Leah was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina; graduating from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. After several years in sales, she had the unique opportunity to move to Europe and work for a German robotics company. While working overseas the importance of relationships, corporate etiquette and international protocol became apparent. Leah saw how crucial these components were to gaining and maintaining successful business partnerships. Leah’s latest project is starting her own company, Baronley Consulting. Baronley Consulting is a company emphasizing etiquette and protocol in business and social settings. Leah will be bringing her expertise to consult individuals and executives in major corporations, helping give them the competitive edge they need to forge lasting business relationships. There is a charitable arm to Baronley which will give back to the community by providing interview training to disadvantaged women looking to enter the workforce.

In January 2007 Leah met the love of her life, Timothy. Nine months later he proposed in a vineyard on Long Island. They were married in Asheville, North Carolina in the fall of 2008. The couple currently resides in New York City and love experiencing everything the city has to offer: great cuisine, fantastic live music and stunning museums. They love walking home from dinner or a movie and taking in all the sights. Leah says, “We just enjoy being together. It’s that simple.”

Though Leah is busy with work and family, she still has time to give back to the community. Volunteerism has been an important part of her life.  Leah is an avid supporter of the American Heart Association. She has served on the logistics committee for Go Red for Women and the Heart Ball. She is now on the AHA’s Corporate Leadership Committee for Go Red for Women.  Also volunteering for Passion to Heal, Leah recruits plastic surgeons and dermatologists to work in clinics in the US and abroad providing medical care for people with various skin diseases and physical abnormalities.

In October Leah was crowned Mrs. New York America 2012. She will go on to compete at Mrs. America in May 2012. In her words, “ I am honored and elated to represent the Empire State and I hope to make a positive impact on the people of New York…I especially want to inspire the married women in New York to challenge themselves to live out their dreams…If we all work together we can make amazing things happen!”