2025 Class of Leadership Wilmington

Daniela Ayers is a Project Manager for LS3P Associates and holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technology from the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon. Originally from Monterrey Mexico, she brings over 20 years of international experience to her work. Her passion lies in experiential design and placemaking, where she skillfully crafts branded environments that are dynamic, personal, and uniquely suited to their context and place. Notable projects include Live Oak Bank, nCino Headquarters and Girls Leadership of Wilmington (GLOW) Academy. Outside of her professional life, Daniela enjoys giving back to the Wilmington community through Port City Church, watching some good baseball at the Shark Tank and supporting her daughters  at soccer tournaments and dance competitions. 

Drew Smith currently serves as Director of Communications for Copiers Plus, Inc. Drew joined the company professionally in February 2014 after graduating from UNC Wilmington with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies. In his time at Copiers Plus, Drew has focused primarily on marketing and ensuring the brand is communicated effectively across their five locations in North Carolina. In 2016, Drew married his wife, and fellow Seahawk, Jessica Di Biaggio and they welcomed their first child, Addison Smith, in February of 2023. Drew loves spending time with his family, going to the beach, golfing, grabbing a drink with friends downtown, and watching his Atlanta Braves play.

I'm Dori Bishara the Community Engagement Coordinator for REV!  As you may have guessed by my title, my job is all about community.  REV is invested in helping to build resilient communities and giving back in the communities that we serve.  I am fortunate that my job aligns with my personal interests and passions: to be of service, to contribute to making our communities vibrant and wonderful places to live, and to create meaningful connections. 

My background includes: owning a small business for six years; working for multiple nonprofits and businesses; living in the Midwest, Southwest, and Northwest before settling in North Carolina; volunteering for many different organizations including performing art centers and elementary schools; and being a mom to two kids ages 10 and 7! 

Brad Rudiger is a Tax Manager for PBMares, CPAs and Consultants and holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from North Carolina State University and a Masters of Science in Accountancy from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.  Brad's diverse career spans various industries, including nuclear waste technologies and entrepreneurship, having owned his own business.  Since joining PBMares in 2022 through the acquisition of the Wilmington RSM office, Brad has played a key role in cultivating community relationships and providing comprehensive tax compliance solutions to a wide array of clients. Outside of work, Brad enjoys spending time with friends and family, often taking walks with his sheepadoodle, Jelly Beans, or relaxing on the beach with friends.

Julia Eckel is an Associate Broker at Cape Fear Commercial. She is a skilled broker and a compassionate leader committed to making a positive impact in both real estate and community endeavors.

Eckel’s journey in real estate began early, shadowing her father, Brian Eckel, while gaining invaluable insights into development. Starting as a Development Coordinator with Cape Fear Development in 2023, Julia showcased her organizational skills and passion for the industry. Now, as an Associate Broker, she’s poised to make a mark in commercial brokerage, driven by her community spirit and dedication.

Julia is a native of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from the University of Colorado Boulder. Outside of the office, Julia has diverse interests ranging from surfing and tennis to literature and yoga.

I was born and raised in Wilmington, NC where I grew up in the construction industry working for Norris Construction. I received my bachelor's and master's degrees in civil engineering from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I joined Andrew Consulting Engineers as a Structural Engineer in 2021 and received my Professional Engineering license in June of 2024. My responsibilities include the analysis and design of low to midrise buildings, marine structures, and existing structures.

Blair Deen is a Design & Construction Project Manager for Novant Health where she is responsible for the planning, oversight, execution, and management of comprehensive design services for major and minor construction projects in the coastal market, focusing primarily on ambulatory and off-site facilities. She also serves as point of liaison for artwork in all markets.

Blair is a long-time resident of NHC and been a part of numerous fields/industries throughout our local community including education, hospitality, events, retail and is a small business owner. Blair enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and colleagues. In her off time, she can often be seen near the water or on the sidelines at a baseball game cheering on her son, James. Blair is also a board member of the Echo Farms Residents Association.
 

Marie is responsible for Materials Management & Purchasing Team supporting multi-port locations in North Carolina.  Prior to joining North Carolina Ports, Marie held various roles working in the Construction Materials Industry leading the development and execution of a broad-based, company-wide strategic sustainability program.  She led Program Office for companywide ERP Oracle implementation.  She held various Strategic Sourcing roles overseeing spend with emphasis on raw materials, plant & equipment, industrial products & consumables, transport, energy and general services.  Marie earned her BA in Business from National-Louis University.  She attended Duke University Corporate Education Jump Program in 2004.  She previously served on the US Business Council for Sustainable Development where Marie worked with a wide range of corporate and nonprofit organizations.

Mr. Pridgen received a B.S. in Business Administration and an MBA from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Mr. Pridgen serves as the Credentialing Chair of the North Carolina Healthcare Quality Partners Initiative, North Carolina Healthcare Facilities Association Payment for Services Committee, and the American Healthcare Association Reimbursement Team. Mr. Pridgen enjoys giving back to the Wilmington community through his volunteer and fundraising efforts with the American Heart Association of the Cape Fear and the Willie Stargell Foundation.

Mr. Pridgen enjoys alpine skiing, paddle boarding, tennis, traveling, and spending time with his Boykin Spaniel, Banks.

As the Strategy and Performance Manager at CFPUA, I facilitate our strategic plan and performance management program to drive continual improvement.  I have been with CFPUA for 15 years and have served in many roles across the organization. I have an AAS with a focus in Marine Technology from CFCC and currently attend NCSU working on my BA in Leadership in the Public Sector. I am a Lifetime Girl Scout Member with 30 years of membership as a girl and adult volunteer. I have earned my Girl Scout Gold Award along with several volunteer appreciation awards. As a North Carolina native I enjoy spending time with my family experiencing the many things the state has to offer. 

Originally from Winston-Salem, NC, moved to Wilmington in 2007 to attend UNCW and graduated in 2011 with a BS in Parks and Recreation. Married to Meaghan with our golden retriever, Sammy (named after the beloved UNCW mascot). Employed by Live Oak Bank since March of 2015, holding multiple titles. Currently the Modification Review Specialist for the loan modification team, handling 2400+ requests a year.