Category: Evergreen

Knowing the warning signs of a possible roof failure can help homeowners make informed decisions, particularly in storm-prone areas.

WILMINGTON, NC, UNITED STATES, March 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — For homeowners in storm-prone states like North Carolina, the roof is the most critical line of defense against the elements. Regardless of whether a home is in an area prone to hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, snow and hail, intense heat, or the day-to-day effects of salt air, roofing systems endure environmental stresses year-round. Knowing the warning signs of a possible roof failure can help homeowners make informed decisions.

While many view the roof as a “set it and forget it” part of the home, neglecting it can lead to denied insurance claims, expensive structural repairs, or catastrophic failure during a major storm. Understanding the importance of professional oversight and storm-ready materials is essential for protecting property value and family safety.

The True Cost of Roofing Neglect
Many expensive roofing issues stem from small problems that were simply ignored. Even a minor leak can quickly evolve into the spread of water intrusion, structural risks, mold and mildew, and insurance claim complications. Recognizing the signs

Whether issues appear on shingles, in the attic, or after a storm, recognizing them early can help homeowners protect their investment. Below are the signs of a roof in need of attention:

1. Missing, Curling, or Cracked Shingles
Shingles serve as a roof’s first line of defense against moisture and wind. When they begin to curl, crack, or fall off, the roof becomes vulnerable to leaks and storm damage. Aging materials and improper installation can also accelerate deterioration. A roofing contractor can determine whether minor roof repair services are sufficient or if a full roof replacement is the safer long-term solution.

2. Granules in Gutters
Asphalt shingles are coated with protective granules that block UV rays and help shed water. While some granule loss is normal, excessive buildup in gutters, downspouts, or around the foundation is a sign of advanced wear that can lead to sun damage and cracking. Insurance companies often consider granule loss when evaluating roof claims. If there is heavy granule accumulation, the homeowner should schedule a professional roof inspection.

3. Interior Water Stains or Musty Odors
Water stains on ceilings, walls, or around vents usually indicate an active roof leak. Even small stains suggest moisture has been entering the home for some time. Musty odors in attics, bedrooms, or upper floors may point to trapped moisture, mold growth, or ventilation issues. These problems can damage insulation, drywall, and framing. Professional roofers can locate the source of leaks and provide reliable roof leak repair before the damage spreads.

4. Sagging Rooflines or Soft Spots
A healthy roof should appear straight, level, and solid. Sagging areas, uneven rooflines, or soft spots underfoot often indicate structural damage. These issues are commonly caused by long-term water intrusion that weakens roof decking and support beams. Left unaddressed, they can lead to serious safety risks and costly structural repairs. In many cases, severe sagging may require partial or full roof replacement services to restore safety and performance.

5. Storm Exposure
Severe storms can cause hidden roof damage that isn’t visible from the ground. Hail can crack shingles, wind can lift materials, and heavy rain can expose weak areas. Even if a roof looks fine after a storm, unseen damage may exist beneath the surface. Scheduling a storm damage roof inspection helps identify problems early and support insurance claims.

Why Quality Installation Matters for Storm Readiness
When it comes to protecting a home against the weather, the quality of installation is just as important as the materials themselves. Choosing a low-cost bid can result in skipped steps, such as improper underlayment or imbalanced ventilation, which can weaken the entire system.

A high-standard, hurricane-resistant roof requires proper fastening ensuring shingles can withstand high-velocity winds, balanced ventilation to manage heat and moisture to prevent premature material failure, and professional documentation for expert evidence of a roof’s condition to support insurance claims.

About RoofVantage
RoofVantage, with locations in Wilmington and Raleigh, North Carolina, is backed by more than 15 years of hands-on construction and development experience across residential, multifamily, and commercial projects. Operating with developer-level discipline and builder precision, RoofVantage brings a higher standard of oversight, structural expertise, and long-term performance to every roof. The company employs HAAG-Certified Inspectors, operates as a Licensed General Contractor, and is certified through the IBHS FORTIFIED™ Home Program and CertainTeed. For more information, visit www.callroofvantage.com or call 910-807-7839.

