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Meet the Board
Executive Officers
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Patty Tovar-Nessen, Founder/CEO
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Robyn Riveron, Chief Financial Officer
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Alexander de Léon, Vice President
Advisory Committee
Board of Directors
(Listed alphabetically)
ROBYN RIVERON
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
I love the idea of being part of a project that gives exposure to amazing women.
Birthday: July 14
Education: High School Diploma and very little college
Family & Pets: I live with my husband, Miguel and our 3 fur-babies, Daisy, Grisie and Max
Hometown: La Puente, CA
Cultural Heritage: ½ Cuban, ½ Mexican
Personal Motto: I don’t have one motto. I go to Pinterest and pick quotes that inspire me and make that my motto for the day.
What motivates you?
Breaking the cycle motivates me. Dare to be different and push hard to be better.
What's on your bucket list?
Start a charity, open a business, host a pod-cast and travel often!
What is inside your pockets right now?
Cell phone, debit card and driver’s license. I travel light!
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
“You’re never going to find Mr. Right when you are sitting on the couch with Mr. Wrong.” This saying can be applied to all aspects of life!
What was your first job?
I was 14 years old and worked under the table at a local pizza joint
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.: I feel empowered when I read the posts or watch the videos. It’s inspiring and keeps me motivated!
ALEXANDER DE LÉON
VICE PRESIDENT
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
I believe it the general idea that opportunities are not always apparent to the younger generation, especially in underserved communities. Having been raised by a single mother and 2 sisters, I’m also very aware of the struggles that women of all generations have faced today, which is why I believe in the organization’s mission statement.
Birthday: August 7
Education: Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, University of Phoenix
Family & Pets: Life partner and a typical extended Latino family… as well as a circle of friends who are part of my family. One Labrador Retreiver, one female Eclectus parrot, one male Eclectus Parrot and one Moluccan Cockatoo. All but the dog are rescue animals.
Hometown: Hawthorne, CA
Cultural Heritage: Guatemalan
Personal Motto: Life is usually less black and white and more shades of grey. Also, humans are the only living entities on the planet that can decide to alter their destiny, sometimes even despite their genetic propensities.
What motivates you?
What motivates me is to make a difference towards progress. Whether personally, professionally or physically, this motivates me. I am most engaged and focused when I feel I am contributing toward a stated goal. This means I am capable of spending a good amount of time in defining an effort or stopping an effort midstream if it feels as if the scope of the effort or end-game is unclear. This also means I am easily frustrated if I perceive an effort I’m engaging in to be duplicate or redundant work.
What's on your bucket list?
Participating and completing a full Ironman race, visiting Angkor Wat in Cambodia, a safari in Africa, diving the Great Barrier Reef, revisiting Japan, running the Great Wall in China
What is inside your pockets right now?
Work phone, personal phone, keys, wallet, thumb drive, gym membership
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
Everyone has a story to tell and experiences to contribute, even if they are not your own
What was your first job?
Door-to-door newspaper subscription sales
Most people are surprised to learn: I’ve recently developed a liking to early morning ocean swimming! Oh, and, in the 1990’s I took a risk with a friend and travelled 3 months to paint throughout Europe. I’ve painted in France (in the gardens of Versaille), Spain (on the island of Mallorca), Italy (in Rome and Florence), Austria (and played tag with a family in the streets of Vienna), Germany (Munich, Frankfort, Cologne), The Netherlands (yeah, Amsterdam), and England (London). Unforgettable experience.
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.: Getting to know new people and being a part of helping to ground things as the ideas and programs sprout from members’ thoughts and experiences. Looking forward to contributing my own thoughts, experience and penchant for clarity to move toward our mission and vision!
MODESTA ALONSO
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
I love to help others, especially the least fortunate. Seeing the joy on other peoples faces brighten up my day. It is a blessing for me to get to help those in need.
Birthday: November 14
Education: Certified Dental Hygienist
Family & Pets: I have been married for over 17 years and I have two beautiful daughters: Paulina 16, Emily 14. I have three dogs, Zoey, Chloe and Poncho.
Hometown: San Gabriel, CA
Cultural Heritage: Mexican
Personal Motto: Work hard and you'll persevere.
What motivates you?
My family gives me energy and motivation to be the best version of myself
What's on your bucket list?
I want to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Bora Bora and hike all the National park trails around the world
What is inside your purse/pockets right now?
My wallet, make up, brush, snacks and coupons
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
As a wife, a mom, and the matriarch of the family, be a leader and take action so that things happen for your family.
What was your first job?
My parent's business
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.:
The opportunity to serve young girls with aspirations, who might not otherwise have the same opportunities due to lack of resources in their environment
CHLOÉ CAVELIER D'ESCLAVELLES
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
In a world that is so quick to tell young people, “You can’t,” for a variety of reasons and in a variety of ways, it is inspiring to be a part of an organization that aims to do the exact opposite. Young women deserve to hear that they CAN and should be given opportunities to learn from accomplished women that have done life for a little longer and have wisdom to share.
Birthday: October 22
Education: Bachelor of Arts, Communication, University of Arizona
Family & Pets: One very old (but very sweet) cat
Hometown: South Pasadena, CA
Cultural Heritage: French and Scottish
Personal Motto: “Sing like no one’s listening, love like you’ve never been hurt, dance like nobody’s watching, and live like it’s heaven on earth.” –Thanks, Mark Twain, for your words!
What motivates you?
I am extremely motivated by seeing people experience positive, transformative change in their personal, professional, or spiritual lives.
What's on your bucket list?
Own property in Alaska. Explore New Zealand. Become a polyglot with the ability to speak at least 4 languages. Summit Mount Everest or K2 or both.
What is inside your purse/pockets right now?
A collection of mismatched bobby pins, multiple pens that are out of ink, a tub of my favorite lip butter, and a handful of band-aids
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
Never underestimate the power of prayer and meditation.
What was your first job?
When I was 13, I got my first paying job working at a local summer day-camp as a junior camp counselor, leading a group of 3 year olds.
Most people are surprised to learn: I was trained as an opera singer in high school and can pull out an aria or two when coerced.
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.: We have a mission that gets people fired up, and it is encouraging to see people from many walks of life come together to achieve great things.
MONICA DURAN
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
To help make a difference in a girl's life
Birthday: In the month of Rocktober
Education: Bachelor's Degree
Family & Pets: Married with 3 dogs
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Cultural Heritage: Hispanic
Personal Motto: Life doesn't have to be perfect to be wonderful.
What motivates you?
Doing things that make me happy
What's on your bucket list?
Go overnight hiking at Half Dome in Yosemite
What is inside your purse/pockets right now?
Sunglasses, a must
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
Know your self-worth
What was your first job?
Serving pizza
Most people are surprised to learn: I enjoy dancing
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.:
Teaching young women to excel in everything they do
MELODY VARGAS
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
Being able to use my professional background from the non-profit sector and creative marketing background in a board leadership role is invaluable and rewarding. It is a great opportunity to be on a board with others who are passionate about the cause. Taking a special interest in specifically working with girls in underserved communities is significant to me because I grew up in South East Los Angeles, where the pregnancy and general drop- out rates at my high school were very high and there were not many college preparation or mentorship opportunities to speak of. Showing girls the vast range of opportunities can make all the difference in their lives.
Birthday: October 20
Education: Bachelor of Arts (BA), Modern Literacy Studies, University of California, Santa Cruz; MBA, American Jewish University, Graduate School of Nonprofit Management
Family & Pets: No pets yet, but strongly considering adopting a cat named Toby soon!
Hometown: South Gate, CA
Cultural Heritage: Latina
Personal Motto: Always be yourself.
What motivates you?
Surrounding myself with positive, successful people!
What's on your bucket list?
Travel more, have more fun, worry less, align my chakras, solve a Rubik's Cube...
What is inside your purse/pockets right now?
Nothing in my pockets. Everything but the kitchen sink in my purse.
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
Don't make decisions when you're angry. Don't make promises when you're happy.
What was your first job?
I tutored ESL students at East Los Angeles College.
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.: Making a meaningful difference in the lives of young women and exposing them to opportunities that might not otherwise be available to them has the potential to be immeasurably fulfilling.
CYNTHIA MARTIN
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
My vision is to leave a legacy that inspires the next generation of women (especially my daughters) to embrace their power, their voices and gifts to define their own path which leads them a higher level of living. I feel that Women That Amaze is fully aligned with my own vision and is creating a community of like-minded powerful women who together will create a magic beyond measure that will transcend generations.
Birthday: March 25
Education: Bachelor of Arts, Marketing
Family & Pets: Married and Mother of 2 beautiful and bright girls 6 and 2, no pets
Hometown: San Gabriel Valley
Cultural Heritage: Mexican-American
Personal Motto: Life is what we choose to create, living is to fully experience
every bit of our creations regardless of its outcome because it’s all a new page to our own unique story which we get to write.
What motivates you?
My insatiable desire to influence the world with my gifts in an uplifting and positive way so that my children are empowered to create their most joyful and fulfilled lives with their own gifts as their own legacy… Especially because they are women in training.
What's on your bucket list?
To buy a home in Hawaii and in one of the Mediterranean Geek Island, travel the world with my husband and daughters and learn at least one new language.
What is inside your purse/pockets right now?
I don’t carry a purse I carry a stylish “mom bag” filled with surprises which vary by day depending on what my girls feel like putting in for the day, my connection to the world.. Aka my cell phone, overfilled small bi-fold wallet, my reusable grocery bags and lip gloss
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
To love myself first so I have enough love to give to the whole world
What was your first job?
Bus girl, clearing tables at my parent’s restaurant to repay a very large phone bill when I was 11 ½ years old
Most people are surprised to learn:
That I bought my first house at 24 and have traveled through Europe twice on my own and that I have bucked hay and driven both a forklift and skip loader.
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.:
My favorite thing about the Women That Amaze project is that it brings to light the inspiring stories of women just like me who have the desire to do something greater than themselves. Women who have found the courage to go for it while slapping the face of adversity to make their difference! In a world where women who uplift and support one another is still such an underserved community this is one more way to bridge that gap.
