Ambassadors

After a successful exit of Attain, an emerging technology advisory and consulting firm, Manish now focuses on helping seed and early-stage companies in creating scalable businesses. Previously, Manish Agarwal was President of Attain and helped create it from a new business to a $250M business. He brings more than 25 years of success in the consulting and technology fields. He has been a top contributor and advisor to diverse government and commercial clients around the world, and he has held a variety of leadership roles in areas related to creating teams, transformational change, growing new uses of technology, and ensuring extraordinary customer experiences. Manish has proven experience in global business development, strategic and operational planning, startups, value creation and overall P&L Management across countries. An enthusiastic technologist, innovator, and change agent, Manish has developed forward-leaning business models, including those which leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and data science. Prior to Attain, Manish led a business intelligence software startup and its successful divestiture with a positive return to shareholders. Previously, he was a vice president and managing partner at Unisys Corporation, responsible for leading its Asia Pacific business unit and returning it to profitable revenue growth. Manish also was a partner at KPMG Consulting, where he advised and implemented large strategic initiatives for public sector clients. Manish holds a bachelor's degree in Engineering from Pune University in India.

AJ Attavar is a seasoned technology and health care entrepreneur and executive, having spent over 31 years leading mission-driven technology, Healthcare, Life sciences and information organizations. Currently, he provides strategic growth, market positioning, and general management advisory services to high growth and transitioning organizations in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors, leveraging his extensive management and board-level experience in both the for-profit and non-profit world to help organizations move to the next level. Most recently AJ is founder and President of NPS, Inc. As an Operating Partner focused on driving value in information technology solutions, he works with NPS portfolio companies to identify and support various strategies and programs which advance company competitiveness and IT effectiveness. His specific focus on creating alignment between business operating models and technology strategy aims to ensure long-term success and positioning for the application of emerging technologies Prior to starting NPS, Inc., he served as Chairman - Think Tank -Life Science at SAP ASUG. Previously, AJ spent Eleven years at Arthrex, Inc a Life science medical device Enterprise. In those years he served in both IT and business functional roles As Chief Technology & Strategy Officer at Mastech, Inc. he was responsible for leading the development and deployment of innovative technology that empowers leading Health Care providers to fundamentally transform their lab operations. He also led Strategy to ensure Mastech is well positioned to succeed in the dynamic Healthcare market. Mr. Attavar is a proud graduate & Co-Champion of Leadership Collier (LC ‘22). He served as team captain & Session Chair for Human services for LC team of ‘23. In addition, he serves on IFHA board & Panira health Care. He serves on The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) advisory council. As a panelist MIT Technology Review Global Panel, AJ contributes to a wide range of research initiatives conducted by MIT Technology Review Insights on the latest trends in technology and their impact on business, the future of work, and more. AJ is a certified member at Leaders Excellence at Harvard Square. AJ holds a B.S. in Computer Engineering and a Global Leadership Executive MBA from the University of Texas at Dallas.

Darrin Auito, JD, MSE, MBA, is an intellectual property attorney and strategic business advisor based in the Washington DC region. He co-founded HEA Law PLLC, a boutique law firm (Tokyo and DC), and manages the firm’s U.S. practice. Darrin’s practice is focused on developing and implementing effective technology focused business strategies, including patent and trademark prosecution, IP litigation, technology licensing, patent monetization and risk management, product branding, commercial agreements, and corporate due diligence. Darrin serves on the Advisory Board of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBEC) in Washington DC – an influential voice for entrepreneurship and small business growth in the United States and across the globe. Darrin also advises and represents several technology companies in fintech, autonomous vehicle, blockchain, entertainment, and eSports markets. Darrin is an initial director of GetKids2Code, a non-profit organization aiming to grow the next generation of coders through STEM education. He is also a member of the Fight For Children Honors 2023 Host Committee, which has been a pillar in the DC philanthropic community for more than 30 years. Darrin is active on the speaking circuit, presenting on IP topics to companies, universities, and organizations mostly throughout the United States, Japan and Taiwan.

