Phenomenal Women Under 40
2025 Highlights
2025 Highlights

PHOTO GALLERY
Dr. Sikaya Jey Alston

 Academy Charter High School

Dr. Sikaya Jey Alston is a passionate educator, counselor, and higher education professional with nearly a decade of experience helping students achieve academic, career, and personal success. Guided by values of equity, service, and lifelong learning, she has held impactful roles across K–12 schools, community colleges, and universities.

She currently serves as the School to Career Coordinator at Academy Charter High School, where she supports students in grades 9–12 through academic advising, college and career readiness programs, and social-emotional development. Her work includes leading the Senior Project course, organizing college tours, and facilitating FAFSA and college application workshops.

Dr. Alston also serves as an adjunct professor at Monmouth University—her alma mater—where she earned her EdD in Educational Leadership. There, she teaches graduate-level counseling courses, mentors future school counselors, and contributes to curriculum development. In addition, she teaches at Simmons College of Kentucky, preparing future K–5 educators in technology integration and culturally responsive instruction.

Previously, she held student success and advising roles at Brookdale Community College, supporting first-generation and underrepresented students through personalized academic coaching and career preparation.

A proud New Jersey native, Dr. Alston is deeply committed to her community. She serves in leadership within the St. Stephen AME Zion Church in Asbury Park and is an active member of the Monmouth County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her life and career are a testament to the transformative power of education, and she lovingly dedicates her work to the memory of her grandmother, Alice Alston, who raised her and instilled the values that continue to guide her journey.

Jennifer Collins

Hackensack Meridian Health

Jennifer Collins, RN is a dedicated nurse, educator, and community advocate who has been serving with Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) since 2010. Currently working in the Community Outreach & Engagement Department, Jennifer brings over a decade of experience in healthcare and an unwavering commitment to improving public health through education, innovation, and hands-on service. She also works per diem as a Nursing Administrative Supervisor at Southern Ocean Medical Center and supports future nurses as a clinical educator in the Nursing Skills Lab at Ocean County College.

Jennifer’s passion for nursing extends beyond the bedside. She has held multiple leadership roles within HMH and is committed to advancing the profession through mentorship, engagement, and continuous learning. She has presented at the AORN Global Conference & Surgical Expo in both 2023 and 2025—sharing insights on leadership through gamification and sustainable practices in healthcare settings.

Her commitment to service reaches far beyond the hospital walls. Jennifer has volunteered as an EMT with Surf City Volunteer Fire Company and EMS since 2009, helping organize departmental training and local fundraising efforts. She plays a key role in organizing community initiatives such as free CPR classes, a thriving farmers market, and seasonal events like Trunk or Treat and Easter Egg Hunts. She also lends her time to Coastal Volunteers in Medicine and the Ocean County Medical Reserve Corps, and has participated in two surgical mission trips to the Dominican Republic—with hopes to someday serve aboard Mercy Ships.

A proud resident of Ocean County, Jennifer finds joy in everyday moments with her significant other, Kyle, and their two dogs, Baron and Rufus. She cherishes time spent with friends and family, especially her nephews Samuel and Nathan, and finds joy in reading, traveling, gardening, camping, and being part of her beloved Book Club. A lifelong Disney fan, she travels to the parks whenever possible and brings that same spirit of joy, curiosity, and heart to her work and community every day.

Bri Lindia

The Nines

Bri Lindia is a professional performer, music educator, and passionate advocate for the arts. With a BFA in Music Theater, she has spent over a decade as the lead singer and emcee of the award-winning wedding and event band The Nines, performing at more than 100 venues and iconic stages across the Northeast. She also appears regularly in Atlantic City as a featured performer with Elite Casino Marketing.

In addition to performing, Bri is a dedicated children’s music educator and business owner, using her platform to inspire and empower young learners through music. She believes deeply in the healing and transformative power of the arts, especially for children, and has partnered with organizations like Applaud Our Kids Foundation to ensure all children—regardless of financial circumstance—can access music education. Her work has reached schools, Girl Scout troops, and programs for children with special needs through partnerships with Friends Connect and MJ Xpressions.

Bri’s dedication to community service and leadership was recognized with the Athena Young Professional Award, and she proudly held the title of Miss New Jersey for America Strong 2021, finishing in the top 15 nationally. During her reign and beyond, she has been a strong advocate for women-owned small businesses, visiting and promoting more than 40 across the state to help amplify their visibility and success.

