The Council of Women for Girls

Council Chair

With a dynamic career spanning over 15 years in marketing, business, and the trades industry, Sara Turoczy relocated to the Capital Region in 2015 and has since become a passionate advocate for young women in STEAM fields. Having worked in commercial construction and higher education, Sara is deeply committed to raising awareness about non-traditional career paths for the next generation of female leaders. Her role as a mentor with Girls Inc. is fueled by her love of seeing young girls develop confidence and embrace their full potential. Sara’s background in strategic planning and team-building makes her a valuable asset to the organization, as she works to inspire and empower girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

Tifanny serves as a brand ambassador for two businesses, The Planter LLC and Girls Upstate Official. She is also employed at Ellis Hospital and the Schenectady City School District, where she dedicates herself to her true passion: helping and caring for others. In addition to her professional roles, Tifanny volunteers at Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region, where she is now in her third year as a mentor. Mentoring is something she holds close to her heart, as it creates a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for meaningful conversations. The opportunity to support, uplift, and nurture the self-esteem of others is incredibly rewarding to her, as she genuinely enjoys helping others grow.

Whitney is passionate about fostering personal well-being through her hobbies, which include gardening, cooking, yoga, journaling and exploring by the lake. These activities not only nourish her own mental health but also inspire her approach to helping others find balance and peace in their lives. Her commitment to Girls Inc. and the Council of Women for Girls is driven by a profound belief in the power of mentorship. Whitney is dedicated to empowering young women to develop confidence and leadership skills, ensuring they have the support and guidance needed to thrive in all areas of life.

Carrie is an ambitious, fun-loving person, who leads with her heart.  At work, she is passionate about making positive change for New Yorkers through policy and legislation.  Outside of the office, Carrie is a #gymclasshero, she loves meeting new people, and is the biggest dog lover out there. Carrie is recommitting to Girls, Inc. because she has experienced first hand the opportunities and magic that comes from female mentorship and connection and she is dedicated to continuing that for future generations.

Calli is a seasoned community leader and nonprofit professional with over eight years of experience dedicated to empowering individuals and driving organizational success. Having served as the Executive Director & Association Operations Director at the Capital District YMCA, Calli has been instrumental in expanding programs that foster youth development and community engagement. Her participation with Girls Inc. is driven by her desire to uplift young women and provide them with the tools and confidence to shape their futures. Calli is excited to share her journey and encourage girls to be their strongest. smartest, and boldest self.

Dr. Andrea Rehn is Undergraduate Dean and Dean of Arts & Sciences at Russell Sage College. Formerly, she was Associate Dean at Whittier College in California and directed the Whittier Scholars Program. As Professor of English she launched Whittier College’s Digital Liberal Arts Program to reimagine undergraduate liberal arts curriculum for a digital information age. Her publications include articles on Conrad, Kipling, Austen, and digital pedagogy. She has been a recipient of $1.45 in grants from the Andrew Mellon Foundation, an NEH Summer Institute Fellowship, and was a visiting fellow at Chawton House Library. In her free time, she loves to dance, do yoga, eat chocolate, and reread Jane Austen novels.

Nicole, a committed member of the Council of Women for Girls for Girls Inc., is a dedicated mentor who takes great joy in guiding young women to reach their full potential and inspiring them to be powerful, smart, strong, bold, and successful. Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Childhood Education from the College of Saint Rose, Nicole brings her background and her role as a Product and Service Project Officer to her mentorship, using her enthusiasm to make a positive impact both in the workplace and in her community. Her passion lies in empowering young women to pursue their goals with confidence and purpose.

Anna has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for advocacy, focusing her career on empowering those who cannot always advocate for themselves. In her current role, she oversees several key programs, including an internship initiative, and is particularly enthusiastic about collaborating with organizations like Girls Inc. to enrich these opportunities.

Payal is deeply invested in empowering women and supporting mental health. She mentors girls and women, helping them reach their potential through her expertise in management, STEM, and Ayurvedic lifestyles. Payal was drawn to work with Girls Inc. because it aligns with her belief that fostering high self-esteem in girls and encouraging more women in STEM are essential for building a progressive society.

Renaissance Majee, a second-year medical student at Albany Medical College, is  focused on a future in Medicine-Pediatrics and primary care. She’s originally from California, and graduated with a degree in Public Health from UC San Diego. She loves traveling and reading and has a goal of finishing a book each month. Growing up, Renaissance had the chance to participate in girl-centered STEM programs, and is thrilled to now lead the Paging Dr. Liz afterschool program at Girls Inc. Albany Center. She is proud to continue inspiring girls to pursue STEM careers with confidence.

Lizzy Minnerath is a second-year medical student at Albany Medical College, aiming for a career in OB/GYN. Growing up in Minnesota, Lizzy graduated from St. Olaf College with a chemistry degree, and loves staying active and connected to nature. She is even a leader of the AMC Run Club! As Co-Mentorship Chair for the American Medical Women’s Association at Albany Med, Lizzy is passionate about supporting and advising STEM students and anyone exploring careers in medicine.