adult readers. Isabella's Libretto is about the fascinating all-female orchestra that was directed by composer Antonio Vivaldi in Venice in the early 1700's. (Did you know Vivaldi, composer of The Four Seasons, was a Catholic priest?) Currently, I'm revising a middle grade novel about Italian POWs in Texas in 1945, also historical fiction, and I'll begin querying agents soon. I'm active in the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, the Historical Novel Society, and a Catholic writers' group. My website is www.kimteter.com.
What you should know about me:
I've been married to my husband, Clay, for 45 years, and we have three grown children who have blessed us with four grandchildren, ranging in age from 2 to 8. Clay and I are both Texas natives, but with his career in retail, we have lived in several states. We moved to the Nashville area 18 years ago and hope we don't move again.
Clay and I love to travel (er, I may love it a little more than he does--ha!), and we've been fortunate to go on pilgrimages to Italy and the Holy Lands. Since I had my bum hip replaced a few months ago, I have this fantasy that one day I'll walk the Camino de Santiago...or maybe just a portion thereof. I learned to play bridge a few years ago--invited to lessons by NCBWL friends--and in addition to my Friday afternoon group, I play bridge in the Cheekwood league with Sandra Szejner.
Why I joined NCBWL:
About twelve years ago I was working in the Admissions Department of Aquinas College when I learned that my young Aquinas friend Joan Watson was presenting a program about Rome to an organization called NCBWL. I wanted to hear Joan's talk, so I attended as a guest. I was welcomed with sincere warmth and knew immediately I had found my people: I wanted to belong to this great group that socialized while deepening spiritual roots and supporting scholarships for Catholic high school girls. I have loved meeting Catholic women from all over this area of Tennessee, and have made dear friends in this organization.
Sharon Alderman
Past-President (2011-2013) and Treasurer
Parish:
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Springfield
Job/Business/Vocation:
I am a retired educator. I taught for one year in Ohio before moving to Midland, Michigan. There I spent 34 years both as a high school mathematics teacher and as a junior high school assistant principal. Upon moving to Nashville, I worked for Regions Bank for 9 years, took off a few years and then went back for 2 more years. I am now comfortably re-re-retired!
I received both my bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Toledo. A past member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, I belong to the Nashville alumni chapter.
What you should know about me:
I have been blessed with a son and two daughters and my husband, Bud, has one son. Together we have 5 grandchildren. Several of the grandchildren are quite active in sports so we travel regularly to see them play. When not traveling I enjoy volunteering at church, participating in the Nashville Sports Council, gardening, reading, sewing and refinishing old furniture.
Why I joined NCBWL:
Moving to Nashville in 2004 I had the pleasure of meeting and working with Tricia Casa Santa at the Music City Bowl. She invited me to join her for a couple of NCBWL meetings. Being new to the area, it was a wonderful way for me to meet and connect with other Catholic women, so I was eager to be a part of the group. Since joining in 2005, I have been fortunate to have served as treasurer and president. It has been exciting to see our organization evolve having such vibrant women of all ages and backgrounds be a part.
Michelle Beauvais
Parish:
St. Henry Catholic Church
Job/Business/Vocation:
Architect at EOA
What you should know about me:
I am originally from Louisiana, where most of my family still lives except my sister and her family. I moved to Nashville after graduating from Louisiana State University. I worked at EOA Architects when I first moved here and was privileged to work on the Pinnacle Tower downtown, among other projects, as a recent graduate. I spent about 8 years singing with the Metro Nashville Chorus in my free time, which I joined about a year after moving here. After the recession hit in 2008, I landed a job with a small architecture firm. I spent about 11 years at that firm doing mostly residential and small commercial projects. While there, I had the privilege of working on a few projects with the Sisters of St. Cecilia, including the Bethany Retreat House and an addition/renovation to the Mater Dei House on the Motherhouse campus. I became a licensed architect in 2017 after passing my final licensure exam. In late 2019 I returned to EOA and have been working as a project architect on several exciting commercial and multi-family residential projects.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I was first brought to NCBWL by Cora Newcomb. I joined to meet people and network with other women in business. It’s incredible to have a Catholic women’s organization that is about, and supportive of, working women. I also love being able to support the education of young women through our annual scholarship.
Donna Adams
“One of the things I love about NCBWL is that the definition of “working" includes community activism and volunteer opportunities within greater Nashville. Volunteerism is respected.”
