Behind the title and professional accolades lies a deeply personal motivation that has shaped Dee’s journey and fueled her commitment to revolutionizing patient healthcare services.
The Most Enterprising Women in Business to Follow, 2024.pdf
1. The Most
Enterprising
WOMEN
WOMEN
WOMEN
in Business
to Follow
2024
W O R L D
M A G A Z I N E
W O R L D
M A G A Z I N E
VOL-01 | ISSUE-03 | 2024
The Most
Enterprising
WOMEN
WOMEN
WOMEN
in Business
to Follow
2024
We can do
anything we set
our minds to do.
This was not
always the case,
as we all know.
Dee Armstrong
Senior Director
of Project
Management &
Opera ons
ECHO Project
Management
Group, Inc.
Driving Signi cant
Transformations
Patient-Centric Approach
Dee
Armstrongs
5. E - Lewis oper
mbition’ profoundly indicates a desire to incorporate the objectives that one has substantially
Aplanned with a vision to achieve great outcomes. This is to the young people in their 20s and
30s who hold an immortal ambition springing from within. These coherent personas are ready
to accomplish it by questioning the traditional operational methods with an approach to enabling
innovations in the modern business arena.
These leaders have a quest and a desire to develop new methods to transform the operational
structure of the businesses along with personal development and painstakingly follow through on
them, no matter how long and arduous.
Ambitious people are goal-oriented and are always striving towards the next accomplishment. This is
to those who understand the enormous effort that is required to build a successful and peaceful life
and are willing to supply the effort. For it is very narrow and hard, the road to a noble future. Ambition
is the trait that allows people to apprehend the ways to succeed and turn it into a game where winning
is not about just achieving which results in great outcomes in the dedicated working principles.
Leaders who exhibit truthfulness in their daily lives gain the trust of those around them. Their
transparency about their strengths and weaknesses makes people want to follow them. These
mentors prove their honesty by how they live. They admit their mistakes and apologize when they’re
wrong. Instead, they acknowledge and learn from their failures.
Passion is an absolutely indispensable trait when it comes to leadership. Leaders are about their
causes, the organization, and its espoused and enacted beliefs. In fact, it is a passion that drives
ambition.
When you’re passionate about a project, about a cause, about an organization, it motivates you to be a
part of it and to make a difference. Many of us have seen the flip side of this scenario and the results
are a decrease in self-efficacy of teams, employee motivation and organizational cohesion.
Employees can’t effectively carry out and achieve goals that they don’t care about. Many times,
passionate leadership is needed to drive determination, motivation, and achievement. When
employees feel emotionally connected to their organization, they are more committed, engaged, and
effective and this is a recipe for success and long-term sustainability.
Embracing the journey of such coherent starlets, WomenWorld Magazine features enchanting stories
of these proficient leaders in its latest edition, “The Most Enterprising Women in Business to Follow,
2024.” Flip through the pages and delve into the journey that blends ambition with passion towards a
spark to innovate.
Have a Delightful Read!
‘
7. TE
TE
16
Building Wisdom
The A ributes of Women Leaders Driving
Innova ons in the Modern Business Arena
20
Redefining Success
Enterprising Women Paving the Way
for Future Genera ons
Driving Signi cant
Transformations
Patient-Centric Approach
Dee
Armstrongs
Articles
9. DBrief
Company Name
Featured Person
Dee founded ECHO with a profound commitment to reshaping
the healthcare experience for those grappling with uncommon
medical conditions.
Donnica Hawes-Saunders serves as Partnerships Manager for
Global Transformation Communications at Philip Morris
International (PMI).
Jenifer Namestka of Avo Solutions brings over 20 years of
experience developing strategies, overseeing large program
implementations.
ECHO Project
Management Group, Inc.
echopmg.com
Philip
Morris International
pmi.com
Avo Solutions, Inc
avosolutions.com
Dee Armstrong
Senior Director of
Project Management &
Operations
Lisa has orchestrated the successful turnarounds of private and
public organizations in all industries.
