Bonny Levine – 2016 Table of Contents

Bonny LeVine – 2016 Table of Contents

Bonny LeVine At A Glance ...... 3

Lisa Almeida – CEO, Freedom Boat Club ...... 11

Cheryl Bachelder – CEO, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc ...... 14

Jania Bailey – CEO, FranNet Franchising, LLC ...... 18

Cathy Brown – Franchisee Owner & Area Director, Jersey Mike’s Subs ...... 22

Stacy Brown – Founder, Chicken Salad Chick ...... 26

Amy Cheng – Partner, Cheng Cohen, LLC ...... 30

Kim Ellis – VP Franchise Development, Snip It’s Franchise ...... 36

Shane Evans – President & COO, Massage Heights ...... 44

Cynthia Gartman – President, IKOR, USA ...... 47

Tara Gilad – COO/Co-Founder, Vitality Bowls...... 51

Rita Goldberg – Owner, British Swim School Franchising ...... 54

Susan Grant – President, Grant & Ingraham Inc. dba Senior Helpers of the East bay ...... 57

Pam Hodgson – CEO, Senior Helpers ...... 60

Eileen Huntington –CEO, Huntington Learning Center ...... 63

Jo Kirchner – President & CEO, Primrose Schools, Inc ...... 69 Bonny LeVine – 2016 Table of Contents

Malvina Messler – VP Business Development, Payroll Vault Franchising ...... 74

Mary Ann O’Connell – President & Founder, O’Connell & Company, Inc. DBA FranWise ...... 77

Martha O’Gorman – CMO, Liberty Tax Service ...... 81

Rhoda Olsen – CEO, Great Clips, Inc ...... 86

Nusha Pelicano – Owner/Franchisee & Operator, Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt ...... 91

Dori Roberts – Founder & CEO, Engineering for Kids ...... 94

Barbara Roden – Owner, Senior Helpers ...... 97

Debbie Shwetz – Co-Founder, Nothing Bundt Cakes ...... 100

Dana Spinola – CEO & Founder, fab’rik boutique ...... 104

Ciara Stockeland – COO, Mama Mia, INC./MODE ...... 107

Anne Stom – Owner/Franchisee. Annie’s Ace Hardware ...... 110

Kathy Thiessen – Director of Sales, Merry Maids ...... 114

Mara Topliff...... 118

Sabrina Wall – Executive Director, Franchise Brokers Association ...... 122 2016 Bonny LeVine Award Documentation

Nominee Name Lisa Almeida Cheryl Bachelder Jania Bailey Cathy Brown

Title CEO CEO CEO Franchisee Owner & Area Director

Company Name Freedom Boat Club Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, FranNet Franchising, LLC Jersey Mike’s Subs Inc. Founder No Yes No No (Yes/No)

Industry Marine Services Food: Restaurants Franchise Consulting Food: Restaurants

Units (number of 50 1805 50 700 units per brand)

Years in Franchising 13 42 9 28

IFA Leadership Positions: None 2015 Board of Directors 2015 Board of Directors None

 Supplier Forum IFA Committees None None  International Interest Group None  Membership Committee

CFE (Yes/No) N/A No Yes No

IFA Educational N/A N/A Yes No Foundation

Nominated By: Supplier Supplier Supplier Supplier 2016 Bonny LeVine Award Documentation

Nominee Name Stacy Brown Amy Cheng Kim Ellis Shane Evans

Title Founder Partner VP Franchise Development President & COO

Company Name Chicken Salad Chick Cheng Cohen, LLC The Snip Its Franchise Co. Massage Heights

Founder Yes Yes No Yes (Yes/No)

Industry Food: Restaurants Attorneys Hair Salons & Services Health & Beauty

Units (number of 11 N/A 67 120 units per brand) Years in Franchising 3 N/A 13 10  IFA’s Women's Franchise Committee  IFA’s 48th Annual Legal Symposium, Chair  IFA’s Women's National Franchise Network, Founder  2013 & 2014 IFA’s 47th Annual  IFA’s Marketing & Public IFA Leadership Legal Symposium, Vice-Chair  2005-2009 Co-Chair of Chicago Relations Committee Positions: None Chapter of IFA Women’s  IFA’s Convention Committee None Franchise Network Task Force  2004-2007 Co-Chair of Chicago  IFA’s Convention & Conference Chapter of IFA Franchise Speaker Business Network  IFA’s Published Articles in Franchising World Magazine

 Women’s Franchise Committee IFA Committees None  Supplier Advisory Board None None  Legal Symposium Task Force

CFE (Yes/No) No Currently Enrolled Yes Currently Enrolled

IFA Educational No Yes N/A No Foundation

Nominated By: Franchisor Franchisor Franchisor Supplier 2016 Bonny LeVine Award Documentation

Nominee Name Cynthia Gartman Tara Gilad Rita Goldberg Susan Grant

Title President COO/Co-Founder Owner President

IKOR, USA British Swim School Grant & Ingraham Inc. dba Company Name Vitality Bowls Franchising Senior Helpers of the East Bay Founder No Yes No (Yes/No) Yes

Industry Health Aid Services Food Speciality Children’s Services Senior Care

Units (number of 24 29 21 265 units per brand) Years in Franchising 6 2 5 11  ICFE Board of Governors • N/A  2015 IFA Educational Foundation Board of Trustees  Co-Chair of the Women’s IFA Leadership Franchise Network, Positions: Philadelphia, PA  Vice-Chair; Chair of Fran-Guard None None  Minorities In Franchising Committee  Diversity Institute, Board of Directors, Past Vice Chair  Educational Foundation Exec • None Committee  Membership Committee IFA Committees  Social Networking Task Force None None  Women’s Franchise Committee Mentor  Convention Committee CFE (Yes/No) Yes No No N/A IFA Educational N/A N/A No No Foundation

Nominated By: Franchisor Supplier:PR Firm Supplier Franchisor 2016 Bonny LeVine Award Documentation

Nominee Name Pam Hodgson Eileen Huntington Jo Kirchner

Title CEO CEO President & CEO

Company Name Senior Helpers Huntington Learning Centers Primrose Schools, Inc.

Founder No YEs No (Yes/No)

Industry Senior Care Educational Services Children’s Services

Units (number of 265 223 300 units per brand)

Years in Franchising 10 31 27

IFA Leadership Positions: None None None

IFA Committees None None None

CFE (Yes/No) No No No

IFA Educational No No No Foundation

Nominated By: Franchisor Franchisor Franchisor 2016 Bonny LeVine Award Documentation

Nominee Name Malvina Messler Mary Ann O’Connell Martha O’Gorman Rhoda Olsen

Title VP, Business Development President & Founder Chief Marketing Officer CEO

Payroll Vault Franchising, O’Connell & Company, Inc. Company Name Liberty Tax Service Great Clips, Inc. LLC DBA FranWise Founder No Yes No No (Yes/No)

Industry Payroll Services Franchise Consultants Accounting/Tax Services Hair Salons & Services

Units (number of 27 N/A - Supplier 4300 3700 units per brand) Years in Franchising 4 N/A - Supplier 18 32

 Supplier Forum Advisory Board IFA Leadership  Women in Franchising Denver (5 years)  Led panel discussions, Positions:  Mentee Franship IFA Mentoring  Workgroup leader – 2 years None presentations, and roundtable Program facilitation

 2015 Convention Committee  FBN committee  Membership committee  Three special task forces for membership and retention  Served as Moderator at 2007  Women’s Franchise Committee IFA Roundtable Discussion on “Marketing for New Franchisors None  Nomination Committee IFA Committees  Convention Committee  Speaker for Franchise Seminar None  Franchise Relations Committee Day during Franchise  Supplier Forum Advisory Board Appreciation Week in 2006  Co-chair/Founder  Franchise Network  Co-chair – Los Angeles Franchise Business Network CFE (Yes/No) No Yes N/A No IFA Educational N/A N/A N/A Foundation No

Nominated By: Franchisor Franchisor Franchisor Franchisor 2016 Bonny LeVine Award Documentation

Nominee Name Nusha Pelicano Dori Roberts Barbara Roden Debbie Shwetz

Owner/Franchisee & Title Founder & CEO CO-Founder Operator Owner

Company Name Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt Engineering for Kids Senior Helpers Nothing Bundt Cakes

Founder No Yes No (Yes/No) Yes Food: Ice Educational Products and Industry Senior Care Food: Baked Goods cream/Smoothies/Yogurt Services Units (number of 385 119 265 units per brand) 128

Years in Franchising 5 4 10 10

IFA Leadership None Positions: None None None

None IFA Committees None None  Dues Structure Task Force  Women’s Franchise Committee

CFE (Yes/No) No No No Yes

IFA Educational N/A N/A No Foundation No

Nominated By: Franchisor Franchisor Franchisor Supplier 2016 Bonny LeVine Award Documentation

Nominee Name Dana Spinola Ciara Stockeland Anne Stom Kathy Thiessen

Title CEO & Founder COO Owner/Franchisee Director of Sales

Company Name fab’rik boutique Mama Mia, INC. / MODE Annie’s Ace Hardware Merry Maids

Founder Yes Yes No No (Yes/No)

Industry Retail Stores: Specialty Retail Stores: Specialty Retail Stores: Specialty Janitorial Services

Units (number of 15 8 4166 4932 units per brand) Years in Franchising 10 5 N/A 63 IFA Leadership Positions: None None None None

IFA Committees None None None None

CFE (Yes/No) No No No No

IFA Educational N/A No N/A N/A Foundation

Nominated By: Franchisor Franchisor Franchisor Franchisee

2016 Bonny LeVine Award Documentation

Nominee Name Marla Topliff Sabrina Wall

Title President Executive Director

Franchise Brokers Company Name Rosati’s Franchising, Inc. Association Founder No No (Yes/No)

Industry Food: Pizza Education/Training

Units (number of 110 units per brand) N/A

Years in Franchising 10 N/A

IFA Leadership None None Positions:

 Convention Committee IFA Committees  International Interest Group  Membership Committee

CFE (Yes/No) No No

IFA Educational Yes No Foundation

Nominated By: Franchisor Supplier

Lisa Almeida - Freedom Boat Club

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

I took over a rapidly failing Jacksonville franchise of Freedom Boat Club (FBC) in 2011. After eight months of operating the franchise, we added a second location in St. Augustine. After the first year, my franchise was awarded Freedom Boat Club’s “Guardianship Award.” In my five years managing the franchise, it has grown from four boats and 40 members to 30 boats and 350 members.

Since being asked in November 2012 to also serve in a corporate role at Freedom Boat Club, I have been a driving force behind FBC’s aggressive national expansion. I have been instrumental in overhauling FBC’s marketing efforts, working to forge relationships and build trust with marina operators while supporting various charitable causes in communities where FBC operates. The results have been dramatic. Not only has FBC enjoyed a significant increase in franchise locations but also in overall membership and revenue.

Locally, the FBC franchises I own, in Jacksonville and St. Augustine, increased revenues 17.3 percent from 2011 to 2012, and 32 percent in 2013. I have been recognized by Discover Boating and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) as a major contributor to increasing the opportunity for people to be become boaters.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

I believe that my quick turnaround of FBC’s Jacksonville franchise, and my quick expansion into St. Augustine, is a classic example of how a franchise network rewards individual initiative and an entrepreneurial spirit. Being a franchise owner-operator does not, in and of itself, guarantee success. But franchising provides a wonderful framework and support network for a business person to reach his or her own level of success and thrive. I believe I have been a solid example of that.

The marine industry is almost exclusively a man’s world. I am the only female owner in the company, which operates in 80 locations across the nation. I drive boats, dock them, perform basic maintenance and repairs, and even pull trailers. It is always fun to see the look on the men’s faces when I expertly back a boat down a steep ramp. My advertising alter-ego --- Lisa the Boatanista – has been successful in reaching out to both men and women by speaking with a voice of expertise as well as confidence. I have been able to thrive in a male-dominated network and have gained the respect of my male colleagues, who treat me as a valued peer.

Lisa Almeida - Freedom Boat Club

But I think, best of all, my confidence as a business owner in the marine industry is providing a model for women to explore new opportunities and not be intimidated. I lead by example and don’t issue directives. I live by the motto, “You can have anything you want, if you just help someone else get what they want.” It not only works, but it is rewarding. I am constantly seeking ways to learn and improve by reading books and attending workshops and webinars. I believe that the culture of a business, and the atmosphere in the workplace, is a reflection of leadership. I am just as proud of the positive culture we have created at Freedom Boat Club as I am the improvements we have seen in the bottom line. But those two things most likely go hand in hand.

Yes, I have mentorees who can be contacted.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

FBC’s Guardianship, and Highest Percent of Growth award. Appointed to serve on the NMMA National Grow Boating Leadership Council, representing Diversity in Boating. Awarded Women in Business Entrepreneur of the Year, 2014. Awarded the Marine Marketing Association Neptune Award for Sales and Marketing.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

I have been actively involved in helping my community on both an individual and corporate level. I am a member of the Jacksonville Marine Association, the United States Power Squadron, The Captains Club, and the City of Jacksonville Boating Committee. These organizations are involved in charity events for boaters, and boating children. I have also served as a role model, empowering women to be involved in boating by offering training events like Ladies at the Helm, geared toward women. Among my personal efforts: In 2012, I raised $11,000 for Special Olympics while finishing in second place in Jacksonville’s Dancing with the Stars competition. I played a significant public role in saving the annual Jacksonville Holiday Boat Parade, which officials planned to eliminate in a budget- cutting move. I helped gather a coalition of individuals and business owners to raise funds and pressure the city to keep the popular event, which it did. I brought the most donations, came up with sponsorship packages and personally secured the barge for the fireworks. On the corporate side: I led the effort to get FBC involved in a variety of community efforts such as: providing charity boat rides for Hospice, Fathers

Lisa Almeida - Freedom Boat Club

Harbor School, Baptist Children’s Hospital, and The Daniel Foundation. My local franchises have provided fun-filled days on the water to more than 200 children. FBC, under my direction, also participated with WJCT Public Radio in membership drives, and I have been the on-air spokesperson while FBC employees and members answered the phones.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

I believe my high-profile community involvement and volunteer efforts have helped bolster Freedom Boat Club’s image both internally, within its franchise network, and externally, in the greater Jacksonville area. Internally, my ongoing community work has helped communicate the message to other FBC franchise operators that their individual efforts in their local communities help bolster the company’s overall image andbrand.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

I think my largest contribution to the franchise industry has been to serve as an effective model of how you can work within a well-established, national organization, but still use your individual gifts and talents to grow your own business. I have created “The Boatanista” which is an official trademark, which is branded with Freedom Boat Club.

Questionnaire Response No. 9 Are there legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of an IFA award might raise which have the potential to attract negative publicity or attention for the association and/or the franchising industry? Please describe.

None

Cheryl Bachelder - Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc.

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

Cheryl Bachelder is a passionate restaurant industry executive, known for her crisp strategic thinking, guest-focused operations, consistent financial performance and the development of outstanding leaders and teams. She joined Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen in November 2007 after serving as an active member of the Board for one year. She brings more than 30 years of experience in brand building, operations and public-company management at companies like KFC, Domino's Pizza, RJR Nabisco, The Gillette Company and The Procter & Gamble Company.

At Popeyes, Ms. Bachelder promptly established a Road Map for Results with four strategic pillars: build the brand, run great restaurants, grow restaurant profits and ramp up new restaurant growth. This strategic framework has led to focused initiatives that have built same store sales, market share, improved guest ratings and increased restaurant operating profit margins for seven consecutive years. The improvement in restaurant performance has led to a system-wide remodel and the acceleration of new unit growth, both in the U.S. and international – with 201 restaurants built last year. Popeyes share price has increased from $13 to $60, more than quadrupling the value of the company. Today Popeyes has system-wide revenues of $2.7 billion, over 2379 restaurants in 27 countries, over 340 franchisees and more than 60,000 restaurant employees.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

At Popeyes, the senior leadership team is best known for the collaborative manner in which we work with our franchise owners. We set business strategy and implementation plans together with the leaders of the Popeyes International Franchise Association. This focus on a healthy, aligned relationship with our franchisees has enabled us to implement the business growth strategies with excellence. We have carefully monitored the sales, traffic, restaurant operating profit and new unit returns to ensure we are serving our franchisees well. Each year we conduct a survey of the franchisees to monitor their rating of our leadership. The 2014 results show material improvement over five years ago:

Popeyes Franchise Owner Survey Results (% rating Popeyes good, very good or excellent) 2008 2014 Change

How would you rate the overall quality of the Popeyes system? 66 96 +30 Would you invest in Popeyes again? 76 90 +14 Would you recommend Popeyes to another potential franchisee? 67 90 +23

At the 2014 IFA convention, Cheryl presented the Popeyes case study delineating how Popeyes has accomplished industry leading results through a powerful partnership with the owners. This presentation was viewed as a landmark example of best-in-class franchising in the restaurant industry. In

Cheryl Bachelder - Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc.

2015, Cheryl published a book entitled Dare to Serve: How to drive results by serving others, chronicling the leadership approach used to turnaround Popeyes performance.

Since 2001, Cheryl has been an active member of the Women’s Foodservice Forum, an organization dedicated to developing future female leaders in the hospitality industry. Cheryl gave the keynote speech at the 2013 WFF Executive Summit titled Leaving a Leadership Legacy. Cheryl was honored as WFF Leader of the Year in 2012. Cheryl has served the member companies of WFF by conducting and presenting a research study with the Gallup Organization – How to create workplace environments where women thrive (2004-05). Cheryl has mentored numerous women in the industry, both formally and informally.

At Popeyes, Cheryl has supported the Popeyes Women’s Leadership Forum, a volunteer-led group that provides leadership development to women across the company –employees and franchisees. This organization has served to develop the skills of our women, preparing many women for career advancement at Popeyes. Cheryl regularly meets with the women in this group for brown bag lunch discussions on leadership.

Women leaders that could comment on Cheryl’s commitment to development include:

Brenda Trickey, Vice-President, Attorney Cheryl Fletcher, Vice-President, Development Suzanne Miller, Vice-President, Planning & Implementation

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

In February, 2015, Cheryl became a board member of the IFA. She is currently serving on two task forces – regarding minimum wage and changing the narrative of franchising.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

In 2012, Cheryl was recognized as Leader of the Year by the Women’s Foodservice Forum and received the highest industry award, the Silver Plate, for the quick service restaurant sector, presented by the International Food Manufacturer’s Association. Cheryl was also recognized a 2012 Nation’s Restaurant

Cheryl Bachelder - Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc.

News’ Golden Chain Award recipient. She has recently been notified that she will be awarded the Norman Brinker Award at the MUFSO conference in September. She is currently in the top 10 nominees for the John Maxwell leadership award.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

Cheryl’s primary community involvement in the restaurant industry has been her leadership and Popeyes’ sponsorship of the ProStart program for developing future restaurant leaders. Cheryl has served as a judge of the Management competition in Georgia and Texas state competitions and at the National ProStart competition. She has also committed to funding of a new curriculum to teach franchising in the ProStart program – this curriculum is currently in development.

On a personal level, Cheryl’s community involvement includes support of Hillsdale College, Open Hand Atlanta, Salvation Army – Atlanta, Crossroad Farms Teen Ministry in Hillsdale County, Michigan, Spring Hill Youth Camps in Evart, Michigan, CRU leadership development initiative (Global ministry), WorldVision micro lending projects and 4wordwomen.org. She and her husband Chris also support numerous political candidates who are pro-free enterprise.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

Cheryl’s work at ProStart has raised awareness of franchising as a career path. ProStart historically has focused on a strong culinary program to prepare future chefs for the industry. Cheryl has pushed for a stronger foodservice management program to demonstrate the wide range of careers available in the industry – with a particular emphasis on franchising careers. Cheryl has involved several of Popeyes best franchising operators in presentations to high school students – to help students see the entrepreneurial opportunities available.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

There have been no pertinent legal actions taken towards the franchisor in the systems with which Cheryl has been affiliated.

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

Board Service: Ms. Bachelder has served as a member of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc.’s Board of Directors since November 2006 and also serves on the Board of

Cheryl Bachelder - Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc.

Directors for Pier 1 Imports, Inc. since 2012; currently chairing the Compensation Committee. She is a member of the advisory board of Agile Pursuits Franchising, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Procter & Gamble that is entering franchising with the launch of Tide Dry Cleaners (2009-present). Cheryl served on the Board of Directors for True Value Company from 2007 – 2012 and on the Board of the National Restaurant Association May 2009 – 2012. In November 2014, Cheryl was certified as an NACD Board Leadership Fellow.