As the founder of T-I-L®, Mr. Bennett pioneered a social impact law venture, revolutionizing access to intellectual property rights (IPR) for the underrepresented. His design delivers IPR as a digital service and as a digital software product, enhancing accessibility and affordability, crucial for fostering innovation and economic growth. The work builds upon prior experience with startups, private sector entities (like AT&T/BellSouth, Deloitte, Verizon/MCI) and government. It also incorporates lifelong academic (Georgetown, MSU/JCSU, Penn) and professional certificate (George Washington, Johns Hopkins, Stanford, UC Berkeley) lifelong learning. In 2019 T-I-L® launched the IPRights4All Solution, supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for 2030, by raising awareness of IPR with audiences in the US and globally. January 2024 the T-I-L-Group was launched as a complementary legal tech startup, one which recently completed the University of Maryland Blockchain Accelerator in July of this year, with an AI / Blockchain MVP. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-bennett-47861/

Beth Berman loves optimizing leaders and teams. Simply stated, Beth helps leaders who are learners become their best and grow. As a teen, Beth helped her dad in his many businesses. And it paid off. After a successful career in telecom Sales & Marketing, Beth returned to entrepreneurship and found her sweet spot: facilitating conversations around growth. As Partner in a recruiting firm, Beth used her innate facilitation skills to help her company navigate the 2008 financial crisis. She led the pivot to a Resume, Interview and Job Search coaching firm, growing the company while many other recruiting firms were folding. In 2011 Beth launched her company, Compellications™ to help leaders strengthen their teams and attract ideal customers. Currently a Certified EOS® — Entrepreneurial Operating System — Implementer, Beth has helped a diverse base of small- to mid-sized entrepreneurial companies execute on their goals, realize exceptional results, and create healthy, aligned teams who, again, enjoy working together. Beth is also a Partner at Clark Leadership Group. As Peer Group Leader, Beth brings leaders of growth-oriented companies together for in-depth, facilitated learning and a sense of community among fellow business leaders. She also conducts private Executive Coaching sessions. Beth brings a unique, dynamic energy to her Speaking Engagements, Workshops, and Client Sessions. Though quite tiny in stature, Beth holds the attention of even the toughest room and makes a big, lasting impact on participants.

Richard (Dick) Bodson assumed overall leadership of SysNet Technologies having acquired the Co. in 2017 and is President & CEO. He is responsible for Company performance supporting federal customers. He brings over four decades of federal IT services contracting leadership to SysNet, ranging from small to large businesses, all with successful customer support evidenced by customer ratings and company resultant growth.

Sandra Cai, a zero-generation immigrant to the US from China, speaks more than three languages and is an undergraduate student at New York University. After high school, she worked for Microsoft as an MLSA (formerly known as Microsoft Student Partner), researching financial applications of blockchain technology, and for JD.com on cloud infrastructure as the youngest and only high school graduate among a Ph.D. Team. Sandra has also worked for investment banks, a leading venture capital firm and two Web3.0 startups, creating businesses since high school (the first business was profitable without funding) and developing a unique perspective on innovation and entrepreneurship. Sandra is currently focusing on solving deepfake and fraudulent issues with her latest cybersecurity venture, Plurall AI.

An energetic, visionary, and disciplined business and scientific leader with broad experience in growing biotech start-up companies from private seed-funding stage to public, multinational corporations. Has substantial experience in leveraging and translating government grants and contracts into products and services supporting organic growth start-up companies. Has substantial research and development experience through alliances with corporate partners, academic and healthcare institutions, private foundations, and advocacy groups. Has extensive experience in corporate positioning-repositioning through adjustment of existing products and research and development activities. Has in-depth experience in different phases of drug and technology development. Directed and managed a multi-disciplinary team of scientists including computational, combinatorial, medicinal and analytical chemists, cell and molecular biologists, pharmacologists, immunologists, oncologists, and veterinary technicians. Established collaborations and contracts with tope 40 international and U.S. pharmaceutical as well as biotech companies.

