Fred Rogers once shared a piece of wisdom from his mother that has resonated across generations (and which I may have shared before but will forever ring true): “When I was a boy, and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” It’s a reminder that in moments of uncertainty or challenge, there are always those who step up to support, uplift and lead. This issue of our magazine is dedicated to those very people – extraordinary women who are shaping Durham and beyond with their talent, courage and unwavering commitment to others. They are the helpers, the doers – they see a problem, and they immediately go about trying to solve it.
In our 13th annual Women’s Issue, we highlight 10 remarkable women whose work embodies the spirit of service and strength. Among them is Yesenia L. Polanco-Galdamez, an immigration and criminal defense attorney, who tirelessly advocates for the rights of those navigating complex legal challenges. Melanie Allen is driving systemic change at the intersection of climate and social equity at Hive Fund for Climate and Gender Justice. Jenn Summe, a partner at Primordial Ventures and co-founder of Ladies Investing / Local Angels, is breaking barriers in the investment world, helping create more opportunities for women.
Some of these women nourish us – literally and figuratively. Savannah Miller, chef de cuisine at M Tempura, brings masterful culinary artistry to the table, while Olivia Bellido, department chair of theater arts at Jordan High School, nurtures the creativity of young minds. N.C. Central University Chancellor Karrie Dixon is shaping the next generation of leaders through higher education, and the Rev. Lisa Garcia-Sampson, executive director of the Unitarian Universalist Justice Ministry of North Carolina, offers spiritual guidance and advocacy for justice – “the story of our movement is not what we are fighting against, it is what we are fighting for,” she shared in her interview with assistant editor Renee Ambroso.
Then, there are the trailblazers. Dr. Joanne A. P. Wilson, professor emeritus of medicine in the division of gastroenterology at Duke, has paved the way for women, and especially women of color, in medicine. Celebrated country music artist Rissi Palmer uses her platform to uplift marginalized voices in the industry. And standing up for those who cannot speak for themselves is Dr. Sabrina Grinstead, a dedicated veterinarian ensuring the well-being of animals in our community. These women all inspire us to see possibility in the face of challenge, and I have no doubt their stories will leave a lasting impression on you.
Elsewhere in this issue, you’ll find fresh inspiration for bringing new life into your home this spring, an inside look at Sarah P. Duke Gardens’ transformative Garden Gateway project and an exploration of the current trends shaping Durham’s housing market. Whether you’re looking for a dose of inspiration, a reason to celebrate our community or simply something new to discover, I hope this issue gives you just that. – by Executive Editor Amanda MacLaren
WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT
42 Savannah Miller
chef de cuisine, M Tempura
44 Rissi Palmer
singer-songwriter; host, Color Me Country Radio; special correspondent, Country Music Television; curator, The Wavemakers Series, Carolina Theatre
46 The Rev. Lisa Garcia-Sampson
executive director, Unitarian Universalist Justice Ministry of North Carolina
48 Dr. Joanne A. P. Wilson
professor emeritus of medicine, division of gastroenterology, Duke University School of Medicine
54 Yesenia L. Polanco-Galdamez
immigration and criminal defense attorney, Polanco Law
56 Olivia Bellido
department chair of theater arts, Jordan High School
58 Dr. Sabrina Grinstead
veterinarian and owner, Eno Animal Hospital
60 Melanie Allen
co-executive director, Hive Fund for Climate and Gender Justice
64 Jenn Summe
partner, Primordial Ventures; co-founder, Ladies Investing / Local Angels
66 Karrie G. Dixon
chancellor, North Carolina Central University
AGING & WELLNESS
108 Stay Golden
Discover local spots that help older adults keep moving, stay engaged and live life to the fullest
HOME & GARDEN
70 Remarkable Rooms
Stunning spaces masterfully crafted by three local designers
80 Built to Last
Southern artisans forge a new legacy, blending tradition with innovation in furniture and textiles
88 Season of Change
Sarah P. Duke Gardens welcomes visitors while undergoing a yearlong transformation, growing toward a brighter, more sustainable future
94 Mocha Mousse Madness
Tips for how to best utilize this comforting brown hue in your home
124 Navigating a Shifting Housing Market
Understanding changing trends and buyer adaptations
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
10 Go.See.Do.
Spring’s top events
32 Let’s Dish
Coupe & Stein Champagne Bar
128 Wedding
Tying the knot, Bull City-style
PEOPLE & PLACES
16 Book Harvest’s Dream Big Book Drive
18 Meals on Wheels Durham’s Feed the Need Gala
20 Caring House’s Benefit Gala
22 Durham Tech Foundation’s Celebration of Charles Wilson and Jean Wilson
24 Wheels Grand Reopening
26 Durham Regional Association of Realtors’ Awards Membership Luncheon
SPONSORED CONTENT
35 The Big Give
Our local nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved
