07/28/2026
CDBIA Professional Women in Building Celebrates Excellence at 5th Annual Bella Donnas Awards & Installation
The Charlotte-DeSoto Building Industry Association (CDBIA) proudly chartered its local chapter of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Professional Women in Building (PWB) Council in October 2020. Since its inception, the council has been dedicated to advancing professionalism within the building industry while empowering and supporting women through education, professional development, leadership opportunities, and networking.
On July 23, the CDBIA Professional Women in Building Council hosted its 5th Annual Bella Donnas, an evening dedicated to celebrating the remarkable women who are shaping the future of the building industry. The event was emceed by Jennifer Cirella of Calista Kitchen & Bath , who served as Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening.
The evening's special guest was Melanie S. Griffin, Secretary of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Secretary Griffin inspired attendees with her message about the importance of women in construction and the power of collaboration to strengthen the industry.
"Secretary Griffin is a true inspiration to women and to everyone in the building industry," said CDBIA President Shan Swelland, Swelland’s construction services
Each Bella Donna Award is named in honor of a distinguished female leader whose dedication has helped shape the Charlotte-DeSoto Building Industry Association. These awards ensure their legacies continue by recognizing today's leaders who exemplify the same passion, service, and commitment.
Suzanne Graham Legacy Award
The Suzanne Graham Legacy Award recognizes an outstanding woman in construction who has dedicated her time, talents, and resources to breaking barriers and advancing opportunities for women in the building industry.
This year's recipient is Odette Embury of Seacoast Bank.
For more than 40 years, Odette has been a respected leader within the CDBIA, generously serving on committees, leading initiatives, and mentoring others. In 2025, she served as the Florida Home Builders Association Associate Chair, the highest leadership position within the state association for an associate member.
Beth Cantin-Brown Gaining Momentum Award
The Beth Cantin-Brown Gaining Momentum Award recognizes a newer member who has already made significant contributions to the Association and demonstrates exceptional leadership potential.
This year's recipient is Isabella Damboise of Cambria.
Isabella is truly one to watch. She pours her heart into serving both the Association and the community, consistently making a positive impact through her enthusiasm, leadership, and willingness to help others.
Caryn Huff-Sufferling Work in Progress Award
The Caryn Huff-Sufferling Work in Progress Award honors an outstanding leader who exemplifies service above self and is committed to making a meaningful difference in the community.
This year's recipient is Krystal Jenkins of Patriot Plumbing Corp of USA
Krystal is passionate about serving others through her support of animal welfare, homelessness initiatives, and mental health awareness. She continually dedicates her time and talents to improving the lives of those around her.
Building Our Future Award
The Building Our Future Award celebrates a woman who mentors, inspires, and develops future leaders within the construction industry.
This year's recipient is Carlene Zeches of Z Interior Decorations.
Carlene has spent years leading successful events throughout Southwest Florida, including the Punta Gorda Tree Lighting, the Southwest Florida Parade of Homes, and the nationally award-winning Show Me the License Trade Show. She has an incredible gift for identifying emerging leaders and mentoring them, sharing her blueprint for planning successful events and building strong teams.
Lady Boss Award
The Lady Boss Award recognizes an outstanding woman-owned business within the building industry.
This year's recipient is Rachael Lowe of Titanz Plumbing & Air Conditioning. Rachael is a driven leader whose commitment to excellence and professional growth has earned her the respect of both her peers and the community. In 2025, while navigating an unimaginable personal loss, she continued leading her family and business while earning both her Florida Certified Air Conditioning Contractor and Florida Certified Plumbing Contractor licenses that same year. Her achievements are impressive, but it is her kindness, unwavering passion, and resilience that have earned the admiration of those around her and make her a truly deserving recipient of this year's Lady Boss Award.
He-Ra Award
The Professional Women in Building Council also recognizes the men who champion and support women in the construction industry. Today, nearly 12% of the CDBIA PWB membership is comprised of men who joined with one purpose: to support and encourage the success of women in the industry.
This year's He-Ra Award was presented to Chris Hege of Elite Hurricane Protection
Chris's support extends far beyond attendance at meetings and events. He actively advocates for women in construction by using his voice, influence, and leadership to encourage opportunity, recognize talent, and promote a more inclusive industry. His commitment is genuine, consistent, and impactful, making him a deserving recipient of this honor.
Champion of Building Award
The Champion of Building Award honors an exceptional woman serving in the public sector whose dedication supports responsible growth and strengthens the building industry.
This year's recipient is MaryAnn Franks, Zoning Supervisor for Charlotte County Community Development.
As Zoning Supervisor, MaryAnn oversees the interpretation of zoning regulations, reviews development proposals, and helps ensure projects comply with county standards while supporting responsible growth throughout Charlotte County. Her leadership has benefited countless residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. Following recent hurricanes, MaryAnn played a vital role in helping homeowners and businesses navigate the rebuilding process, making a lasting impact on the community she serves.
The evening was completed with the annual passing of the pink hardhat. Jess Overcash, Integrity Electric recapped an incredible year of mentoring young women, adding exciting events and an outlet for women to connect, and be heard. Her leadership helped raise $7,000 in scholarships, grew our PWB to a large size council and built new relationships in our community. She proudly passed the pink hardhat to Cindy Marsh-Tichy, Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty who will be creating new chapters of must see events and fun for Herstory.
The Charlotte-DeSoto Building Industry Association congratulates all of this year's Bella Donna Award recipients for their outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to strengthening both the building industry and our community.
To learn more about the CDBIA Professional Women in Building Council, visit www.cdbia.com.