World in 2050
w2050.org
Lisa Gable
Chairperson
Donnica
Hawes-Saunders
Senior Manager
Jenifer
(Dillon) Namestka
CEO | Principal Consultant
Julie Jones is an Award-Winning Speaker, International
Bestselling Author, a Breakthrough Coach, who has produced
her own TV show Stop Waiting Start Living and is the host of the
Get S#*t Done podcast.
The Adventures
of Julie Jones LLC
juliejones.biz
Julie Jones
Television Producer,
Speaker, Breakthrough Coach
The Most
Enterprising
WOMEN
WOMEN
in Business
to Follow
2024
The Most
Enterprising
WOMEN
in Business
to Follow
2024
WOMEN
11. Here at ECHO, we
love challenges, as we
are known for our
passion and
persistence to recruit
rare medical
condition audiences.
Driving Signi cant
Transformations
Patient-Centric Approach
Dee
Armstrongs
12. ee Armstrong, the Senior Director of Project
DManagement & Operations at ECHO Project
Management Group, Inc., is emerging as a
guiding light of change in the healthcare landscape.
Steeped in a personal journey that ignited the spark of
transformation, Dee founded ECHO with a profound
commitment to reshaping the healthcare experience
for those grappling with uncommon medical conditions.
Behind the title and professional accolades lies a deeply
personal motivation that has shaped Dee’s journey and
fueled her commitment to revolutionizing patient
healthcare services. The genesis of ECHO Project
Management Group is rooted in a poignant story that
resonates with empathy and a fervent desire for
change.
Dee is the visionary founder and she found her
inspiration in the challenging experiences of her own
family—specifically, the profound impact of Alzheimer’s
disease on her beloved grandmother and the struggles
her uncle, Don, faced with severe schizophrenia.
Witnessing their battles, Dee recognized the
inadequacies within the healthcare system, where her
family members failed to receive the care and support,
they deserved.
In the wake of her grandmother and uncle’s passing,
Dee made a solemn promise to them—a vow that would
propel her into a mission to transform the healthcare
landscape. ECHO Project Management Group, Inc.,
emerged as the tangible embodiment of this
commitment, a testament to Dee’s determination to
alter the dynamics of how healthcare providers engage
with their patients.
While ECHO Project Management Group, Inc. may not
have set out to change the world on a global scale, its
impact is undeniably profound, particularly in the realm
of patient care. Dee’s leadership exemplifies a unique
fusion of personal passion and professional prowess,
reflecting a dedication to improving the lives of those
grappling with terminal and mental illnesses.
Let’s explore how each project undertaken at ECHO
continues to fulfill Dee’s promise—one study at a time, one
patient at a time leaving an indelible mark on the
healthcare industry!
Advancing the Processes
By recruiting patients & caregivers who are willing to
share their experiences with uncommon illnesses,
medical problems and mental illnesses, Dee developed
ECHO to enhance patient-centered medical research.
ECHO plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between
patients and the healthcare community, providing a
connection and creating visibility for patients that has
often felt nonexistent in the past. Their valuable shared
information regarding their diagnosis and course of
treatment will be used by doctors, drug manufacturers
and other healthcare organizations to enhance patient
care and advance the healthcare industry. They are not
just a number any longer, they are a VOICE.
The Most Enterprising Women in Business to Follow, 2024
13. You eat, sleep and
breathe your
company.You take it
from a concept, a
baby if you will and
teach it how to eat
and walk on its own.
With these solid principles in mind, the team at ECHO
implements them daily.
Life before ECHO
Dee was motivated by watching her parents build
prosperous businesses throughout her youth. It
instilled in her two crucial values: integrity and a strong
work ethic. These principles have been the foundation
for her success. With a deep passion for changing things
for the better, she set out with a steadfast focus on her
vision. A vision and end goal that is dynamic with a
strong focus on the end result and how each person’s
experience influences and furthers healthcare and
others in the community.
