Go Red for Women

American Heart Association’s local “Women of Impact and “Teen of Impact” nominees

By Jessica Rodgers

Chris Hanclosky with Coastal Creek Media

The American Heart Association’s Woman of Impact is an annual initiative to drive awareness and raise funds for women’s heart health in local communities. Individuals around the country are nominated to take part in the campaign, which launched on National Wear Red Day in February. Nominees leverage their networks and influence to educate women on their risks, raise critical dollars to help fund lifesaving research and advocate for the health and well-being of women. Together they are a relentless force against cardiovascular disease, the No. 1 killer of women. Local nominees for this year are Philicia Baugh, Hillary Blevins, Zyra Bond, Katie Brennan, Dr. Paula Orr, Monique Wilsondebriano and Teen of Impact Nominee Amber Wilsondebriano.

Philicia Baugh

Philicia Baugh is a multifaceted individual with a diverse background in real estate investment, entrepreneurship, public speaking and community service. She has been recognized as a 40 under 40 Award Recipient by both the Fayetteville Observer and the Charleston Regional Business Journal. Baugh is involved in various local and national boards. Her passion and commitment to make a difference is evident through her founding of the first transitional home in South Carolina for homeless mothers with newborns. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, practicing and teaching yoga, traveling and spending quality time with her family.

Hillary Blevins

Hillary Blevins is a principal member of Hudson Capital Investments, LLC in Charleston. Her duties include serving as asset manager for a $250 million multifamily portfolio and principal developer for $50 million in ground up construction for multifamily units. Prior to joining Hudson Capital, Blevins worked for Greystar Management in Texas. Blevins is passionate about creating opportunities in her industry for others. She has served on several boards, including Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) and the YMCA of Greater Charleston.

Zyra Bond

Originally from Kosovo (formerly Yugoslavia), Zyra Bond’s family embarked on a transformative journey through Switzerland and Germany. She eventually ended up in the Lowcountry, which she loves deeply and is proud to call home. After a successful law career, Bond left to pursue a career in aesthetics and holistic skincare. With a unique approach to beauty and skincare, Bond founded LipsticknBlush in Beaufort. She aims to empower women through natural solutions. Bond believes in following your heart and embracing the beauty of both the journey and the destination.

Katie Brennan

Originally from Wisconsin, Katie Brennan has spent the majority of her career in pharmacy benefit management. She currently leads the growth efforts along the east coast for CarelonRx. Brennan is very passionate about driving healthcare and medication access and affordability for American families, especially in rural areas. She takes great pride in seeing improved outcomes for her clients. Katie enjoys spending time with her husband, two children and two dogs in her free time.

Dr. Paula Orr

A native of Baltimore, Dr. Paula Orr has called Charleston home for the last 26 years. Dr. Orr is the owner and physician of Charleston Women’s Wellness Center and is the medical director for Charleston Health and Wellness Medi-Spa. Her practice specializes in preventative and alternative health for women in gynecology that includes hormone replacement therapy and weight management. Dr. Orr is very active in the community and has served on several boards including the Susan G. Komen Foundation and MUSC Health. She has also received numerous accolades including 40 under 40 for the Charleston Regional Business Journal, National Council of Negro Women’s Outstanding Community Leader award in medicine and the MOJA Arts Festival Community Tribute for her contributions in medicine. Dr. Orr has four adult children and one grand dog.

Monique Wilsondebriano

Monique Wilsondebriano has been an entrepreneur as long as she can remember. Her latest venture was driven by a yearning for healthier products and a passion for food. Alongside her husband, she founded Charleston Gourmet Burger Company. Her company has been featured on QVC, Food Network, Good Morning America, The Today Show, Better Homes & Gardens, Essence and many more. Wilsondebriano was named one of Charleston’s Most Influential People of 2022 by the Charleston Business Magazine. She is on a mission to help others by providing the knowledge necessary for anyone to achieve their dreams.

Amber Wilsondebriano

At just 18 years old, Amber Wilsondebriano has already made an incredible impact in the community. Her efforts in community engagement and advocacy led to her being a Teen of Impact nominee, the first in Charleston. Wilsondebriano made history as the first black homecoming queen at Porter-Guad. With a 4.66 GPA, her leadership also includes serving as co-president of the Chinese Club, president of the Art Club and Vice President of the Porter-Guad Black Excellence Society. She has made national headlines and has been featured on Good Morning America, CNN, Essence, Black Enterprise and the Jennifer Hudson Show. A dynamic and inspiring speaker, Wilsondebriano is on a mission to empower young individuals to lead with heart and courage.

Go Red For Women Luncheon

The American Heart Association's annual Go Red for Women Luncheon will be held on May 30 as a culminating fundraising effort. It will be held at the Gaillard Center from 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. The event includes a heart-healthy lunch, expo, auction, fashion show, and more as the American Heart Association celebrates its centennial year. Learn more about how to get involved at www.heart.org/charlestongored .