# # #

Risa B. Hoag
GMG Public Relations, Inc.
+1 845-627-3000
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SPRINGFIELD, VT, UNITED STATES, March 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Inspiring Students and Strengthening Vermont’s Healthcare Workforce Through Mentorship and Innovative Programs

Alysia Straw, MBA, SHRM-CP, aPHR, is a distinguished human resources and workforce development leader dedicated to expanding healthcare education and creating meaningful pathways for the next generation of healthcare professionals. Currently serving as the Director of Programs at Southern Vermont Area Health Education Center (AHEC), she brings more than 15 years of experience in talent acquisition, organizational development, and workforce strategy to her work supporting equitable access to health education.

Alysia began her career in human resources and talent acquisition across prominent regional healthcare organizations, including Dartmouth Health and Springfield Hospital, gaining hands-on experience in full-cycle recruitment, onboarding, employee development, and culture enhancement. Her operational expertise informs her strategic leadership, enabling her to develop high-impact programs and initiatives that strengthen healthcare workforce pipelines and support emerging professionals.

Alysia holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from Alliance University, complemented by an MBA in Healthcare Administration from Rivier University. She has also earned multiple industry certifications in leadership, diversity and inclusion, and HR best practices. Across her career, she has streamlined hiring processes, reduced time-to-fill metrics by 50% through standardized recruitment workflows, led targeted marketing strategies to enhance organizational visibility, and developed innovative pipeline programs, including LPN and Nurse Residency pathways. Her leadership extends to advising organizational leaders on strategies to improve culture, engagement, and performance across healthcare teams.

Beyond her professional roles, Alysia actively contributes to the broader workforce and education ecosystem. She serves on the Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce as Vice-President of the Board of Directors and the RVTC Health Sciences Advisory Board, lending her expertise to community partnerships that foster regional talent development.

Alysia attributes much of her success to her commitment to creating educational opportunities for middle and high school students as well as undergraduates. She has dedicated her work to helping young learners discover careers in healthcare through mentorships with medical students, hands-on exposure, and structured programming. She has overseen the MedQuest Program, enabling students to observe hospital operations and gain real-world experience, while continuing to develop initiatives that expand access to healthcare education and spark interest in health professions.

Among her proudest accomplishments is a recent presentation in Ohio at the Health Educators’ Science Consortium, where she shared the benefits of early pipeline engagement with young children pursuing healthcare careers. The experience was both inspiring and affirming, reinforcing the impact of her work on shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Alysia encourages young women entering her field to seek mentorship, take initiative, and actively build professional connections. She emphasizes the importance of reaching out, asking questions, and taking that first courageous step, noting that such actions can open doors, provide clarity, and foster the confidence necessary for success.

The values that guide Alysia in both her professional and personal life include balance, connection, and well-being. She believes in showing up fully for her students and community while also dedicating time to activities that keep her energized and grounded. For the past 14 years, she has taught Zumba, an endeavor that allows her to build community, support wellness, and bring people together through movement.

Alysia also treasures quality time with her husband, and they enjoy exploring Vermont together. These personal experiences underscore her commitment to presence, connection, and finding joy both inside and outside her career.

Known for her energy, creativity, and collaborative leadership style, Alysia Straw continues to champion programs that empower future health professionals, expand educational opportunities, and strengthen Vermont’s healthcare workforce. Her dedication to mentorship, community engagement, and strategic program development ensures a lasting impact on both the students she serves and the organizations she supports.

Learn More about Alysia Straw:

Through her Influential Women profile, https://influentialwomen.com/connect/Alysia-Straw, or through her profile on Southern Vermont Area Health Education Center, https://svtahec.org/staff/

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CAL INC. delivers safe, efficient demolition and abatement solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial projects across California.