Outside of her professional life, Bri is a proud “Bommy” (bonus mommy) to two daughters and wife to her husband and fellow musician, Matthew. She is honored to be recognized alongside such inspiring women and remains committed to using her voice, both on and off the stage, to uplift others and make a lasting impact.

Christina Merklinger

Carluccio, Leone, Dimon, Doyle, Gutman & Petro

Christina Merklinger, Esq. is a licensed attorney in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, with a strong commitment to providing practical, compassionate legal support to her clients. She currently focuses her practice on Elder Law, Estate Planning, Real Estate, and Estate Administration, offering personalized guidance through some of life’s most important and complex transitions. Whether preparing a will, navigating probate, or advising families on long-term care planning, Christina brings clarity and care to every step of the process.

A graduate of the University of Delaware (B.A., 2015) and Delaware Law School (J.D., 2018), Christina began her legal career as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable James J. McGann at the Monmouth County Courthouse. She then gained broad experience in Civil Litigation, Corporate Law, Municipal Law, and Zoning during her time at a local firm, building a well-rounded legal foundation that continues to inform her client-first approach today.

Christina is known for her detail-oriented, client-focused style—ensuring individuals and families understand their options and feel empowered to make informed decisions. She is especially passionate about working closely with seniors and their loved ones to help them navigate aging with dignity and peace of mind.

Outside of her legal work, Christina enjoys life at the Jersey Shore with her husband, their two young children, and their beloved rescue dogs, Myla and Max. She is an avid reader, travel enthusiast, and values time spent with family and in her community.

Katie Parrinello

Katie Sells Houses & Bounce Studio

Katie Parrinello is a dynamic real estate agent and fitness entrepreneur based in Manalapan, New Jersey. She is best known for her role at RE/MAX Central where she is building her brand Katie Sells Houses. She specializes in helping clients buy, sell, rent, or invest in properties across Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex Counties and across the Jersey Shore!  Born and raised in Monmouth County, Katie is deeply connected to her community. She holds several real estate designations and beyond real estate, Katie recently finished her Visionary of the year campaign with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of New Jersey where she raised tens of thousands of dollars to fight against blood cancer and recently joined the leadership committee to help out next year! Katie is the owner and operator of Bounce Studio, a bungee-fitness and aerial yoga studio she founded in Manalapan. Passionate about empowering women, she launched the studio in 2024. Katie views both her real estate and fitness roles as opportunities to support and uplift her community. Her real estate approach emphasizes attentive, personalized guidance through life's pivotal home transitions. At the studio, her goal is to foster confidence, empowerment, and a supportive environment for women, embodied by the studio’s mantra: “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” She is a multifaceted professional who combines her deep local knowledge, strategic real estate skills, and community-driven fitness initiative to serve the people across Monmouth and Ocean County in truly meaningful ways.

Jessica Roberts, PA-C

HerSpace MedSpa

Jessica Roberts, PA-C is a certified Physician Assistant and the Clinical Manager at HerSpace MedSpa in Little Silver, NJ, where she combines medical expertise with an eye for aesthetics to help patients look and feel their best. With over a decade of experience in healthcare and medical aesthetics, she is known for her ethical approach, technical skill, and unwavering commitment to empowering women through confidence and education.

Jessica earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Seton Hill University and began her career in Emergency Medicine, where she honed her clinical instincts under pressure. After transitioning to aesthetics, she found her true calling—an area where her passion for wellness, artistry, and patient-centered care converge. As Clinical Manager at HerSpace, Jessica mentors staff, oversees clinical operations, and sets a high standard for compassionate, science-based care.

Over the past four years, Jessica has built a reputation for thoughtful, personalized treatment plans and has earned the trust of a loyal patient base. In an industry often dominated by fleeting trends, she stands out for prioritizing safety, long-term results, and honest communication. She takes pride in educating patients and encouraging informed, confident decision-making.

Beyond the treatment room, Jessica is a leader and educator. She trains new providers, leads outreach efforts, and helps demystify aesthetic medicine in the broader community. Her work is reshaping perceptions of beauty and wellness by promoting authenticity, inclusivity, and self-care.

A Staten Island native, Jessica now lives in Holmdel, NJ with her husband and two children. She is actively involved in the Holmdel Foundation for Educational Excellence and mentors young women pursuing careers in healthcare. Her calm presence, strong leadership, and commitment to integrity make her a standout in both her field and her community.