Mr. Sebright Chen is the Founder, Chairman and CEO of Summer Atlantic Capital. He has shaped the strategic reorientation of different companies under management. Mr. Sebright Chen has had extensive experience in investment management, corporate advisory and technology and pharma industries. Before founding Summer Atlantic Capital, Mr. Chen was the CFO for an AI startup that was acquired by one of the largest technology companies in the world. He is a frequent speaker at the Horasis Global and Asia Meetings, serving as the Chairman of Venture Capital Council at the International Trade Council, and the Leadership Council Member at the National Small Business Association in the US. Mr. Chen received his MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He was awarded Financial CEO of The Year, China 2023 by International Investor Magazine, Investment Management Chairperson of The Year 2023 by CEO Monthly in the UK, and Investment Management CEO of the Year, Greater China 2024 by International Business Magazine, and the Most Innovate Financial CEO of The Year 2024 by International Investor Magazine, APAC Investment Management CEO of the Year 2024 by APAC Insider, and Outstanding Investment Leader of the Year 2024 by Pan Finance.

Will Classen is an Assistant Vice President at Colliers, specializing in tenant representation, lease negotiations, and real estate advisory services across the Washington metropolitan area & nationally. His expertise is in helping clients develop, analyze, and execute tailored real estate strategies that reduce costs and mitigate transaction risk. Will's knowledge of the Washington, DC office market, transaction process, lease language, financial modeling, and analysis make him invaluable to his clients and associates. His experience includes successful transactions on behalf of clients, including Perfecta, Global Ties U.S., Adams and Reese, Spotify, TechNet, NetCentrics, BCSE, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and the American Lung Association. Throughout his career, Mr. Classen has worked closely with executives across the c-suite, partnering with them on strategic initiatives concerning enterprise risk management, process efficiency, functional transformations, strategy execution, and change management. Will has a reputation for superior client service and a proven track record of success realizing his clients' financial objectives. He graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Financial Management.

In his 30 plus years as a senior executive he has led companies in roles of President, CEO, and Chairman of the board. He has raised millions of dollars for companies to drive rapid growth and position themselves as market leaders. Scott has built multiple companies to national and international distinction, from angel and venture funded startups to becoming the leading provider in the various marketplaces with hundreds of employees worldwide, all while positioning the company as the model of corporate integrity. In 1997, he sold one of his companies to a public company, creating one of the most notable publicly traded companies in its industry. Corlett's vision and business acumen have made him one of the most influential and widely quoted serial entrepreneurs. His leadership and determination enable organizations to outpace their peers, to grow while others have collapsed, to leverage market opportunities in good economies and bad, and to claim the leadership mantle as the greatest companies in their space. Corlett is a member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) and graduated from MIT’s Birthing of Giants Program in 2001 and is a member of the graduate organization Gathering of Titans which is an invitation only group of 60 entrepreneurs held annually at MIT. He is an avid marathoner and swimmer. He is married and is the father of a boy and three girls.

An intuitive out-of-the-box technology executive specializing in strategic ecosystem development and sustainable growth. Digital innovation expert skilled at navigating the uncertain and unknown. Multiple award-winning thought leader and digital strategist globally recognized for achieving impactful cross-industry collaborations, and for foreseeing disruptive applications of emerging technologies. Expert in the application of ICT innovations from AI, DLT, IoT and data, to embedded hardware and chain-of-trust security to unlock exponential, and often hidden, business value whilst ensuring human-centric experiences. Now focusing on the emergent opportunities at the intersection of clean energy, telecommunications, life sciences and sustainable wellbeing. A diversity and inclusion champion and mentor to entrepreneurs, currently serving on the advisory board of the H2020 Next Generation Internet (NGI) Trust and mentor with SOSV. Also serving on four start-up and not-for-profit boards and previously served on 5 boards including the National Adoption Center, NYU Music Experience Design Lab. A named contributor to several IEEE ethical AI standards, having published several papers, including the Allternet chapter of the “Enterprise City: How Companies are Changing the Global Urban Landscape'' book.