VACAVILLE, CA, UNITED STATES, March 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — CAL INC., a trusted demolition and abatement contractor based in California, continues to provide dependable solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. The company specializes in preparing sites for redevelopment, renovation, and construction. With a team focused on safety, efficiency, and clear communication, CAL INC helps property owners, contractors, and businesses start their projects with confidence. From small interior demolition tasks to large-scale structural projects, the company is committed to delivering professional results while maintaining safe and organized job sites.

CAL INC offers a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the needs of diverse construction and renovation projects. These services include demolition services, debris clean-up, hazardous material handling, and interior demolition for remodeling preparation. Businesses and developers also rely on CAL INC for commercial and industrial demolition solutions that require precision and efficiency. The professional abatement contractor removes hazardous items safely and responsibly in accordance with industry norms.

What sets CAL INC. apart is its dedication to reliable service and customer-focused project management. The company understands that every job presents unique challenges, and its experienced team works closely with clients to ensure each project stays on schedule and within budget. By using proven techniques and industry best practices, they consistently deliver efficient demolition and site preparation solutions that support successful construction outcomes.

For more information about demolition and abatement services, please contact their leasing office at 800.359.4467.

About CAL INC.: CAL INC. is a California-based demolition and abatement contractor serving residential, commercial, and industrial clients. The company provides safe, efficient demolition services, debris removal, hazardous material abatement, and site preparation solutions designed to support construction and redevelopment projects.

Company name: CAL INC.
Address: 2040 Peabody Road, Suite 400
City: Vacaville
State: California
Zip code: 95687
Phone number: 800.359.4467.

Cal Inc
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707.446.7996
info@cal-inc.com
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NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX, UNITED STATES, March 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Certified Home Stager and Interior Designer Helping Sellers Maximize Home Value Through Strategic Design and Expert Staging

Tamra Toney Pfeifer, founder and creative force behind Set the Stage Interiors, has built a thriving boutique home staging and design firm known for transforming homes into inviting, market-ready spaces that capture buyers’ attention. Based in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Tamra has earned recognition throughout the home staging industry for her ability to combine creativity, strategy, and thoughtful design to help homeowners and real estate professionals achieve successful sales.

Born and raised in Texas, Tamra developed a love for decorating and design early in life. She always enjoyed creating beautiful spaces and helping others feel comfortable and inspired in their homes. What began as a natural passion eventually evolved into a professional calling. After experiencing a life-altering event in 2009, Tamra decided to take a leap of faith and pursue her passion fully. She enrolled in professional training programs and earned certifications in home staging, redesign, and interior design, laying the foundation for what would soon become her successful business, Set the Stage Interiors.

Since launching her company, Tamra has developed a reputation for excellence within the real estate and design communities. She regularly partners with realtors and homeowners throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth region to prepare homes for the market. By thoughtfully staging properties to highlight their best features, she helps create welcoming environments that allow potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

Her work consistently delivers measurable results. Professionally staged homes often sell faster and frequently attract stronger offers, and Tamra’s careful attention to detail plays a key role in achieving those outcomes. Her ability to transform vacant or lived-in homes into beautifully curated spaces has earned her numerous accolades throughout her career.

Among her many honors are multiple “Best of the Best” awards for her exceptional vacant home staging projects. Tamra has also been named among the Top 50 Experts in the home staging industry for three consecutive years—2023, 2024, and 2025—an achievement that highlights her standing among the field’s most respected professionals. In addition, she received the 2025 Quality Business Award for Best Home Staging in North Richland Hills. For Tamra, these recognitions serve as both meaningful milestones and affirmations of the passion and dedication she brings to her craft.

In addition to her staging and design work, Tamra also operates a small cosmetics and skincare business, further reflecting her passion for beauty, transformation, and helping others feel confident in their surroundings and in themselves.

Tamra attributes her success to the strong training she received early in her career and to a deep personal drive that encouraged her to pursue her dream. Taking the first step toward building her own business was both exciting and challenging, but it ultimately confirmed her passion for design and staging. By trusting her instincts and following her heart, she was able to turn a long-standing interest into a rewarding career that allows her to help clients showcase their homes at their very best.

Today, Tamra finds great fulfillment in helping homeowners prepare their properties for sale. Through carefully curated design choices, thoughtful layouts, and attention to detail, she creates warm, welcoming spaces that resonate with buyers and make it easier for them to envision a future in the home. Her goal is always to present a property in a way that maximizes its appeal and helps clients achieve the best possible outcome.

One piece of advice that has remained especially meaningful throughout Tamra’s journey is the belief that it is never too late to pursue a dream. She firmly believes that individuals are never too old to start living the life they envision, and that taking a courageous first step can lead to opportunities that are both personally and professionally fulfilling.

As someone who has successfully built her own business, Tamra is also passionate about encouraging other women who may be considering careers in home staging and interior design. She advises young women entering the industry to understand that while the profession can appear glamorous, it also requires significant hard work behind the scenes. From planning and logistics to moving furniture and preparing spaces for photography and showings, staging involves dedication and persistence. However, Tamra believes the effort is absolutely worth it when the final result helps clients sell their homes successfully.

Like many evolving industries, home staging continues to grow and gain recognition across the real estate market. Tamra notes that one of the biggest challenges remains helping homeowners understand the value of staging as an investment. Because staging is still relatively new in some markets, some sellers may initially hesitate to embrace it. Yet as more realtors and homeowners see the results firsthand—homes selling faster and often at higher prices—the benefits of professional staging are becoming increasingly clear.

For Tamra, the values that guide her work and personal life are passion, flexibility, and attentiveness. She genuinely loves what she does and takes pride in the difference her work can make in a home sale. Seeing how thoughtful design and staging can transform a property—and help clients achieve their goals—is one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.

Flexibility allows her to tailor each project to the unique needs and style of every client and property, while attentiveness ensures that even the smallest details are handled with care. These qualities help her create inviting spaces that resonate with buyers and leave a lasting impression.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Tamra treasures her role as a wife and mother of three. She enjoys spending time with her family, vacationing, baking, singing in her church choir, being outdoors, and connecting with friends. These experiences bring balance to her life and continue to inspire the creativity and warmth she brings into her work.

Grateful for the many blessings in her life, Tamra Toney Pfeifer credits her faith as a guiding force in her journey. As she continues to grow Set the Stage Interiors, she remains committed to serving her clients, strengthening relationships within the real estate community, and helping homeowners present their properties in ways that truly shine.

Learn More about Tamra Toney Pfeifer:

Through her Influential Women profile, https://influentialwomen.com/connect/tamra-pfeifer or through her website, https://setthestagewithtamra.com/

Influential Women

Influential Women provides a platform where women from all backgrounds can connect, share their perspectives, and create content that empowers themselves and others. Through storytelling, thought leadership, and creative expression, Influential Women amplifies voices that inspire change.

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LONG ISLAND, NY, UNITED STATES, March 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Supervisor, and Founder of Cavier Therapy Empowering Individuals and Families to Heal, Grow, and Build Stronger Connections

Cassie C. Heyliger, MS, LMFT, a proud Caribbean Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is making a meaningful impact in the field of mental health through her dedication to culturally responsive care, family stability, and emotional healing. With more than a decade of experience working with children, families, and individuals, Cassie has established herself as a compassionate leader, clinician, and advocate for communities navigating life’s most complex challenges.

Cassie previously served as a Clinical Supervisor at a nonprofit organization in New York, where she provided leadership, clinical oversight, and therapeutic guidance to both clients and fellow clinicians. In that role, she played a vital part in supporting families and strengthening mental health services within the community. Her work focused on helping individuals and families develop effective communication, build emotional resilience, and restore stability in their lives. She is now pursuing private practice full-time.

With more than a decade of direct clinical experience and extensive work in family systems, Cassie has collaborated closely with families involved in child welfare systems. Her role has included coordinating care with attorneys, caseworkers, and other professionals to ensure that families receive comprehensive and holistic support. Through this multidisciplinary approach, she has helped create pathways for healing and long-term stability for many of the families she serves.