Dena Scoullos

Hazlet Township School District & Miss Tech Queen 

Dena Scoullos is a dedicated technology and enrichment teacher based in Hazlet, New Jersey, where she inspires young learners in grades 1–4. With a passion for creativity, innovation, and student engagement, Dena integrates STEM, project-based learning, and hands-on activities into her classroom, helping students develop critical thinking and real-world problem-solving skills from an early age.

Dena’s commitment to leadership and community service began as a Girl Scout, a journey that shaped her values and direction in life. She remained an active member through high school and earned the prestigious Gold Award—the highest honor in Girl Scouting—for a project that reflected her dedication to making a lasting impact.

Beyond the classroom, Dena channels her passion for education into her thriving online store, Miss Tech Queen, on Teachers Pay Teachers. Through this platform, she shares original lesson plans, worksheets, and STEM resources that support educators across the globe. Her influence continues to grow as a published author; her book, Let’s Explore STEM, offers practical guidance and inspiration for teachers looking to bring engaging, hands-on learning into their own classrooms.

With every endeavor, Dena remains committed to empowering both students and fellow educators, proving that technology and imagination can transform education and communities alike.

Destiny Smith

Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County

Destiny Smith serves as the Area Director for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County, where she oversees all program operations and club sites serving more than 1,350 young people annually. A proud Asbury Park native, Destiny brings a deep-rooted commitment to her community and a passion for building safe, inclusive spaces where youth can thrive.

In her role, Destiny is responsible for guiding site leadership, developing community partnerships, and ensuring that every young person who walks through the Club’s doors is met with opportunity, mentorship, and a strong support system. She helped develop and spearhead Project LEAD, a workforce development initiative that equips teens with critical life and career readiness skills through hands-on experiences, professional exposure, and mentorship.

Destiny’s approach to leadership is grounded in equity, innovation, and the belief that all young people—regardless of their background—deserve access to high-quality programs and caring adults who believe in their potential. Her work reflects a clear vision for youth empowerment and a strong sense of responsibility to invest in the next generation of leaders.

Whether she’s collaborating with school districts, mentoring new staff, or planning large-scale youth events, Destiny brings strategic thinking, lived experience, and an unwavering dedication to the young people and communities she serves.

Sara Velez

Operation HOPE & Seacrest Recovery Center

Sara Velez is a passionate mental health professional, entrepreneur, and community leader committed to healing and hope. A sober woman of nearly 15 years, Sara has turned profound personal loss and adversity into a life of purpose. She founded Operation HOPE in 2020 to provide equine-assisted psychotherapy to individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges, with a special focus on Veterans and underserved communities.

As Clinical Director of Seacrest Recovery Center, Sara guides those struggling with addiction toward trauma-informed mental health and substance abuse treatment. Sara serves as President of the Board for HR Recovery Initiative, supporting Survivors of Human Trafficking through trauma-informed equine therapy. She actively collaborates with local nonprofits, law enforcement, and rescue farms to promote recovery, animal welfare, and community wellness.

A dedicated mother, Sara also gives back through her church ministries, volunteers at her children’s school, and mentors students and women in recovery. In the Fall of 2026, she will begin teaching as an Adjunct Professor at Monmouth University. Sara’s grace, resilience, and unwavering commitment to service have made a profound impact in Monmouth County and beyond.

Jamie Wagner

Jersey Shore BlueClaws

Jamie Wagner serves as the Director of Retail Operations for the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. Originally from Upstate New York, she relocated to the area in the fall of 2019 to begin her career with the team as an entry-level Ticket Sales Representative. Since then, Jamie has grown within the organization, becoming a dynamic leader and a passionate advocate for community engagement.

One of Jamie’s most meaningful accomplishments has been the creation of a unique work-based learning program in partnership with students from the CLI program at Manasquan High School and clients from the Next Steps Adult Day Program. Watching students grow, thrive, and bring joy to the ballpark has made this initiative deeply fulfilling—and has added a powerful layer of inclusion to the fan experience.

Jamie’s connection to Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore began through her role as the lead organizer for the annual Girl Scout Family Night at ShoreTown Ballpark. The 2025 season marked her fourth year coordinating the event, which welcomes thousands of Girl Scouts each year. Through this special tradition, she has built lasting relationships with Troop Leaders and GSJS staff, and continues to be a proud supporter of the Girl Scout mission across the Jersey Shore.

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