Advisory Board

Deb is a senior financial expert with experience across companies of all sizes, from startups to those with $1.5 billion in revenue. She has served as interim CFO, partner in a national firm, and owner of a forensic accounting firm. Specializing in financial strategy, ERP implementation, and fraud consulting, she has helped numerous organizations navigate complex challenges.

As the Business Development Manager for Austin Commercial, Rob Allen is responsible for growing the Central Florida market & maintaining existing clients. Allen has 21 years of hands-on construction and development experience in all facets in the industry, and a verifiable record of accomplishment for the successful completion of multimillion-dollar projects in Central Florida. The Central Florida office does between $150M-$200M revenue annually. Key clients he is responsible for are Disney, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Tavistock, Lincoln Property Company, and Advent Health. Austin Industries is one of the nation’s largest, most diversified U.S.-based construction companies. With more than 6,000 employee-owners, Austin Industries provides nearly every type of civil, commercial and industrial construction services through the expertise of our operating companies: Austin Bridge & Road, Austin Commercial and Austin Industrial. Allen has also had the pleasure of serving on the Board of Directors for the Downtown Orlando Partnership, ABC of Central Florida and is a past President of the Professional Construction Estimators Association.

Kylee Anzueto is a skilled Government Affairs Advisor specializing in policy and appropriations at both the Florida Capitol and local levels. Based in Orlando, she offers clients strategic insights, detailed summaries of state and local hearings, and tailored government affairs updates and reports. Kylee works diligently to strengthen relationships with elected officials across the state and represents GrayRobinson at key board meetings. She also delivers educational briefings to select groups, including college students pursuing careers in the legislative field. Before joining GrayRobinson, Kylee contributed to the University of Central Florida’s Government and Community Relations team, where she aided in the oversight of student interns placed in the Florida Senate, House, and statewide lobbying firms during legislative sessions. She honed her expertise in Florida’s legislative processes through hands-on internships at various government levels. During her time with the Government Relations Department at Publix Super Market, Inc., Kylee focused on alcohol legislation and presented to the corporation’s CEO, president, and executive members on pharmacy benefit manager regulations. Her experience also includes advocating for infrastructure and transportation issues in Tallahassee as part of the City of Orlando’s Intergovernmental Relations Office. Additionally, she gained valuable insights into public policies and campaign data while providing clerical support and voter education at a nonprofit. Kylee’s early career included serving in constituent services for U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, where she developed her understanding of federal issues such as social security, immigration, and veterans’ affairs.

Karim Arja is Senior Vice President and Commercial Relationship Manager at One Florida Bank in Orlando. Karim is a trusted leader in the banking and corporate finance sectors with over 30 years of expertise in management accounting, treasury operations, and long term and working capital financing. Having served with industry-leading organizations such as Truist, Honeywell and Lockheed Martin where he held a top-secret security clearance, Karim has developed a reputation for strategic leadership, innovation, and commitment to community advancement. He holds an MBA and dual BS degrees in Accounting and Finance from the University of South Florida as well as previous Certified Financial Planner and Certified Treasury Professional designations. In his current role at One Florida Bank in Orlando, Karim is focused on business development and client consultation working closely with family offices, real estate developers, and commercial clients to provide comprehensive financial solutions using his broad experience and long-term success in providing over $1Billion in lending solutions. Previously, Karim has been instrumental in shaping company strategy and product offerings at two start up financial institutions, while also contributing project management skills for software implementations, marketing campaigns, and staff development. Karim is deeply committed to community involvement and volunteerism. A resident of Winter Park with his wife and two children, Karim’s current and previous roles include Downtown Orlando Partnership Board, Orlando Tech Community Executive Committee, Community Evaluator the Victory Cup Initiative, the City of Winter Park Utility Advisory Board, Florida Citrus Sports member, Outback/Reliaquest Bowl Committee, University of South Florida Alumni Association fundraising/event committee, Leadership Orlando, Winter Park High School fundraising, and youth sports coach for football, soccer, and baseball. He is thrilled to be a member of The Lifeboat Project’s Advisory Board of Directors.