Personal: Ms. Bachelder holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Masters of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. She is married thirty four years to Chris Bachelder and they have three grown daughters (and now a one year old grandson!). Cheryl and Chris are active in Buckhead Church, Atlanta.

There are no known issues which have the potential to attract negative publicity for the IFA or the industry.

Jania Bailey — FranNet Franchising, LLC

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

I started my career as a secretary with a small bank in Paducah, KY. I worked my way up the organization to VP of Commercial Lending before the age of 30. I was recruited by a large regional bank in Louisville, KY where I continued my career in banking until 1996.

In 1996 I started my own consulting and training company, which led me to the franchise industry.

I served for over 6 years as Regional Vice President for an Regional Owner of Fantastic Sams managing a 5 state region. In this role, I oversaw franchise sales, operational development and support for franchisees. I established operational programs and process that were implemented on a national basis. We also developed manuals and training programs that were adopted by the parent company as national standards.

I was recruited in 2004 by Fantastic Sams International to serve as a Regional Director for a corporate owned region in need of turnaround. I was also a part of the national operations team and best practices task force. In 2006, I joined FranNet, LLC as President and COO during a change of ownership and turmoil. We converted the company to a franchise business model from a Mutual Benefit Company.

Since joining FranNet, I have established national relationships with SBA, SCORE, ASBDC, ExecuNet and numerous national outplacement firms.

Under my leadership, FranNet has grown tremendously in revenue, profitability and industry status.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Through the national relationships established with SCORE, ASBDC, ExecuNet and numerous outplacement firms, FranNet has been instrumental in educating these organizations on the benefits of franchising. This has resulted in the franchising message being carried to individuals that had no knowledge of our industry.

The major national strategic partnerships that I have developed for FranNet continue to build in momentum. Each new relationship opens doors for other activities. The recognition and press the company has received as a result of these relationships has been instrumental in delivering the message of franchising as a viable opportunity for people interested in business ownership. Jania Bailey — FranNet Franchising, LLC

Many women have told me that I am an inspiration as to what can be accomplished in the franchise industry. I have mentored numerous women through the FranShip program and in my various positions in the franchise industry.

I am currently mentoring the following: Aubrey W. Huber Chief Operating Officer Postcard Portables Canada Toll Free Ph: 1.888.779.4080 [email protected]

“I really appreciate your insights. I’m already learning so much!”

Previous Mentees:  Beth Compton – [email protected] Previously with All Team Franchise now on the road to being a franchisee. “Jania, I want to stay in touch with you. You have been a tremendous mentor and source of support. You are definitely a 'keeper'!  Jenifer Schultz- [email protected] Previously with City Wide Maintenance- now a franchisee with Cell Phone Repair.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

 Membership Committee – December 2006 to Present o Vice Chair of Membership Committee since February 2015  IFA Ambassador – Feb 2007- Present  Supplier Forum Board Member - 2010- 2015  IFA Executive Board Member February 2013- Present  FranShip Mentor- 2010 to Present

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community. None Jania Bailey — FranNet Franchising, LLC

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

 I am an active volunteer with Bellewood Presbyterian Home for children where I provide workshops and education on goal setting and self- esteem issues.  I am active in my church with various volunteer activities.  I have previously served on multiple boards of various non-profit organizations both locally and nationally. My community involvement resulted in me receiving the “Bell Award” for outstanding volunteerism in the workplace.  In 2013 I was given a National Award from SCORE for my support of Small Business and the volunteer work I do with SCORE.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

With all my volunteer work, I am recognized as the CEO of FranNet, a part of the franchise industry.

The work I have done with SCORE has raised awareness of franchising with the hundreds of SCORE counselors that meet with clients every day. Our training and recourses have educated the counselors on franchising as a viable business opportunity for these clients.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

None

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

I consider myself a role model for what women can accomplish in the franchise industry. I lead by example with both women and men. If you work hard and you are willing to learn, franchising can be the road to your success.

I try daily to exhibit strength and grace through leadership. I believe these are traits that women must balance to be successful.

I am a major advocate of the industry through my work with the IFA. Utilizing my role at FranNet to address more than 150 franchisors as the request for help with FAN situations arise, I feel I am able to make a difference for the industry.

Jania Bailey — FranNet Franchising, LLC

None

Cathy Brown - Jersey Mike’s Subs

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

Cathy is the owner of six Jersey Mike’s Subs restaurants in San Diego and six in Northern California. Additionally, she is an area director for San Diego County and co-area director, with her husband, in Northern California, responsible for development, selling territories and overseeing the local Co-op’s marketing/operations. The company, known for its fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs, currently has 1,500 restaurants open or under development nationwide.

Since opening the first Jersey Mike’s Subs restaurant in San Diego in 2009, Cathy has brought to her local community a laser focus on product quality, extraordinary customer service and a strong commitment to giving back. This passion for the brand has paid off. Today, under Cathy’s leadership, there are 35 Jersey Mike’s open in San Diego and 19 locations in the Bay Area. Her San Diego area is the #1 market in the country, based on average unit volume sales, and has more stores on the company’s national leader board than any other market. Cathy’s background as a rocket scientist, high school math teacher and active community service volunteer adds something unique to her role at Jersey Mike's.

Jersey Mike’s won the San Diego Union/Tribune “Best of…” competition in the “Deli/Sub Shop” category in 2010 (with only three stores open-all opening within six months), 2012, 2013 and 2015. In 2013, she received a San Diego Magazine’s “Women Who Move the City” award and the “Kite Award” from Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary. She won the 2016 Regional Excellence award from Jersey Mike’s Subs. Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Cathy is a focused franchise owner and a tireless community leader. Everything about the Jersey Mike’s culture revolves around the commitment to the customer and to the community. Locally, the San Diego market is booming. As noted, Cathy’s leads the #1 market in the country based on average unit volume sales, and there are now 54 Jersey Mike’s restaurants open in her two areas with more on the way. Jersey Mike’s employs approximately 850 people from the local community. Cathy is a role model for other franchisees coming into the system.

Nationally, Jersey Mike’s has nearly doubled in size in just three years. With 1,500 restaurants open and under development nationwide, Jersey Mike’s continues to collect accolades. In 2016, for the third year in a row, the company was named the #1 Fastest Growing Chain in the Nation’s Restaurant News Top 100. The company placed #5 in the 25 Best Fast-Food Chains in America (2016) ranking by Business Insider and Restaurant Business. Additionally, Jersey Mike’s was voted the best sandwich chain in America, with more than 10,000 votes cast, in a 2016 poll by Ranker.

Jersey Mike’s wins Best Sub Awards in virtually every market it serves and this positive public awareness of a brand helps promote Cathy Brown - Jersey Mike’s Subs franchising as a whole.

As the largest woman franchise owner in California with twelve restaurants and more coming, Cathy has made it a priority to positively influence other women joining the Jersey Mike’s system. Over the last seven years, Cathy has mentored several women who have become Jersey Mike’s franchisees, managers and marketing directors. Cathy works closely with them to provide advice and counsel on topics related to finance, build-outs, operations, marketing, hiring and more. Cathy is looked upon as a valued leader and mentor in California.

Mentorees:  Christy Paul 323-627-6279, Bennett Ball 949-466-5201, Suman Atwal 408-531-5406 (franchisees)  Jessica Zulauf (DIrector of Marketing and Special Events) 619-929-7486  Store Managers Breanna Rankin 858-248-9817, Jasmine McKay 619-507-3708 and Kristin Leuring 619-316-9793. Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

Jersey Mike’s has been active overall in IFA (see end) and Cathy hopes to be involved in the future.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

 Jersey Mike’s Subs - Regional Excellence Award – 2010, 2016  R ady C hildren's Hospital F oundation "C orporate Miracle Maker of the Y ear" 2014  J ersey Mike's S ubs - Million Dollar C lub member - 2 stores 2013 and 2014 ; 3 stores 2015, 4 s tores 2016  S an Diego Mag azine - Women Who Move the C ity Honoree 2013  R ady C hildren's Hospital Auxiliary "K ite Award' recipient 2013

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

Cathy is passionate about helping causes and, from the beginning, has given back to her local community. Recently, she challenged local Cathy Brown - Jersey Mike’s Subs

Jersey Mike’s franchisees and team members to raise more than last year for Rady Children’s Hospital during the company’s 6th Annual Month of Giving campaign in March. The San Diego market blew by last year’s $151,000 fundraising total, raising an incredible $189,000 during the campaign, a 25% increase. Much of this was raised on Jersey Mike’s “Day of Giving” on Wednesday, March 30, when Jersey Mike’s San Diego restaurants donated 100 percent of the day’s sales to Rady’s. In addition, Jersey Mike’s generous customers made donations all month long.

Learning from Jersey Mike’s, Cathy has brought into play many best practices of the brand including conducting a five-day fundraiser for a local charity for every new store opening. For her 13th restaurant in Del Mar, the new location donated $5,000 to the Del Mar Schools Educational Foundation and $ 2,000 to Del mar Little League.

Since opening in the San Diego market, Jersey Mike’s has donated thousands of subs to programs in the community, including the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego, The Kroc Center at the Salvation Army, San Diego Lifeguard Association, the Miracle League, Wounded Warriors, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, San Diego Police Officers Association as well as dozens of local high Schools, middle schools and elementary schools and the military.

Cathy encourages other franchisees to support local charitable initiatives as well. Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

Jersey Mike’s believes that making a sub sandwich and making a difference can be one and the same, a philosophy that has fueled the sub sandwich chain’s popularity.

A survey of Jersey Mike’s most loyal customers showed the majority acknowledged learning about or participating in the company’s community involvement has changed their perceptions. They know that Jersey Mike’s gives first and worries about the returns later and that the franchisees like Cathy “put their money where their mouth is.” Seeing local owners supporting the community helps Jersey Mike’s as well as the perception of the franchise industry in general.

Cathy has set high standards for herself as a Jersey Mike’s franchise owner and she shares the company’s commitment to quality products, exceptional customer service and giving back to the local community. Since 2010, Jersey Mike’s locations throughout the country have raised nearly $18 million for worthy local charities and have distributed more than 1.5 million free sub sandwiches to help numerous causes. This year, the company’s 6th Annual Jersey Mike’s Month of Giving in March raised more than $4 million for 180 charities throughout the country.

Cathy’s commitment to the local community and her support of many important causes sends a clear message: Jersey Mike’s wants to make a difference. Many people discover Jersey Mike’s though their local charity and come back time and time again. Cathy Brown - Jersey Mike’s Subs

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

None

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree. Cathy is one of the most highly respected leaders within the Jersey Mike’s system. She is often called upon for her opinion and advice by other franchisees and leadership within Jersey Mike’s. Cathy served on the Jersey Mike’s National Advisory Council and was elected by her peers. She was on the Council for four years.

Additionally, Cathy was elected to the NBC Community Advisory Board and was invited to join the Advisory Council to Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Each year, Cathy strives for continuous improvement and last year was no different. Her busy year included working with franchisees to grow the number of Jersey Mike’s restaurants in San Diego from 26 to 35 and from 12 to 18 in Northern California, and raising $189,000 for Rady Children’s Hospital. Some of her most meaningful accomplishments include working with hundreds of team members, teaching and mentoring them on a daily basis about doing things the right way, giving back to the community, and having a positive impact on her customers' day. Questionnaire Response No. 9 Are there legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of an IFA award might raise which have the potential to attract negative publicity or attention for the association and/or the franchising industry? Please describe.

None Stacy Brown — Chicken Salad Chick

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

Restaurateur of the Year at 15th Annual Hospitality Stars of Alabama Awards Young Business Person of the Year in Auburn, AL (2013) Member of the Election Committee for Auburn University’s Women’s Philanthropy Board Featured on the Cover of Business Alabama & in Entrepreneur Magazine

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Our recent award for Alabama’s Restaurateur of the Year was the most recognizable way that our achievements are advancing the principles of franchising. Typically, the award goes to single-unit restaurants with high end chefs. To have an at home business-turned budding franchisor to win this award, showed people throughout our industry that franchising is alive and well, and looking for great entrepreneurs. While some have recognized our achievements, others still doubt our philosophy that we should do one thing, and do it really well (most think our focus solely on chicken salad is crazy). We understand we’re not going to please everybody, and we’re OK with that because we’re a specialty restaurant. In fact, we’re the first of our kind so not only are we serving as an example of a successful business model through franchising, but we are also pioneering this unique niche style restaurant. Chicken Salad Chick has grown from a small take out spot to 37 locations across the Southeast, and has currently sold 131 franchises to be developed across the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North & South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. We have an incredibly passionate group of owners and guests, and our unique concept has turned many successful people on to owning their own franchise, as very few (if any) of our franchise owners are previous restaurateurs. They’re making a jump into franchising because they believe in our brand, and that alone offers massive visibility to the franchising model.

Chicken Salad Chick was an idea born out of necessity. I started selling homemade chicken salad to friends and neighbors to supplement my income after a divorce. But I quickly learned, via a call from the local health inspector, that what I was doing was illegal. At this point I could either stop completely or start a real business. Chicken Salad Chick was then born. All the chicken salad flavors are named after influential women in our lives and I am in constant contact with these women as many have become franchise owners and seek guidance with day to day business advice. You may contact any of these 15 women. Please email [email protected] for contact information. Stacy Brown — Chicken Salad Chick

Being an alumna of Auburn University, I continue to keep close personal relationships with Auburn University as member of the Auburn Women’s Philanthropy Board. I have spoken at numerous events specifically with franchising business classes as well as giving scholarships to young women with entrepreneurial spirits.

Overall, I lead example and exhibit enthusiasm with our Chicken Salad Chick Team Members. I provide guidance and constructive feedback and always have the voice of the Chicken Salad Chick brand at heart.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

No held positions in IFA

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

2015 Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers award, 39th Spot Nation Restaurant News 2015 Breakout Brands QSR Magazine –“One To Watch”

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

In the past year my husband, Kevin Brown and I established the Chicken Salad Chick Foundation. The foundation partners with the American Cancer Society to find a cure and help those affected by the disease, but it also has a focus on ending hunger in America. As a restaurant concept, we feel we can directly impact children, adults and families who experience food insecurity. In September 2014, we began fundraising for local food banks across the Southeast, which resulted in over $50,000 raised to feed hungry families across the Southeast. We are also in the midst of planning and fundraising for the Second Annual Chicken Salad Chick Teeing Off for Cancer Golf Tournament, where all proceeds will go to the East Alabama Cancer Center in Opelika, AL, the Montgomery Cancer Center in Montgomery, AL and the American Cancer Society. After Kevin's November 2013 diagnosis of Stage IV colon cancer, the Browns are now so grateful that they are able to use their restaurant concept as an avenue for a bigger and more fulfilling purpose in this foundation.

Stacy Brown — Chicken Salad Chick

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

Community is at the heart of our business. A majority part of our franchising experience is being actively involved in our communities by providing meals and raising funds for countless local organizations. While most “restaurant chains” typically struggle with that connection to local community, our franchise structure has allowed us to continue to have that local connection. We are able to be more involved in our communities and make a positive impact in all our local areas. We are continuously building relationships within our communities by raising funds with our Annual Coupon Book, sponsoring local sports teams, making food donations to local food banks. Through the Chicken Salad Chick Foundation we are helping support our communities and have proven that all of these efforts lead to community support and growth.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

None

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

Here are 3 characteristics that set me apart for other nominees:

Humility: Because I never intended to start a restaurant, am still moved and overwhelmed every day by the success of this company. Hours before each restaurant opens, you can find me talking with and encouraging the employees of that location, often I moved to tears as I recall the company's history and charges me to maintain the integrity my husband and I strive to maintain. We never miss the opportunity to credit the people around them, though, as we remain extremely grateful for our family, friends and team who have helped each step of the way.

Perseverance: We are dedicated to running a restaurant through flawless execution of all policies & procedures while providing each guest with a superb experience. Despite Kevin's recent battle with cancer, he is still in the office most days and continues to lead his team through this exciting growth phrase.

Sense of Humor: Aside from Kevin and I's commitment to running a world-class restaurant

Stacy Brown — Chicken Salad Chick concept, we never take themselves too seriously. My vibrant, Southern personality is contagious, and can be found throughout the various signs and articles that hang in each restaurant. I believe that much of Chicken Salad Chick's personality comes from growing up with a passive-aggressive Southern mother, who often asked questions like "Shooga, wouldn't you feel betta with a little lipstick on?"

No Amy Cheng — Cheng Cohen, LLC

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

Before forming Cheng Cohen in 2007, I was a partner with DLA Piper US LLP and its predecessor firm for my entire career, and a member of Commercial, Corporate and Franchise & Distribution Practice Groups. Making partner at the young age of 34 is a tremendous milestone for any lawyer, but in today’s competitive marketplace very few women get to the upper echelons of major law firms in that short of a time period.

However, I saw an opportunity for a different type of franchise law firm, one with three simple components: uncompromising customer service; sound legal advice for the franchise industry; and fair price, which is how Cheng Cohen was born. Since the firm’s inception, we have grown the team from two attorneys to 11 attorneys. Today, Cheng Cohen has been recognized by Chambers & Partners USA as a leader in franchising for both client service and commercial awareness, as well as its consistent first tier ranking for franchising by U.S. News – Best Lawyers listing of Best Law Firms.

For my work in the field of franchise law, I was selected by my peers to be The Best Lawyers’ 2014 Chicago Franchise “Lawyer of the Year.” I also have been named a "Legal Eagle" by the Franchise Times, recognized by Who's Who Legal, Leading Lawyers, Chambers and Partners and selected by peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers of America®.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Cheng Cohen was formed to help franchisors grow their franchise systems; and with the simple goal of being the franchise industry’s premier full time service boutique law firm. We started the firm with 20 to 30 clients, and in the past eight years have grown the business tremendously, representing over 200 clients. Taking the leap and opening my own firm (along with my partner, Ric) allowed me the opportunity to consistently do meaningful work for a global roster of clients who consider me to be a true partner in growing their businesses.

I represent franchisors on the structuring and operation of their franchise programs through all stages of development, and have aided emerging, mid-size and large franchise systems expand their business. My extensive experience working with companies such as Sears Holdings, Allegra Network, Red Robin and Tilted Kilt has been a driving force behind their successful growth.

Throughout my career, I have used my experience to help others succeed and become more knowledgeable about the franchise industry, whether through speaking at small business and entrepreneur groups, being widely published in industry magazines, active involvement with the IFA or mentoring other attorneys.

Amy Cheng — Cheng Cohen, LLC

Throughout my career, I’ve been devoted to promoting the importance of women in franchising. This past year, as the Chair of the 2015 IFA Legal Symposium, I had an opportunity to ensure that the Task Force had significant female representation. I also advocated for more female speakers and moderators in the programming. It is with great pleasure to say that this past year at the 48th Annual Symposium, nearly 30 women held speaking opportunities at the conference, and am working hard to make sure women are well represented in 2016.

The mentorship of younger franchise attorneys is also extremely important to me, whether it is positively guiding their career paths or providing educational opportunities for women to succeed within the franchise industry. Under my leadership, Marlen Cortez Morris, an attorney at Cheng Cohen, became a member of the Diversity Institute Board of the IFA, and Antonia Scholz and Allison Grow, also attorneys at Cheng Cohen, are co-chairs of the Chicago Chapter of the Women’s Franchise Network IFA and Antonia Scholz will be the incoming Young Lawyers Division Liaison of the American Bar Association’s Forum on Franchising. Over 50 percent of the attorneys at Cheng Cohen are female and, under my mentorship, many of them have started to take on more leadership roles advocating for the industry.