Parish:
Holy Family Catholic Church
Job/Business/Vocation:
For the 24 years that I have lived in Brentwood, I have volunteered with the following local organizations: Monroe Carroll Children’s Hospital, High Hopes Developmental Preschool and Therapy Center, the United Way, the Toqueville Society, the Youth Life Learning Center- West Project, and the American Heart Association Circle of Red. For 14 years, I have also taught CCD at Holy Family.
What you should know about me:
I am most proud of the 10 years I was on the Board of Directors of High Hopes Developmental Preschool and Therapy Center, where I participated in raising $3.5 million for the new school and clinic that I helped design and build in Franklin. In 2014, I was awarded the Heart of High Hopes award for Volunteer of the Year and upon completion of the building, had a therapy treatment room named in my honor. I have used my Occupational Therapy degree to work with children and adults in many volunteer settings. At the Children’s Hospital, I assisted in running playrooms for sick children that were hospitalized.
Besides loving my 2 grandchildren, I have a plenty of time to devote to traveling with my husband of 43 years, Kent. My hobbies are Pilates, cooking, golf and Book Club.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I joined NCBWL because it appealed to me with all the fundraising and spiritual growth opportunities! My friend Debbie Lassiter, who I met in the Holy Family Cursillo group, introduced me to NCBWL. As soon as I went to the first meeting, I was so impressed. These gals had smarts and sass!
I went to work right away on the Pearls of Wisdom event with Sandra Szejner. I have worked on the Auction Committee and the Spiritual Enrichment.
Patricia "Trish" Cronin
Parish:
St. Philip Catholic Church in Franklin
Job/Business/Vocation:
Vice President of the Board for the Children’s Kindness Network, a nonprofit dedicated to instilling values of kindness in young children through our beloved mascot Moozie the kind cow. I am also a substitute teacher in Williamson County Public Schools.
What you should know about me:
I am blessed in infinite ways including by amazing family members (starting with my husband and our two ‘twenty-something’ sons) and many dear friends (in our Franklin neighborhood and in northeast states who often visit). I strive to continue to learn every day.
After recently retiring from an intensive career in banking and financial services/technology consulting, I now volunteer more actively around my passions: kindness, children and faith. Besides my non-profit work, I volunteer with the Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) primarily with seniors and the disabled, and with St. Philips Church as a catechism teacher for young children. I also very much enjoy continuing to mentor business-field colleagues.
In baseball season, my husband and I frequently travel to minor league stadiums to watch our younger son pitch.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I enjoy meeting and socializing with wonderful faith-oriented professional women and championing their pursuits. I also love the NCBWL opportunities to grow personally and to support catholic education which I highly value.
Parish:
St. Ignatius of Antioch
Job/Business/Vocation:
Owner - Rhea Lana's of Green Hills
Rhea Lana's is a nationally recognized, award-winning franchise with over 100 franchises, in 24 states and counting. We provide upscale children's consignment events 2 times (Spring and Fall) a year! I will have my 3rd event this spring and in the short time Rhea Lana's has been in Nashville, we have been recognized as the Rookie Franchise of the Year and we received an Honorable Mention in Nashville Parent Magazine's 2021 Best of Parenting Awards!
What you should know about me:
I became an entrepreneur a little over a year ago when I purchased the Rhea Lana’s of Green Hills franchise. Prior to that, I worked at Vanderbilt where I also earned a PhD in Leadership and Policy Studies. Most importantly, I am a mom to one daughter, Maggie.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I spent many years working in higher education and I am looking to reconnect with the Nashville business community. NCBWL is a perfect fit for my business which really appeals to mom and grandmothers. I am looking for inspiration from other women, and the opportunity to connect to this community of Catholic women with partnerships and business opportunities.
Lauren Barca
Parish:
Cathedral of the Incarnation
Job/Business/Vocation:
Vice President - UnitedHealthcare of Tennessee
What you should know about me:
I love living in downtown Nashville with my husband, daughter (12th grade at St. Cecilia), and 2 rescue dogs.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I joined NCBWL to fellowship with other women. I have been inspired by hearing the journeys and passions of those in the group!
Lauren Barca joined NCBWL in May of 2021 and has been a very active member of the league. She actively supports Nashville Diaper Connection and advocates for the league's involvement in this cause. Lauren will also be one of the co-chairs for the 2023 Pearls of Wisdom Fundraiser, together with her good friend Courtney Conklin.