Dee enjoys challenges because they put one to the test
and compel people to either advance and adapt or
retreat and stay the same. She says, “What fun is life if
you can’t learn and grow? Here at ECHO, we love
challenges, as we are known for our passion and persistence
to recruit rare medical condition audiences.” She further
adds, “To be able to get a rare audience of people HEARD is
life-changing for them, us and the healthcare industry.”
ECHO Project Management Group
At the core of ECHO Project Management Group, Inc.
beats a commitment that transcends the ordinary, a
commitment to fostering a compassionate
environment, rejecting the limitations imposed by
uncommon medical disorders and advocating tirelessly
to reshape the narrative of those grappling with various
health challenges. At the helm of this transformative
mission is Dee whose personal journey has driven the
organization to the forefront of healthcare innovation.
ECHO’s dedication to making a difference is vividly
reflected in its diverse approach to recruiting and
studying a wide spectrum of rare illnesses and
conditions, with a particular emphasis on cancer and
mental health. The organization recognizes that each
patient’s experience is unique and this understanding
forms the foundation of ECHO’s comprehensive and
personalized study approaches.
One of the key methodologies employed by ECHO is
the Nationwide Telephone Interviews (TDIs/WATIs), a
platform where patients are invited to share their
narratives through telephone and web-assisted
interviews. This allows patients to articulate their
experiences and respond to pertinent questions related
to their diagnosis. The combination of technology and
personal interaction creates a dynamic space for
patients to express individualized insights, contributing
invaluable perspectives to the healthcare discourse.
In-depth Interviews (IDIs) conducted face-to-face with
experienced strategists form another pillar of ECHO’s
methodology. This intimate setting provides patients
with the opportunity for nuanced discussions, allowing
for a deeper understanding of the intricacies of their
medical journey. These encounters not only serve to
gather data but also foster a connection that goes
beyond the clinical, acknowledging the humanity in
each patient’s story.
The In-Facility approach takes the engagement a step
further by inviting patients to share their healthcare
stories directly at a medical facility. This setting
encourages patients to provide additional feedback and
share their expertise, creating a collaborative
environment where the patient’s voice becomes a vital
component in shaping healthcare strategies.
ECHO’s commitment to understanding the holistic
impact of chronic conditions is exemplified through the
In-Home Ethnography method. Patients, with their
consent, welcome interviewers into their homes for
in-depth personalized interviews.
14. This approach provides a unique lens into the daily lives
of individuals affected by chronic conditions, allowing
them to showcase the broader impact on their well-
being and identify areas where support may be lacking.
Online Forums, a dynamic platform for free-flowing
conversation, enable patients to engage in open
dialogue with moderators and fellow participants. This
virtual space facilitates the sharing of stories, feedback
and insights, providing a comprehensive understanding
of the patient experience. The versatility of this method
allows the exploration of different facets of the
diagnosis, enhancing the richness of the gathered data.
In recognizing that each patient journey is unique,
ECHO employs Additional Avenues to capture the
essence of these diverse experiences. From short home
video descriptions and video blog diaries to written
stories in essay form, these alternative research
collection methods offer a multifaceted understanding
of the patient’s journey.
In some instances, ECHO utilizes Hybrid Methods,
combining two or more study options to create a
holistic and nuanced approach. This strategic
integration ensures a comprehensive exploration of the
patient experience, enriching the understanding of
complex medical conditions.
Dee’s vision and ECHO Project Management Group’s
commitment converge in a harmonious symphony,
resonating with empathy and purpose.
Through these diverse study approaches, ECHO not
only gathers data but also amplifies the voices of those
who navigate the intricate landscape of rare illnesses,
paving the way for a more compassionate and patient-
centric healthcare industry.
Leading to Make a Difference
ECHO stands out because it gives each panelist
personal attention. The staff puts a lot of effort into
upholding connections with all of its patients,
caregivers and medical specialists. Dee states, “We
aren’t your traditional medical research company.” She
further adds, “We go the extra mile each and every time,
whether it be growing our panel organically or simply
maintaining the strong relationships we have formed within
our panel, support groups, foundations and network of
external recruitment avenues.”