For many years while serving on the IFA Franchise Women’s Committee, I served on a Task Force that was responsible for the Annual Leadership Conference. This conference focused on leadership and the advancement of female leaders.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

IFA Leadership o Chair, International Franchise Association’s 48th Annual Legal Symposium, 2015 and 2016 o Vice-Chair, International Franchise Association’s 47th Annual Legal Symposium, 2014 and 2013 o Co-Chair of Chicago Chapter of International Franchise Association Women’s Franchise Network, 2005-2009 o Co-Chair of Chicago Chapter of International Franchise Association Franchise Business Network, 2004-2007

Amy Cheng — Cheng Cohen, LLC

IFA Committees/Task Force o Member, International Franchise Association Women’s Franchise Committee, 2009 – 2015. o Member, International Franchise Association’s Supplier Advisory Board 2014-present o Task Force Member, International Franchise Association’s Annual Convention

IFA Speaking Engagements

In addition to the leadership roles and task force participation, I have often spoken at IFA event. Below are a few recent panels in which I participated: o Franchise Development Summit, Panelist, International Franchise Association’s 55th Annual Convention, February 16, 2015, Las Vegas, Nevada o “Legal Issues Impacting Emerging Franchisors,” Moderator, Emerging Franchisor Conference, November 18, 2014, Dallas, Texas o “10 Things You Should Know in Taking Your Brand to the Next Level (and Pitfalls to Avoid), Moderator, Emerging Franchisor Conference, November 13, 2013, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida o Basics of Franchise Registration, Panelist, International Franchise Association’s 46th Annual Legal Symposium, May 5, 2013, Washington, D.C. o “Best Practices in Administering the National Advertising Fund,” Moderator, International Franchise Association’s 52nd Annual Convention, February 12, 2012, Orlando, Florida o “Dealing With Thorny Transfer Issues,” International Franchise Association’s 43rd Annual Legal Symposium, May 17, 2010, Washington,D.C. o “A Franchisor’s Role in Brokering a Resale,” Panelist, International Franchise Association’s 48th Annual Convention, February 12, 2008, Orlando, Florida

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

o Included in The International Who’s Who of Franchise Lawyers o Named by Franchise Times as a “Legal Eagle” Cheng Cohen Accolades o Cheng Cohen has been recognized by Chambers & Partners USA as a leader in franchising for both client service and commercialawareness. o Cheng Cohen has received a First Tier ranking, both in national franchise law and in the Chicago metropolitan category by U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

ABA Forum on Franchising

In addition to my IFA involvement, I have also been very involved with the ABA’s Forum on Franchising throughout my career. I have described below a few ways in which I have been involved with the Forum. o Articles Editor (2012-2013) and Associate Editor (2014-2015), Franchise Law Journal o 2014 Nominating Committee Member o Authored articles for the Franchise Law Journal o Presented at the Forum’s Annual Meetings

Other Activities o I hosted an Entrepreneurship Speaker Series: Growth Strategies & Franchise Management for students at Kendall College in Chicago studying hospitality management and culinary arts. I find a lot of value in educating future graduates on the franchise industry and helping guide their career paths on ways to become involved in franchising. I plan on continuing to work with Kendall College and other schools in the Chicago area to educate future leaders in franchising. o For many years, I have served on the Franchise Advisory Board for the Illinois Attorney General, which provides guidance to the Illinois Attorney General regarding franchise issues and assists in drafting regulations for franchise law. o I served on the International Institute of Franchise Education’s Strategic (IIFES) Advisory Board for NOVA University to assist with the development and implementation of educational and leadership training programs for franchise executives. I also taught courses for NOVA University’s Franchise Fast Track MBA programs. Furthermore, Cheng Cohen was one of the initial sponsors of NOVA University’s emerging franchisor conference and remained a diamond sponsor each year. Amy Cheng — Cheng Cohen, LLC

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

In order to heighten the awareness of franchising, I truly believe that we have to continue to educate. We need to continue to educate those who are in the industry. We also need to educate those who do not understand franchising and the positive impact of franchising to the economy. As recent legal developments have shown us, the recent attack on franchising is simply due to lack of understanding regarding the industry. My community involvement has focused on this educational process. As part of the Franchise Advisory Board for the Illinois Attorney General, I have helped to convince the Illinois Attorney General to allocate the state’s resources to franchising. As part of NOVA’s IIFES Advisory Board, I played a role in convincing the university board to continue to support the franchise program for many years. I am hopeful that more Kendall College graduates will become involved in franchising as a result of the franchise curriculum that’s now available.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

As counsel for franchisors, my goal is always to keep franchisors out of litigation. However, litigation cannot always be avoided. Therefore, throughout my career, I have been involved in many legal actions that concern franchise systems. Some of the decisions that we obtain for our clients impact the entire industry. For example, Cheng Cohen’s litigation team recently won an important victory for Red Robin International, Inc. (RRI) in a dispute with the Red Robin Franchisee Association. The Franchisee Association filed the case in state court seeking declaratory judgment regarding the meaning of the term “local advertising” contained in some of its members’ franchise agreements. Rather than engage in costly discovery on the merits of the Franchisee Association’s claim, we filed a motion to dismiss the case immediately. It argued that the Franchisee Association lacked standing. We argued—and the court agreed—that participation of the Franchisee Association’s members was essential to the dispute, and the court granted RRI motion on that basis. Specifically, the court found that the declaration of rights requested by the Franchisee Association required individual inquiry into the franchise agreements and course of conduct between RRI and individual franchisees. This was particularly true as the Franchisee Association asked the court to hold a contractual limitations clause unenforceable. RRI’s arguments that this would require testimony from each franchisee prevailed.

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

I learned early in life that nothing gets handed to you on a silver platter. We moved from Taiwan to Oklahoma when I was eight years old. No one in my family knew how to speak English. Despite the language barrier, my father ran a successful restaurant. My parents worked hard and taught me the value of hard work at an early age. Although my father had a difficult time communicating with his employees, he led by example. As I grew up, I realized words are hollow unless your actions support them.

Transitioning this mantra to my career, I roll up my sleeves and put in the long hours, just as I expect my teammates to do. I am very thankful for the Amy Cheng — Cheng Cohen, LLC support that the franchise community has given me. Without this support, Cheng Cohen would not exist. Therefore, my goal is to help franchisors successfully grow their brands and increase the visibility of franchising. Under my leadership, I am proud to say Cheng Cohen has committed over $130,000 in IFA sponsorships since the company’s inception in 2007.

My other goal is to help young women be successful leaders, while balancing a family. Having taken my 3-year old daughter to every IFA conference that I have attended since she was born, I understand the challenges that many women face. Whether it’s mentoring young lawyers or helping my clients so that they can spend more time with their families, I would like to continue to help more women succeed in franchising.

None Kimberly Ellis – The Snip-Its Franchise Company

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.  I grew up in franchising and worked at my parent’s Schwinn Bike store  I’ve served 26 years in franchising, including: o 13 years in the salon segment - Executive positions in marketing, franchise development, and field operations o Helped launch FranChoice in 2000. As VP, I developed and maintained one of the largest lead generation programs in the industry - providing consistent lead flow for more than 75 independent consultants . During my tenure at FranChoice I also launched a women’s forum for female consultants to share ideas and network. o Served at President of Bison Advertising and delivered a consistent 40% operating profit during my tenure o Helped Process Peak launch a new lead management program to the industry o Served as a senior consultant for MSA Worldwide and worked with Michael Seid and Kay Ainsley to help mature and emerging franchise brands with their program structure and support - specifically in the area of franchise development o Currently, I serve as VP of Development for Snip-its. I designed and implemented a comprehensive franchise development strategy, successfully adding more than 46 agreements in the first year and a half.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility? Using my experience in franchising, marketing, operations and development I’ve been able to help emerging brands improve their efficiency and value proposition through my roles with MSA and Process Peak.

With Snip-its, I was given the opportunity to create and implement my entire franchise development system. Using a philosophy of awarding a franchise vs. selling a franchise, the discovery process helps candidates make informed decisions about the Snip-its franchise program and its long-term potential to help them reach their personal and financial goals.

Helping a franchise candidate understand that the discovery process ends in a mutual decision relieves them from a high pressure sales process and promotes the integrity of the brand. It also promotes better expectations for the franchisee and stronger long-term franchisee-franchisor relationships.

Questionnaire Response No. 2a How has your achievements helped women advance in the franchise industry? Please list specific activities and results that demonstrate your mentorship to women. Are there any mentorees that Committee members could contact regarding your impact? I served on the Women’s Franchise Committee from 2001 through 2007 and held the positions of Vice Chair for two years and Committee Chair for two years. During my tenure: Kimberly Ellis – The Snip-Its Franchise Company

 As a committee member, I volunteered and served on a task force that matched female mentors and mentees. I also served as a mentor to two young ladies entering the franchise industry (neither remains in the industry).  As Vice Chair, I lead the task force that planned and hosted for the Women’s Leadership Conference for two years.  As Chair, I instituted the Women’s Franchise Network. Although the WFC has been an effective catalyst for women in franchising on a national level, I recognized the need to involve women in franchising on the local level too. The WFC needed to do a better job reaching women that don’t attend the convention or haven’t been involved in the Franchise Business Network. The WFN was meant to help connect women, on a local level, to each other and to the IFA. We structured 4 meetings each year and provided ideas for topics. During my tenure, we established 7 local chapters in the US. Today, I believe it has grown beyond the US to include the UK and Canada.

I served on the Minneapolis/St. Paul Advisory Board for Women’s Venture and helped them establish a program to fund more women seeking a franchise business.

I served on the Franchise and Distribution Board that tried to create a connection between the IFA and the Women’s Foodservice Association.

I’ve written countless articles about franchising and been a featured expert for reporters needing quotes. My articles are published on the web through BizJounals, Huffington Post, Wall Street Journal, Franchise Times, Franchise Update, Franchising World, etc.

Today, I remain involved in the franchise community on a national and local level. I continue to provide guidance and advice to colleagues new to the industry and connect people for networking opportunities.

I’ve leveraged my background and my industry connections to help others achieve goals, create business, and advance their businesses. Since Snip-its represents a very female-friendly business model, I am grateful to spend most of my days coaching candidates about the Snip- its program and how it can help these women achieve their personal and professional goals. Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA. Minnesota Franchise Network 2006-2012 Franchise Supplier Board Member 2006-2012 IFA’s Women's Franchise Committee 2000-2007 Member at large 2007 - 2015 Chairperson 2006-2007 Vice Chairperson 2004-2005 IFA’s Women's National Franchise Network, Founder National Chairperson 2002-2005 Kimberly Ellis – The Snip-Its Franchise Company

WFN MN Chapter Chair 2005-2007 IFA’s Marketing & Public Relations Committee 2000-2012 IFA’s Convention Committee Task Force 2007-2008 IFA’s Convention & Conference Speaker Multiple Times IFA’s Published Articles in Franchising World Magazine Multiple Times Women Venture Franchise Advisory Board 2008-2010 Women's Franchise & Distribution Board 2007-2008

I stepped out of leadership roles after 2012 due to a lack of time on my part and a need to allow others to have an opportunity to serve. I’ve expressed my interest to return when/if I’m needed.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community. None

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement. I’m afraid my community involvement has been limited. My mother suffered a number of heart attacks and strokes between 2005 and 2014. During that time, I became her link to being able to live independently. I did her shopping, I pre-made her meals and delivered them to her weekly, refilled prescriptions, ran errands, kept her linked to her friends and family, took her to the doctor, etc.

The time I spent with my mother was genuinely a gift. I was able to help her keep her beloved independence for as long as possible. As her health declined and I finally had to place her in a home, I spent considerable time with her support teams. I made sure she was well-taken care of and happy. I visited her every other day and did my best to bring her sunshine.

As you can imagine, taking care of her needs and working full time did not leave much time to participate in community activities or volunteer. My mother passed away recently. To be honest, I’ve shifted my focus back to my family and my own health. Soon, I hope to add a layer of volunteer work at the local Humane Society and Last Hope. Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising. N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated. None Kimberly Ellis – The Snip-Its Franchise Company

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree. None

I served on the Minneapolis/St. Paul Advisory Board for Women’s Venture and helped them establish a program to fund more women seeking a franchise business.

I served on the Franchise and Distribution Board that tried to create a connection between the IFA and the Women’s Foodservice Association.

I stepped out of leadership roles after 2012 due to a lack of time on my part and a need to allow others to have an opportunity to serve. I’ve expressed my interest to return when/if I’m needed.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community. None

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated. None Kimberly Ellis – The Snip-Its Franchise Company

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree. None

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

 Founded Massage Heights in April 2004. We currently have 130 units in the US and Canada and are still a family owned and operated business.  Co-Founder and COO of Summit Massage Supply, manufacturing and distributionchain.  Co-Founder, Heights Family Fund, non-profit organization serving team members of Massage Heights franchisees, in crisis or a time of need  Multi-unit franchise owner of Massage Heights locations  The “Boss” on Undercover Boss in Season 5, December 2013  Member of the San Antonio Chapter of Entrepreneurs Organization (EO).  Member of the San Antonio Chapter of Young President’s Organization (YPO)  Speaker- IFA 2015  Panelist- Emerging Franchisor Conference, 2014 Philadelphia  Speaker, NFL Boot Camp, University of Michigan 2015  Speaker, IFX Conference 2015

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Showcasing the success of our organization through the above achievements and opportunities both builds awareness of franchising as a business opportunity and highlights the success that can be achieved with a franchise model. These achievements have allowed me to share a story of success that is valuable to other entrepreneurs and business leaders who are thinking of either becoming a franchisee of any concept or who are interested in franchising their business model. Through EO and YPO, I have been able to share how the franchising model works and promote franchising as a viable business opportunity.

Being a leader in the franchise community shows other women that it is possible to achieve success in this industry, whether as a female franchise executive, or as a woman franchisee owner / operator, and even through empowerment of women entrepreneurs. I enjoy connecting with smart women who are making things happen and am happy to be a resource to those looking at franchising as an option to grow themselves or their businesses. I have specifically enjoyed being part of the PAFI organization and the opportunities it has provided to connect with and mentor professional athletes wives through the Players Wives Association.

Shane Evans — Massage Heights

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

NA, however I am interested in serving.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

Supporter and donator of time to the following philanthropies:  American Cancer Society, Determination  Ferrari Kid  Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving  Family Endeavors  Heights Family Fund

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

By donating time and energy to these impactful organizations while being associated with a member organization of the franchise community, we extend a positive halo and raise awareness of that community.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

N/A

Shane Evans — Massage Heights

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

 Member of the IFA  Sponsor and mentor in the PAFI organization

N/A Cynthia Gartman—IKOR USA

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

As President of IKOR USA, a patient advocacy and guardianship company:  Launched franchise program, expanding from a single eastern Pennsylvania location to a 20-unit network of single- and multi-unit operators in 10 states and the District of Columbia, with more pending.  Co-owned and operated first franchise unit in Texas; co-owning franchise unit inPennsylvania  Co-created three new unit-level revenue streams.  Created national purchasing program to improve unit-level operating costs.

As President/Chief Operating Officer of Country Place Living, an assisted living residence chain:  Launched new brand in residential Alzheimer’s care; prepared launch of two additional brands.  Sold and opened 14 locations and closed a 100-unit development agreement in the first 24 months of franchising.  Increased unit revenue by 8.5% and EBITDA by 5.6% via creation of two ancillary revenue streams.  Introduced innovative national purchasing systems to improve profitability.  Overhauled brand, including website, support materials, manuals, training systems and more.  Created strategic partnership with Department of Labor, first nationally focused assisted living company to participate in a federal apprenticeship program. Garnered corporate and franchisee grants over $60,000 in the first year.

As Senior Franchise Consultant with The iFranchise Group:  Served as consultant and advisor to new and growing franchise systems.

As Senior Director of Franchise Support Services for Accor North America:  Part of three-person management team that grew franchise system from 30 units to 350+ units.  Led merger with Red Roof Inns.  Created franchisee extranet to increase customer service; projected savings of $200,000 and extensive personnel time annually.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Many if not all of these accomplishments are direct expressions of my appreciation of the franchising model and the opportunities it creates for enterprising individuals to get involved in a business of their own while having the support, systems and expertise of a “partner” in their operations who Cynthia Gartman—IKOR USA continually strives to perfect the business concept being franchised. They are similarly examples of my philosophy that well-developed franchise systems lead to more successful and happy franchisees, which leads to bigger and better franchise systems in a continuing cycle.

Along these lines, I am proud of my role in establishing the IFA’s Fran-Guard program. As Chair of the ICFE Board of Governors and Chair of the Fran- Guard Committee, I led a group of expert volunteers in creating an improved compliance program that the IFA could roll out in various venues and through several different mediums. The program launched in 2010. Aimed at presenting a clear and profitable business case for compliance, the program demonstrates that the franchise industry has the ability to self-regulate and does not need outside regulatory forces coming to bear upon it. I moderated sessions at IFA Conventions and Legal Roundtables in the last few years (about 16 presentations in all) and, with the assistance of other presenters, offered the Business Case for compliance to each attendee. We also created a “Train the Provider” process through which IFA members can become Fran- Guard providers and offer this program to more individuals. To date, we have trained more than 400 people from 185 companies.

My role with IKOR has yielded several benefits to women in franchising, both on an individual and widespread scale. My arrival in 2010 enabled IKOR’s founder, Patricia Maisano, to launch the IKOR franchise, introducing a relatively unique niche into the increasingly hot healthcare franchise segment, and another woman-owned/led franchise to the business world. It also enabled Patricia to focus more on operating her own office, which serves as both a revenue stream for her and a testing ground for many of the new features we consider rolling out to our franchisees. Also, Patricia recently signed a new agreement to open her second franchise location.

As a business that can be operated out of the home, at least for the first several years, IKOR presents an opportunity for more women to become revenue generators, business owners and community leaders. Among IKOR’s franchise units, in fact, most are either owned or co-owned by women. One of our most successful and prolific franchisees, Mindy Jones, now has three Texas-based offices and was named our top-producing franchisee at our first annual conference last November.

I try to be an inspiration to women and to create opportunities for inspired women to pursue fulfilling, meaningful activities. I have been a mentor through the Women’s Franchise Committee to Christina Chartrand with the Senior Helpers franchise system. This year I helped found the WFN for Philadelphia, which has gotten off to a great start.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.  Co-Chair of the Women’s Franchise Network, Philadelphia, 2012 - Present  Member, Educational Foundation Board, 2013 - Present Cynthia Gartman—IKOR USA

 ICFE Board of GovernorS, 2002 – Present; Current Chair, Past Chair of Fran-Guard Committee, Fran-Guard Trainer/Moderator  Member, Membership Committee, 2009 - Present  Member, Social Networking Task Force, 2008 - 2010  Mentor, Women’s Franchise Committee, 2006 - 2008  Past Chair, Minorities in Franchising Committee, 1998 - 2009  Board of Directors, Past Vice Chair, Diversity Institute, 2005 - 2006  Member, Convention Committee, 2001 – 2004

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

None

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

I have been active in state and national guardianship associations as well as several local guardianship organizations in Texas and Pennsylvania. These organizations help ensure the protection of seniors and the disabled. I am active in my local church, Mt. Vernon Mennonite Church, volunteering regularly in the Currency Commission, women’s ministry and missions work as well as teaching Sunday School.

I was a founding member of the Board of Directors of Parenting Alone, a 503c organization aimed at providing support and ministry to single-parent families. I served on this Board until 2009. I have also served on other boards, such as The Mediation Council, was a Girl Scout Leader, Recording Secretary for a previous church and a counselor with the Camp Fire Girls.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

It has been my long-held belief that two critical factors in the success of any franchise system are the strength and reputation of the franchise community as a whole. Driven by that belief, I have for many years committed time to participating in industry initiatives in addition to fulfilling the responsibilities of my position as a franchise executive. As an example, I was a member of the IFA Minorities in Franchising Committee from 1998 to 2009, and served as its Chairman in 2008. Throughout my tenure with this committee, we worked to foster franchise relationships and improve the number and success of minority participants in franchising, particularly with respect to franchisees. I am proud of the minority representation at IKOR even though we are a small system. Cynthia Gartman—IKOR USA

Since January 2009 I have been heading up the IFA’s Fran-Guard™ program, an initiative being developed under the supervision and guidance of the ICFE Board of Governors. The Fran-Guard program is a revised and expanded franchise sales management and compliance program. Through this program, we demonstrate that when a strong business case for compliance is present inside a franchise organization, stronger franchisor-franchisee relations will be built. The program also was created to demonstrate that the franchise community has the ability to self-regulate and does not need outside regulatory forces coming to bear upon it. I have moderated more than 16 Fran-Guard sessions over the past four years.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

None. The one disclosure in IKOR’s current disclosure document was not a franchise event, but one that pre-existed establishment of the franchise system at IKOR USA, Inc. This action has been fully completed and dismissed.

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

None

None Tara Gilad – Vitality Bowls

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

I started my entrepreneurial journey in 2002. I started and sold my first business, an accounting and finance recruiting agency, after 4 years open and operating. Additionally, I have owned Utopia Tanning & Spa for the past 10 years in San Ramon, CA. Vitality Bowls came about after my husband and I realized that our daughter had severe food allergies. We wanted to create a place that was not only safe for her to eat at but others with this ailment as well. Since opening our doors to the public in 2011 in Walnut Creek, CA, the concept has been a hit! We later franchised the company in 2014 and have more than 45 franchisees signed to open their own location.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Opening 3 corporate Vitality Bowls locations in California and 1 in Miami has opened our eyes to the possibilities that our brand is capable of. We see the demand in each of the communities and we want to bring this to towns across the country. On a daily basis we have customers asking how they can open their own Vitality Bowls location and this interested has laid the platform for our franchise strategy. Additionally, being present in our own stores on a daily basis has given us the necessary processes and systems to allow franchisees success in their own locations.