GRACIE RIOS
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
I chose to be on the Board because I know what it’s like to not know your true value, and how important it is to have the right guidance and positive influence.
Birthday: July 28
Education: Bachelor of Science candidate, University of Phoenix
Family & Pets: Married with 3 boys and 2 Dogs, Toby & Ginger
Hometown: North East LA (NELA)
Cultural Heritage: Traditional Mexican, Devoted Catholic
Personal Motto: Stay Humble
What motivates you?
My kids
What's on your bucket list?
Travel with my husband and meet our grandkids
What is inside your purse/pockets right now?
Nothing valuable
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
Everyone has a story!
What was your first job?
Working at a Dry Cleaners (Customer Service)
Most people are surprised to learn:
My oldest son is 17
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.:
Growing up as a Chicana, my Mother’s main focus was to work and provide. I was clueless as to the possibilities and opportunities that existed for me. I know there are a lot of young girls like me, and Women that Amaze can be the window for these young girls that are just beginning to live.
LUCY STANFORD
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
I would love to give my life experiences to young girls/women.
Birthday: December 30
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Management
Family & Pets: 2 children – 1 daughter (26) and 1 son (20)
Hometown: Greenville, Mississippi
Cultural Heritage: African American
Personal Motto:
Do everything to the best of your ability with the time you have
What motivates you?
I love putting my all into everything I do; working with honest, positive people with great attitude. The last thing is success is my biggest motivator.
What's on your bucket list?
Travel the world & Retirement
What is inside your purse/pockets right now?
The necessities of life
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
“Don’t forget, your life is what you live it. Live it with no regret.”
What was your first job?
Activities Director Assistant at a recreation park, I was 14 years old.
Most people are surprised to learn:
Flag Football for a Women’s League
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.:
The energy and hope that the founder has.
JEN DIOGUARDI
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
I was once a young woman who struggled with difficult challenges in life. Fortunately, I overcame them, but only through hard work, sacrifice, and time. It is my hope and goal to help other young girls to live a life of joy and reach their full potential. One of happiness, health, success, and fulfillment. Women That Amaze is the perfect opportunity to get involved and use what I have learned along my own journey as a means to help guide others. I have no doubt that everything I have ever endured has helped to prepare me for a role such as this. I have always intuitively known that life coaching is my life’s purpose as I am a healer at heart and have always gravitated towards those who yearn for guidance, compassion, love, and support. Every day I find joy in what I do and I look forward to continuing my passion through Women That Amaze.
Birthday: January 4
Education: Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, University of Phoenix. Life Coach Certification, SoulBlazing Institute
Family & Pets: I am mother to three beautiful children ages 18, 15, and 8. I have one Terrier rescue pup named Bentley. He’s such a sweet little gift to our family.
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Cultural Heritage: My family’s heritage is a bit of a mix. We are (mostly) Italian, Portuguese, and French.
Personal Motto:
My personal motto is “Have faith in the journey”.
What motivates you?
My biggest motivation in life is seeing a positive transformation in others. I love to see people happy and living a life of joy.
What's on your bucket list?
I would love to open up my own coffee shop café and spiritual space as a place for people to go for peace, comfort, and tranquility.
What is inside your purse/pockets right now?
My purse is currently housing my work phone, personal phone, wallet, makeup bag, keys, lotion, glasses, and gum.
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
The best piece of advice I ever received was to “Always follow your heart. It will never steer you wrong”.
What was your first job?
My first job was as a store clerk at Babies R Us. I was 15 years old.
Most people are surprised to learn:
That I have three children, the oldest being 18. Most people who meet and see me and assume that I comes with less life experience. I have been through a lot along my journey, all of which has helped to mold and make me into the woman I am today. I am grateful.
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.:
My favorite things about the Women That Amaze project are the incredible individuals that make up the board. The founder has a big heart and beautiful soul. I am honored and proud to be a part of such an amazing project.
Photo Coming Soon!
ARIANE SMITH MACHIN, PH.D.
Why be on the Board of Women That Amaze, Inc.?
I would be honored at the opportunity to guide and provide support for this movement of embracing women as more than just bodies…but as future thought leaders of our country and the world.
Birthday: June 5
Education: Ph.D. Psychology
Family & Pets: Husband, three children (twins plus one), one dog named Peanut
Hometown: Raleigh, NC
Cultural Heritage: German/Irish
Personal Motto:
"You are enough."
What motivates you?
Being a force of good in the world.
What's on your bucket list?
Hmmm…visiting Iceland!
What is inside your purse/pockets right now?
My wallet, a diaper, wipes, dried fruit, a pen, a notepad, a drink
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
Not sure!
What was your first job?
Babysitting
Most people are surprised to learn:
I was a very competitive cross country runner and qualified for Nationals individually.
Favorite thing about Women That Amaze, Inc.:
This will be a force of good and positive impact young girls and women to believe in themselves, to know they are MORE than just a body, and that their voice and perspective matters.