Dejana is an early-stage investor and advisor to technology startups in AI/ML/IoT, cybersecurity, biotech, clean tech, life science, fintech, education, and other sectors. She partners with exceptional, passionate founders with extraordinary vision, set out to define and tackle the biggest challenges across industries. As a mentor with a dynamic communication style, Dejana continually develops practices and processes to inspire, innovate, and harness new ways of thinking. With over twenty-five years of experience in technology and innovation in the US and Canada, Dejana is a Venture Partner at Anexa Capital and the Capital Investment Program Lead at ventureLAB. She is also an angel investor and advisor at several angel groups and accelerators, member of the Board of Advisors at the George Washington University School of Business, mentor, speaker, guest lecturer, panelist, and a life-long champion for girls and women in STEM.

Over 25 years of experience in managing projects, systems, and business processes for private companies and government agencies. Very good at organizing, planning and developing strategies for all types of organizations including strategic plans for nonprofits. Extremely analytical and able to provide insights and direction for startups in areas such as product development, marketing, and financial planning. Educational background includes three professional certifications: Certified Public Accountant, Certified Management Accountant, and Certified in Financial Management. Executive Education includes the Wharton Business School and J. L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management. Some of my past positions include: Senior Business Analyst for Fortune 500 Companies; Senior Advisor for Non Profit Development in Sofia, Bulgaria; Project Manager for Grant Thornton in Washington D.C.; Business Development Manager, Senior Auditor, Project Controller

As President and CEO, Mr. Ezrin oversees all activities of the firm, with a primary focus on M&A and Financial matters. He concentrates on developing business by providing the highest quality services through the insight and experience gained from his diverse background in accounting, law, real estate and venture capitalism. Mr. Ezrin has over thirty-five years of experience with clients on M&A activities and financial matters. He has lectured on the subject and has written several articles for the Washington Business Journal. Mr. Ezrin was active in the Association for Corporate Growth, National Capital Chapter, being a prior Member of Board of Directors and Treasurer, and active on numerous committees. He founded and Chaired its Scholarship Committee, oversaw its non-profit status, and handled all matters for fund raising and annual filings. He was on the Board of Directors of the Exit Planning Exchange Organization and was one of its founders. He has also been active with the University of Maryland Michael Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship, Mentor, the Macklin Institute at Montgomery College, and is a Maryland and D.C. Real Estate Licensed Broker. Mr. Ezrin has practiced accounting and law, and has been involved in many business enterprises. A graduate of Benjamin Franklin University, American University, American University Washington College of Law, and Georgetown University College of Law, his degrees include: BCS, MCS, BA, JD and LLM in Taxation. Mr. Ezrin is active in many civic and charitable organizations, serving on Boards of Directors, Advisory Boards, and assisting with obtaining corporate donations. Currently, Mr. Ezrin participates with NABOE, AM& CONNECTpreneur.

As an active advocate for the CONNECTpreneur Community, I am deeply involved in fostering a dynamic network that bridges entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders. My role encompasses introducing new investors and sponsors to the community, thereby enhancing opportunities for collaboration and growth. I mentor presenter alumni, guiding them through their entrepreneurial journeys and providing valuable insights to refine their ventures. Additionally, I deliver specialized training sessions that address emerging trends and skills, ensuring that our members stay ahead in a rapidly evolving business landscape. My engagement with CONNECTpreneur also includes organizing and participating in various events, which facilitate meaningful connections and drive innovation within the community. By contributing to this vibrant ecosystem, I support the collective goal of empowering entrepreneurs and fostering a thriving network of forward-thinking professionals.