The team frequently finds itself engaging in 45-minute
conversations with the panelists. When it comes to the
medical industry, they long for that human connection.
The difference is WE CARE and WE WANT to make a
difference in each person’s life for their future
healthcare needs.
Senior Project Manager of ECHO
Dee’s main role at ECHO is to inspire and instill passion
on a daily basis. She finds, “We all have good and bad
days, and we are all very different people.”
15. The team dedicates time on a weekly basis for a group
call to recenter and discuss personal issues. Focusing
attention on supporting one another through life
challenges we all experience as women, wives, mothers,
daughters, and sisters. She says, “We aren’t just
coworkers—we are also each other’s biggest supporters and
mentors.”
Understanding Balance
Work is a fine balancing act, much like life. Dee
observes that while taking a break is something
everyone should do, company owners often feel bad
about not working when their doors are open. She says,
“You eat, sleep and breathe your company. You take it from
a concept, a baby if you will and teach it how to eat and
walk on its own.”
Dee considers that one has to relinquish control as he
or she passes it off to the babysitter, aka coworkers, for
care. She mentions, “I had to learn that you must stop and
recharge on your days off and this is a MUST. I also drill this
into the team as well. Rest when you can, as everyone needs
to recharge and reset, and you must have time for self-care,
family and friends.”
Women in Healthcare
Women have come a long way. Women are now able to
dream of their future desires and make them happen!
Dee asserts, “We can do anything we set our minds to do.
This was not always the case, as we all know.” Women are
now being heard and in a big way. ECHO is a woman-
owned and operated company.
As a female leader, Dee believes that rethinking how
ECHO reaches medical patients with rare conditions
has been the organization’s most significant
achievement in implementing referrals from the
healthcare arena. It has found a niche in providing high-
quality pre-vetted respondents to physicians and its
end clients. She says, “We have many wonderful plans in
the works. We are adding services that will connect patients
across their conditions to offer support and feedback. I
guess you will have to stay tuned for the reveal!” She
further adds that ECHO is a small but powerful
company that is making huge strides in the future of
healthcare, whether it is medication, devices, or simply
feedback to healthcare professionals on how to better
a patient’s experience. “We are not another number. We
are human. We need to be HEARD!”
18. The Attributes of
WomenLeaders
Driving Innovations
in the
Modern
BusinessArena
he role of women leaders has become
Tincreasingly pivotal, especially when it comes to
driving innovation. Women leaders bring a
unique set of attributes to the table, fostering
creativity, collaboration, and adaptability. This article
explores the key attributes that make women leaders
instrumental in steering businesses towards innovation
in the contemporary corporate environment.
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Women leaders
often excel in empathy and emotional intelligence, two
crucial attributes that play a significant role in fostering
innovation. Understanding the diverse perspectives
and emotions of team members allows women leaders
to create a positive and inclusive work environment.
This emotional intelligence enables effective
communication and the ability to navigate through
challenges, ultimately fueling innovative thinking.
Collaborative Leadership: Women leaders are known
for their collaborative approach to leadership. They
value teamwork and seek input from various team
members, recognizing that diversity in thought is
essential for innovation. By encouraging open
communication and collaboration, women leaders
create an atmosphere where ideas can flow freely,
leading to the generation of innovative solutions.
Adaptability and Resilience: The business landscape is
dynamic, and adaptability is a key factor in staying
ahead. Women leaders often exhibit high levels of
adaptability and resilience, enabling them to navigate
through change and uncertainty. This ability to embrace
change and learn from setbacks is critical for fostering
an innovative mindset within the organization.
Inclusive Decision-Making: Women leaders are
inclined towards inclusive decision-making, ensuring
that diverse perspectives are considered when
formulating strategies. Inclusion is a catalyst for
innovation, as it brings together a range of ideas and
experiences. Women leaders create environments
where everyone feels valued, thereby unlocking the full
potential of their teams.
Risk-Taking and Courage: Successful innovation often
involves taking calculated risks. Women leaders, known
for their courage and determination, are not afraid to
push boundaries and explore new possibilities. Their
willingness to take risks inspires teams to think beyond
the conventional, fostering a culture of innovation
where experimentation is encouraged.