I hope that my impact in this business has been inspiring for other women who I work with. I have mentored one female franchisee in Lubbock, TX who is only 30 years old and has the necessary drive to achieve great results for the brand. I’m hoping to continue working with women in our franchise system and help them achieve their own level of success – whatever that may be.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

Tara Gilad – Vitality Bowls

Local community awards; nothing in the franchising industry

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

 We host fundraisers at local schools – elementary through high school – to raise money for different causes that they’re supporting.  We also donate a portion of proceeds to a local food bank to aide in the purchasing of supplies  I have done many interviews with local high school students who have an interest in business and entrepreneurship  I have spoken in local business classes on a varying number of topics  I also mentor young women and students at local high schools/colleges

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising. We want to increase awareness of healthy food in our community as well as across the country. We 100% believe in the product that we’re selling and we’re hoping that the franchising concept will bring this same level of awareness to towns across the country. When vetting our franchisees, we ensure that each has that same level of commitment to the brand and product as we do.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

a. N/A b. Donate to IFA which fights battles for franchise

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

 I feel as if I’m the “poster child” for Women in Business who can successfully balance a work/family life  I have a 4 & 6 year old who take up all of my time outside of the business and finding this balance has been critical in my life  I want to continue empowering women to start their own business and stepping away from the “stay-at-home” mom mantra. I mentor many women who are at-home moms who are looking to get back into the workforce after time off.  Additionally, I’d like to make note of the fact that Vitality Bowls has been self-funded from day 1. We have learned how to successfully manage our budget while obtaining maximum results. Questionnaire Response No. 9 Are there legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of an IFA award might raise which have

Tara Gilad – Vitality Bowls

the potential to attract negative publicity or attention for the association and/or the franchising industry? Please describe.

None Rita Goldberg — British Swim School Franchising

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

I opened my first swim school in 1981, in the basement of a previously derelict Victorian house in Manchester England It was in a time when women just did not do those things easily! It took pounding pavements and much “arm twisting and blackmail” to do so, but I did it! I came to the USA 10 years later and began all over once more, In the last 15 years I opened 5 indoor purpose build Swim Schools. The last 3 years I took my business into franchising and have loved every minute of it! We now have 32 Franchisees and growing.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

My main reason for going into the Franchise world was simple, and it really epitomizes the whole concept of why Franchising works. In my Swim Schools we had many wonderful staff. The nature of the business appeals to the young adult, and we were finding that after college, they were leaving for other careers. Not that they wanted to, but even with an MBA or Sports degree, they felt that they had no way of being able to stay in the Aquatic world as a future career. They were certain that at the beginning of their careers, they could never raise the million and a half needed to build an indoor pool of their own. And so they left us! My Franchise was developed so that they do not have to build, but to partner with multiple pools in a purchased demographic area and have almost no overheads! It has worked!

With my Franchise, women have grown with us and actually, my top producing Franchisee is a woman. She grossed over 1 million in 2014, and is an inspiration to us all! We are competing in this industry on a completely level playing field, and actually, as we are in a business dealing with young parents, we (women) may have a small advantage, Our guys are good too! There are a number of our women Franchisees that you can call and I will be happy to provide contact numbers.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

I am too new and still learning to even think of taking a leadership role. There are many many people better qualified to lead and I hope to emulate them in the future. Rita Goldberg — British Swim School Franchising

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

 Entrepreneur top 500  Entrepreneur to 50 new franchises

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

Involved with:  Swim Central (Underprivileged kids lessons)  Drowning prevention Coalition  Swim for Autism  Swim for children’s Cancer/Leukemia  Make a wish  USSSA  Safer 3

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

My industry is quite new and at its infancy. Many people, as mentioned before, now can enjoy a life within the industry due to my specific way of Franchising. This has an enormous knock on effect, raising the awareness of life saving skills, the need to learn them young and the need to have better and better teachers, and more availability of great Swim Schools. We are, because of Franchising, becoming a household name and I am asked to both lecture to young entrepreneurs and to speak more and more on television and to parents. We know that because of this, and because of great Franchisees, we are saving many more lives that we will never know about. After all, no one reports and accident that never happened!!! We are soo lucky in our profession!

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

None thankfully! Rita Goldberg — British Swim School Franchising

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

To be completely honest, the success of the last few years in Franchising has been a complete and utter surprise to me! Others have described the concept as brilliant, I truly never expected this and I am not at all brilliant! I am really lucky to have, at the very beginning of the development of the Franchise, heard about the Emerging Franchise Conference and decided to go. Within minutes I realized that I know NOTHING about the world of franchising and I was smart enough to know that I needed to surround myself with people that do!! That is “my brilliance” I owe this degree of early success to people who taught me, guided me and pulled me along the right path and to the authors of the many books I devoured along the route. They truly deserve this award, and I will always be very grateful!!

Again, none thankfully. Susan Grant — Grant & Ingraham Inc. dba Senior Helpers of the East Bay

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

I started my first two businesses from scratch. The first was an importer and the next was in executive search. The latter was in existence for almost 20 years. When the market for executive recruiting contracted after 2000, I considered options for my next business, including starting another business from the ground up, buying an existing business, or joining a franchise. Franchising provides a business model and invaluable support. I decided to join Senior Helpers because of the support for starting up my territory, development of new programs, and national visibility that I could never have achieved on my own. I knew from past experience (as my parents and parents-in-law aged) how critically important the in-home care industry is for the nation as a whole. In the future, as we continue to live longer, it will play a crucial role in providing good quality of life.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

I believe that individual business owners reflect positively or negatively on their business sectors. Thus, if one works from a position of integrity and honesty, one’s reputation reflects positively on one’s industry. Over the years, drawing on the very varied experiences I have encountered, I have developed into a strong, ethical business leader and this cannot help but reflect well on my sector – the in-home care industry. Senior Helpers as a name in the field is certainly affected by my actions, which I always remember.

Specific activities and results: one of my goals, no matter which company I’ve established, is to help employees develop their skills and abilities. In my executive search practice, two women stand out as having used the resources offered: one went on to establish her own search practice, and the other rose to direct recruiting at a very large NY-based financial services firm. In my Senior Helpers franchise, I have selected people who can grow to take over the operation when I’m ready to relinquish the reins; ideally, I will be able to sell out to employees. I have gauged their abilities and striven to give them developmental opportunities and responsibilities.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

Prior to receiving notification of this potential award, I had not been aware of the IFA. Susan Grant — Grant & Ingraham Inc. dba Senior Helpers of the East Bay

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

My company is routinely one of the top producers in the Senior Helpers family and has been the recipient of numerous awards and President’s Club trips.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

NAWBO – the National Association of Women Business Owners – is an organization in which I have been active for many years, as a member and as a leader. NAWBO represents the interests of all women entrepreneurs in all types of businesses. Besides being a past Chapter President in the San Francisco Bay Area, I have continued to serve on the Board of the Fiscal Sponsor for the organization. I have been active in setting up programs to promote the education and networking capabilities of members and in advocating with politicians on topics of vital interest to members.

Peace Group – as a leader of this church-based organization, I have been active in setting up speakers and events to bring peace-making principles to the fore and encouraging political and other action.

In the franchise community, I have been very active in representing the views of our franchisees when legislators are dealing with topics of importance to us – such as California’s increased minimum wage, the Mendiola decision (mandating payment for sleep time) and the certification of in-home care companies. This involves meeting with legislators and their staffers in order to bring to legislators’ attention the unintended consequences of their proposed legislation to caregivers and the elderly clients we serve.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

None of the activities listed above directly brings commercial benefit, but I strongly believe that advocating in these ways enables my sector of the world to be a better place, and that a “rising tide lifts all boats.” I also believe that when I run my business in an ethical, compassionate and competent manner, positive awareness of franchising is heightened.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

There are none. Susan Grant — Grant & Ingraham Inc. dba Senior Helpers of the East Bay

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

The corporate office of Senior Helpers (800-353-3743) is very familiar with my work. Particular contacts may be Mari Baxter, Vice President of Business Development, or Dan Sitko, Business Development Manager.

There are none. Pam Hodgson — Senior Helpers

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

I have previously owned and managed a hardware business, convenience stores, residential plumbing business, construction company, and currently my Senior Helpers Franchise with 5 territories. I served as Parks and Recreation Commissioner for the City of Alpharetta. I served on the Board of Service Master. I serve as the President of the UMW (United Methodist Women) organization at our church. I currently serve on the National Owners Council for Senior Helpers. Senior Helpers has honored us with Top Sales awards for several years.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Having the support of a great franchise and the input and dialogue from other franchisees and suppliers to anticipate problems, solve problems, share ideas, seek motivation, inspire motivation, learn new things, handle the increased government interference, plus the addition of many new friends, makes franchising a very viable business strategy.

With my extensive background in business I have been fortunate to have many opportunities to help women within our franchise system. There are women (and men) across our franchise system that reach out with specific issues either by phone or when we are at gatherings.

Bobbie Emanuel – [email protected] 717-756-9132 Fran Graves – [email protected] 775-762-8778 Michelle Scharfeld – [email protected] 813-417-4202

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

Sorry to say not any as of today. Pam Hodgson — Senior Helpers

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

We consistently are awarded top sales awards at Senior Helpers. I was runner up in our local North Fulton Chamber of Commerce for the small business person of the year. I was chosen to speak on stage last year at our annual conference.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

I was involved in Rotary and made mission trips to Puerto Rica and Costa Rica to build habitat housing and provide testing and free glasses to the poor in various barrios. As Parks Commissioner, helped purchase Wills Park in Alpharetta which has become a major recreation center for the community along with several other parks. I represented the plumbing industry for 14 years on WSB radio in Atlanta handling plumbing questions from the public on the Home Fix It show on Saturday mornings.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

I am recognized now by my voice and our newspaper ads in the local papers and that exposure certainly strengthened my credibility with clients and their families who are entrusting their loved ones to our company.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

The enactment of the new Healthcare Act has caused major disruptions to the quality of continuous service we can provide to our clients and the financial stability of our care givers. The proposed attempt to unionize our caregivers is a serious issue for us and for the clients we serve.

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

My training from the age of 13 to handle accounting, estimating, and bidding in my Dad’s plumbing construction company allowed me to gain confidence in my abilities to run my own business. Over the years, I have always run my own companies and sought advice from others who possessed the knowledge and information I needed. I now run a faith based company with two of my adult children and a son-in-law which fulfills my aspirations as a Christian, mother, and a successful business leader. Pam Hodgson — Senior Helpers

No Eileen Huntington- Huntington Learning Centers, Inc.

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements. I began as a history teacher in The Bronx, where I grew up, and then taught in NJ. I received my Master’s Degree and was on track to receive my Doctorate. When I was in my twenties, my husband, Ray, and I decided to go into business for ourselves. We risked everything to open our first center. “Learning Centers” as we know them today did not exist. It was 1977 and we created the first one.

No task was or is too small or too large for me. I stay grounded and in touch with our customer, the student, by visiting centers regularly.

My achievements include growing a company from one center to hundreds of centers in almost 40 years. I lead by example. I never give up, even in the face of extreme adversity.

Today we are the industry leader with student and franchisee results. On average our students increase 2+ grade levels in reading and math and 200 points on the SAT and 4+ points on the ACT in three months. Our franchisee revenue is 61% higher than our closest competitor. These results are possible because of the dedication of the team, focus on results and staying true to our mission “to give every student the best education possible”.

I mentor colleagues, especially women. Many of my staff is tenured, which is a testament to the culture and the system. Many of our franchisees are tenured and have multiple units. This shows the belief in the system and leadership.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility? These achievements advance the principles of franchising because it is a system that achieves world-class student results and franchisee profitability. Franchising is a viable business strategy because we have built the systems and procedures to set the franchisee up to succeed. Of course, the franchisee’s success is dependent on the individual’s ability to follow the system, which is the point of franchising. The achievements show franchising in a positive light because we change lives every day at the center with the student results and have and continue to make individual millionaire franchisees because of their success.

My achievements show that anything is possible as a woman. My achievements have shown fellow franchisees that they too can succeed. Many of our franchisees are women and some were teachers like me and others came from a wide range of careers in business and sales for example. I am a role model for other women who want to advance their careers through franchising. Eileen Huntington- Huntington Learning Centers, Inc.

I am always mentoring by meeting 1:1 and in groups with my team, center staff and franchisees. I regularly visit centers and speak at local, regional and national meetings. Here are three individuals who can speak to my impact:

 Diane KilCommons, Franchisee, Elmhurst, IL  Aleta Pallios, Franchisee, Turlock, CA  Jeanine Camporine, Senior Director, Company Center Operations

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA. N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community. As a company we are accredited by national school and college associations: Middle States Association of Colleges and School and Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

The Franchise Business Review ranked us, through a system-wide survey, a “Top 50 Franchise 2016 Franchisee Satisfaction Awards”.

We are a member of associations such as International Franchise Association and Vet Fran.

We rank in top franchise systems in Bond’s Top 100 Franchises and Entrepreneur.

Below includes more awards and honors bestowed upon us by the franchise community. The bolded Awards are specific to Eileen Huntington:

AWARD TITLE YEAR 1. Top 500 - Entrepreneur Magazine 2011 2. Member Vet Fran 2011 3. 15 Learning Centers – Fairfield County Business Journal 2011 4. 10 for 2012 – Entrepreneur Magazine 2012 5. Top 500 - Entrepreneur Magazine 2012 6. Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs & Business Owners 2013 7. Board of Directors –Community Blood Center (Jim Emmerson) 2013 8. Top 500 - Entrepreneur Magazine 2013

Eileen Huntington- Huntington Learning Centers, Inc.

9. Top 500 - Entrepreneur Magazine 2014 10. Top Female Led Brand - Franchise Update 2014 11. Franchising Leading Women – Franchise Update 2016 12. Franchising Women to Watch (Feature) – Entrepreneur 2015 13. Top Personal Service Franchises – Entrepreneur 2015 14. America’s Most Honored Professional Top 5% 2015 15. CFO Successful Strategy Award – CFO Studio (Jim Emmerson) 2015 16. Top 500 - Entrepreneur Magazine 2015 17. Award for 30 years in Franchising – IFA 2015 18. Largest Employers – NJ Biz Magazine 2015 19. Favorite Tutoring & Test Prep Service – Wayne Magazine 2016 20. Top 500 - Entrepreneur Magazine 2016 21. Top Professional Services Franchise – Entrepreneur Magazine 2016 22. Fabulous Female Franchise Founders – Franchise Update 2016 23. America’s Most Honored Top 10% Professionals 2016 24. CFO Innovation Award – CFO Studio (Jim Emmerson) 2016 25. Top 50 Franchise Satisfaction Awards 2016 26. Top Senior & Child Service – Franchise Business Review 2016 27. Franchising Leading Women – Franchise Update 2016 28. Brava Award for NJ Top Business Women – SmartCEO 2016

Accreditations:  Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools  Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement. I focus my community involvement through the lens of our mission, which is to give every student the best education possible. Community is the core of the business because we are working with the foundation of communities – the next generation, the student. My involvement spans from national, regional and local campaigns that directly or indirectly connect with the local franchisee. I am active professionally through mentorship programs, school events, sponsorships and non-profits. Personally, I am involved in my alma maters through fundraising

Eileen Huntington- Huntington Learning Centers, Inc. and by setting up scholarships for women. I was a former Trustee for my daughter’s high school for young women where I also set up a scholarship fund for young women. Every activity, professional or personal, is grounded in the ethos of helping students succeed, which is near and dear to my heart. You may not see me running a 5K, but you will see me on the sideline cheering on my colleagues, family and friends.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising. Community involvement shows the passion and person behind the brand. My presence and involvement connects to what we do – we change lives. By getting involved in the community, be it on a local, regional or national level, we break down the barriers and show everyone that I, and the team, believe in what we do and that I, and the team, are dedicated to helping the community, the student, grow. This understanding creates an extremely positive awareness that there is a person behind franchising, that even though we are a national company, we are family owned and operated. I continue to push this awareness further by supporting and growing the next generation of Huntingtons, my adult children, who are ingrained in community involvement and truly understand the essence of franchising and how to bring a positive light towards this business.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated. N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree. I receive success stories from centers every day, below is a recent one. This story shows how we change lives, which is what drives my passion and determination to continue to lead and grow the company: Eileen Huntington- Huntington Learning Centers, Inc. Eileen Huntington- Huntington Learning Centers, Inc.

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

As president and CEO of Primrose Schools®, I oversee strategic direction and manage the franchise company’s vision to deliver the best and most trusted education and care for children and families across the country. I guide new business development and brand strategy while leading quality, sustainable and profitable growth for the hundreds of Primrose schools our franchise owners operate.

My career with Primrose Schools began more than two decades ago as vice president. I was later promoted to senior vice president before becoming president and CEO in 1999. Since then, I have grown the brand from four schools in metro Atlanta to more than 300 schools coast-to-coast, serving more than 48,000 children.

As a member of our Education Advisory Board, I helped pioneer our Balanced Learning® curriculum. The research-based curriculum is consistently and systemically delivered in all our schools. Primrose was selected to partner with AdvancED to develop and pilot new Standards for Quality Early Learning Schools and was the first to earn AdvancED Corporation Systems Accreditation under these standards in 2012.

I serve on several boards for organizations including Reach Out and Read, AdvancED and the Early Care and Education Consortium (ECEC). With the ECEC board, I recently visited the White House to discuss the importance of early education curriculum with the Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

Additionally, I established the Primrose Promise, a corporate social responsibility program that brings our curriculum to at-risk children and founded the Primrose Children’s Foundation that provides support to not-for-profit organizations benefitting children.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

The growth of Primrose Schools from just four schools in Georgia more than 30 years ago to now more than 300 schools coast-to-coast has only been made possible by strategic focus and application of successful business principles. These principles including investing in an opportunity where you’ll see the greatest return; creating a consistent delivery model that ensures quality; and, collaborating with key stakeholders, are what have helped me guide the company to where it is today.

I have taken these same business principles and applied them to the Primrose franchising model. With national focus on high-quality early education and care for children, demand for high-quality providers has grown. I believe it is incumbent upon Primrose as the industry leader to respond to this demand by opening more high-quality schools. In 2014, we expanded in six new states, opening 19 schools and awarding 45 new franchise agreements. Furthermore, through a national partnership with Save the Children, we are also providing resources to at-risk children. Through our national franchise Jo Kirchner — Primrose Schools, Inc. structure, we are creating positive and systemic change that reaches far beyond our schools.

I’m confident these efforts will bring positive visibility to the franchising industry and showcase the viability and influence of a franchise business model.

As a working mother myself, I knew there was strong demand for a full-day preschool program that incorporated high-quality early childhood curriculum with reliable care and character development. Seeing the need for balanced curriculum helped me to convince the founders to pursue a franchising model. This vision and executional excellence has been a catalyst for the brand’s success and provided lucrative and rewarding careers for female entrepreneurs across the country and female operational leaders at the Primrose Schools’ Support Center (corporate office) in Acworth, Georgia.

Through my role as president and CEO of Primrose Schools, I have supported the professional and personal growth of many women currently in franchising, as well as those seeking opportunities in franchising. Specifically, our Support Center staff is comprised of 74 percent women and many of our schools are either part- or fully-owned by women. The low turnover at Primrose is evidence of the investment our employees feel from the company – 43 percent of employees have been with the company at least 5 years, 29 percent at least 7 years and 17 percent more than 10 years.

By empowering women throughout the Primrose franchise system, we’re empowering thousands of working mothers that entrust their children with our professionals every day. Since more than 70 percent of current Franchise Owners have previous experience with the brand as parents, staff or through relationships with former students, we know many women are seeing the positive impact of our preschool program, as well as benefits of the franchise opportunity.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

I have not held any leadership positions on IFA’s committees and/or task forces.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

Primrose Schools was recently named as a Top 200 Franchise to Buy in 2015 by Forbes, and the fifth best to buy in the $500,000+ category. We were also listed as #146 on the 2014 list of the Top 200 Franchises issued by Franchise Times each year. And, I was recognized among the Top 24 Women in Franchising by Franchising Update.

Jo Kirchner — Primrose Schools, Inc.

I have also received a number of awards and honors for entrepreneurship and business leadership including receiving the National Association for Female Executives (NAFE) Award in 2014 in the Community Service category. And, recently, I was named among the Top 10 for the 2015 John C. Maxwell Leadership Awards. Additionally, in 2010, I received the first International Excellence in Education Award and was selected to serve on the AdvancED International Board of Trustees in 2012, becoming the first individual to represent early childhood education.