Douglas is a health transformation leader that has served as the Innovation Officer of the Inova Center for Personalized Health Innovation District, an entrepreneur and senior executive of digital health companies, author and speaker. He has been supporting Reyn Archer, MD in the development of the Neighborhood Health Savings Account initiatives since 2017. Doug served as the Vice President of HEOR and Product Development for Twill Inc. a Series C. Digital Therapeutic leader where he developed their Behavioral Health Coaching program. He served as the Innovation Officer of the Inova Health System – Center for Personalized Health where he developed solutions integrating clinical care, SDoH, digital health and genomics and established partnerships with health and global life sciences leaders. He has teamed with David Shulkin, 9th Secretary of the Veterans Administration, to accelerate commercialization of health solutions to address PTSD, migraines, chronic pain and COVID19. This includes electroCore, Inc. (NASDAQ – ECOR), Freespira, Inc. US Healthy Work and Override, a whole person approach to chronic pain management. For Ascension Health, Bon Secours Health System and CHRISTUS Health, Doug built and managed a knowledge management SaaS platform to improve health system performance. He was a first mover in digital health with Health Online, Inc, a syndicated e-care and e-commerce platform developed with Allina Health and rolled out to other systems. Earlier in his career, Doug developed and managed two not-for-profit 501c3 including the ‘Center for Urban Ecology’ that worked to address needs of communities with disparities in health, jobs and food in Flint, Michigan. The initiative was focused on urban agriculture, rebuilding housing, alternative energy, and environmental sustainability. As a health futurist and author, he has published 10 books and 100’s of articles including “WE ARE DATA” a publication released at HLTH 2018. He has published 10 books - seven on technology and three on healthcare management. Titles include: * “Medical Staff Alliances: How to Build Successful Partnerships with Physicians,” American Hospital Publishing * “Alliances: Strategies for Building Integrated Health Delivery Systems” Aspen Publishers * “Building and Managing Physician Organizations Under Capitation.” Aspen Publishers * “eHealthcare: Harness the Power of e-Commerce and e-Care,” Jones and Bartlett Publishers * “Medical Informatics 20/20: Quality & EHRs with Collaboration, Open Solutions & Innovation,” Jones and Bartlett His new interactive book “BE A DATA OWNER, Not a Data Donor” is coming soon. As a speaker, he has delivered 200 keynotes to 10,000 executive leaders of health systems, health plans, life sciences, growth companies and associations.

Marcel Kaminstein is the Senior Manager International Relations at BIO.org (Biotechnology Innovation Organization NGO), the most influential Biotechnology Advocacy and Lobby firm in the US. Board positions include, American Club of Rome, Pro Business PAC, and the Italian American Trade Council. Previously, Marcel was the Director of Business Development at Kyndoo until it’s acquisition (now Cipio.ai), part of Bloomberg’s presidential campaign, and luxury division manager at LVMH Starboard.

Paul (aka Korky) is a seasoned management and business development professional with extensive government and commercial experience. He has led efforts in capturing government business in all phases of program life cycle, especially in formulating capture strategy, positioning and developing the “front end of the business”. Korky is a Principal at XPRT LLC offering end-to-end consulting and proposal services to clients of all sizes.

As an early-stage business advisor, I work with owners and other decision makers to resolve issues impacting business performance. I concentrate on the areas of strategy, process, and operations. I’ve advised and mentored fledgling entrepreneurs, advised an Angel fund and worked with businesses in search of answers as a SCORE counselor. As a serial entrepreneur, I’ve founded or been a principal in four small businesses in remarkably diverse spaces. In addition, I played a pivotal role in the IPO of a fifth company and have contributed to the success of hundreds of others in industries such as defense contracting, information systems, textile production, environmental protection, and telecommunications.

Juliet Zon is a physician and a dual MBA/MPH candidate at Johns Hopkins University, specializing in analytics, leadership, and innovation. With her business training and interest in the life sciences sector, she has been a significant contributor to impactful projects, including a go-to-market strategy for a medical diagnostic startup, and the National Cancer Institute Small Business Innovation Research (NCI SBIR) program. Her experience further spans areas in Mergers & Acquisitions and Supply Chain Optimization for Fortune 500 companies. A curious learner and award-winning student, Juliet combines data analytics expertise with medical knowledge to drive innovation in the life sciences sector, supporting healthcare startups and established companies alike.