Laura Arrowsmith is a Senior Director at Vaco by Highspring, a global professional services firm. Since 2016, she has specialized in business development and talent solutions for Central Florida companies, focusing on contract staffing and direct hire in accounting, finance, HR, and operations—particularly within the legal, hospitality, tech, and healthcare sectors. A proud UCF graduate, Laura is passionate about community involvement. Outside of work, she enjoys the beach, cooking, and spending time with her family and yorkie, Lina.

For over 30 years, Ted has been assisting professionals, business owners and families find efficient ways to utilize their resources and protect their assets in the insurance, mortgage and real estate industries. Ted’s current role is Business Development Manager at LeaderOne. In 2017, Ted launched the eponymous podcast, The Ted Show! Community leaders, innovators, influencers, motivators, philanthropists and creators have all told their stories on Ted’s Show.

Adam Dovi, President of Dovi Window Designs, Inc., was born in the Port Orange area and has grown up in the window and door industry. His father, Pete, started down the fenestration path over 33 years ago and made a point of teaching his son the industry as he grew. When Adam opened Dovi Windows in the spring of 2003, he was able to draw on the real-world experience and know-how that both he and his father had accumulated over the years. The main focus of the business is simple: quality, quality, quality. Every buyer knows that there are dozens of companies in the Daytona Beach area to choose from, but what separates Dovi Window Designs, Inc. from the rest is that they only use quality products and always treat every house as if it were their own. Time and time again, this shows through on the final product. Adam serves Daytona Beach Rotary as President-Nominee and Special Projects Chair and is active in Tiger Bay of Volusia County. He is thrilled to serve on the Lifeboat Project’s Advisory Board of Directors.

Lisa Feder is an Account Manager with Waste Connections, an international leader in the garbage and recycling industry. Lisa has over a dozen years of experience in garbage, recycling, clean buildings and LEED compliance for commercial construction projects. She believes strongly in reducing our carbon footprint for the next generation and, using her seasoned expertise, advocates for her clients to achieve their goals. Lisa is a long-time Central Florida resident and has lead and supported multiple charitable organizations within the community for over 30 years. She has 3 grown children all of which were born and raised in Central Florida.

Mike has almost 4 decades of comprehensive experience in the Law Enforcement, Public Safety and Corporate Security fields. Mike currently holds the position of Director of Security Investigations for Universal Orlando, leading a team of Investigators and Analysts that work daily to protect guests, Team Members, company assets and the Universal brand. Prior to making Universal his home for the last 9 years, Mike spent a distinguished 30-year career at the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office where he retired in 2017 at the rank of Captain. During his time with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office Mike spent time significant supervising and managing the agency’s Intelligence Unit and Criminal Investigations Teams where he directed major case investigations involving gangs, narcotics and violent crimes. Mike also established the agency’s current Tourism Policing Unit which focused on tourist related crimes. During that time the Tourism Policing Unit investigated and coordinated a successful prosecution of the agency’s first Human trafficking case in 2004, shortly after the state of Florida criminalized Human Trafficking. Mike has been a resident of Osceola County since 1980 and has established long term relationships in the community and currently serves as the Chairman of the Central Florida Boys and Girls Club, Osceola Branch Board. During his off time off, Mike loves spending time with his family and his 8 grandchildren keep him and his wife Rachel very busy.

Wendy is the Director of Event and Catering at Rio Pinar Golf, overseeing all aspects of event delivery to ensure memorable experiences. With over 15 years of event management experience, she previously managed operations and events at Eola View. Wendy is skilled in event management, banquet operations, and guest satisfaction, having worked with clients like Bacardi, the Tiger Woods Gala, and UCF. Her focus on detail and quality ensures every event’s success. Wendy holds an Associate of Science degree from Berkley/Bay Path College.

