speakers
Julie Quinne
Julie Quinne is a leadership strategist and founder of Uncommon Consulting, LLC, specializing in transformative leadership development for women and forward-thinking organizations.
With deep expertise in organizational effectiveness and executive coaching, Julie helps clients cut through complexity, align with what truly matters, and lead with lasting impact. She is the creator of the Life Aligned Leadershipframework, a proven method that empowers high-achieving leaders to integrate their professional ambition with personal fulfillment—without burning out.
Julie partners with leaders and leadership teams to drive clarity, accountability, and measurable transformation across organizations. Whether delivering immersive programs, guiding culture change, or coaching executives through pivotal transitions, her work is grounded in strategic insight, emotional intelligence, and a deep commitment to real-world results.
Susan A. King
Susan King, from Mount Airy, NC is an Inspirational Speaker and Certified Professional Life Coach who is on a mission to inspire, lift and empower others to level-UP, dream BIG and live their legacy NOW. As a first-generation college graduate, she knows first hand the adversity that one may face. In her keynote speaking and coaching sessions, she offers life strategies and personal development methods to assist others in getting to the next level with an emphasis on mindset.
Before becoming and inspirational speaker and coach, Susan held the role of an educator, as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Dental Hygiene at CPCC in Charlotte, N.C. She is currently a Registered Dental Hygienist of 26 years, and works in the clinical setting part time.
Susan currently holds an A.S. degree from Surry Community College, Dobson, N.C. and a B.S. degree from UNC School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, N.C. She is the mother of 2 sons and 3 grandsons.
You can reach Susan through email: info@susanaking.com and via website: www.susanaking.com and social media platforms.
Panelists
Lenise Lynch
Lenise Lynch was born in Queens, New York, to Angela Lynch and Floyd Whitlock. At the age of 10, she moved to Mount Airy, North Carolina, where she would go on to graduate from North Surry High School and later earned two college degrees in Accounting and Business.
A proud mother of two biological children and several cherished bonus children, Lenise has spent nearly two decades leading with grace and purpose. She served as the General Manager of the Hampton Inn in Mount Airy for 19 years and was recently promoted to Vice President of Operations—a role that reflects her exceptional leadership and dedication.
Lenise’s commitment to her community runs deep. She served as President of the Mount Airy Rotary Club from 2016–2017 and continues to be an active Rotarian. She was Chair of the Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce in 2022–2023 and remains a devoted board member. Her passion for service is also reflected in her involvement with numerous boards, including the Surry County Health and Nutrition Center, Mount Airy Housing Authority, Surry Arts Council, Mount Airy Tourism Development Authority, United Fund of Surry, and Mount Airy Downtown, Inc.
As the co-founder of New Hope New Beginning Transitional Recovery Housing for women, Lenise has been instrumental in creating safe, supportive spaces for women on the journey to healing.
If there’s a need in the community, Lenise will find a way to meet it. She is always willing to offer a helping hand, driven by her love for God, her passion for learning, and her belief that she is blessed to be a blessing. She treasures time with her family and friends, and continues to uplift others through her service, leadership, and unwavering faith.
Elaine Reales
My name is Elaine E. Correa-Castro, but everyone knows me as Elaine Reales. I am originally from Colombia, South America. I am a strong Christian and a caring, loving friend. I am a self-published author of a children’s book titled “Welcome Home!”, a book based on actual personal events. I have been happily married to Santiago Reales since 1995. We have two young adults, Benjamin and Matthew, who are 24 and 21 years old, respectively.
I have been in the United States since 1999. I have lived in Miami, FL, San Antonio, TX, and Sparta, NC. I became an American citizen in 2011 and hold both nationalities. I am an accomplished educator and advocate for all learners to have high expectations, with over 18 years of experience in the education field. Currently, I serve as the coordinator for Dual Language Immersion, Multilingual Learners, and World Languages at Mount Airy City Schools. As a former classroom teacher, I have dedicated my career to creating a safe, caring, loving, welcoming, and supportive environment where students can learn and have fun.
I hold a four-year degree in Business Administration from Colombia and a Bachelor of Science in K-6 Elementary Education from Lees McRae College. I have endorsements in Spanish and English as a Second Language (ESL). I am also a candidate for a Master’s degree in School Administration from North Carolina Central University, and I am scheduled to graduate in May 2026. My passion for education was ignited during my early college years in Colombia, where I served as a classroom tutor and later, as a teacher’s assistant in Alleghany County, North Carolina.
In addition to my current administrative role, I have been an active member of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) since January 2025, and I serve as a board member for State Employees’ Credit Union in Mount Airy. I am also a member of Mount Airy First Baptist Church, where I have served as Interim Youth Minister and children’s time teacher. I believe in the power of collaboration and work with teachers, parents, and community members to foster a holistic approach to education. My commitment to quality, fun, creative, and innovative teaching has earned me the Teacher of the Year Award for Bruce H. Tharrington and Jones Intermediate Schools in 2020-2021 and 2023-2024.
In my free time, I enjoy traveling, exploring new cultures, playing pickleball, walking Enzo, my dog, and scrapbooking. I am excited to share my insights and experiences as a panelist and hope to inspire others to champion their success as powerful, blessed women: I am blessed to be able to bless others!
Dakota Goss
Hey! I’m Dakota Elizabeth Goss. I’m 26, a proud mom, and a full-time entrepreneur. My husband and I run two businesses together—The Media Collection, where we handle photo, video, drone, and social media marketing, and Food Rush Delivery, our local food delivery company.
I’m a go-getter at heart and I’ve always had a passion for helping others. I’ve got my hands in a little bit of everything—whether I’m behind the camera, running a business, or juggling everyday life, I thrive in the chaos. I like to think of myself as a jack of all trades who just loves making things happen.
My journey has had its challenges—six years ago, I lost my son, and I’ve battled medical issues for years. Last year, I finally got answers and was diagnosed with a brain disorder that led to brain surgery. But if you know me, you know that nothing slows me down. I’m fueled by resilience, faith, and a whole lot of determination.
Melissa Watts Hiatt, MPA
Melissa Watts Hiatt is Executive Director of the United Fund of Surry, where she leads efforts to support 24 nonprofit agencies delivering essential human services throughout Surry County. With over 20 years in the nonprofit sector, Hiatt brings deep experience in operations, fundraising, donor development, and community engagement. Her path to leadership began as a family counselor and evolved through a passion for strengthening communities and building lasting partnerships. Recently elected as a Surry County Commissioner, she continues to advocate for the role of nonprofits in economic development and citizen well-being. Hiatt holds a Master’s in Public Administration with a minor in Nonprofit Management, and dual bachelor’s degrees in Mass Communication and Human Services. When Hiatt isn’t working she loves spending time with family and friends enjoying the many events and activities in our community.