In addition to her leadership in nonprofit mental health services, Cassie is the Founder of Cavier Therapy, a virtual therapy practice that serves clients across New York State. She created the practice as a supportive space for individuals who are ready to pursue intentional healing, reconnect with themselves, and move confidently into the next chapter of their lives.

Cavier Therapy is designed to provide affirming and culturally responsive care for people of color, including Caribbean and diasporic communities who may be navigating major life transitions, identity shifts, or emotional challenges. Fluent in English, French, and Creole, Cassie is uniquely positioned to connect with a diverse range of clients and ensure that cultural identity and lived experiences are respected and understood throughout the therapeutic process.

Depending on each client’s needs, Cassie integrates a variety of evidence-informed therapeutic approaches into her practice. These may include Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples. Her clinical philosophy is grounded in empathy, cultural sensitivity, and research-backed methods that promote growth, resilience, and long-term emotional well-being.

Cassie earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University, where she developed a strong foundation in systemic dynamics and trauma-informed care. Earlier in her career, she served as a Milieu Manager at a residential treatment facility for women struggling with eating disorders. This experience further strengthened her understanding of complex mental health challenges and reinforced her commitment to helping individuals reclaim their sense of self and stability.

Continuing her dedication to professional growth and leadership in the field, Cassie is currently pursuing a PhD in Psychology at National University, further expanding her knowledge and expertise in mental health and therapeutic practice.

Caribbean-American Marriage & Family Therapist Cassie Heyliger is the featured guest on the latest episode of the “Rant and Rave: Brooklyn’s Caribbean Chat” podcast, hosted by renowned bloggers DysChick and SocaSaySo. As part of their ongoing live town hall series addressing the pressing concerns of Brooklyn’s Caribbean community, this episode explores the intersection of culture, relationships, and mental health. Cassie shares her expert insights on the influence of social media on relationships, the importance of breaking down mental health stigma, and strategies for fostering stronger connections within Caribbean and Black communities.

Cassie attributes much of her success to the influence of her mother and to her faith in God. She describes her mother as a strong, educated, and hardworking woman who set a powerful example throughout her life. From her mother, Cassie learned the importance of perseverance, integrity, and education—values that continue to guide her both personally and professionally. She also expresses gratitude to God for providing her with strength, purpose, and the opportunities that have shaped her journey.

As someone passionate about mentorship and professional development, Cassie encourages young women entering the mental health field to seek out strong mentors who can provide guidance, challenge their growth, and offer support throughout their careers. She also reminds aspiring clinicians to be patient with themselves and recognize that success is a journey rather than a race. Maintaining balance, prioritizing self-care, and staying connected to one’s purpose are all essential for building a sustainable and meaningful career in the helping professions.

In both her professional and personal life, Cassie is guided by the values of balance, curiosity, and connection. She enjoys traveling, exploring new places, and experiencing different cuisines, all of which nurture her natural curiosity and appreciation for diverse cultures. Spending quality time with her son and strengthening meaningful relationships keeps her grounded, while moments of rest—whether relaxing with Netflix or simply enjoying quiet downtime—help her maintain balance and perspective.

Guided by the belief that healing is where a new chapter begins, Cassie C. Heyliger continues to empower clients to reclaim their voices, embrace their authenticity, and build the lives they deserve. Through her leadership, clinical expertise, and unwavering compassion, she is helping individuals and families move forward with greater clarity, strength, and hope—one session at a time.

Learn More about Cassie C. Heyliger:

Through her Influential Women profile, https://influentialwomen.com/connect/cassie-heyliger or through her website, http://www.caviertherapy.com/

Influential Women

Influential Women provides a platform where women from all backgrounds can connect, share their perspectives, and create content that empowers themselves and others. Through storytelling, thought leadership, and creative expression, Influential Women amplifies voices that inspire change.

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CHATTANOOGA, TN, UNITED STATES, March 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Inspiring Students, Empowering Educators, and Strengthening Learning Communities Through Servant Leadership and Mentorship

Dr. Julia Gaines is a dedicated and servant educational leader whose career has been defined by a deep commitment to student achievement, educator development, and the creation of supportive school communities. Currently serving as Assistant Principal at East Lake Academy of Fine Arts in Chattanooga, Tennessee, she works tirelessly to foster a learning environment where students feel valued, safe, and empowered to reach their highest potential—both academically and personally.