Courtney Conklin
Realtor with Weichert, Realtors - The Andrews Group
Parish:
Cathedral of the Incarnation
Job/Business/Vocation:
Realtor with Weichert, Realtors - The Andrews Group
What you should know about me:
I was a helicopter pilot in the Army for seven years before I got married. Now, when I'm not working as a realtor, I love to practice my French, play tennis and surf.
My husband Mark and I have been married for 10 years. He is an Apache pilot in the Army and is currently getting his PhD in Political Science at Vanderbilt. We have 2 daughters, Juliette (9) and Bernadette (6), currently attending Overbrook. We love to volunteer at their school and in the community, and most recently helping at Covid vaccination sites.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I joined NCBWL to meet new people, support other women in their business ventures, and network.
Faye Knochenmus
Hospitality Chair
Parish:
Smith County Catholic Community
This new church was established August 2021.
Job/Business/Vocation:
Independent AmWay Distributor
Veteran
Stampin Up Demonstrator
What you should know about me:
Retired Lt. Col. US Army Nurse Corps
I am very active in my community with the Right to Life Smith County, American Legion Post 57, and FCE in Grant Tennessee. Aside from being an avid reader, I am very active and enjoy daily physical activities to stay healthy. I enjoy swimming (45 min. of laps daily) and walking over 2 miles daily. On the creative end, I create greeting cards and donate them to Cards for Soldiers and other organizations. I am also a Stampin Up Demonstrator.
Why I joined NCBWL:
I joined to meet other women in the local community whose mission is to be engaged in the community by showing others the love of Christ.
Cora Newcomb
Communications Director
Parish:
St. Henry Catholic Church
Job/Business/Vocation:
I wear many hats and have held various roles in broadcast, print and web.
I'm a business owner and writer when I'm not managing our household composed of a wonderful husband of 18 years and four coon hounds.
Website: www.mysliceofnice.com
What you should know about me:
I enjoy meeting, introducing and connecting people. Every person has a story to tell and I love to hear their stories so they would feel included, accepted, appreciated and loved. I hate for people to feel alone and isolated in this world.
I have found neuroscience to be fascinating. My current podcast addiction is the Huberman Lab.
Why I joined NCBWL:
After attending a meeting as a guest in July of 2015, I was encouraged to join a committee to help with the Pearls of Wisdom fundraiser. I totally enjoyed getting to know the wonderful ladies of the league. As a business owner, I felt I needed to connect with women that support, uplift and empower other women; and NCBWL was the perfect haven to meet amazing women with the same strong Catholic Christian faith and shared values.
Beverly Quinn
Owner/CEO of Tanzu Skincare
Parish:
Immaculate Conception
Clarksville, TN
Job/Business/Vocation:
TANZU, an all-natural handmade skincare line. Our mission is to provide quality products and service and to give God the glory.
Website: www.TanzuSkincare.com
What you should know about me:
First, I do not enjoy talking about myself. I let my actions speak for me and allow others to decide how they experience me. Those who feel they know me best have described me as creative, hardworking, forth right, tenacious and loyal; one who faces life challenges with grace and courage. I would agree. However, above all else I am a child of God, who in the evening of my life enjoys learning about my Lord and Savior. I enjoy learning, hiking, gardening and quilting.
Why I joined NCBWL:
Honestly speaking, initially it was to be able to participate in the Vendor Fair. It soon became a desire to be in service.
Claudia Weber
President-Elect
Parish:
St. Ignatius of Antioch
Job/Business/Vocation:
Case Manager/Short Term Assistance
Catholic Charities of TN
Degrees in Social Work and Early Childhood Education
What you should know about me:
I am not ready for retirement! For the past 18 months I have been immersed in disaster relief and have a deeper sense of how our lives can change in seconds.
Nashville has become an adopted home town over the past 24 years since moving here to join the Nashville Predators' organization. My son teaches at Indiana University and we have a orange tabby named Max!
Why I joined NCBWL:
I was invited years ago by Tricia Casa Santa who still inspires me to connect more with our community. I am also the beneficiary of Catholic education through high school and credit my parents' example of faithfulness and fun in helping with our group's activities. The work of Catholic Charities can also be aligned with our mission
Cheryl Pryor
Spiritual Life Chair
Parish:
Holy Rosary
Job:
Currently DRE at Holy Rosary Catholic Church and soon to be IT trainer at VUMC.
Primary vocations: