On December 3, 2025, Women United will host Power Pitch—a TED-style event that celebrates organizations building power with and for women in our community.
Four nonprofits will share their vision for change, and one will be named Women United’s 2026 Premier Partner, receiving a $10,000 grant to advance their mission.
At the heart of the evening is our Power Panel—a dynamic group of women leaders who will evaluate the pitches and bring their own powerful perspectives to the stage. Meet the remarkable women who will help shape this year’s Power Pitch.
Bria Barnes-Coleman
Director of the Women’s Leadership Initiative & Community Engagement, Albany Law School
Bria Barnes-Coleman is a dynamic educator, changemaker, and advocate for empowerment. Proudly born and raised in New Jersey, she brings heart, vision, and a deep sense of purpose to everything she does—whether in classrooms, boardrooms, or community spaces. With experience spanning K–12 and higher education, Bria has spent her career uplifting others and encouraging them to define success on their own terms. From New Jersey to New York, she’s embraced every opportunity to lead with authenticity and intention. At Albany Law School, Bria serves as the inaugural Director of the Women’s Leadership Initiative & Community Engagement, where she helps students—especially women—step confidently into leadership roles in the legal field and beyond. She also serves as Board Chair of Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region, where she leads with joy and purpose to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Her commitment to equity was recognized by the YWCA of Northeastern NY, naming her the 2025 Social Justice Awardee, and In Our Own Voices Inc. recognizing her with the 2025 Friend of the Family Award. Bria remains deeply connected to her roots, serving on the Advisory Board for Garden State Women and mentoring students at William Paterson University, where she also funds an endowed scholarship. A welcoming face at Friendship Baptist Church in Schenectady, Bria’s impact is felt both in and beyond the spaces she serves. At her core, Bria is a builder of people, programs, and community—leading with joy, integrity, and a mission to empower the next generation to lead boldly.
Marcia Cognetta
Vice President & Client Engagement/Marketing, Goldman Sachs Wealth Services
Marcia is Vice President and Head of Client Engagement and Events for Goldman Sachs Wealth Services. She leads the strategic development and execution of B2B and B2C client events, creating experiences that foster strong relationships, enhance client satisfaction, and drive commercial results. Prior to this role, Marcia led corporate giving, philanthropic, and community partnership strategies for the Ayco Office of Corporate Engagement and staffing, operations, and people development for Ayco Private Wealth Management. Earlier in her career, she held a variety of Human Resources roles within benefits administration, employee relations, and recruiting. Marcia joined the firm in 1999 and was promoted to Vice President in 2018.
Marcia joined the Board of Directors for the United Way of the Greater Capital Region in 2020 and the Plattsburgh Alumni Association Board of Directors in 2017, where she currently serves as First Vice President. Marcia earned a BA in Psychology from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh in 1998.
Kyla Schmidt
Founder & Executive Director, Mom Starts Here
Kyla Schmidt is the Founder and Executive Director of Mom Starts Here, a nonprofit organization established in 2016. Inspired by personal experiences as a young parent navigating resources and seeking support, Kyla is committed to leading the organization to continue providing material support for parents and building a supportive community through Mom Starts Here. As a Master Certified Life Coach specializing in parenting and holding a bachelor's degree in community and human services, Kyla brings a strong foundation in serving others and a deep understanding of the needs of families.
In addition to leading Mom Starts Here, Kyla serves on the board of directors for multiple organizations and is committed to community involvement and advocacy.
As a wife and mother of three, Kyla understands the challenges and joys of parenthood firsthand. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in social and personality psychology with a focus on studying parenting behaviors, particularly in supporting parents facing financial burdens. Kyla is passionate about advancing knowledge in this area and positively impacting families over generations.
Through her dedication to supporting parents and creating a welcoming environment for all, Kyla strives to ensure that no one has to navigate the journey of parenthood alone.
Renee Walrath
President & CEO, Walrath Recruiting, Inc
Renee Walrath brings vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her role as President and CEO of Walrath Recruiting, Inc. Since founding the firm in 2010, she has transformed it from a one-room office into one of the Capital Region’s most respected executive search, recruiting and staffing agencies, now operating across two offices with a dynamic team of seven professionals.
Her journey is a testament to grit and determination. Renee earned her B.B.A. in Accounting from Siena College, laying the foundation for a business that thrives across a wide range of industries. Her strong ethical compass, entrepreneurial spirit, and relentless work ethic have earned her deep respect and admiration in the business community.
A people-first leader, Renee is deeply invested in the success of her clients, candidates, and team members. Her approach goes beyond recruitment; it’s about building long-term relationships and delivering career solutions that create lasting impact. As a two-time Albany Business Review Power 50 honoree (2022, 2024) and leader of a New York State Certified Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), she continues to break barriers and set new standards in executive search.