In 2011, I received Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award for the southeast region and was named Female Executive of the Year with a Gold Stevie® Award for Women in Business in 2013. Both of these awards recognizes the achievements of women executives, entrepreneurs and the organizations they run.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

I have been extremely dedicated to advancing education for all children, which has led to multiple partnerships for Primrose Schools and many servant leadership roles in which I serve.

In 2014, Primrose Schools formed a multi-year partnership with Save the Children to focus on early literacy, child sponsorship and protection from harm for at-risk children in America. We understand the incredible value of corporate social responsibility and feel called to change the course of education beyond our franchise schools by advocating for better access to quality early education resources. I also have the honor of serving on the Board of Directors for Reach Out and Read, a national non-profit that partners with pediatricians to promote early literacy and school readiness to four million children nationwide. The Primrose Children’s Foundation has been able to raise and donate more than $1.2 million to Reach Out and Read, placing more than 250,000 books directly in the hands of at-risk children.

Additionally, I serve on the executive committee of the Early Care and Education Consortium, a non-profit alliance connecting America’s national, regional and independent providers of high-quality child care and early education programs. Locally, I am an active member and partner with the Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students (GEEARS).

Furthermore, from coast-to-coast, across all of our franchise school locations, Primrose children, families, staff and Franchise Owners raise money and donate items throughout the year to various local causes. Last year alone, Primrose schools raised more than $500,000 for charities in their communities.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

Now more than ever, the focus on the importance of high-quality early education for all children is strong. This, in turn, has created an opportunity for

Jo Kirchner — Primrose Schools, Inc. early educational franchisors to respond. Through my own community involvement and partnerships, I’ve been able to bring awareness to this national issue and successfully position Primrose to respond to the demand.

And, as a franchise company, we’re able to respond more quickly to the demands whether through establishing more early education and care centers or through our systemic structure that provides additional resources to the communities where our schools operate. Moreover, through our Service Excellence Assurance program, we ensure high-quality and consistent standards across each of our Primrose schools. Our teachers receive extensive training that is updated every year, as well as ongoing mentoring to keep them abreast of current research and best practices to ensure our children are receiving the best education possible. This attention to the quality of the business Primrose provides brings positive awareness to the franchise industry as a whole.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

I have not been affiliated with any pertinent legal actions concerning franchise systems.

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

According to FRANdata and the Franchise Business Review, only 38 percent of franchised enterprises remain after five years. At Primrose, our Franchise Owners are viewed as CEOs of their independently owned and operated schools and many have been a part of our company for more than 10 years.

We do this is by choosing Franchise Owners who are passionate about the opportunity and more importantly the focus and direction of our company. We look for Franchise Owners who understand and value the same business principles that have helped drive the Primrose brand, in turn furthering the growth of the business.

Primrose Franchise Owners stay because of the success they find not only with an average school annual revenue of approximately $1.6 million; but, also, with the personal benefits they receive in contributing to a greater cause by helping our children build the right foundation for future learning and life. Additionally, earlier this year, we celebrated the highest full-time enrollment rate in Primrose’s history which was well over the industry average, proving the success of our franchise model and demand for more quality early education schools in our country.

I’ve made it my mission to continue to draw on bright and passionate entrepreneurs to grow the Primrose Schools Franchise Company through purposeful innovation and transformation. Jo Kirchner — Primrose Schools, Inc.

No. There are no legal, financial or other issues neither myself nor Primrose Schools are involved in that may attract negative publicity or attention for the IFA or franchising industry. Malvina Messler—Payroll Vault Franchising, LLC

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements. From intern to rising star within the Payroll Vault organization, in just 5 short years Malvina transformed Payroll Vault from a successful local Colorado payroll company by leading the company in overwhelming sales and growth, to being instrumental as a co-founder in the concept of franchising the company in Q4 2012 and earning status of VP of Business Development overseeing 28 franchise offices for their sales and marketing efforts. Malvina has made a substantial footprint in the national arena for payroll services by connecting with other national franchise brands for Payroll Vault to become a preferred vendor for outsourcing their payroll and HR services. Creating symbiotic and mutually beneficial relationships with people and organizations has built her stellar business acumen and defined her as a powerful source in the business community. Implemented CRM system = 60% growth rate for sales system wide Created bi-weekly Sales, Marketing, and Owner Management calls for training and supporting franchise offices Created the initial franchise training program for Sales and Marketing Has become a speaker and trainer teaching her audiences proven sales strategies

Created several successful sales campaigns for franchise offices. The CPA Campaign resulted in an 8% growth for new client acquisition and referral sources. Created a Referral Partner Network with other service type businesses to reciprocate business and leads with each other and implemented this strategy throughout the Payroll Vault system.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility? Malvina’s continuation to expand and nurture Payroll Vault as a brand offers business resources to other franchise concepts and empowers their franchisees to become stronger business owners by learning how to increase efficiencies and lower operational costs by implem enting automated time keeping, outsourced HR and payroll services. In making the conscious and strategic decision to cultivate Payroll Vault through franchising rather than opening corporate offices, it has allowed Malvina to redefine payroll services and reverse the commoditization of the payroll industry by assuring outstanding customer service and a personal approach at all Payroll Vault locations. Malvina’s networking in the community brings visible and perceptible awareness to franchising as a prevailing and successful business model. Questionnaire Response No. 2a How has your achievements helped women advance in the franchise industry? Please list specific activities and results that demonstrate your mentorship to women. Are there any mentorees that Committee members could contact regarding your impact? Malvina’s involvement in the Women’s Franchise Network as a committee member of the Denver Chapter is notably significant. Alongside other dedicated committee members, they revived the wilting Denver WFN Chapter, reincorporated quarterly events and revamped programming efforts. Additionally, the members added monthly lunches where pertinent franchise education is presented and discussed. The initiative to invite female vendors to educate franchisors on tools and resources that improve franchising systems has spurred conversations and sharing of their challenges and successes that empower other female franchisors and further educates women in business about best practices of franchising.

Malvina Messler—Payroll Vault Franchising, LLC

Lastly, together they worked to incorporate networking opportunities, round table discussions, idea sharing, peer mentoring, volunteering, fundraising, and more. Malvina and other WFN committee members have recreated a struggling chapter and built a community of leaders. For reference information, please contact: Ginger Jones, Webpunch – Committee Chair, (720) 933-6786 [email protected]  Nicole Chatham, Moye White Associate, (303) [email protected] Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA. Currently, Malvina is active in the Women In Franchising Denver Chapter and the Franship IFA Mentoring Program as a mentee. She is a member of the IFA and an emerging franchisor since the company’s start in 2012. Through the mentorship program she is energized to learn where her strengths and challenges exist to further her business acumen and she hopes to one day grow to the role as a mentor. Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community. Malvina has received recognition by her peers by being nominated for the 2014 International Franchise Association’s “Bonny Levine” award, the 2015 Denver Business Journal’s “40 Under 40”, the 2016 CPA Practice Advisor Magazine’s “40 Under 40” and “Changing our Profession” awards. Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement. Malvina is an upstanding and respected role model in the Denver Business Community by her membership and participation in the following organizations: Ambassador for Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce, Independent Payroll Providers Association, International Franchise Association, Women’s Franchise Network - Committee Member, Colorado Restaurant Association, Leads Groups, and volunteers her time for Goodwill Industries to help teenage youth develop business skills to aid in their future success in life, business and community. As a member of the International Franchising Association’s Mentor Program, Malvina furthers her learning by aligning herself with professionals in a like-minded position and business that encourages the continuation of her skills development and growth. In addition to her local business community, Malvina has been instrumental in promoting the start-up of the Axis Business Center. The Axis Business Center is the home of My Franchise Hub and the Payroll Vault Franchising Headquarters. Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising. The Axis Business Center is the home of My Franchise Hub and the Payroll Vault Franchising Headquarters; it has attracted franchising professionals locally and nationally. Malvina’s passion and dedication to the franchising industry has helped lead to the novel concept devoted to “everything franchise” and created an eco-sphere of franchisors, franchisees and vendors that understand the power of collaboration, education and participation. Working diligently to promote a collaborative community, Malvina advocates for the franchising industry on every possible level with enthusiasm and innovative concepts that quickly turn to reality. At the Axis Business Center, an ethics-sphere is created by professionals that understand the potential of franchising and are dedicated to creating a healthy and profitable environment where business owners can excel. Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated. Malvina is an active supporter in the Franchise Action Network with IFA. With legislation wielding a heavy hand in the small business market more each year, she has been astute in learning about how the changes in Fair Labor Standards Act (FSLA) compliance and Minimum Wage increase will impact franchise systems business as a whole.

Malvina Messler—Payroll Vault Franchising, LLC

Additionally, she has remained heavily focused on the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) expanding joint employer standard and its threat to small businesses and the impact it will have within the franchise industry. Thanks to her efforts, Payroll Vault now offers Human Resources solutions designed to support franchisors who are looking for a buffer to reduce their liability while still providing management support and guidance to their franchisees. Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree. As a minority woman under 40 with less than 4 years of experience in the franchising industry, Malvina has created a positive footprint within her local community and nationally among Payroll Vault franchisees. Her drive and determination is unmatched and she understands the value of giving back. Her pioneering approach to business and organizational development will continue to thrive and inspire other women and professionals in the franchise industry and beyond. Questionnaire Response No. 9 Are there legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of an IFA award might raise which have the potential to attract negative publicity or attention for the association and/or the franchising industry? Please describe. None Mary Ann O’Connell — O’Connell & Company, Inc. DBA FranWise

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

First franchisee of Money Mailer, then a multi unit owner for 11 years 1979-1990 First franchisee that helped to build the system and the brand’s training program.

• VP of Franchise Operations Money Mailer 1990-1996 Trained more than 500 franchisees, opened 7 regional offices and launched 4 new product lines

• Great Clips – Regional Director 1998 – 2000 Opened the Southwest for Great Clips that included 1 mature, 1 emerging and 4 new markets

 O’Connell & Company, Inc./FranWise 2000 – present Have consulted with more than 15 brands became franchise systems. Have consulted on operations, training and franchise relations for more than 10 brands and have written operations manuals for 80+ brands.

• Franchise Capital Exchange – 2012-2016 This event has given more than 50 brands the opportunity to connect with private equity investors that want to grow and improve their franchise opportunities.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility? All of these positions and accomplishments have been about building more strong systems that are built ethically and responsibly. Through training, management and consultation, I have been able to give hundreds of people to serve their communities as franchisees. The brands I have worked with and consulted have successfully avoided any damaging law suits or press that would reflect poorly on franchising.

Questionnaire Response No. 2a How has your achievements helped women advance in the franchise industry? Please list specific activities and results that demonstrate your mentorship to women. Are there any mentorees that Committee members could contact regarding your impact? Of the clients I have consulted and mentored, 22 were/are women-led brands that needed guidance and I helped encourage, mentor and consult through to launching or growing their franchise systems. This is beyond the paid consultations; this is personal coaching and advice.

As the producer of Franchise Capital Exchange I have coached eight female-led brands through a unique opportunity to present their Mary Ann O’Connell — O’Connell & Company, Inc. DBA FranWise companies to 14+ private equity firms that they would never have otherwise reached.

When working as an executive with both Money Mailer and Great Clips, I was drawn to helping women franchisees succeed. I coached field staff to gain promotions, salon staff to achieve management roles and my own support staff to senior positions. Just last week, a woman who was general manager for a Great Clips franchisee called after 10 years because she wanted advice on starting her own business.

The work I’ve done has given me the opportunity to serve the Women’s Franchise Committee, which presented mentoring opportunities for eight years.

Please feel free to contact and of these women who I have helped professionally or personally as they built their business careers.

Kelly Crompvoets – Home Franchise Concepts Deb Evans, Deb Evans Consulting Jennifer Beall Saxton, Tot Squad Dada Ngyuen, The Boiling Crab Anna Phillips, The Lash Lounge Renee Maloney and Cathy Deano, Painting with a Twist Shannon Higgins, Studio Barre DebbieShwetz, Nothing Bundt Cakes Susan Black Beth – NRD Capital

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

Membership Committee – approximately 10 years Convention Committee – 2 years Nominating Committee – 2 years Women’s Franchise Committee – 8 years Chairman – Women’s Franchise Committee – 2 years Supplier Forum Advisory Board – 7 years Supplier Forum Advisory Board Exec Committee – 1 year Founded the SoCal Women’s Franchise Network co-host – 5 years Los Angeles FBN Co-host 3 - years Orange County Franchise Business Network co-host – 3 years Franchise Action Network Annual convention ambassador Mary Ann O’Connell — O’Connell & Company, Inc. DBA FranWise

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

Crystal Compass Award - 2014

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

Business & Professional Women (Verdugo Hill) – 1982-1988 Chairman 1987-1988 Individual Development Awards City and District levels Glendale, Burbank, La Crescenta and La Canada Chambers of Commerce 1981-1988 Big Sisters of Orange County – 1999 - 2004 Habitat for Humanity – Orange County 2001 – 2007 Women Build Chairman 2002-2003 Construction Volunteer of the Year 2003/2005 Soroptomists Woman of the Year Share our Selves – Adopt a Family steering committee and volunteer 2001 – present Costa Mesans for Responsible Government 2012-2014 – Recording Secretary Community Charter Government committee 2013 – 2014 Costa Mesa Democratic Club – 2013 – present (Secretary and Chairman) Sommerset Citihomes HOA – Board president - 10 years, not consecutive.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

With the exception of the first two, none of these have been done for commercial gain, but it has benefitted the perception of franchising by: Drawing franchise friends into the volunteer role that is noticed Using connections within franchising to get meals and donations that support these charitable efforts and get noticed. Enlightening people as to the reach of franchising and how ingrained they are in every community, Stressing that all these donating businesses are local businesses. Adopt a Family 2014 – I got women in franchising from around the country to knit scarves for our needy families and donated them in the name of franchise professionals. Bottom line: local involvement puts a local face on franchising. Mary Ann O’Connell — O’Connell & Company, Inc. DBA FranWise

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

Not applicable

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

I have done my best to be available to anyone (franchisor or supplier) to mentor them into being better members of the franchise community. I take calls from prospective members and have encouraged many women-owned brands and suppliers and promoted them on my web page and through blogs. This is done without pay or any compensation; it’s because others have helped me.

No Martha O’Gorman—Liberty Tax Service

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements. Since 1989, Martha O’Gorman has been instrumental in developing and implementing companywide marketing and communication initiatives and strategies for both tax service franchises Jackson Hewitt Tax Service and Liberty Tax Service. She has clearly demonstrated the vision as well as the practical insight to create departmental systems that have supported unparalleled growth in the cases of both companies. Her influence and leadership in the ground-floor development of these major tax services is clearly noteworthy, as both companies have risen as the dominant number two and number three forces in the industry. The Liberty marketing staff currently provides support and services to more than 2000 franchisees, and 3500 offices.

While at Liberty Tax, Ms. O’Gorman has championed many worthy causes and companywide cause-related marketing promotions and events to support Stop Hunger Now, March of Dimes, Cell Phones for Soldiers, Relay for Life, and others. Liberty raised over $700,000, and was ranked as the #15 corporate March of Dimes fundraising team out of 20,000 teams in 2008. O’Gorman has initiated Liberty’s new national sponsorship of Relay for Life in 2010. Her support and hiring of an in-house Hispanic marketing team, and vision for expanding the initiative have helped establish Liberty’s Hispanic Marketing Initiative as a tax industry benchmark.

Ms. O’Gorman is a franchisee in the Liberty Tax system that she helped to create, as are three of her family members. She is the owner-operator of three Liberty Tax offices in North Carolina, and is the Area Developer for Fort Myers, Florida.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Ms. O’Gorman has spearheaded advertising and marketing campaigns that have generated leads for prospective franchises, company employment and tax school since 1989. She has demonstrated leadership and vision in the ground floor start-ups of the second and third largest tax companies, and creation of opportunity for over 3,000 franchisees and thousands of employees who came aboard both Liberty Tax and Jackson Hewitt Tax Service during her tenure. Ms. O’Gorman is a vital reason that Liberty Tax has continued to build a trusted franchise brand, embrace diversity programs, and contribute to franchising as a successful way of doing business.

Our Hispanic Initiative program – Una Familia Sin Fronteras [A Family Without Boundaries] offers cultural education and training to recruit bilingual staff, covers culturally appropriate customer service, professionally and addresses tax issues. Many new Hispanic immigrants are not even aware that they are required to file taxes. In order to do so, most must obtain an “Individual Taxpayer Identification Number,” or ITIN. Liberty Tax provides free seminars about ITIN preparation accompanied by free preparation of ITINs by bilingual preparers.

The initiative has earned the respect and support of institutions and educational organizations including public school districts, the Mexican government’s Foreign Ministry’s Institute for Mexicans Abroad (IME, or Instituto de los Mexicanos en el Exterior), and national non-profit organizations. Liberty Tax Service has created the Una Familia Sin Fronteras Foundation, the first Foundation in the industry which specifically aims to contribute to Hispanic immigrants’ success through fiscal and financial education.

Martha O’Gorman—Liberty Tax Service

Did not update supporting documents, no response.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

Ms. O’Gorman served as Moderator at 2007 IFA Roundtable Discussion on “Marketing for New Franchisors.” She also was a speaker for Franchise Seminar Day during Franchise Appreciation Week in 2006. Her topic was “Lead Generation for Franchise Sales.”

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

Martha O’Gorman was awarded the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) designation during the International Franchise Association’s 2007 convention.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

Ms. O’Gorman is the key planner for Liberty Tax Service’s cause-related marketing strategies and efforts for American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Stop Hunger Now, March of Dimes, Cell Phones for Soldiers, and others. She has been a marketing consultant for Stop Hunger Now since its inception, and orchestrated food packaging promotions, and franchisee benefit events to raise money and awareness to fight world hunger. Ms. O’Gorman’s direction and enthusiasm helped Liberty Tax with successful support for these non-profit organizations:

American Red Cross

Liberty Tax Service is a National Sponsor of the American Red Cross. To support the American Red Cross relief efforts in Japan after the earthquake and tsunami earlier this year, Liberty Tax waived tax preparation fees for first-time customers who contributed a minimum of $50 to the American Red Cross on Saturday, March 19, 2011. This day of free tax preparation took place at participating locations throughout the United States and raised $32,319.

National Sponsor of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life

During 2010, Liberty Tax became a national sponsor of Relay for Life. We organized 61 teams and raised $27,000. This year, Liberty Tax had 67 teams and was ranked #17 of the 52 companies in the Relay For Life National Team Program. As of May 27, 2011, Liberty Tax had raised $30,500.

Martha O’Gorman—Liberty Tax Service

Cell Phones for Soldiers

In 2005, Liberty Tax Service joined forces with Cell Phones for Soldiers as a National Premier Partner. By recycling used cell phones at most Liberty Tax offices, our company has provided over 17 million minutes of calling time for our troops.

Founder of Stop Hunger Now and Run for Food

Stop Hunger Now was immediately involved in ground zero efforts for the aid to Haiti following the earthquake in 2010. Participating Liberty Tax Service offices made donations for every tax return prepared to Stop Hunger Now’s efforts to help crisis victims in Haiti. Liberty Tax Service has supported the Operation Sharehouse program, and John Hewitt has made substantial financial contributions to Stop Hunger Now.

Liberty Tax CEO, John Hewitt founded Run for Food, a hunger relief organization in late 2010. This new organization’s mission is to find innovative and sustainable solutions that will bring an end to world hunger. Corporate plans are underway for fundraising and supporting this newest venture.

March of Dimes

Liberty Tax raised over $700,000 for the March of Dimes, and achieved the status as the #15 top corporate fundraiser of 20,000 teams in 2008.

Ms. O’Gorman has helped promote national free tax preparation for service workers such as teachers and police officers during our annual March Appreciation Days, and free tax returns for laid-off workers and those in unfortunate circumstances. Liberty Tax Service franchisees are encouraged to share their tax knowledge by conducting free tax seminars for groups, organizations, and schools within their communities.

Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

When any franchise or company adopts a cause, it can mobilize its resources and make a difference on a national and even global scale. It’s powerful that most people associate major franchise names with major causes. When a franchise CEO puts his or her name, financial resources and talents of top executives like Ms. O’Gorman behind major causes and truly makes a difference, people develop positive impressions of these industry leaders, and their brand name products.

Liberty Tax is regarded as a company that gives back to its communities, helps others with national and local efforts and events, and embraces diversity. It’s helped our bottom line, and our perception in the franchise industry and business world. Our company has demonstrated the ability to respond to a plethora of industry challenges and regulations during its most recent tax season and reports solid growth in both tax returns and revenue for the just- completed tax season. Throughout this decade, Liberty Tax Service has demonstrated significant gains in an industry formerly dominated by tax giant H&R Block and, during the 21st century, Liberty has grown by more tax returns than both Jackson Hewitt and H&R Block combined.

