BAIRD’S FLEMMA & SHERIDAN NAMED TO FORBES’ TOP WOMEN WEALTH ADVISORS LIST
On October 15, Baird’s Utica wealth management branch joined the Women’s Fund of Herkimer and Oneida Counties and Bank of Utica for the annual Power of the Purse reception and dinner at Yahnundasis Golf Club. The event celebrated the empowerment of women and girls throughout Herkimer and Oneida counties.
During the program, Baird Utica presented its 2026 Dream-Achieve-Inspire Awards to four women whose service, leadership and compassion are making a meaningful difference across the Mohawk Valley:
• Phillis Becker — For more than 30 years, Becker has served Trinity Lutheran Church as a deacon, confirmation teacher, mentor and community volunteer. She has guided more than 400 young people in their faith journeys while supporting local food banks, visiting people who are homebound or hospitalized, and offering compassion to neighbors in need.
• Kayleigh Bisson — Founder and president of the E.K. B.L.O.O.M. Foundation, Bisson created the organization in memory of her daughters, Emily and Kenni. Through Embrace Kindness Day in Clinton, scholarships and memorial projects, she helps families heal, honors children’s legacies and inspires acts of compassion throughout the community.
• Hayley Mielnicki — As food service director for the Utica City School District, Mielnicki oversees one of the region’s largest school nutrition programs. During the 2025-2026 school year, she and her team served more than 1.7 million meals while expanding summer and after-school meal access, introducing student-focused menu options and developing resources for a multilingual workforce.
• Gabrielle Flihan — Regional director of client care at Daughter for Hire, Flihan supports seniors and families across the Mohawk Valley and Capital District. She also serves on the board of Your Neighbors Inc., contributes to the Copper City Community Committee and founded Caring for the Caregiver, a monthly program connecting caregivers with local experts, practical resources and one another.
“At Baird, we believe in the power of women to strengthen and transform communities,” said Michele Sheridan, CFP®, Director at Baird in New Hartford. “The Dream-Achieve-Inspire Awards recognize women who lead with courage, compassion and purpose. We are proud to celebrate Phillis, Kayleigh, Hayley and Gabrielle, and to continue our work alongside the Women’s Fund to expand opportunities for women and girls throughout our region.”
Baird Utica stands in partnership with the Women’s Fund in support of its mission to create economic, educational and personal growth opportunities for women of all ages. Through the Power of the Purse and the Dream-Achieve-Inspire Awards, Baird Utica is proud to recognize women who dream boldly, achieve with purpose and inspire others through service.
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