Dave is a nationally recognized leader in marketing, communications, and corporate social responsibility, with professional experience in the hospitality, technology, finance, and nonprofit industries. He was named the 2017 Orlando Sentinel “Central Floridian of the Year” for his humanitarian efforts. He served as a local delegate to the United Nations and on the United States Global Leadership Coalition. Dave served as an Advisory Board Member for Issue Voter, an innovative, non-partisan online nonprofit platform with a mission to give everyone a voice in our democracy. Dave is a named contributor to Newsweek, Forbes, The Hill, Disrupt Magazine, and Orlando Sentinel. Additionally, he was named to the Google Refresh think tank on the use of artificial intelligence in food systems. Dave was a finalist for the Fast Company, “2018 World Changing Ideas Awards”. In 2008, Dave hiked the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada. He’s been featured in Forbes, Philanthropy Today, Fast Company, Orlando Sentinel, Chicago Tribune, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX, Tastemade, and many other leading media outlets. Dave is also a passionate food scene influencer and serves as a board member for Orlando Hospitality Alliance. Dave is also a determined athlete, and currently competes in United States Strongman in the Masters division.

Raychelle Green is a proud member of the Lifeboat Project Advisory Board and survivor advocate.

Glyn, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, helps clients with investment management, risk management, retirement planning, and financial goal-setting. He holds a Finance degree from the University of Florida and began his wealth management practice in 2000. Active in Central Florida, he’s involved in the Orlando CEO Leadership Forum, contributes to the Orlando Sentinel, and has held leadership roles with the Rotary Club of Windermere and United Way.

Shaelyn Ingram is a native of Central Florida, mother of 2 beautiful children, Mia and Jaxon, and is married to Paul Ingram. Shaelyn has spent her life in the service of her family first, community, and career. She has had a 25-year career in Finance, has led the Accounting and Finance Women’s alliance for the last 5 years as President and is dedicated to helping her clients achieve home ownership and wealth growth through real estate investment. She is dedicated to lifting her community up, seeing her clients through this major milestone and raising a thriving family. Shaelyn is a graduate of the Athena NextGen Leadership community of Central Florida, a proud Rotarian in Winter Springs, FL, will serve on Council 101 for the Orlando Museum of Art starting July of this year, and has the honor of joining the advisory board of The Lifeboat Project in January 2026. She is committed to protecting children and families in her philanthropic work and moving the arts forward in Central Florida. Shaelyn has a special interest in advocating for and lifting women up in financial literacy, professional growth and real estate investing, this has been a key area of focus through her career, and her passion has grown out of her own experiences of support from women leaders in the community.

Barbara Kenney is the President and driving force behind Kenney Communications, a leading tourism marketing and media company based in Orlando. With a career spanning more than four decades, she has played a key role in connecting millions of visitors to Central Florida’s attractions, hospitality venues, and experiences through innovative print, digital, and distribution channels. As publisher of Enjoy Florida Magazine and leader of one of the region’s largest brochure distribution networks, Kenney has helped shape how tourism information is delivered across the area—including exclusive advertising and distribution services at Florida Turnpike service plazas. Her company’s work reaches visitors through hotels, visitor centers, and high-traffic travel locations throughout Central Florida. Kenney is also deeply involved in the tourism and hospitality community, serving in leadership roles with organizations such as the International Drive Chamber, Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association, and Florida Attractions Association. She has received multiple industry honors, including the 2025 Rosie Award recognizing her contributions to the region’s tourism industry. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Barbara Kenney is known for her community involvement and philanthropic efforts, supporting local nonprofit organizations and initiatives throughout the Orlando area.

Mark Mankbadi is an Independent Wealth Management Advisor as of 2026. Mark delivers customized solutions to individuals, business owners and multi-generational families to protect and grow their assets through investments, estate planning, insurance, cash management and philanthropy. He has more than a decade of financial services experience, numerous contributions to the community, a B.S. in business management from the University of South Florida and an MBA from the University of Central Florida.