Strategic Vision and Long-Term Focus: Women leaders
often possess a strategic vision that extends beyond
immediate goals. They are adept at balancing short-
term objectives with long-term vision, ensuring that the
organization remains forward-thinking. This long-term
focus is essential for sustained innovation, allowing
businesses to anticipate future trends and capitalize on
emerging opportunities.
Building Wisdom
Jan 2024 | 16 | womenworldmagazine.com
20. Continuous Learning and Development: Women
leaders prioritize continuous learning and personal
development. They understand the importance of
staying updated on industry trends and emerging
technologies. This commitment to learning enables
them to make informed decisions, embrace new ideas,
and guide their teams towards innovative solutions.
Effective Communication Skills: Women leaders often
excel in communication, a skill critical for articulating
innovative ideas and fostering a shared vision within
the organization. Clear communication ensures that
everyone understands the goals, strategies, and
expectations, creating a cohesive and focused team
that is better positioned to drive innovation forward.
Customer-Centric Approach: Women leaders
frequently exhibit a strong customer-centric mindset.
They understand the importance of aligning
innovations with customer needs and preferences. This
customer-focused approach ensures that the products
or services developed under their leadership resonate
with the target audience, increasing the likelihood of
market success.
Mentorship and Talent Development: Women leaders
are often dedicated to nurturing talent within their
teams. They recognize the importance of mentorship in
fostering the next generation of leaders and innovators.
By actively supporting and developing their team
members, women leaders contribute to a culture of
continuous improvement and innovation.
Ethical Leadership: Ethical considerations are integral
to the decision-making process of many women
leaders. Upholding strong ethical standards is crucial in
building trust within the organization and the broader
business community. An ethical approach to leadership
ensures that innovations are not only groundbreaking
but also align with values, contributing to long-term
sustainability.
Multitasking and Time Management: Women leaders
often master the art of multitasking and effective time
management. Juggling various responsibilities
efficiently allows them to oversee multiple aspects of a
project or business simultaneously. This ability is
particularly valuable in the fast-paced world of
innovation, where multitasking is essential for driving
multiple initiatives forward concurrently.
Network Building and Relationship Management:
Building and maintaining strong professional networks
is a common strength of women leaders. Networking
provides access to diverse perspectives, industry
trends, and potential collaborators. Through effective
relationship management, women leaders can leverage
these networks to foster partnerships, secure
resources, and stay informed about opportunities for
innovation.
Cultural Competence: In a globalized business
environment, cultural competence is crucial for
successful leadership. Women leaders often excel in
understanding and navigating diverse cultural nuances,
which is essential when leading teams or expanding
businesses internationally. This skill promotes a
harmonious work environment and facilitates cross-
cultural collaboration in the pursuit of innovation.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Many women leaders exhibit a
strong entrepreneurial spirit, regardless of whether
they lead a startup or a large corporation. This mindset
encourages a willingness to experiment, take calculated
risks, and explore unconventional solutions, all of which
are fundamental aspects of fostering innovation in any
business setting.
In conclusion, the attributes of women leaders driving
innovations in the modern business arena are
multifaceted. Their diverse skill set, ranging from
effective communication to ethical leadership and an
entrepreneurial spirit, positions women leaders as
catalysts for positive change and innovation within
organizations. As businesses continue to recognize and
harness these attributes, the landscape of leadership is
likely to become even more inclusive, dynamic, and
innovative.
Jan 2024 | 18 | womenworldmagazine.com
21.
22. Enterprising
Women Paving
the Way for Future
Generations
he role of women in business and entrepreneurship has become increasingly
Tprominent. Enterprising women across the globe are breaking barriers,
shattering stereotypes, and paving the way for future generations. This article
explores the inspiring stories of women who have not only achieved remarkable
success in their respective fields but also dedicated themselves to creating pathways
for others to follow.