Bei Ma is a dynamic and collaborative global business, standards, and regulatory policy leader with a proven track record of new business development successes in advancing biotech, biopharma, pharma, digital health, medtech and global health care. Her leadership spans new business development, global market strategy, value-based strategic partnerships and alliances, public-private partnerships, global regulatory affairs, global standards development, healthcare policies, research, innovation and emerging technologies. Bei Ma is the founder and CEO of the Pinea Group, LLC (Pinea). Pinea provides business development, market access, regulatory and fundraising services for biotech, biopharma, digital health, medtech and other medical organizations to deliver patient-centric innovative solutions in the U.S. and international markets. Previously, Bei served as Vice President of Global Healthcare Business Development at the British Standards Institution (BSI) Group since 2016. She served as a key thought leader and business executive in BSI Global Healthcare Business Sector, providing new business development and market access strategy, managing key global accounts, and building corporate portfolio and new pipelines. She also led and oversaw global health care partnerships; evaluated and developed successful partnering relationships and strategic alliances with identified key corporations. During 2017-2018, she led BSI Global Healthcare team winning the UK Foreign Commonwealth Office Prosperity Fund Award (#FCO CPG/2249/2017). From 2008-2016, Bei provided scientific and business development expertise in researching, evaluating and pursuing new opportunities that support the public health mission and global strategy at the United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP). Her focus also had been in developing and implementing USP global public health initiatives and programs in East Asia and Asia Pacific Region. During 2013-2015, she led USP’s Research & Innovation department winning a U.S. FDA Grant Award (#HHSF223201310209C) for the 1st time in USP’s 200-year history. From 2001-2008, Bei served as a senior research scientist and global product marketing specialist at Mettler-Toledo Intl. with headquarters in Switzerland.

Dr. Mackler’s 35 years of FDA legal/regulatory experience in biomedical products includes biologics, drugs, nutraceuticals, medical and in vitro diagnostic devices, food and cosmetics manufactured by traditional and biotechnology processes (recombinant proteins, genomics, cell and gene therapy). Dr. Mackler has advised financial groups, performed due diligence assessments prior to their initial and bridging investments. He integrates his business acumen gained by working in sales/manufacturing, owning and managing several bioservice businesses and being a university/NIH researcher for 15 years, followed by 35 years in an FDA legal/regulatory practice, and venture partner. He continues to serves on biomedical company Boards of Directors and Scientific Advisory Boards and is an active angel investor. He has served as CEO/Pres., COO and Regulatory Affairs Vice-President in several start-up biomedical companies. Dr Mackler has a Ph.D. and M.S. in the area of Immunology/Microbiology and authored 100+ published scientific papers and abstracts in immunology, immunopathology, and various disease models, as well as numerous articles on FDA and FDA-related legal and regulatory issues. Dr. Mackler continues to advise biomedical companies and venture capital groups on FDA regulatory approval strategies, pre-INDs, problems regarding manufacturing/QA/QC facilities and how to effectively interact with FDA. Dr. Mackler has advised and counseled a number of traditional and biopharmaceutical companies developing drug products to treat various diseases including multiple sclerosis, ALS, stroke, spinal cord injuries as well as endocrine hormones, ophthalmics, anti-infectives, pulmonary delivery, to name a few of the clinical areas, using traditional organic (new chemical entities & generic) compounds, and biotech-derived therapeutics (monoclonal antibodies, cytokines, fusion proteins), classic and new technology-driven vaccines, and cellular and gene therapy. Dr. Mackler has served as CEO/President of pharma drug development company and guided companies through FDA; as well as raised over $2 million from angels, foundations and investors for one company. Dr. Mackler has previously been an Advisor with TVM-Capital in Boston/Montreal & Munich, Paul Capital Royalty Fund (Advisor) in New York City and other venture capital groups, performing in depth FDA due diligence evaluations prior to investing, and assisting portfolio companies with FDA strategy. He has written/edited the Life Science Due Diligence and Regulatory Newsletter and the TVM-Capital Regulatory Bulletin (copies available upon request). Dr. Mackler serves as author of the Spotlight on FDA, a column published in Genetic Engineering News. Dr. Mackler received a J.D. from the South Texas College of Law (magna cum laude, 1979), Ph.D. (Immunology/Microbiology) the University of Oregon Medical School (1970), a M.S. (Immunology/Microbiology) the Pennsylvania State University (1965), and his B.A. (Biology) Temple University (1964). He was a member of the District of Columbia Bar, and was admitted to practice before the Federal District. Appeals Court and before the U.S. Supreme Court. Dr. Mackler founded and grew the Association of Biotechnology Companies (ABC) into over 250 members, before it merged to form the current Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO). He established the annual ABC BioConference, now the annual BIO Conference. He also was a partner and organizer with Genetic Engineering News [GEN] of BioEast, BioWest & BioEurope, workshops and focus groups. After his practice of FDA law activities, he has organized an advisory group to assist financial groups with FDA due diligence assessments, provide regulatory assistance to their portfolio companies, and been an active investor and organizer of biomedical startups.

