2025 Impact Award Winners Recognized at MILLSUMMIT

As part of this year’s MillSummit, we’re proud to honor 10 extraordinary leaders who are not only embracing the fundamentals of leadership, but actively sparking change across Delaware.

These individuals are catalysts—visionaries who are inspiring others to get involved and have made a meaningful impact in their communities over the past year.

They will be recognized on August 5th during our Leadership Dinner, a celebration of bold ideas, servant leadership, and the power of action.

Meet this year’s Impact Award Recipients below:

Noah Duckett

Noah Duckett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker whose work is centered around community care, equity, and LGBTQIA+ advocacy. As the co-founder of Orgullo Delaware and the Delaware Sexuality and Gender Collective, they’ve helped create safer, more affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals and Latine communities across the state. Their impact includes expanding access to affirming healthcare, clothing, education, and recovery resources while providing clinical consultation and training for providers and allies.

A trusted leader and inaugural member of Delaware’s LGBTQ Commission, Noah is known for their commitment to meeting people where they are and building sustainable systems of care. With compassion, authenticity, and a deep belief in service, they are helping shape a more inclusive future across Delaware and beyond.

Amber R. Epperson

Amber R. Epperson is the Owner and CEO of Jumpstart Kent County, where she leads with purpose, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to community. With a background in construction and project management, Amber helps aspiring developers gain the tools they need to transform underserved neighborhoods and reclaim ownership of their futures.

Through mentorship, education, and real estate development, Amber is building more than homes — she’s building hope, opportunity, and long-term change. Her passion is rooted in lived experience, and her leadership is defined by inclusion, equity, and the belief that every person deserves a seat at the table.

Islanda L. Finamore, Esq.

Islanda L. Finamore, Esq. is a Deputy Attorney General with the Delaware Department of Justice, where she has served since 2009 in the Child Protection Unit. A proud Wilmington native, Islanda has combined her legal expertise with a heart for service, creating initiatives like the Holiday Gift Collection, which ensures foster children in Delaware feel seen, valued, and celebrated during the holiday season.

Her work exemplifies collaborative leadership and community-driven impact. Whether in the courtroom or on the board of the Greater Wilmington Boys and Girls Clubs, Islanda advocates for equity and empowerment with compassion, humility, and purpose.

Gigi Gaul

Gigi Gaul is the Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions at Goldey-Beacom College and a passionate advocate for education access and equity. Through her work, she guides learners of all ages toward academic and professional advancement, while championing women’s empowerment through her involvement with the Fund for Women and Great Dames.

Rooted in family legacy and driven by a heart for service, Gigi approaches leadership as a way to make a difference — not just through titles, but through impact. With every student she mentors and community she uplifts, she models a quiet, steady form of leadership that transforms lives and expands possibilities.

Brandi Gregge, MSN, FNP-BC

Brandi Gregge is a nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, and founder of Mint & Needle, a Delaware-based aesthetics practice focused on regenerative treatments and natural beauty. Her work centers on restoring confidence, healing trauma, and creating access to compassionate care — especially for survivors of domestic violence.

In 2023, Brandi launched Empowerment Beyond Scars, a nonprofit providing aesthetic support for trauma survivors. Her commitment to equity, her lived experience, and her innovative model of healing exemplify what it means to lead with empathy, purpose, and long-term vision.

Dana Moore

Dana Moore is a chef at Milford Place Assisted Living, a single mother, and a compassionate community member whose service is rooted in love and quiet strength. Her connection to Milford Advocacy for the Homeless inspired her deeper commitment to meeting people’s needs with care and dignity.

Dana believes in leading through action, not words. Her presence brings light to those around her, and her dedication to healthy boundaries, faith, and purpose makes her a powerful force for everyday impact. She reminds us that change often begins with a meal, a smile, and a willingness to serve.

Sarah Shepard

Sarah Shepard is the Managing Director of a Family Office firm and a respected community leader recognized by the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame, the Governor’s Excellence in Service Awards, and 40 Under 40. With roots in Delaware and a heart for service, Sarah uses her business acumen to support nonprofits, children in foster care, and underserved families across the state.

Grounded in her faith and inspired by motherhood, Sarah is Board Treasurer of Fosterwell and a champion for children’s well-being. Her leadership is defined by humility, courage, and a servant’s heart — always showing up so others can rise.

Shawnisha Thomas

Shawnisha Thomas is a licensed professional counselor and founder of Thomas Clinical Consultation Services, where she specializes in trauma-informed care for adolescent girls and women. Through therapy, public speaking, and community partnerships, she empowers clients to heal, grow, and reclaim their narratives.

As a single mother and advocate, Shawnisha brings both clinical expertise and lived experience into her work. Her leadership is rooted in vulnerability, cultural responsiveness, and deep service — creating spaces where women feel safe, affirmed, and strong enough to transform their lives.

Sharon Sadé Truiett

Sharon Sadé Truiett is an educator, mentor, and public relations strategist whose work uplifts young women and bridges community gaps. She is the founder of G.I.R.L. Talk — Gifted, Intelligent, and Royal Leaders — a youth empowerment program that has impacted over 200 girls through mentorship and personal development.

Whether guiding students toward college, advising on nonprofit boards, or leading local initiatives, Sadé embodies servant leadership. Her work centers on faith, connection, and impact — helping the next generation rise with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Onyekachi Williams

Onyekachi Williams is a PhD researcher at Delaware State University and a global changemaker applying mathematics to solve real-world problems in geoscience and space exploration. Beyond the lab, he’s a mentor, activist, and founder of the DSU Campus Lions Club, leading efforts in education, public health, and environmental advocacy.

Originally from Nigeria, Onyekachi’s journey is fueled by personal resilience and a commitment to creating access for others. His leadership exemplifies humility, service, and connection — proving that impact knows no borders and every challenge is a chance to uplift someone else.