Resilience and Innovation:
One notable trait among enterprising women is their resilience in the face of
challenges. They navigate through industries traditionally dominated by men,
demonstrating that resilience is not just a quality but a driving force. Women
entrepreneurs are often at the forefront of innovation, bringing fresh perspectives
and ideas to the table. The ability to adapt and innovate sets these women apart,
showcasing their capacity to thrive in diverse business environments.
Leadership and Empowerment:
Many enterprising women understand the importance of not only reaching the
pinnacle of success but also extending a hand to lift others up. Leadership is not just
about individual achievement; it's about empowering others to succeed as well. These
women actively mentor and support emerging talents, fostering a culture of
collaboration and mutual growth. By doing so, they create a ripple effect that benefits
the entire community and contributes to a more inclusive business landscape.
Social Impact and Sustainability:
Beyond financial success, enterprising women often prioritize making a positive
impact on society. Many female entrepreneurs are leading the charge in sustainable
and socially responsible business practices. Their ventures address environmental
concerns, promote ethical labor practices, and contribute to social causes.
Jan 2024 | 20 | womenworldmagazine.com
24. By intertwining business goals with a commitment to
creating a better world, these women are setting an
example for future generations to prioritize both profit
and purpose.
Tech and STEM Trailblazers:
In traditionally male-dominated fields like technology
and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics), women entrepreneurs are making
significant strides. Breaking through the gender
barriers in these industries, they are not only proving
their expertise but also inspiring young girls to pursue
careers in STEM. By establishing themselves as leaders
and innovators, these women are redefining the
narrative and encouraging a more diverse and inclusive
workforce for the future.
Global Impact:
Enterprising women are not confined by geographical
boundaries; they make a global impact. Through
international collaborations, partnerships, and
ventures, these women create networks that transcend
borders. Their success stories resonate globally,
inspiring women from different cultures and
backgrounds to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
This global connectivity fosters a sense of unity and
solidarity among enterprising women worldwide.
Entrepreneurial Advocacy and Networking:
Enterprising women understand the power of
collaboration and networking. Many actively engage in
entrepreneurial advocacy, promoting policies that
support women-owned businesses and advocating for
gender equality in the business world. Through
networking events, conferences, and mentorship
programs, these women create a supportive ecosystem
that encourages the exchange of ideas and
opportunities. By fostering connections, they
contribute to the growth and success of women-led
ventures.
Balancing Act:
Enterprising women often navigate the delicate
balance between professional success and personal
responsibilities. Many are mothers, caregivers, and
community leaders in addition to being entrepreneurs.
Their ability to manage diverse roles exemplifies the
importance of work-life balance. By sharing their
experiences and demonstrating that success can be
achieved without compromising personal priorities,
these women pave the way for future generations to
embrace a holistic approach to life and work.
Overcoming Gender Bias:
Despite progress, gender bias remains a challenge for
women in the business world. Enterprising women
often face stereotypes and prejudices, but their stories
reveal the strength required to overcome such
obstacles. By breaking down gender barriers, these
women challenge societal norms and reshape
perceptions. Their resilience in the face of adversity
sends a powerful message to future generations about
the importance of pursuing dreams despite external
biases.
Education and Skill Development:
Many enterprising women recognize the significance of
education and skill development in empowering future
generations. They actively support initiatives that
promote education for girls and women in
entrepreneurship, science, and technology. By investing
in education, these women contribute to creating a
pipeline of skilled and empowered individuals who will
drive innovation and progress in the years to come.
In conclusion, the enterprising women who are making
waves in various industries are not just successful
entrepreneurs; they are architects of change. Through
their resilience, leadership, advocacy, and commitment
to social impact, they are laying the foundation for a
more inclusive and equitable future.
As we celebrate these women, it is crucial to recognize
the ongoing work needed to dismantle barriers and
create an environment where all aspiring
entrepreneurs, irrespective of gender, can thrive and
contribute to the betterment of society. The stories of
enterprising women are not just tales of individual
triumphs but narratives that shape the narrative of
progress for future generations.
Jan 2024 | 22 | womenworldmagazine.com