Top Michigan Business Women Win Honors

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Now in its 20th year, the Greater Detroit Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Top 10 Michigan Business Women Award has cemented itself as a key business recognition in Metro Detroit.

Barbara Whittaker
Barbara Whittaker

“This event is unique in that nominations are open to the public, leading to a wide range of nominees,” said Mousumi (Mo) Sarkar, president of NAWBO Greater Detroit Chapter. “Although we had wonderful nominees, many worthy of distinction, we’re proud to announce this year’s recipients.”

Jami Moore
Jami Moore

NAWBO, a national organization, is dedicated to the growth and success of women in the business arena. The Greater Detroit Chapter annually awards deserving local businesswomen leaders who excel and succeed in their given profession.
Reaching the milestone 20th year of these awards, the 2014 recipients are:

Suzanne Bobbitt
Suzanne Bobbitt

Breakthrough Award
Barbara Whittaker, BW Limited LLC

Pamela Smith
Pamela Smith

Rainmaker Award
Jami Moore, JEM Tech Group

Eva Scurlock
Eva Scurlock
Mashell Carissimi
Mashell Carissimi

Diversity Champion Award
Suzanne Bobbitt, Chrysler Group LLC

Mary Buchzeiger
Mary Buchzeiger

Red Tape Buster Award
Pamela Smith, WBEC-GL/CEED

Mary Ann Lievois
Mary Ann Lievois

Giving Spirit Award
Eva Scurlock, Emma’s Angels

Ann Reinman
Ann Reinman

Up & Coming Award
Mashell Carissimi, JMC Electrical Contractor LLC

Carla Walker-Miller
Carla Walker-Miller

Global Business Award
Mary Buchzeiger, Sure Solutions

Warrior Award
Mary Ann Lievois, ISCG

Pinnacle Award
Ann Reinman, Pinnacle Printing & Promotions

Words of Wisdom Award
Carla Walker-Miller, Walker-Miller Energy Services LLC

An additional recognition — the Greater Good Award — will be given to Shirley R. Stancato, president of New Detroit. New Detroit is a multicultural leadership group with the goal of developing a greater understanding of the difference between racial and ethnic groups to enhance communication.

“We’re very proud to have such a deserving and accomplished group of women celebrating with us in a milestone year,” Sarkar said. “To reach 20 years really signifies the area’s acceptance of and commitment to women business leadership.”

Carol Cain, a senior producer and host of CBS 62 Michigan Matters, will be leading a celebratory evening as the event’s Mistress of Ceremonies at Laurel Manner Banquet and Conference Center in Livonia March 13. The night also will feature a business-to-business vendor showcase, allowing attendees to view and interact with fellow business owners to create mutually beneficial partnerships.

For more information on the greater Detroit chapter of NAWBO, visit NAWBOGDC.org.