Liberty Tax Service prepared 11% more returns through April 19, 2011, compared to the same time period in 2010. System wide revenues increased 12%. Martha O’Gorman—Liberty Tax Service

We continued to offer competitive choices, allowing customers to choose between professional services in brick-and-mortar locations, and do-it-yourself online tax preparation with its eSmart Tax product at www.esmarttax.com.

Our company wouldn’t be as successful without the individual success stories of our franchisees who have followed our system to achieve their own financial and independent goals, and future franchisees who will follow. Building a successful franchise brand that’s affordable and a valuable asset to its stakeholders heightens the positive awareness of the industry by example.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

H&R Block was ordered to pay Liberty Tax Service one half million dollars for false advertising in 2000, and did pay just over $800,000 in total damages, costs and attorney’s fees. Liberty Tax sued over a false and misleading advertising claim regarding Block’s "refund anticipation loan" product. The controversy surrounded the advertising that promoted Block’s "refund anticipation loan" as a "refund," "refund amount," and "a check in the amount of your refund." The Court ruled that H&R Block didn’t adequately disclose this product as a loan on a tax refund.

Liberty Tax Service had just opened in the Hampton Road area in 2000 with 25 offices. The suit was filed in January 2000, and was tried in November 2000. The ruling stated that most of the ads by H&R Block in the Hampton Roads area were either literally false, or were literally true but misleading, and all other elements of a claim for false advertising were established. H&R Block acted "maliciously, willfully and in bad faith," and specifically targeted Liberty Tax Service.

The presiding judge entered a nationwide injunction against H&R Block mandating that they: (1) not use the term "Rapid Refund" in connection with their loan products; (2) not advertise again in violation of IRS regulations and; (3) not use the terms "advance," "refund amount," or check in the "amount of your refund," unless they prominently and clearly stated in the advertisement that the product is a "loan."

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

Inside Business magazine presented O’Gorman with a Women in Business Achievement award in recognition of her accomplishments in the business community of Hampton Roads, Virginia where she resides. Prior to co-founding Liberty Tax Service, Ms. O’Gorman served as Director of Communications for Jackson Hewitt Tax Service from 1989 to 1996. She has over 25 years of experience in advertising, marketing and public relations. Martha O’Gorman—Liberty Tax Service

Ms. O’Gorman leads by example, and is a talent scout for newcomers to Liberty Tax with skills needed in the Marketing Department. She has served as a mentor to a receptionist who became the media director. Three members of the Marketing Department started as temporary technical support personnel, and experienced career evolutions into webmasters and graphic designers under Ms. O’Gorman’s tutelage. Another marketing team member started temporarily as a marketing assistant, and honed her skills in billing, and yellow page placement and other areas to become coordinator of billing. Ms. O’Gorman is a believer of promoting from within. John Hewitt, CEO and Founder of Liberty Tax Service (757) 301-8003, [email protected] Liberty Tax Service 1716 Corporate Landing Parkway Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Kathleen Curry, Vice President of Human Resources and Legal for Liberty Tax Service (757) 301-8004, [email protected] Liberty Tax Service 1716 Corporate Landing Parkway Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Rod Brooks, CEO of Stop Hunger Now? (888) 501-8440, [email protected] Stop Hunger Now 2501 Clark Street, Suite 301 Raleigh, NC 27607

No Rhoda Olsen - Great Clips, Inc.

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

 Provide leadership to achieve 39 consecutive quarters of same-salon sales growth and 34 quarters of same-salon customer growth in one of the largest franchise systems.  Lead Great Clips to $1 billion in system wide revenue in 2013.  Consistently drive average unit profit level for franchisees with 4 years of consecutive profit growth approaching almost $68,000 per salon.  Drive consistent and compelling growth through strong and collaborative franchisee relationships  Re-launch our brand strategy, clearly communicating customers are the priority in the franchise relationship.  Leverage technology to better serve customers and connect with franchisees; first in the haircare industry to introduce online check-in.  Built an organization that has compelling and unique values and an unparalleled level of franchisee commitment and engagement, including incredibly active co-ops, a strong and active Marketing Advisory & Review Council, a supportive, independent association and franchisees that consistently connect to support and challenge one another.  Develop a clear and visible focus on succession and transition in a family-run business with development teams, transition support and mentoring.  Develop a franchise system that has one of the strongest compliance and support rates in the franchise system. Less than 1% of our 1,246 franchisees are not in compliance with our standards.  Added more than 100 new franchisees each year for the last five years  Opened an average of 200 new salons per year for the past 4 years.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

I believe that our strength as a franchisor has been very valuable in promoting franchising as a business strategy. When I’ve been asked about the company’s success over the last 10 years, my personal and consistent response is that it’s due to the strength of our franchisees and our relationships with them.

Great Clips and our executive staff are visible in industries across the board and our leaders use every speaking opportunity to promote the value of franchising. This includes IFA-sponsored events, state franchise events, Chamber of Commerce events, real estate events, cosmetology/industry events, women’s events, and so many others.

Great Clips is also 100% franchised and has made this decision because of its belief in franchisees and the fact that their performance exceeds corporate units. It has allowed Great Clips to focus singularly on the franchisees and their success. Rhoda Olsen - Great Clips, Inc.

I’ve committed to helping women advance in the franchise industry and specifically in the hair care industry which is 99% female. It’s critical to have strong executive women role models in our organization with a consistent focus on developing executive leadership and strong franchisees throughout the system.

I have personally mentored every female executive on our executive team. Out of 10 Great Clips executives seven, including me, are women: Sandra Anderson, Chief Legal Counsel; Mari Fellrath, VP of IT/Business Intelligence; Yvonne Mercer, VP of Business Services, CFE; Terri Miller, Sr. VP of Marketing and Communications; Michelle Sack, VP of Education Services; and Nancy Uden, Sr. VP of Franchise Services/Human Resources.

In addition to personally mentoring women on our executive team, I also initiated a Women’s Executive Leadership Forum consisting of meetings and retreats. This Forum spawned several leadership development programs in Great Clips, Inc. that support ongoing mentoring and development of women. All of the female executives in the organization actively mentor other women and commit to their growth.

I also actively support key female franchisee leaders who have contributed greatly to the strength of Great Clips, including an annual women’s event with Great Clips franchisees and executives called WINE (Women in a Nurturing Environment).

Outside of Great Clips, I have spoken at several women’s events including the 3rd Annual Women in Leadership forum sponsored by Barnes Thornburg, NAWBO (North American Women Business Owners) Annual Awards Luncheon, North Metro Chamber of Commerce, and the St. Paul Chamber of Commerce.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

Great Clips has always been a great supporter of the IFA and I have consistently been involved with IFA events and programs. I have not served on any committees or task forces, but I have consistently led panel discussions, presentations, and roundtable facilitation. I have presented at the Women’s Franchise Committee Annual Leadership Conference several times, most recently in 2011.

I have consistently supported the executive forums that were part of the IFA for many years. I also encourage our company employees and leaders to take an active role in the IFA, including Charlie Simpson and Rob Goggins who have led sessions on franchise development and supported the CFE program. Several members of our leadership team are CFEs. Rhoda Olsen - Great Clips, Inc.

My franchise involvement:

 Board Member, International Institute for Franchise Education Advisory Board (IIFE), Nova Southeastern University, 2011: o Active board member with other franchisors. o Regular speaker at their Executive Leadership Summit for Franchisors. o Worked closely with Cheryl Babcock to promote franchising throughout the University. o Resource for new franchisors that attended the seminar.

 Speaker/Attendee: Franchise Summit and Franchise Executive Leadership Forum sponsored by Faegre Baker Daniels (2011 to current). Panel member or speaker every year. Worked with Brian Schnell.

 Pivot Point Advisory Board Member (2011-current): Active, supportive board member for Pivot Point, an industry education leader.

 Cosmetology Educators’ Association and American Association of Cosmetology Educators: I speak at key industry events. In my speeches, I applaud the success of franchisees and the strength of the franchise model.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

Introducing Franchising's Leading Women Executives (Franchise Update) - Rhoda Olsen, Great Clips CEO, is profiled as one of "24 Women at the Top."

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

 For the past decade, Great Clips, Inc. and salons have been great supporters of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.  Great Clips, Inc. has actively supported Children’s Hospitals & Clinics of Minnesota for nearly two decades.  I witnessed domestic abuse in my home as a child and am committed to domestic abuse causes. Great Clips is a large supporter of the Cut It Out program, a domestic abuse prevention program.  I served 10 years as a trustee on the board of St. Mary’s University in Minnesota. I also serve on the University’s Kabara Institute board for entrepreneurial studies. I lead several presentations and forums to promote franchising and business ownership among the student population.  I serve on the board of the International Salon Spa Business Network (ISBN) and will become president later this year. I connect with other franchise businesses and we work together to support the industry, and IFA initiatives.  In 2007, a Great Clips’ franchisee began The Phakamani Foundation, a non-profit that empowers poor South African women to succeed at micro- enterprise. I lead U.S. fundraising and have been actively involved for almost fouryears.

Rhoda Olsen - Great Clips, Inc.

 I worked with our caring franchisees to launch Clips of Kindness, to provide free clipper cut services at all Great Clips salons for anyone facing hair loss due to cancer treatment.  In June, Great Clips awarded $100K in cosmetology school scholarships to students across the U.S. and Canada, heightening awareness of franchising.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

We call our community initiatives Great Deeds™ and a majority of our franchisees throughout the U.S. and Canada participate in some fashion. With contests and prizes, we often incent our franchisees, salon managers and stylists to rally customers to get involved and contribute to our community outreach. Word spreads and the press covers franchisees in their communities giving back, spreading a positive message about the good will of the franchising community – the backbone of our economy. Goodwill ignites great sentiment regarding franchising. People feel better about frequenting a business that gives back and helps others.

Through franchisee community involvement, people suddenly realize these businesses are locally owned and totally committed to better the community. This creates a warm and fuzzy. Customers learn they’re not just spending money. They’re joining this wonderful franchise to give back and pay it forward. We saw this positive buzz on a larger scale with our Veteran’s Day program. At all our franchises, we offered veterans a free haircut card that was good from Veteran’s Day 2013 through the end of the year. We received national media coverage in big outlets like USA Today and Fox and Friends. To this day, customers talk about how they love our franchises’ great generosity for the military.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

Franchise legislation, combined with the intertwined expectations and obligations of the relationship between a franchisor and a franchisee, inherently give rise to unique and often complex litigation. Such litigation has increased dramatically since the economic downturn of 2008. However, Great Clips is an exception. In fact, litigation with franchisees has been extremely rare in Great Clips’ 30+ year history.

Although the potential for legal issues continues to multiply with the growth of the system, outside legal fees have fallen by 50 percent in the last ten years. Great Clips prides itself on its commitment to working with franchisees to address and ultimately resolve issues. However, franchisees know that Great Clips will not compromise its standards and will engage with vigor if necessary to protect the Great Clips brand. There have been approximately nine occasions in the company’s history when Great Clips has felt obligated to initiate legal action to protect the brand and, in all cases, Great Clips prevailed.

Rhoda Olsen - Great Clips, Inc.

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

I grew up poor with an alcoholic father, a mother who battled depression and five siblings. We worked hard to please our parents and ease tension. We became hard workers who knew we wanted better in our own lives. I believe I am a better business leader and human being because of my background. I believe I am more compassionate and care more deeply for others because I have a greater appreciation and understanding of the hardships people face.

I believe Great Clips franchisees, salon mangers and stylists trust my compassion is the real deal, and I am truly humbled by these great people in our organization. I learn from all of them and people throughout the franchise community who are my mentors. I now that, to stay in touch with reality, I have to constantly visit salons to stay connected and hear what’s going on out there.

We are a company built on relationships with franchisees, salon teams, customers and communities. We strive to be a proud example in the franchise community of a company that sticks to its core values and mission to put the customer first.

None Nusha Pelicano - Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

I am a mother of six children, who I homeschooled until last year. I needed to work, so I opened two Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt stores in 2010. Since then, I have grown my business to five stores, and have been extremely successful. I have been running the stores, administering the business side of them and operating them. I represent Texas franchisees as a member of the Franchise Advisory Committee (FAC) for Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt, and have been able to work with the franchisees in Texas to help reduce costs of milk, COGS, etc. I am heavily involved with other franchisees by helping them structure their business, and by sharing operation procedures with them that have worked for me so that they can be successful.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

By opening and operating franchises, I have been successful by following the structure that Orange Leaf provided me, and by learning to run a business and make profits. I have developed training and operating procedures that have helped me run my stores in a very efficient way- by reducing costs in COGS, labor, etc.

I believe that I am a great example to other women, because I help them realize that being a mother, homeschooling, learning a foreign language, being a triathlete and owning multiple stores is achievable if you believe in yourself. You can set a goal, work hard to pursue it and be successful.

In September, I am participating in the World Championship in Quebec, representing the USA. I have qualified two years in a row by winning my age group in several Ironman 70.3 events- which shows that you can do anything you set your mind to. I believe that women are just as capable as men, and you don’t have to compete with them. We are strong and smart, just like them, and there is a place where they can thrive and be successful in the business world.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

None

Nusha Pelicano - Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

I have won awards for my involvement in my community as a business owner by directing a half marathon race every year, and fundraising for different charities- donating $10,000-$15,000 every year through this effort.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

I run a 5K and half marathon every year, and we fundraise $10,000-$15,000 to donate to charities like the YMCA, New Life Children’s Center, Chosen etc. We also sponsor runners and triathletes, school sports, music programs, and we have spirit nights with numerous schools.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

Establishing more effective training and operational procedures has made my stores very efficient by reducing COGS, labor expenses and being able to provide a better experience with quality service in the stores. Orange Leaf Headquarters recently sent their operations team to learn how I train my employees and operate my stores, so that they can implement some of my techniques in their training and operational program. I have been able to run a more efficient franchise and be a leader of the Orange Leaf brand.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

None Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

I am a well-rounded woman who was able to succeed in a country that is not my native country. I came here when I was 26 because I married an American, and then I became an American citizen. Even though I was in a foreign country, with English as my second language, and never having been in the business world, I was able to start a business, work hard and be successful. I believe that I can do anything I set my mind to with hard work, determination and the right intentions- which are to provide for my six children since I am a single mother now. I am often approached by other successful businessmen and businesswomen for advice and support. I love sharing my story and talents to help empower others to not be afraid, and believe in themselves.

Nusha Pelicano - Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt

None Dori Roberts - Engineering For Kids

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

Engineering for Kids is a Fredericksburg, Virginia-based franchise offering a range of learning-based classes including after school programs, camps, evening classes, in-school field trips, workshops and even birthday parties for kids ages 4-14. Founded by Dori Roberts, Engineering for Kids has over 100 locations throughout the United States and Internationally, offering classes on Aerospace, Chemical, Civil and Industrial Engineering to help kids develop math and science skills.

Prior to franchising I was a teacher. In this profession I was awarded Advisor of the Year by the Technology Student Association. I took my TSA to four state championships. I founded Engineering For Kids in 2009 when I saw the interest from my own children in what my high school students were doing. I franchised Engineering For Kids once I began receiving interest from around the country. In 2011, Engineering For Kids sold its first franchise. We now have over 100 locations world wide.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Franchising has been a viable franchise strategy for Engineering For Kids to grow. This business needs an owner operator who knows their community best. The interest worldwide has shown the great need for this business.

My mentorship has taught me how to view life and business from multiple perspectives, to find the best solution to a challenge and to use the resources at my disposal. I hope Engineering For Kids can offer this same quality of guidance and decision-making to the next generation. I have had a great opportunity recently to mentor a local business woman, Dianna Flett. She is the owner of a fantastic company that offers programs to young girls motivation and skills to move forward with confidence and strength in the years ahead. As a result this business owner is considering taking her local business to the next level by franchising. You may contact her at [email protected].

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA. N/A Dori Roberts - Engineering For Kids

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community. N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

At Engineering For Kids we donate a percentage of our registration fees to the local schools. Being a partner in the community is very important and schools are often struggling to raise money for books, equipment, etc. I am directly involved in these efforts as an Engineering For Kids owner myself. Engineering For Kids also offers several free programs throughout the year. For example on February 20th we offered a free workshop for just for girls to introduce them to engineering.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

Supporting and being a leader the community has had great commercial benefit. It is a win win for both the franchise owners and the schools in which we partner. As a franchise we are able to show that our brand as a whole is an important part of the community.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated. N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

I started Engineering For Kids in 2009. At the time I was a high school engineering teacher and I saw first hand how high school students were exposed to engineering too late in their education. I was truly inspired when my own children (ages 6 and 8 at the time) came with me to a national engineering competition in which my high school students were competing. My own children were mesmerized with all of the engineering challenges. This sparked the idea of Engineering For Kids. Getting kids at the elementary level excited about engineering could literally change the world! Imagine if more kids were excited about engineering before they get to high school, they would take the classes that would prepare them for success for an engineering program in college. Imagine if we graduated more engineers to solve our world’s problems. I had big dreams on a teacher salary. I had to plan well to achieve my dreams and by plotting out a plan I was able to start Engineering For Kids by mostly word of mouth and I kept my teaching job that first year and used my profits to grow the business. Even though I had to put in 80 hour work weeks, I persevered and I now have over 100 locations worldwide! Dori Roberts - Engineering For Kids

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

In 2007 I opened a Senior Helpers office in Farmington Hills, Michigan providing companionship and personal care for families who needed help in order to stay living in their home. Within two years we were billing over $1.0M per year and earned awards to the Presidents Club sponsored by Senior Helpers. In 2011, I purchased two more territories and opened my second office in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. We now provide services to over 200 clients and staff two Senior Living Facilities. This year, 2015 we will open two additional territories in Grand Rapids, Michigan and in Lansing, Michigan.

I was a member of the Senior Helpers Franchise council for 5 years from 2008 through 2012.

I am heavily involved with the Alzheimer’s Association serving on the Board of Directors for the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Michigan Chapter and on the Executive Committee. In addition we provide the first Dial In Support Group in the nation and I frequently speak publicly on issues related to Alzheimer’s. We raise over $5000 each year in the Walk to End Alzheimers. Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

My success as a franchisee has shown business associates, friends and the community that franchising is a great way to learn a new industry and have the support of the franchisor to help you immerse yourself quickly in the business and grow profitably. In addition, I have spoken several times on my business and how I got started to other people considering starting their own business. I tell the audience that for me, franchising provided, not a guarantee, but a better chance of success than doing it on my own.

I am a member of Inforum which is a group of professional business women many whom are deciding on career changes. I counsel on the advantages to starting your own business versus working for a corporation where your career and future really isn’t in your own hands – especially in Michigan where the economy is largely driven by the success of the Auto manufacturers. Often I am called to meet one on one with women who are considering starting a home care business and we meet to discuss what led to my success and steps they should take to consider purchasing a franchise. Not only have I mentored women about being their own boss and starting a franchise, also on a monthly basis we meet with women at a coffee talk to discuss aging issues. We discuss planning for retirement, Power of Attorneys, the sandwich generation, how to care for a loved one with dementia and other age related topics. It is a great source of information for women to come together and share their issues in a non-threatening environment. Barbara A. Roden — Senior Helpers

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

I have not held a leadership position in IFA.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

 In 2011, I was nominated by Senior Helpers for franchisee of the year and attended the IFA meeting in Washington DC that year to receive the award.  Senior Helpers Presidents Award winner.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

 Member of the Alzheimer’s Association Board of Directors  Support Walk to End Alzheimer’s with $5000 donation per year  Conduct monthly Dial In support group for caregivers with loved ones that have Alzheimer’s  Member of the Speaker’s Bureau for Alzheimer’s Association and conduct training on a regular basis.  Offer Continuing Education Credits for professionals through our Lewy Body dementiaclasses  Host Teepa Snow on an annual basis who provides training on how to communicate and care for loved ones with dementia. Over 600 attendees each year  Conduct Virtual Dementia Tour classes to allow the community to experience what it is like to havedementia  Purdue University member of the John Purdue Club. Support athletes with scholarships and education.  Member of the Junior League of Ann Arbor. Support at risk teens and their mothers.  Member of the Volunteer Council for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and participate in fundraising campaigns through their musical feasts.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

The speaking engagements and involvement in my community raises awareness of the issues associated with aging and Senior Helpers as a business that cares about educating and helping people. Through my values and approach, they learn that it isn’t about “me benefiting” but about me helping the community. This heightens their awareness of the value of franchising through me being a good influence on the brand, Senior Helpers. Barbara A. Roden — Senior Helpers

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

Our industry has legal issues such as Companionship exemption and overtime laws which I have been involved with campaigning at the state level. The Affordable Health Care Act is big concern as we have mostly lower wage earners and over 100 FTE’s. As part of the IFA in 2012 I was able to meet with legislators and discuss the negative impact it will have as a franchisee.