With extensive experience in school administration, instructional leadership, and student and teacher development, Dr. Gaines has built a reputation as a compassionate leader who combines vision, integrity, and mentorship to strengthen the educational experience for both students and faculty. Her leadership philosophy centers on building meaningful relationships, promoting academic excellence, and helping individuals discover their purpose and strengths.

Over the course of her distinguished career, Dr. Gaines has held a variety of leadership roles that have allowed her to influence and inspire school communities across the region. She previously served for more than a decade as Assistant Principal at Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS), where she also stepped into the role of Interim Principal. During her tenure, she played a vital role in shaping school culture, supporting teachers, and implementing strategies that enhanced both instructional quality and student success.

Dr. Gaines’ professional accomplishments are reflected in the numerous honors she has received throughout her career. Her dedication to education and leadership has earned her several prestigious recognitions, including Teacher of the Year from the Hamilton County Department of Education in 2003. She was later honored as Administrator of the Year by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in 2016 and again by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. in 2018. In 2022, she was recognized as Best School Administrator by Black Excellence of Chattanooga, further highlighting her lasting impact within the educational community.

Her commitment to educational advancement extends beyond administrative leadership. Dr. Gaines earned her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Administrative Leadership for Teaching and Learning from Walden University. She also holds an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Technological University. Through her academic work, she has contributed to ongoing discussions around literacy and effective instructional practices. Her doctoral research, titled The Impact of the Lexile Framework on Standardized Literacy Proficiency Scores, reflects her dedication to improving literacy outcomes and strengthening educational strategies that support student success.

Dr. Gaines attributes much of her professional success to her commitment to setting high expectations and cultivating peaceful, supportive learning environments. She firmly believes that when students feel valued and safe, they are better able to thrive academically and personally. Her philosophy is guided by a deeply personal motto: “If I can help one child along the way, then my living won’t be in vain. If we build relationships, then learning will transpire.” This belief in the power of relationships remains at the core of her leadership approach. Whether working with students, teachers, or fellow administrators, Dr. Gaines prioritizes connection, trust, and encouragement as essential elements of meaningful learning and growth.

Throughout her career, Dr. Gaines has also drawn strength from the valuable guidance she received early on. One piece of advice that continues to resonate with her is the reminder that sometimes change occurs when circumstances move individuals in new directions. She often reflects on the wisdom she once received: “Sometimes the Lord will move you when you can’t move yourself.” Along with that insight, she also carries the advice to remain strong during challenges, keep her head up, and maintain professionalism at all times.

With a background in Electrical Engineering, Physics, and Education, Dr. Gaines is equally passionate about encouraging young women who are considering careers in education or STEM. She advises these young women to actively seek mentorship and surround themselves with leaders who will challenge and support them as they grow. At the same time, she emphasizes the importance of discovering one’s passion and pursuing it wholeheartedly. In her view, when individuals align their work with what truly inspires them, challenges transform into opportunities, and their potential impact becomes far greater.

While education continues to provide opportunities for innovation and growth, Dr. Gaines acknowledges that the field also faces significant challenges. One of the most pressing concerns, she notes, is the difficulty in retaining educators. With growing demands and constant changes in the profession, many teachers are leaving the field. She believes that school leaders, communities, and policymakers must work together to encourage, uplift, and support educators so they feel valued and motivated to remain in the profession.

