Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1538711
wbjournal.com | August 25, 2025 | Worcester Business Journal 21 Can we create a CUSTOM magazine for you? Whether it's the celebration of a major anniversary or the opening of a new headquarters, Worcester Business Journal's Custom Publishing Division can help you create a custom magazine for your business. Our division's top flight team of writers and designers can help you tell your story – and make your business look great! Based on our unique publishing model, it's surprisingly affordable. Call WBJ Custom Corporate Project Director Christine Juetten at 508-755-8004 ext. 270. Worcester Business Journal WBJ Custom Publishing Division Congratulations on your nomination, Paul! 4 0 U N D E R F O R T Y Nicholas Keyes, 30 Director of marketing Southwick's Zoo, in Mendon Residence: Worcester Birthplace: Worcester College: Assumption University Since joining Southwick's Zoo in 2021, Nicholas Keyes rebuilt the in-house marketing team and implemented comprehensive strategies aligning branding, advertising, and revenue goals for New England's largest zoo and one of Central Massachusetts' leading family attractions. He has supported record-breaking growth in admissions, dining, and group sales while securing recurring live TV coverage on three regional stations and establishing new partnerships with tourism bureaus to boost referral traffic and regional visibility. Keyes' strategic approach to budget man- agement has reduced marketing costs by 4.5% and optimized spending to just 9% of gross revenue. He launched targeted digital campaigns for corporate event and wedding bookings while overseeing integrated marketing for the onsite Galliford's Restaurant & Tavern, driving consistent year-over-year growth in customer engagement and revenue. His website redesign and digital presence enhancements have grown the zoo's newsletter audience and created reliable channels for direct guest communication. He is vice president of collegiate relations for the American Marketing Asso- ciation's Greater Boston chapter, where he connects students with net- working opportunities, internships, and career guidance. At the Daniels Farmstead Foundation in Blackstone, he serves as board vice president, helping turn the historic agricultural site into a vibrant cultural destination. Favorite Central Mass. community? Worcester, for its vibrant blend of history, culture, and a thriving food and arts scene, with locally owned spots giving the city unique personality. What song has the best life advice? "It's My Life" by Bon Jovi: Live boldly, on your own terms, embracing individuality and never being afraid to make your own choices. Sheri-ann McLean-Williams, 36 Founder & CEO McLean Coaching and Consulting, in Worcesterr Residence: Leicester Birthplace: Kingston, Jamaica Colleges: University of the West Indies Mona, Jamaica; Capella University Sheri-ann McLean-Williams has built a leadership development practice spanning 13 years, empowering individuals and organizations. As a Maxwell Leadership-certified executive director, master life coach, DISC consultant, and developmental psychologist, she merges academic expertise with practical strategies to drive measur- able change. Her published works, "You Belong in the Room: Activating the Power of Self-Leadership" and "BREATHE: 30-Day Journal," provide tools for individuals to embrace their leadership potential. McLean-Williams hosts four signature annual conferences to nurture leadership across all ages, including the free I-Grow Leadership Virtual Workshop, the G.E.N.S. Youth Virtual Conference for ages 9-19, and Live2Lead Worcester for Worcester Public School students. Her commitment to second chances is evident through leadership training she provides for members of the STOP pro- gram at Worcester County Jail & House of Correction. She has served as chair of the United Way of Central Massachusetts' Women's Initiative Community Impact Committee, secretary of the Diverse Professionals Roundtable at the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, and on boards for Center for Women & Enterprise Central Massachusetts and For One Child Foundation. What actor would play you in a movie? Queen Latifah or Jill Scott What should older generations understand about young professionals? We want to learn from your experience; just meet us with collaboration and open communication, not correction. Growth happens when both generations listen and lead together. Who would you like to meet in the next 40 years? Dr. Trisha Bailey