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

When I first started my business in 2007, one of the worst economic times we have had in 20+ years, my friends couldn’t believe it and thought I had lost my mind. In my mind, I thought it was absolutely the right thing to do and failure wasn’t even an option. There has not been a day that I ever regretted my decision. Senior Helpers has given me the opportunity to control my own destiny, own my own business, help people in the process with our services, and meet and educate people in the community. It was the best decision I ever made.

No Debra Shwetz — Nothing Bundt Cakes

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

I am Co-Founder of Nothing Bundt Cakes. From ground zero I developed our entire franchise system and wore every hat from sales to development/build out, vendor sourcing, legal, compliance, and grand opening. I am a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE), was the co-chair and am now the current chair of the Women’s Franchise Committee. In addition, I am regularly invited to speak at Leadership Las Vegas about franchising and entrepreneurship. I am on the board of the James T. Clark Scholarship Committee and we have sent 200+ kids to college – many of whom are the first in their families to attend.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

I have been interviewed by many local publications and many franchising publications about franchising and why the model works. I am the spokeswoman for our brand whenever an interview is needed and the subject of being a woman-owned company is always part of these interviews. The same is true of franchising. I love the franchising business model and so speak very highly of the opportunities it offers both men and especially women.

Through volunteering to participate on panels, roundtables and speaking opportunities, I have shared my experience in franchising with thousands of people.

I worked for my CFE designation (which I paid for personally) and promote this valuable program at every opportunity. As chair of the Women’s Franchise Committee, I oversee the initiatives of the committee. This year the focus has been on revitalizing the Women’s Franchise Network around the country and restructuring this group to have greater value, participation and validation. We will participate in a nationwide charity event for “Dress for Success” this fall.

I also recently participated in the “We Sell Restaurants” radio program promoting the Women’s Franchise Network in Atlanta and had the opportunity through this interview to promote Women in Franchising, how women mentor and lead, and women in franchising.

We are a female driven brand. 70% of our franchisees are women and I personally have mentored and coached many of them and continue to do so. Debra Shwetz — Nothing Bundt Cakes

I wrote an article for Michael Seid for about.com about the WFC and its role for women in franchising.

Through Leadership Las Vegas I have the opportunity to speak to young entrepreneurs about the franchise model and my journey through and opportunity for success provided by the model. Many of these young entrepreneurs are women and I have received many letters and emails thanking me for the inspiration I have provided.

I encouraged our franchisee Mara Fortin to be involved in the NLRB initiative and she is now participating in the franchisee forum and is a speaker for the IFA.

I have personally mentored women on our staff:  My daughter Jenna Lamb, who now has a very successful careerin franchise sales.  Jessica Spencer who has moved from being a baker to a Regional Director of Operations in ourcompany  Jori Edmett, who was a baker and is now a manager at my bakery  Laura Novak Meyer with Little Nest Photography, an emerging franchisor who needed help  Nancy Bigley, Co-Owner of Bottle and Botega and now my vice chair on the WFC

And countless others who are referred to me for phone calls and answers – too many to name.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

 Co-Chair of the Women’s Franchise Committee  Chair of the Women’s Franchise Committee  Led “Women in Franchising” seminar at West Coast Franchise Expo  Membership Committee  Board Member of Franchise Update Media Group for the Leadership and Development Conference  Speaker at Leadership and Development Conference three times  Panel member of IFA Convention 3 times  Ambassador for two years  Have led roundtables at the IFA convention four times.  Participated in 50th Anniversary with giant bundt cake on stage and 3000 bundtlets for all guests

Debra Shwetz — Nothing Bundt Cakes

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

 Top 50 Franchise for Franchise Satisfaction Awards (Franchise Business Review) – 2012, 2013, 2014  Top 40 Food Franchise (Franchise Business Review) - 2015  Future 50 fastest growing small chains (Restaurant Business) - 2013  #11 on the Fast and Serious list (Franchise Times) - 2015  Numerous local and regional vote-driven “Best Dessert” lists  We have participated in “Taste of Franchising” every year the IFA Convention has been in Las Vegas and in San Antonio, TX.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

At Nothing Bundt Cakes I constantly strive to give back to our community. I support schools and teachers and donate to Make-a-Wish. I donated 300 bundtlets to Kamp Kartwheel for Kids (kids with cancer organization) for cake decorating day. Our system supports breast cancer awareness each October by donating all proceeds for anything purchased that is pink to Susan G. Komen. We also donated several sets of golf clubs to First Tee and participate in fundraising/donations for Shade Tree for abused women.

I’ve held several fundraisers, including one for a wounded policeman to raise $10,000 for his medical expenses, and one for a trip to the Dominican Republic for two doctors in our community.

I have been a speaker for Leadership Las Vegas three years in a row about franchising and the model and industry. Our bakeries were voted the #1 Family- Owned Business in Las Vegas in 2011, and part of this award was predicated on local community involvement and giving back.

Much of our marketing has to do with getting involved with our local community through donations and giving back.

Delta Gamma is my sorority from college and for the past three years I have donated 900 bundtlets for its gala that supports The Service for Sight organization for the blind.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

Nothing Bundt Cakes is respected in the local community for giving back. When I donate, there is no commercial benefit as the cost of the donated goods is all mine. Through these activities I am constantly networking with women in Las Vegas and share advice, talk about franchising and share my journey. I

Debra Shwetz — Nothing Bundt Cakes believe my story highlights the amazing opportunity presented through franchising.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

None

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

I participate on a Scholarship Committee in a small town in Ft. Morgan, CO. My grandfather left a million dollars in scholarship to this school and I have been helping to award, through in-person interviews, 200+ scholarships for the past 21 years. During the interview process they always ask me about what I do and I have the opportunity to share with them the franchise model and that owning their own business is at their fingertips if they follow a smart path. It is always a great conversation and I see the light bulb come on for some students who never thought they might be able to own their own business. I remain available to them for questions and guidance.

I donate to FranPac and have written letters for several initiatives including Obamacare, the current NLRB issue and have attended the Public Affairs Conference the last four years and visited Capital Hill and my representatives twice. On these visits I have, of course, promoted the franchising industry and done my best to educate these representatives about our industry.

I met with Senator Dean Heller from Nevada at the 2014 IFA Conference and brought with me one of our franchisees from San Diego. She eloquently spoke to the franchising model and the opportunity it has provided to her as a single mom. From this meeting, she has gone on to do several interviews about this issue, is involved in her State of California and has, I believe, joined the franchisee forum.

No, none. Dana Spinola - fab’rik boutique

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

 25 Power Women to Watch  40 under 40 Atlanta Business Chronicle  AJC Best Places To Work  100 Fastest Growing Businesses (2012, 2013) UGA  Be Greater: Atlanta Hawks award for bettering the lives of others  Best of Atlanta, wins best boutique each year for about 10 years in Atlanta, now wins in franchised cities- Austin, Augusta, etc

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Boutiques are one of the most desired businesses of women. Our business model allows them to have a family and own a business, a business that is their passion. There are not many franchised clothing boutiques and fab’rik plans on leading the way to ensure this is not only a strong business model but promotes a culture that fulfills the owner’s passion of balancing work, play and family.

I spend most of my time mentoring women. Meredith Eble is one of our franchisees that was a stylist at a corporate store, then promoted to manager then owner. I can’t count the endless conversations we have had not only about managing business but also finding work life balance, encouragement and tough talks about how to grow as a leader. You can reach her at [email protected]. Megan Gothard is another fab’rik franchisee that I have mentored for about 9 years. She started in my very first store then became a stylist, worked with our franchise growth then opened her own franchise. [email protected]

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

I have not yet held positions in the IFA, hopeful to do this soon! Dana Spinola - fab’rik boutique

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement. fab’rik amended our mission statement last year to include our non-profit, free fab’rik which the heart of what we do. High style with heart, no attitude or stickershock. I founded free fab’rik in 2008 to host free shopping sprees for young women in need. The clothing is donated from the community, volunteers come as act as personal stylists as the young women get to shop with dignity in a boutique setting. We opened our first free fab’rik community boutique last year. Here we can hold sprees all year round as well as host our mentorship/vocational training where young women come and work in the thrift store. All profits go towards our mission. He host a free fab’rik fashion event each year where over 600 people come to support this mission of restoring hope and dignity to young women who have lost theirs. www.fabrikstyle.com/charity

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

We believe the fab’rik model is full circle, it allows owners to fulfill their passion as well as adding purpose to their community. Many of our franchisees have come to be a part of franchising because of our heart and culture first.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

None as of yet

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

We have never advertised that we franchise in the past, our customers have just believed in the concept. After what we believe has been strong due diligence, I have decided to expand this concept and my goal for 2015 is to be the biggest and best fashion franchise. I know we have a little work to do but I love goals and believe this is what is next for us in 2015.

Dana Spinola - fab’rik boutique

None

Ciara Stockeland - MODE

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements. I consider my ultimate professional achievement to be the building of a brand that has been successfully franchised. To own your own business is an American Dream, to create a brand that can sustain itself and grow is an American Story. I started my first retail store with no retail experience and I started franchising with no franchising experience. I entered this business without a team of franchise experts and no behind the scenes funding. MODE was been built though the diligence of seeking out wise council and the work ethic that drives American entrepreneurship. Additionally, I am proud to say that I have built a franchise team of dedicated store owners and a corporate team of passionate and driven women who work to ensure our brand is protected. Through the hard work, passion and persistence I am confident that our brand is in good hand and we will continue to grow and prosper as a franchise. Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility? When I opened the doors to my first retail store in 2006, I knew I wanted to build a brand. Given our remote location in Fargo, ND I soon came to realize that franchising would be the vehicle that would drive the brand forward. I believe that the creation of the MODE brand and what we have accomplished firmly shows that franchising starts at a micro level and through franchising, jobs are created through men and women realizing the dream of owning their own small business. Many individuals are able to open the doors to their own business due to the work being done on the corporate side of the business as it gives these individuals piece of mind through the proven system that franchising provides. I am also dedicated to advocating for small business and franchising as a viable industry in America. I work hard to fight against regulations that will deter others from franchising, opening their own business and reaching their goals of business ownership. We have unlimited opportunities in this country and I will continue to work to protect our rights as franchisors as well as the rights of those who entrust us as with their dreams as franchisees. Questionnaire Response No. 2a How has your achievements helped women advance in the franchise industry? Please list specific activities and results that demonstrate your mentorship to women. Are there any mentorees that Committee members could contact regarding your impact? I am extremely proud to say that MODE is an entirely women run company. At MODE we have already created jobs for over ten women in Fargo alone who have come on board with the MODE brand as we have grown our franchised concept. These valued team members now know and understand how important the Franchise Business Model is to the American economy. Additionally, MODE is a women’s clothing retail concept, thus, a majority of our franchisees are female. Through the MODE brand we have enabled women to see the franchise model as a way for them to realize their own business success. In 2015 I had the honor of bringing one of our franchisees to the Franchising Gives Back and Awards dinner in Washington D.C. This was extremely impactful for me as the franchisor as I was able to share our passion of franchising with one of the hardest working owners in my system. This experience allowed us to work together on shared goals for the company and her store growth as she was able to see the large vision for the industry. Through a mentorship model, I continue to lead my team in finding ways such as that to mentor our franchisees in what business leadership looks like.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 Ciara Stockeland - MODE

List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA. I am most actively involved in FAN and a member of the Coalition to Save Local Business. Through his involvement I have had numerous opportunities to speak on behalf of the franchise business model and testify on its success as the engine that contributes to small business growth, economy and job creation in the United States. In 2015, I testified before the Senate HELP Committee and again before the Senate Small Business Committee in 2016 regarding the new “Joint Employer” standard. I was also invited to and participated in a roundtable held by Chairman Steve Chabot regarding the new DOL Overtime Rule and how it will impact small business. I am extremely passionate in my efforts to save the freedom of small business and to educate the public and lawmakers on the franchise business model. Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community. CFE Women’s Executive Scholarship 2016 Recipient (gifted to team member), IFA Educational Foundation SCORE Outstanding Small Business Franchise 2015, SCORE American Small Business Champion 2015, SCORE and Sam’s Club Top 50 2016 Franchisee Satisfaction Award, Franchise Business Review Dream Big Small Business of the Year, 2016 Midwest Region Finalist, U.S. Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 Business Professionals, Prairie Business Magazine Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement. I am involved on various levels in the community. First in my home community of Fargo, ND we are actively involved through our MODE Flagship store in partnering with local charities and non-profits through our Organization of the Week program. Through this we give back 20% of all sales to a participating partner weekly. Reaching out into the communities of our franchisees, we encourage each franchisee to participate in “MODE It Forward”, a program that enables each franchisee to give away two pairs of designer denim to deserving women in their community each week. At a national level I am involved in the Small Business community as a member of the Small Business Council at the US Chamber of Commerce as well as an active member of the Coalition to Save Local Business. Additionally, on a personal/professional I serve as a mentor for a number of small business owners and women entrepreneurs as I am a firm believer in the power of mentoring. There is no better way to give back to those in need of council or guidance as you pay it forward from those who have taken the time to mentor you.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising. While community involvement most often shows through commercial benefit to any business who chooses to be involved, it is not the sole reason, or even its primary purpose. Positive awareness is brought to franchising each time a MODE franchisee seeks out a women in her community and gives to her with no string attached. Positive awareness is brought to franchising each time our MODE stores show their local loyalty by diligently interacting with local charities and non profits through invitations into our MODE stores and givebacks to deserving individuals and organizations in our communities. Equally as important, each time a member of our MODE team advocates on behalf of franchising or small business we shed light on the positive impact franchising has on job creation and the economy in our country. Questionnaire Response No. 7 Ciara Stockeland - MODE

Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated. N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree. It was my goal to join IFA from the first day we franchised MODE. My personal business goals personally align with the programs and initiatives that IFA offers its members. I immediately knew that IFA would be a great resource and amazing franchise partner. When we came to the point in which we had the resources to join IFA in 2015, I found our membership benefits to be even better than what I anticipated. The level of genuine desire for others to succeed and the opportunities that IFA provides for education and mentoring is second to none. MODE has and will continue to be a highly active IFA member and through this award will seek to further the cause as we tell the story of what franchising can do in local and national communities. Questionnaire Response No. 9 Are there legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of an IFA award might raise which have the potential to attract negative publicity or attention for the association and/or the franchising industry? Please describe. None Anne Stom - Annie’s Ace Hardware

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

Anne Stom is an accomplished businesswoman with a background in government affairs as well as an entrepreneur and small business owner. Beyond her impressive resume, she is a dedicated philanthropist, advocate of women in business, and deeply rooted in her community.

Prior to opening Annie’s Ace Hardware, Anne, 61, worked with the United States Department of Labor where she served as the Project Director for a program called YouthBuild. Her task was to help enable underserved youth obtain the education and skills needed to become valuable members of the workforce and leaders in their own communities.

Meanwhile, nine years ago Anne bought an older home near the Petworth neighborhood of metro Washington, D.C. In need of major repairs, Anne was frequently making the three-city-mile drive to her nearest big box home improvement retailer – an inconvenience given city traffic and lack of nearby hardware resources.

In thinking more about the rebuilding and expanding community of Petworth, Anne realized there was no neighborhood hardware store to serve the community. She saw this as a challenge and took it upon herself to find a way to solve that need.

In the years since, Anne has stepped into her newest endeavor as a small business owner and the sole proprietor of Annie’s Ace Hardware, a wildly successful hardware store in the Petworth community, part of the world’s largest hardware cooperative – Ace Hardware Corporation.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Anne’s distinct background, focused on the empowerment of others, gave her the momentum and tools needed to step into the arena of becoming a small business owner.

Now in her third year of business, Annie’s Ace Hardware is experiencing more than 50% year-over-year sales gains and has already exceeded her business goals for 2014 (as of mid-year). Under her leadership, the store has experienced such unprecedented success that she has added an additional 1,200 square feet into an adjacent space.

Having left a successful career within the government, Anne had everything on the line when she considered the various franchise and cooperative options in the marketplace. She felt strongly that Ace Hardware’s business model was the right fit for her as a new investor because of the support that was demonstrated to her, enabling Anne to follow her dream of entrepreneurship. Anne Stom - Annie’s Ace Hardware

In partnering with Ace Hardware, Anne was uninhibited by many of the typical roadblocks one would experience trying to open a business and instead was given the independence to tailor her store to the needs of her eclectic and diverse neighborhood.

On the heels of double digit sales gains and her store’s expansion, Anne isn’t slowing down – she already has her eyes set on opening another retail hardware location. When asked what advice Anne would give to her 23-year-old-self, Anne emphatically said, “I would have opened my business sooner.”

The leader of 20 employees at Annie’s Ace Hardware, 10 of whom are women, Anne is fiercely committed to growing talent of deserving employees. Anne’s leadership philosophy is centered on the spirit of collaboration; she is passionate about fostering an environment where her associates can be independent and solutions-oriented.

Anne sent her Assistant Store Manager, a Hispanic female, and her female merchandiser to Ace Hardware’s annual retailer convention where they were exposed to more than 10,000 store owners, associates, vendors and corporate staff, attended trainings and heard first-hand the state of the organization from corporate executives. Both women came back energized by the experience.

Additionally, Anne is expanding her company’s Business to Business (B2B) efforts and has hired a woman, Annabeth Roeschley, as the Coordinator of Business Development. She will be dedicated to growing this significant channel for the store. Annabeth specifically joined Annie’s Ace Hardware for the opportunity to learn the retail hardware business and is being mentored by Anne.

Mirna Amaya has worked at Annie’s since it opened and has moved from Sales Associate to Assistant Store Manager. With Anne’s guidance, she has taken numerous trainings designed to help her excel. In addition, Anne works closely with her to refine her technology and supervisory skills. Mirna has grown tremendously over the past two years and is well respected by her colleagues.

Finally, Anne has recently hired a female ex-offender as a sales associate and has been working closely with and coaching her for development as a long- term employee.

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA. As a new member of the franchising community, Anne has not yet had the opportunity to familiarize herself with opportunities at the IFA. She is interested in learning more. Anne Stom - Annie’s Ace Hardware

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

Under Anne’s leadership, Annie’s Ace Hardware received the highest level of recognition from Ace Hardware Corporation for excellence in retailing. Annie’ Ace Hardware was recognized as a “Pinnacle Performance Retailing” store for its outstanding performance in 2013. Developed as part of Ace’s long-term retail growth strategy, 20/20 Vision, Pinnacle Performance Retailing is laser focused on Ace’s customers, helping to ensure that Ace stores deliver on Ace’s brand promise day in and day out. Last year was the first year a store could earn this prestigious designation, as 20/20 Vision officially launched in early 2013. “For a store to achieve Pinnacle Performance Retailing in the first year is a remarkable accomplishment,” said Kane Calamari, Vice President, Retail Operations and New Business, Ace Hardware Corporation. “We’re pleased to recognize Annie’s Ace Hardware and its associates for their outstanding achievements, and proud to say they’re a part of the Ace family.”

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

Anne is extremely involved in the community and actively supports numerous philanthropies, including:  Every month, Annie’s Ace Hardware hosts a non-profit bike clinic that teaches residents how to repair and maintaintheir bicycles.  Once per month, Annie’s Ace Hardware hosts the Washington Humane Society for a kitten adoption. The adoption nights at her store have yielded the Human Society the highest adoption numbers for the entire organization.  Every few weeks, Annie’s Ace Hardware hosts a group of local elementary school students, ages four, five, and six. They come to the store for real world education, like how to pick plants, watch how keys are made and how to scan items at theregister.  Annie’s Ace Hardware also gets involved with the local schools with employees serving as judges for the annual spelling bee.  Once per quarter, Anne sends a group of her associates to work with the nearby Habitat for Humanity. There they are able to hone their home improvement and repair skills while giving back to the community.  Anne is a supporter of Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals. She frequently participates in fundraisers, such as Ace Hardware’s annual bucket promotion, with proceeds benefitting her local CMN Hospital.  Annie’s is also a big supporter of the Petworth Farmer’s Market and the Armed Forces Retirement Home both of whom are located near thestore.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

Annie’s Ace Hardware mission statement is “To profitably operate an Ace retail store in the Columbia Heights, Petworth, and Park View neighborhoods of Washington, DC, by offering excellent customer service at a competitive price, providing secure jobs and a good standard of living for all employees, creating a welcoming community space that supports good environmental stewardship, and generating an above average rate of return for all investors.” Anne Stom - Annie’s Ace Hardware

Each of these community events has helped Annie’s Ace to create the type of welcoming community space that Anne wants to foster. One of the highlights of Anne’s week is working on Saturday and greeting her neighbors and new friends made as a result of opening the store. Annie’s Ace Hardware is also a place where neighbors greet each other and catch up with their dogs, children and friends. She is extremely proud of the good community energy that has been created.