Cherlette McCullough is a highly respected marriage and family therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field. Known for her innovative approaches to addressing relationship challenges, she has shared her expertise at numerous professional conferences and media platforms, including WESH-2, ABC Action News 6, NPR radio, and TV One’s Fatal Attraction. Her work has helped illuminate the complexities of mental health and relationships, particularly in the context of today’s digital age. In addition to her therapy practice, Cherlette serves as the Vice President of the Mental Health Association of Central Florida, an organization that provides free, comprehensive care and support for individuals and families. She is also the author of W.I.N.K: What I Need to Know After the Breakup, a self-help book for those navigating relationship endings. Cherlette’s contributions to the mental health field have earned her several awards, including the Cheryl Laird Outstanding Mental Health Therapist Award (2019), the Women’s Achievement Award for Health and Wellness (2022), and the Business Women’s Leadership Award (2022). With her unique blend of empathy, humor, and real-world knowledge, Cherlette connects deeply with her clients and audiences, empowering individuals to strengthen their relationships with themselves and others. Through her leadership roles and ongoing commitment to mental health awareness, she continues to expand her impact and push the boundaries of traditional therapy in an increasingly digital world.

Chelsea is a co-owner and president of The Darlings Productions, an entertainment booking company out of Orlando FL since 2015. Chelsea is thrilled to be a member of the Lifeboat Project’s Advisory Board. She hails from the Midwest, and has traveled the world working with various entertainment venues, cruise ships, touring companies and more. Much like her wardrobe, Chelsea likes to bring a little sparkle to the table and is honored to help the Lifeboat Project shine.

Lisa Messina is the Chief Sales Officer for Visit Orlando. In her role Messina oversees several departments, including the meeting and convention sales and experience team, travel industry sales, membership, and supporting services. Messina’s impressive career spans three decades in leadership roles at several of the meetings and events industry’s leading organizations. Prior to joining Visit Orlando, Messina served as the chief sales officer for the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority, which also owns and operates the Las Vegas Convention Center. Before her tenure at the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority, Messina served as senior vice president of sales for Caesars Entertainment, leading revenue strategy for the meetings and conventions segment. Prior to Caesars, Messina held numerous sales leadership roles during her 16 years with Hilton Worldwide and served as the chief marketing officer for ConferenceDirect, a full-service global meetings solution company. Throughout her career, she has received a host of prestigious awards and served on key industry boards. In 2023, she was named one of MPI’s 50 Most Influential Meeting Professionals and was inducted into Smart Meetings Hall of Fame. Messina has also served on CVENT’s Advisory Board, HSMAI’s Advisory Board and the Executive Board of the American Heart Association Southern Nevada. Messina currently serves on the Meeting Professionals International (MPI), International Board of Directors. Messina holds a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration from Cornell University.

Melissa Morrow, a survivor of human trafficking, courageously shares her story and life experience. Melissa was born and raised in a small town in Acadiana, Louisiana - Cajun Country - and pursued her education in psychology, later building a life as a small business owner, realtor, and hospitality professional. Behind her professional journey, however, is a story of resilience, survival, and extraordinary strength. Today, Melissa uses her voice to raise awareness and help others better understand the realities of human trafficking, the long-lasting impact it can have on survivors, and why awareness and early recognition truly matter. Her story is not just about survival - it is about courage, truth, and the urgent need for community responsibility. By sharing her experience, Melissa reminds us that human trafficking is real, it happens closer than we think, and listening to survivors is one of the most powerful steps toward change.

Seasoned business owner with a strong technical background and a passion for logical problem-solving. Demonstrated expertise in leading teams, managing operations, and driving business growth. Proven ability to understand and implement detailed processes to achieve organizational objectives.

Ron has had a rewarding career solving his client’s problems using technology, and one of the problems solved was used to launch the RYN Platform, a Cloud-Based encryption service. In 2010 they developed and started using biometrics (fingerprints) to encrypt appraisal reports for our clients (financial institutions) to stop the identity theft of real estate appraisers used for loans.

Kari Ringer is co-owner of The Darlings Productions booking agency and production house. She hails from Ohio and is pumped to be a member of the Lifeboat Project Advisory Board! Her musical theatre background has afforded her the opportunity to perform on Broadway, regional theatres, cruise ships, theme parks, and corporate functions across the globe. As a co-owner of The Darlings Productions booking agency and production house, life is about uplifting incredible talent to spread sunshine and smiles! She is looking forward to collaborating with the incredible Lifeboat colleagues, supporters, and survivors to bring awareness to this wonderful cause.

