Back for its third edition, American Spa’s Women in Wellness Awards honor those who are making an impact in the industry and beyond. These exceptional women are transforming the wellness world with their noteworthy contributions such as serving on related industry boards and organizations, discovering untapped opportunities, giving back, and bringing their unique perspective to all that they do. Nominated by their peers and chosen by acclaimed wellness journalists, these women are showing they’re a force with which to be reckoned.
From August 26 through September 4, American Spa will be announcing one new winner and two finalists of the 2019 Women in Wellness Awards each day. Today, discover the Brand Founder of the Year.
Owner & Operator: This award honors the female owner of a spa or wellness facility who makes an impact by successfully managing with business acumen, creativity, integrity, and grace.
WINNER: Nina Smiley, co-owner and director of mindfulness programming, Mohonk Mountain House (New Paltz, NY)
As co-owner and director of mindfulness programming at Mohonk Mountain House and co-author of The Three Minute Meditator, Nina Smiley is committed to sharing simple and effective mindfulness meditation techniques. After receiving an undergraduate degree at Vassar College and a Ph.D. in psychology from Princeton University, Smiley went on to work in Washington, D.C., where she taught at the University of Maryland, oversaw media relations at the American Psychological Association, and worked as associate director of research at Porter/Novelli/Omnicom. She then joined Mohonk Mountain House, her family’s business, and served as director of marketing for many years. A strong advocate in shaping the concept of The Spa at Mohonk Mountain House and of bringing the outdoors in, Smiley integrated mindfulness throughout the property. She also co-authored Mindfulness in Nature. A champion of the wellness industry, Smiley has served on ISPA committees and was chairperson of the Historic Hotels of America. “As a spa owner, Nina is an inspiration to others in the way she lives her life,” says Barbara Stirewalt, general manager of Mohonk Mountain House. “She is a role model, moment to moment, as she treats the people around her with kindness, offers insights, and acts with integrity and grace, helping create a culture of respect and kindness.”
FINALIST: Sue Glasscock, co-owner, The Ranch Malibu
Sue Glasscock founded The Ranch in September 2010 with her husband, Alex. The couple’s passion for healthy and balanced living through outdoor activities and appreciation for nature were the guiding principles in creating their first fitness and wellness retreat located in Malibu, California. As cofounder and chief creative director, Glasscock oversees all aspects of the guest experience outside of the program itself, including the interior design of all rooms and common areas of The Ranch, curation of amenities and the landscape design throughout the property including the on-site organic garden. She also manages the development and design of The Ranch branded beauty and apparel lines along with developing the packaging for all branded products. She provides crucial direction on the design of all marketing and branding materials for The Ranch and relevant collateral to ensure a consistency in aesthetic across all platforms. Glasscock remains an exemplary example to the guests by maintaining an active and athletic lifestyle. She takes pleasure in engaging with guests from time to time whether it be joining a morning hike or dropping in for a yoga or weight training session. The Glasscocks have been married for 20 years and currently reside on The Ranch with their dogs Max and Clara, two goats, and two horses.
FINALIST: Terri Havens, owner, Cal-a-Vie Health Spa
Terri Havens and her husband John have found the perfect balance when it comes to owning and operating their own businesses, actively participating in notable philanthropies, and raising three children. They have harnessed their business acumen and passion for expanding companies into endeavors that support the community and benefit causes dear to their hearts. They are the owners of Cal-a-Vie Health Spa and Vista Valley Country Club. Nestled on 450 private acres in a secluded valley in Vista, California, 40 miles north of San Diego, this exclusive retreat has 32 Mediterranean-style guest villas and suites with a 5:1 staff-to-guest ratio. Guests rejuvenate through the resort’s fitness programs, spa treatments, nutrition guides and more. As admitted Francophiles, the Havens modeled Cal-a-Vie’s design to reflect the family’s trips to France. This Provençal style is mirrored throughout the spa, which is decorated with countless French antiques acquired during the Havens’ French buying trips. Cal-a-Vie Health Spa’s award-winning wellness and fitness program was cultivated in part by Terri’s advertising and marketing expertise, along with her natural flair for “Southern Hospitality” and commitment to a healthy lifestyle. With resident and visiting specialists in all fields of health, Cal-a-Vie Health Spa has been voted the number-one “Destination Health Spa in North America” by Travel + Leisure, amongst many others.
Congrats to our winner and finalists of the Owner & Operator category. Check back tomorrow for the final category of 2019, our Industry Icon of the Year. Stay tuned on American Spa online, as well on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more info about the winners and finalists of the 2019 Women in Wellness Awards as well as upcoming Women in Wellness Leadership Conferences.
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