Anne is part of the Georgia Avenue Business Alliance and the Heart of Petworth Business Alliance both of whom work with locally owned, small businesses to improve the Petworth Community. She recently was able to broker a partnership with American University’s Kogod School of Business to have one of the marketing classes develop a marketing plan for the Petworth community and its small businesses.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

Anne is an active member of Ace Hardware’s National Retailer Media Council. As part of the group, she serves as a designated spokesperson for the Ace brand and has been professionally media trained.

Anne’s store was recently featured in the Washington Post on a macroeconomic look at job growth.

Anne works closely with Jubilee Jobs and the local YouthBuild program to proactively hire ex-offenders and women. Since she has opened Annie’s Ace Hardware, she has increased her staff from 15 employees to 25 employees with 12 full-time employees and 13 part-timers. She recently hired two high school students and for each of them, this is their first job. Anne is committed to hiring local residents to work in her store.

No Kathy Thiessen - Merry Maids

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER Jan. 2011 to June 2014 AmeriSpec & Furniture Medic, ServiceMaster Franchise Services Group, Memphis, TN Manage staff of 12 with COE structure supporting 400 franchises in the US and Canada.  Day to day operations  P&L management  Training  Expansion of services  Sales initiatives

Serve on the ServiceMaster Diversity Council and Corporate Citizenship Council. DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT Mar. 2006 to Dec. 2010 ServiceMaster Clean Residential Services & Furniture Medic, Memphis, TN Grew the national accounts program at Furniture Medic 17% by focusing on new account sales and franchisee engagement. National accounts revenue represents 32% of revenue today. Responsible for creating new presentation materials for internal and external customers. Presented to over 2,000 adjusters in approximately 75 meetings to educate and train on the national accounts program. Trained new Furniture Medic franchisees on:  Presentations skills  Customer skills  National accounts programs

MANAGER Mar. 2005 to Feb. 2006 ServiceMaster Clean Residential Services & Furniture Medic, Memphis, TN  Developed new revenue stream for Furniture Medic by facilitating national relationships with insurance companies and training franchisees resulting in customer level growth for the brand  Incorporated the add on sales program into the ServiceMaster Clean Residential Services system

MANAGER OF PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT Mar. 2003 to Feb. 2005 ServiceMaster Clean Residential Services, Memphis, TN  Developed and launched a pilot program to test marketing and customer acquisition of residential customers  Created training curriculum for franchisees and technicians. Relationships with key franchises allowed us to achieve positive growth Kathy Thiessen - Merry Maids

PT MEETING & EVENT PLANNER CONSULTANT Mar. 1997 to Feb. 2003 ServiceMaster Clean, Memphis, TN  Planned and produced the ServiceMaster Clean annual convention and more than doubled attendance  Responsible for planning and producing two incentive trips and a variety of small meetings

PT TRAINING CONSULTANT Mar. 1996 to Feb. 1997 ServiceMaster Clean, Memphis, TN  Revised new franchise training manuals.

DISTRIBUTOR, CENTRAL MN & ND Jun. 1985 to Sept. 1995 ServiceMaster Clean, Minneapolis, MN  Part of three family owned entities holding Distributorship agreements with ServiceMaster providing support, training, and product distribution for more than 60 cleaning, restoration and lawn care franchises in Central Minnesota and North Dakota  Owned and operated 8 ServiceMaster cleaning and lawn care franchises

JANITORIAL & COMMERCIAL FRANCHISE OWNER Jun. 1980 to May 1995 ServiceMaster Clean, Minneapolis, MN  Built a janitorial & commercial business. Directed all aspects of the operation including sales, finance, marketing, operations, training, account management, and human resources

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

I have spent 34 years in franchising in a variety of roles from franchise owner to distributor to vice president. Throughout the years I’ve been involved in a variety community organizations. As a woman in predominately male businesses I’ve been able to erase stereotypes and provide a positive role model for our franchisees. I’ve always been passionate about franchising and the model it provides to all people interested in business ownership. Franchise owners represent hardworking and ambitious people pursuing their dreams, impacting their community and providing a future for their families. The ServiceMaster commitment to honor God in all we do, to help people develop, to pursue excellence and to grow profitable has been a lens for decision making in my personal and professional life. Working with and at a values based company has motivated me for 34 years. At ServiceMaster we called it “walking the talk.” At Furniture Medic I developed curriculum to teach new franchises the values and take them through exercises to explore how the commitment can be used to make basic, regular decisions in their business. Kathy Thiessen - Merry Maids

See above

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

In 2012 AmeriSpec received the top home inspection franchise award by Entrepreneur

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

BOARD MEMBER & 2014 Vice Chair 2007 to Present Service Over Self (SOS) Memphis, TN  SOS seeks to empower persons and transform neighborhoods by utilizing volunteers to renovate the homes of economically disadvantaged homeowners

MENTOR 2013 to 2014 East High School Career Mentoring Program, Memphis, TN  Served as a mentor for a young woman in high school

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising. Working in community organizations has given me the opportunity to educate others on franchising and business ownership. The mentorship program provides young, urban woman a chance to pursue and learn about several career and educational opportunities. We provide not only a mentor for each woman but a quarterly lunch and learn at a local corporation. Kathy Thiessen - Merry Maids

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

N/A

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

None

No Marla Topliff - The Rosati Group

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

In 1964, four enterprising young men opened the first Rosati’s Pizza Restaurant in a small northwestern Chicago suburb. Today Rosati’s has grown to almost 200 restaurants in 13 states, specializing in pizza dine-in, carry-out and delivery. Since 1999, I have served as the organization’s President and Spokesperson, focused on business expansion and community relations. As the woman behind the Rosati name, I have very successfully dedicated my career to building the Rosati brand, making our name readily recognizable across several markets and furthering the growth of our business model.

I am a proud and active member of IFA, currently serving on the Membership Committee and previously on the Convention Planning Committee. I have participated in many IFA events as a speaker, panelist, session moderator, roundtable leader, and ambassador for new members. I have led and been a panelist on several sessions of Women in Franchising.

Some of my greatest professional achievements include my service as Chairman and Political Advocate of the National Restaurant Association’s (NRA) Pizzeria Council; Board Member of Dine Out for No Kid Hungry, currently engaged in developing a relationship with Franchising Gives Back; Advisory Board Member and Political Advocate for the Illinois Restaurant Association, slated to chair a new women’s group established to encourage and support emerging female business owners; active member of Fran Action Network; and 2012 International Pizza Expo Keynote Speaker, addressing the obstacles faced by female leaders in a male dominated industry.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

One of my highest priorities is to be an active participant in the many groups that work together to advance the power of one united franchise voice. I believe that by developing strong and lasting relationships with our industry advocacy groups, I have the opportunity to truly influence those in a position of political power, making my voice a catalyst for change in the franchising industry.

The wider I am able to cast my net of industry influence, the larger the audience that will learn about the advantages of business franchising. As an outspoken advocate, the visibility afforded to me by my participation in franchise advocacy groups has allowed me to reach a wider audience. As a result, I have been able to bring a substantial number of new members to IFA.

With strong ties and connections to many media outlets, I am frequently asked to speak and/or write about the issues facing franchisors today for a variety of publications including The Chicago Tribune, The Wall Street Journal, Pizza Marketplace, QSR Magazine, The Suit Magazine and Nation’s Restaurant News to name a few.

Questionnaire Response No. 2a Marla Topliff - The Rosati Group

How has your achievements helped women advance in the franchise industry? Please list specific activities and results that demonstrate your mentorship to women. Are there any mentorees that Committee members could contact regarding your impact?

In order to reach the maximum number of people, it is essential to build a strong network of peers. Through my extensive community participation and social media networks, my message to women is that gender has nothing to do with ability. In my work with the NRA, IRA, and No Kid Hungry, I am able and fortunate to connect with powerful women from various industries. Together, our ultimate goal is to help other women reach beyond themselves through development of their own network of connections to create possibilities and opportunities.

I recently enjoyed the opportunity to mentor two aspiring entrepreneurs. Reka of Hungary came to the United States to learn about starting and building a franchise system. Cornelia of Austria is developing a culinary school and restaurant that will help refugees assimilate into their new homeland. She hopes to take this concept to countries worldwide through franchising. Reka can be reached by email at [email protected] and Cornelia is available by phone at +43681/81771495.

I’ve also had the privilege of working with my good friend and IFA member, Kathleen Wood, to develop a business plan for expansion of her Susie Swirl concept, a self-service frozen yogurt kiosk operated remotely by a franchisee. Building on her success with the two locations she currently operates, Kathleen and I are strategizing on the best way to introduce her concept for rapid growth through franchising. Kathleen can be reached by email at [email protected].

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

As a ceaseless and passionate franchisor, I volunteer for IFA at every possible opportunity. I held a seat on the Convention Planning Committee and I am currently working on the Membership Committee. I am a member of and spokesperson for the Political Action Committee. It is also widely known by IFA event organizers that I have serve as willing alternate when needed if another member is unable to fulfill an obligation at a moments notice. I am an active member of FAN and respond to every political action call immediately. I act as mentor to new members when call called upon to do so.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

In 2014, I had the honor and privilege of being named ‘One of Franchising’s Top 24 Leading Women by Franchise Update.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement. Marla Topliff - The Rosati Group

I am an active member of No Kid Hungry/Share Our Strength, a charity devoted to ending childhood hunger, and I serve on their advisory board for Dine-Out. I am also an Advisory Board Member of the Charlie Trotter Project, a foundation working to identify and support talented individuals interested in the culinary arts.

I am a proud Sponsor and Mentor for the ProStart Program. Sponsored by the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation (NRAEF), this program works to identify and educate emerging global talent interested in building a career in the culinary arts. I recently sat on their committee to update the ProStart curriculum to include a comprehensive chapter on franchising. In February of 2016, I had the pleasure of serving as a judge for the Illinois ProStart Student Invitational competition, held in downtown Chicago. This competition is held annually across the United States.

I am a member of the Committee to Create the Service Industry Competency Model now being used as the standard for job creation, which has been entered into the Library of Congress.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising. I have talked with Franchising Gives Back to create a partnership with No Kid Hungry. Right now the focus is on the restaurant industry specifically, but a partnership with IFA will offer the positive benefit of community service transcending its focus from just the restaurant industry and expanding it throughout all of franchising.

By supporting ProStart I am helping to develop future generations of franchisees. The kids that I mentor are management students and I help them to create business models and teach how the franchise system works. I helped to write their textbooks.

Working on the Competency Modeling gave me the opportunity to help to set the standard for current and future generations entering the industry Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

I am a member of FAN, and of Political Action Committees (PAC) for both IFA and the NRA. I have several times been asked by IFA to speak out as an advocate for franchisors on issues like joint employment and minimum wage.

I have been a panelist in many roundtables aimed at educating business owners on issues facing franchising today. Most recently I sat on the CEO panel at the Leadership Conference to try to help determine options for dealing with the joint employer issue. I have been to Capitol Hill countless times to discuss issues with members of Congress, and to lobby for restaurant and franchise legislative reform. I have also been to the White House to work with the White House Chief of Staff and others on the new labeling requirements. I regularly send letters to Congressmen asking them to oppose bills that will have a negative, if not devastating, effect on Marla Topliff - The Rosati Group

franchising.

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

Ultimately the franchising industry is the building blocks for the American Dream, a land of opportunity for anyone who wants to reach out and grab it. I’m living proof of that. With each new career change, starting with my career as a stay-at-home and PTA volunteer, I gained new insights and knowledge that helped guide me from one level to the next. But the recurring theme always comes back to my number- one rule, which is to always treat everyone the way you want to be treated. Respect is the key to success.

None Sabrina Wall - Franchise Brokers Association

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements.

By the age of 30 Sabrina Wall had put herself through college and become the owner of two franchise systems. She had also established a successful franchise brokerage that led her to build two of the leading Franchise Broker Training and Support organizations.

It’s an accomplishment to do any one of these things, but to be able to do them all since 2006 is extraordinary. Her ability to unite people together for a cause is truly remarkable. Her passion for franchising is what ignites the ideas that fuel all her companies.

Through her work with the Franchise Brokers Association (FBA), Sabrina has made significant strides in improving the industry. Through the FBA’s innovative spirit the company has served as a focal point for Franchisors and Brokers to come together to create relationships and educate one another. Franchise Brokers now have a solid community they belong to. They receive lasting support and guidance, and the training necessary to successfully and ethically place their candidates into solid franchise systems.

With FranVest Management Sabrina is only beginning to tap into the thousands of potential immigrants who are seeking a path to citizenship through various visa programs. These programs use foreign investor capital to purchase franchises. The end result brings opportunity, job creation and business ownership to Americans and hopeful entrepreneurs as well as providing permanent residency to investing immigrants.

Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

The core belief at the FBA is anyone can be a successful business owner if they discover the right opportunity! Through this belief system we have gathered over 500 members who are continually trained and educated on how to achieve the best possible outcome for the candidate and the franchise. We strongly believe that if a candidate is able to find the right franchise and be educated during the process, they will be successful. To this end the FBA has been driven to improve the quality and effectiveness of franchise brokers from all organizations. We have been very successful in our mission and were mentioned as a resource in the 2013 IBIS World report on Franchise Brokering.

FranVest Management shows immigrants the path to citizenship can be obtained by embracing franchising. FranVest demonstrates how franchising provides more control over their investment. Sabrina visited China on a trade mission in 2013 to present franchising to potential immigrants. The two week trip yielded 33 sign-ups in the program resulting in $16,500,000 that will be brought to the US through the EB-5 program. This will also create 700- 800 jobs. Because of this success, FranVest team members were sent to one of China’s largest immigration trade shows, “Invest in America 2014 Summit and Exhibition”. Plans are now in place to involve many countries all over the world, including South America, India, Vietnam, and Russia! Foreign investors are very interested in franchising and FranVest is actively engaged in promoting franchising nationally and abroad.

Sabrina Wall - Franchise Brokers Association

Sabrina created a culture of collaboration and support for business women in franchising. This allows women to champion and celebrate each other, even though franchise brokers are in direct competition! Her remarkable touch with women and ability to inspire is evident at the Annual Conference during her famous tear jerking speeches. She also reaches out to women in franchising through a weekly inspirational meeting she facilitates for FBA members. This meeting, the Executive Mentoring Forum (EMF), is the most highly attended of all the trainings offered at the Association. During the EMF, Sabrina teaches brokers to truly listen to clients, give people the benefit of the doubt, continually focus on having positive reactions, and to connect with others as a means for exponential growth. She spends several hours a week in personal development and preparation for these meetings. She finds that in her willingness to share the story of her journey and growth, she inspires others to grow aswell.

Recently, Sabrina did a Blog Challenge where she challenged brokers to build content into their websites. The winners of the challenge experienced a dramatic increase in their website traffic in just 30 days.

Sabrina also assisted FBA broker Gayle Sutton in her work with a large non-profit organization that was attempting to buy a franchise that would employ disabled employees. Sabrina participated in meetings, assisted with franchise searches and was there for Gayle throughout the transaction. This opened up a totally new type of Franchise Broker client, non-profits!

Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

Sabrina joined the IFA in February 2012 and attended her first convention at that time. She was incredibly impressed by the experience and felt the IFA was the right kind of association to align with. Since then she has encouraged broker and franchisor members to attend the IFA convention. She has discussed working with Paul Rocchio of the IFA to create a package product that offers IFA membership to any new franchisors joining the Franchise Brokers Association. Her team is currently developing that offering. In addition, Sabrina was honored to author an article for the IFA’s Franchising World Magazine in March 2014. The article was published in May 2014. She was also asked by Josh Merin of the IFA to write an article on the EB-5 program at the completion of the first immigrant application approval. This milestone is set to occur in 3 months.

Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

The Franchise Brokers Association produces the Annual Franchise Brokers Conference & Expo. During the Conference, franchise community members receive awards for their service and commitment to Franchising. These awards are conceptualized and bestowed upon members by Sabrina. Although she

Sabrina Wall - Franchise Brokers Association

is not the recipient of these awards, she believes in giving recognition to others and cherishes this role. She works with a team to elect recipients of leadership awards, visionary awards, broker of the year, top producer awards and best franchise awards.

In 2012 & 2013, Sabrina was honored to be a featured speaker for the University of Florida. She was asked to speak to students of the graduate and undergraduate classes about careers in franchising. In 2014, she was asked to speak at Rollins College about careers in franchising for their students seeking a degree in Franchising.

Sabrina was interviewed by the Wall Street Journal in 2011 in which the Franchise Brokers Association was listed as a source for franchise brokering information. In addition, The Franchise Times interviewed Sabrina in 2011 and applauded the Franchise Brokers Association for bringing ethics and standards to the Franchise Brokering community.

Sabrina was interviewed on the Brian Tracy Show airing on Fox, NBC, CBS, and ABC regarding franchising and the immigration through franchising program she created in 2013.

The FBA was nominated as Florida’s Business to watch 2013 & 2014. Currently they are a finalist for 2014 and are awaiting a decision by the judging team.

Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

Sabrina Wall is a living example of the American Dream. Despite coming from humble beginnings, today she is a woman of amazing character, undying enthusiasm, and full of love for others. At the age of 10 she had her first job, a paper route where she managed 2 employees. That entrepreneurial spirit continues in her to this day.

She continues to give back and, in 2010, received the Bank of America “Local Hero” award for a lifetime of volunteer work. Sabrina was also awarded the Model Mentor of the Year in 2009 for her service to Children’s Home Society and her extended mentorship of her mentoree, a child of an incarcerated parent.

Sabrina began volunteering for the Children’s Home Society at the age of 13. She continued her volunteer efforts with Habitat for Humanity, Give Kids the World, and returned to Children’s Home Society under the Model Mentor Program.

Sabrina earned the coveted Angel pin at Give Kids the World and the Service Pin at the Children’s Home Society for extended volunteer service.

Through Sabrina’s desire to give back the FBA is involved throughout the community by contributing to local business’ and charities. In April of 2014 they brought the whole team to Feeding Children Everywhere, a local nonprofit. As a team building exercise they helped create several thousand non-

Sabrina Wall - Franchise Brokers Association

perishable meals for local children, as well as contributing a sizeable donation.

She also looks to promote business and leaders in our community by sponsoring the Chick-Fil-A Leadercast event in May.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

None of the community or franchise activities above were done for commercial benefit. They were done because Sabrina wanted to do them or others believed she deserved them. Sabrina has an intense desire to help people become the master of their lives. She believes in people. She focuses on helping others and giving first. The accolades came as a result not as the intention. Even this nomination was done by her employees desire to honor her, not her request.

Sabrina communicates weekly to FBA members during the EMF. She explains the power of franchising and what a difference it can make in a person’s life. After all, she started in franchising at 26! She has earned the ability to be a trusted spokesperson for franchising and encourages her membership to be spokespersons for franchising as well.

She focuses on giving meaning to the work that the brokers and franchisors do. This means not just selling a franchise, but transforming the life of a deserving person. Franchising gives people a path to success by reducing the risk and having a community to rely on to promote each individual franchisees success. That message of purpose behind everything the members do is paramount to each and every communication.

Sabrina encourages members to actively participate in things that raise their spirit and energy level on a continual basis. Volunteering and supporting others is a sure fire way of achieving that.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

Sabrina started the first Franchise Brokers Association in the world inviting members from all broker networks, the first advanced searchable franchise database (the FLS), the first Franchise Brokers Conference and Expo for all brokers, the first formalized Franchise Brokers Certification Program and the first formalized Franchise Immigration Program. Her goal is to expand franchising exponentially by opening up new channels of Franchisees including

Sabrina Wall - Franchise Brokers Association

immigrants, non profits, and in 2015 Investors.

In summary, Sabrina has overcome adversity and created a business platform in which she attempts to help others find success. The big picture behind all that she does is to benefit the community, our country and our planet. She has made many personal sacrifices to achieve the huge successes she has seen in such a short period of time. These sacrifices were not made for personal financial gain, they were made to try and raise others up to realize their full potential. In her short time on earth she has made a huge impact in her community and in the lives of underprivileged children. Her 8 years in the world of Franchising has revolutionized the industry and added a much needed support system that leads to success for all!

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