Jannett Roberts is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Masterpiece Design Group, where she leads strategic growth initiatives and oversees both the residential and commercial divisions. With more than 30 years of experience in sales and marketing in the Orlando and Winter Park markets, she is known for developing results-driven strategies that support revenue growth, strengthen partnerships, and elevate brand presence. Jannett works closely with builders, architects, and clients to ensure projects are executed seamlessly while maintaining the high standards that define the Masterpiece brand. After studying at Stetson University, Jannett began her career in finance, advising clients on investment portfolios and retirement planning. She later transitioned into publishing, serving as publisher of an international business art magazine that helped artists build successful entrepreneurial careers. Drawing on her combined experience in finance, publishing, and business development, she joined Masterpiece Design Group in 2018 and quickly became a key driver of the company’s continued growth. Outside of work, Jannett enjoys traveling, reading, and planning adventures with close friends. She values time with her children, Brooke and Landon, and her dogs, Finnegan and Cooper. She is also passionate about giving back and is committed to supporting initiatives that combat human trafficking in her community.

Jason Siegel has enjoyed more than 30 years of success and accomplishments in sports tourism, major and minor league professional sports, as well as intercollegiate athletics. He is currently in his ninth year as President & Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission (GO Sports!). Siegel currently serves on several local community Boards including the Board of Advisors at the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management, American Diabetes Association (past Community Chairman 2018 & 2019), Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association, Scouting America – Central Florida Council, the Central Florida Commission on Homelessness, and has now joined The Lifeboat Project Advisory Board. In addition, he and his wife Sarah Grafton founded and host the annual Winter Park Fashion Week. Jason and Sarah, both passionate about service to their community, and supporters of the arts, reside in Maitland, FL, raising their four children, Stephanie (24), Ryder (16), Bobby (14), and Joseph (7).

Beth joined Ferrovial in late 2025 as Head of U.S. and Canadian Taxation with over 25 years of experience in tax and accounting, serving both public accounting clients and in-house corporate roles. Previous to Ferrovial, she was Tax Manager for four years at BDO. Prior to BDO, she was VP of Finance & Corporate Controller at Natus Medical Inc., where she led all aspects of accounting and played a key role in the company’s M&A process and ESG initiatives. Before Natus, Beth led the tax department at FARO Technologies, gaining expertise in IP planning, IRS audit defense, and remediation of material weaknesses. Her earlier roles include international tax positions at Tupperware, Mars Inc., and Ingersoll Rand, and nearly nine years at Deloitte, focusing on multinational corporate tax compliance and provision. Beth’s well-rounded background in tax provision, compliance, planning, M&A, and corporate reporting enables her to effectively support mid-sized multinational public companies. Her deep understanding of in-house challenges allows her to deliver tailored, strategic solutions to her clients.

Tom, a University of Florida Accounting graduate, has 12 years of experience with an international accounting firm before founding his own in 1995. He specializes in audits, due diligence, and benchmarking, with expertise in nonprofit, construction, manufacturing, and agribusiness sectors. Tom is active in the Central Florida business community and involved in the American and Florida Institutes of Certified Public Accountants.

Norah has been a dedicated leader in Central Florida’s hospitality industry since 1996. She currently serves as Director of Sales and Marketing for the International Drive District, where she has worked for 23 years, helping promote one of the region’s most visited tourism corridors while supporting initiatives focused on public safety and transportation for millions of guests. She serves on the Global Marketing Committee for Visit Orlando and the Government Affairs Board for the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association (CFHLA), and is the current President of SKAL International Orlando. Passionate about community impact, Norah is proud to serve on the board of The Lifeboat Project. She believes that if even one victim can be rescued from the horrors of human trafficking, the time and effort are worth it. In her time off, she is working toward a personal goal of visiting 50 countries by her 75th birthday…and is well on track.