Gina Skinner-Thebo

Gina Skinner-Thebo

Age: 35

Title: Human resources manager, B&G Foods/Tone's Spices

Family: Husband Matthew Skinner-Thebo; two sons, Henry and Oliver, a daughter, Eleanor, and another daughter, Ruby, coming soon

A reason why she is a Forty: Skinner-Thebo founded the Atwood Center for Women, an organization focused on empowering and connecting women. Her best friend from college, Rachel Atwood, died by suicide in 2014, and Skinner-Thebo is on a mission to end isolation and self-doubt.

What drives her: Each day is an opportunity. “I wasn't supposed to be successful. I had a rough childhood and adolescence, and even graduating from high school was a feat. Each day, I have the opportunity to prove to myself and others that I don't have to be defined by my past,” she said.

An interesting fact about Skinner-Thebo: She competed in the Hy-Vee Triathlon five times and won her division the last year she raced.