At the heart of Dr. Gaines’s work is a deep commitment to service and the belief that success is measured by the positive impact one has on others. She finds tremendous fulfillment in helping students and colleagues achieve their goals. One memorable example is supporting a student who went on to graduate from Howard University and is now pursuing a doctorate at UCLA—an achievement that Dr. Gaines views as a powerful reflection of the long-term influence educators can have on their students’ lives. In addition to mentoring students, she also takes pride in supporting fellow educators. She is currently a mentor to aspiring and novice assistant principals within her district and regularly provides encouragement and insight to educators through social media, extending her influence beyond the walls of her school.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Dr. Gaines remains grounded by her faith and personal passions. Her daily prayer practice, participation in Victorious, a quartet gospel group, and being involved in her sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., provide both inspiration and balance. Through these connections, she once had the opportunity to help a Ukrainian teacher’s family escape conflict and begin a new life in the United States—an experience that reflects her compassion and willingness to serve others beyond her immediate community.

Looking toward the future, Dr. Gaines hopes to further expand her influence in education by teaching at the college level, consulting with schools and educators, or founding a school. She is a firm believer that public education works when provided with the right provisions. Through these opportunities, she aims to help prepare and inspire the next generation of educators who will shape classrooms and communities for years to come.

For Dr. Gaines, true success is ultimately measured not by titles or awards, but by the ability to uplift others, open doors, and help individuals realize their potential. Known for her integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Dr. Julia Gaines continues to make a lasting impact in Chattanooga and beyond through her leadership, mentorship, and service in education. Through her work, she remains devoted to building stronger schools, empowering educators, and helping students achieve brighter futures.

Learn More about Julia Gaines:

Through her Influential Women profile, https://influentialwomen.com/connect/julia-gaines

Influential Women

Influential Women provides a platform where women from all backgrounds can connect, share their perspectives, and create content that empowers themselves and others. Through storytelling, thought leadership, and creative expression, Influential Women amplifies voices that inspire change.

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Researchers show that pharmacological activation of hypoxia signaling improves metabolism, limits fat accumulation, and restores bone health in obese mice

CHENGDU, SICHUAN, CHINA, March 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Obesity harms not only metabolism but also bone strength and repair. This may be attributed to impaired glucose homeostasis and altered bone properties, features that are both strongly affected by hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signaling. Now, researchers have evaluated the effect of HIF activation using Roxadustat on bone health and metabolism in obese mice. They observed that Roxadustat prevented weight gain, improved glucose tolerance, and enhanced bone healing, highlighting a therapeutic strategy to tackle both metabolic and skeletal deterioration in obesity.

Obesity is widely known for increasing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, but its damaging effects on the skeleton are often overlooked. Excess body fat can disrupt bone metabolism, weaken bone quality, and impair fracture repair. In individuals with metabolic disorders, bone marrow can accumulate fat cells that interfere with the activity of bone-forming cells and damage the vascular networks that support skeletal tissue. These changes increase fracture risk and reduce the body’s ability to regenerate bone after injury. Despite these clinical challenges, the biological mechanisms connecting metabolic disease and bone health have remained poorly understood.

To explore this connection, a team of researchers led by Professor Christa Maes from the Laboratory of Skeletal Cell Biology and Physiology, KU Leuven, Belgium, investigated the role of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signaling, a molecular pathway that enables cells to adapt to low-oxygen environments while regulating metabolism, blood vessel formation, and tissue repair. Using a mouse model of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, the team administered the HIF-prolyl-hydroxylase-domain enzyme (PHD) inhibitor FG-4592 (Roxadustat), a drug already approved for treating certain forms of anemia. Mice were fed HFD to mimic metabolic stress, allowing the researchers to examine whether activating hypoxia signaling could improve both metabolic health and skeletal integrity under obesogenic conditions. Their findings were published in Volume 14 of the journal Bone Research on February 11, 2026.

“We hypothesize that activation of the HIF pathway might be an effective therapeutic strategy to enhance both metabolism and skeletal integrity during metabolic stress,” says Prof. Maes.

The experiments revealed striking metabolic benefits in the treated animals. Activation of the hypoxia signaling pathway significantly reduced body-weight gain and limited the accumulation of peripheral fat despite continued exposure to HFD. The treated mice also showed improved glucose tolerance, indicating better control of blood sugar levels. Researchers found that these metabolic improvements were associated with increased energy expenditure, suggesting that the intervention helped the body burn more energy rather than storing it as fat.

