For our latest cover of Rochester Woman Online, we are honored to feature a woman who embodies grace, resilience, intellect, and heart — Miss New York USA. More than a titleholder, she is a leader rooted in service, a fashion editor and model with purpose, and a mentor committed to lifting other women as she rises.

When asked, “You’ve described the Miss New York USA crown as a bridge between your professional journey and your purpose — what does this moment mean to you personally and emotionally?” her answer reveals exactly why she wears it so powerfully. This crown merges two defining parts of who she is: her professional world of fashion, journalism, modeling, and mentorship — and her lifelong commitment to service. Philanthropy was instilled in her early, volunteering alongside her grandmother, Sister Janice Ann. Giving back was never optional; it was foundational. Becoming Miss New York USA was never about holding a title — it was about honoring responsibility. To her, the crown is not about perfection. It is about purpose.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY CHRISOM BEBEE

Leading with Purpose, Power & Red Bottoms: Dr. Myra Henry on Redefining Leadership, Legacy & Empowerment

Rochester Woman Online proudly kicks off 2026 with an extraordinary cover woman — Dr. Myra Henry, CEO of the YWCA of Greater Rochester & Monroe County — a woman whose leadership is as bold as her signature red bottom heels. For Dr. Henry, those heels are more than a symbol of style — they represent confidence, visibility, and walking unapologetically in purpose. Gifted by her mother, they serve as a daily reminder that leadership and authenticity are not mutually exclusive — that a woman can command a room with both intellect and grace, and never have to shrink to fit in.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY CHRISOM BEEBE

The Art of Passion: Dr. Beata Golec’s Life in Harmony

Rochester Woman Online proudly closes out 2025 with an inspiring and extraordinary woman whose life has been shaped by passion, precision, and purpose — Dr. Beata Golec. A world-class pianist, award-winning composer, and dedicated educator, Dr. Golec’s story is one of resilience, brilliance, and boundless creativity. From her early beginnings in Poland, where her musical journey began at just seven years old, to performing on international stages and shaping the next generation of musicians here in Upstate New York, her life is a symphony of talent, perseverance, and heart.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL

Riding the Legacy: How Kim Wyman Revved Up a Family Dream at Harv’s Harley-Davidson®

There are stories that start with chance, and then there are stories that start with legacy — built on the calloused hands, hard work, and heart of a family who dared to dream. For Kim Wyman, that legacy began long before she ever twisted the throttle of a Harley-Davidson®. It began with her father, Harv, and mother, Milly — two visionaries who turned a passion for motorcycles into a family business that would become one of New York’s most beloved Harley-Davidson® dealerships.Continue reading

Life Is A Runway: Natalie Rae of Panache

For Natalie Rae, fashion has always been more than fabric and trends — it’s been a form of self-expression, empowerment, and storytelling. In 2023, she stepped into the iconic shoes of Panache founder Joan Lincoln, taking the reins of one of Rochester’s most beloved luxury consignment boutiques. With a bold vision, deep entrepreneurial spirit, and a passion for sustainable fashion, Natalie has been carrying Panache into a new era while honoring the legacy that made it a staple in the community.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY BRANDON VICK PHOTOGRAPHY

When corporate America lost Heidi Lyndaker, the wellness world gained a force of nature. Her career began in psychology in New York City, where she saw how diet, especially sugar and food dyes, could dramatically affect children’s behavior. But it wasn’t until a severe health crisis left her unable to swallow even water that Heidi truly understood the body’s power to heal. Refusing a lifetime of prescriptions, she took her health into her own hands—researching, learning, and ultimately curing herself.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY BRANDON VICK PHOTOGRAPHY

Scott Spezzano: Rochester Radio Royalty & The Heartbeat of the Community

There are few names in Rochester radio more recognizable—or more beloved—than Scott Spezzano. For over four decades, Scott has been the voice that wakes us up, makes us laugh, and brings our community together. From the halls of MAGIC 92 in the early 1980s to his wildly popular morning show on 98.9 The Buzz alongside longtime co-host Sandy Waters, Spezzano has done far more than just “spin the hits.” He’s become a trusted friend, a media trailblazer, and a powerful advocate for those who need it most.Continue reading

When the Body Betrays, the Spirit Rises
Marisa Zeppieri: A Voice for the Voiceless, A Light in the Darkness

We are incredibly honored to welcome Marisa Zeppieri as the latest cover woman for Rochester Woman Online—a woman whose story exemplifies strength, advocacy, and purpose. As we mark Lupus Awareness Month, it is only fitting that we celebrate someone who has not only lived with this invisible illness for decades, but who has transformed her pain into a platform, her suffering into strength, and her silence into a rallying cry for millions.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY MICHELE ASHLEE-MEADE

With grace, grit, and a passion for holistic wellness, the founder of breathe has spent the past two decades building more than just a business—she’s built a movement. What started in 2002 as a unique fusion of yoga, nutrition, and retail has blossomed into one of Rochester’s most beloved wellness destinations. Guided by authenticity, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to community, this visionary woman has proven that entrepreneurship doesn’t always begin with a business plan—it begins with heart.

As a registered dietitian, yoga instructor, keynote speaker, and mother, she wears many hats, yet manages to remain grounded in purpose. At 65, she is redefining what it means to age, lead, and live fully. Her story is one of passion meeting perseverance, and of staying true to one’s purpose even when the path is uncertain. For this Women Entrepreneurs Edition, we are honored to feature her on our cover and share the inspiring journey behind breathe—a space where wellness isn’t just practiced, it’s lived.Continue reading