Equally important were the protective effects on bone tissue. Obesity often leads to excessive accumulation of adipocytes in bone marrow, which disrupts the balance between bone formation and fat storage. In the treated mice, activation of HIF signaling prevented this abnormal buildup of marrow fat while preserving the vascular network within bone. Maintaining this blood vessel system is essential because it supplies oxygen, nutrients, and molecular signals that support bone maintenance and regeneration.

The researchers also examined fracture healing under metabolic stress. Normally, obesity and impaired glucose metabolism slow down bone regeneration and lead to weaker or even failing repair after injury. However, mice treated with Roxadustat displayed improved fracture healing compared with untreated obese animals that showed compromised bone repair, demonstrating that activation of hypoxia signaling can restore the bone’s regenerative potential.

“Our findings show that activation of hypoxia signaling using PHD inhibitors has dual beneficial effects, simultaneously improving metabolism and bone health,” says Prof. Maes.

Beyond the experimental findings, the work highlights potential ripple effects across multiple research fields. The hypoxia signaling pathway regulates energy metabolism, vascular biology, and tissue regeneration, making it relevant to studies of diabetes, aging, and regenerative medicine.

In the short term, the findings suggest that therapies activating hypoxia signaling could help reduce bone complications in people with obesity or prediabetes. Over the longer term, such approaches may contribute to treatments that simultaneously manage metabolic disease and strengthen skeletal resilience. If similar effects are confirmed in humans, future therapies could reduce fracture risk, improve recovery after bone injuries, and address metabolic dysfunction in a single integrated strategy.

***

Reference
Title of original paper: Pharmacological HIF activation protects against diet-induced obesity, glucose intolerance, and skeletal dysfunction by exerting dual beneficial effects on energy metabolism and bone
Journal: Bone Research
DOI: 10.1038/s41413-025-00503-3

About KU Leuven
KU Leuven is one of Europe’s leading research universities, renowned for excellence in science, medicine, and engineering. Founded in 1425 and located in Leuven, Belgium, the university combines centuries of academic tradition with cutting-edge innovation and global collaboration. KU Leuven is internationally recognized for its strong interdisciplinary research environment and close partnerships with hospitals, research institutes, and industry partners. Its biomedical sciences programs play a major role in advancing translational research aimed at improving human health, disease prevention, and treatment worldwide. The university consistently ranks among the top institutions globally for scientific impact and high-quality research output.
Website: https://www.kuleuven.be/english/kuleuven/

About Professor Christa Maes from KU Leuven
Dr. Christa Maes is a Professor at KU Leuven and group leader of the Laboratory of Skeletal Cell Biology and Physiology (SCEBP lab), which she founded with the support from a European Research Council (ERC) Grant after her postdoctoral research with Henry Kronenberg at Harvard Medical School. Her research focuses on the biology of skeletal stem cells and osteoblasts and how they function to regulate bone homeostasis, bone regeneration, and metabolic control of bone health and disease, with a special interest in how the bone cells crosstalk with the vasculature and other cells and organ systems within and beyond the bone environment. Her team’s contributions include new mechanisms by which bone cells regulate hematopoiesis and interplay with systemic energy metabolism and glucose homeostasis. She has been felicitated with several awards, including the Iain T Boyle Career Award of the European Calcified Tissue Society (ECTS), and she is an active contributer to the bone research communities’ training programs, conference organizations, and journal and book publications and editorial work.

Funding information
This research was supported by grants from the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) to Christa Maes (#G0B5219N; #G078923N). During the study, Roger Valle-Tenney received an FWO postdoctoral fellowship (#1291522N), and Karen De Samblancx was supported by a FWO PhD fellowship (##1S03417N). Nicolas Peredo was an Early-Stage Researcher in the EU Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under Marie Sklodowska-Curie (MSCA-ITN #721432). µCT equipment at the KU Leuven Department of Development and Regeneration was financed by the Hercules Foundation project AKUL/13/47 (#G0F2414N).

Yini Bao
International Journal of Oral Science
+862885546461 ext.
br@scu.edu.cn
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