Mike Malloy is the founder of the Malloy Industries Consulting Group, which matches growth- stage companies with fractional executives to scale their business. He is a seasoned professional with 14+ years of experience as a Deloitte management consultant, Waveborn sunglasses CEO, Halcyon Incubator program director, Georgetown professor, trusted advisor, mentor, and coach. Mike possesses a unique blend of technical expertise, interpersonal communication skills, and emotional intelligence. Mike serves as an Adjunct Professor, Entrepreneur-in-Residence, and former Ultimate Frisbee Coach at Georgetown. Mike received the 2022 Outstanding Entrepreneurship Faculty Award for his work leading the Georgetown Startup Interns (GSI) program. Mike is committed to changing the world by supporting the next generation of social entrepreneurs. From age 25-30, Mike served as the CEO of Waveborn Sunglasses, a for-profit social enterprise with the mission to improve how people see the world by selling luxury Italian sunglasses and donating 10% of profits to fund sight-restoring cataract surgeries in developing countries. Waveborn eventually went bankrupt, and Mike spent the next 5 years serving as the Program Director at the Halcyon Incubator to run a 5-month residential program for the most impactful social entrepreneurs from around the world. He currently serves as a trusted consultant to help growth-stage companies achieve business objectives, reach investor milestones, and reclaim valuable time. Mike holds a Master’s in Computer Science from Georgetown University and Bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics and Computer Science from Boston College.

Sean helps leaders and executives develop professionally and personally to grow in their careers and achieve measurable, impactful results for their companies and organizations. Sean's insight, experience and perspective come from having both a corporate and entrepreneurial background, with over 30 years of results-producing direct sales and marketing experience in leadership roles and client account management, as well as having created and executed numerous sales plans, marketing campaigns, and business development strategies. His strong understanding of leadership and knowledge of the skills that an effective leader must possess and demonstrate come from a wide range of personal experience in the training and development of people, from recruiting through the hiring, managing, and coaching stages, and continuing with their professional growth as they progress through their careers. Sean understands well the importance of having the right processes in place and the critical role they play in helping an organization scale up its growth efficiently and effectively for optimal results and long-term sustainability. As the co-owner of a profitable marketing company, Sean led sales and marketing for the firm to 400% growth over a period of 7 years and then engineered the successful sale of the company to a larger corporation. Along with his wife, he built two start-up health and wellness marketing companies with 500+ team members through effective coaching of leaders, designing of processes, presenting of products, and training of high-performance team players.

Succession Planning:

Having taken a company through a successful exit, Sean understands the value and importance of having a long-range strategy and succession plan and his experience allows him to help clients make the best decisions for their companies [and organizations?]. He also brings first-hand experience and insight into the multitude of tangible and intangible factors that go into successfully integrating two organizations into a single entity that can perform smoothly and effectively.

Acquisition:

With personal experience both in buying a company and selling one, Sean has insight and knowledge into the things that are necessary to make a merger successful and the new organization able to perform at an even higher level. This allows him to provide strategic guidance to his clients in their long-range planning or if they do decide to pursue a sale. Sean's expertise includes Executive Coaching, Leadership Development, Process Improvement, Strategic Planning, Team Building, New Business Development, Direct Sales and Sales Management, Marketing Strategy, Public Speaking, Panel Moderating, Negotiation, which allow him to help organizations of different sizes that are in different stages of their growth and lifecycle succeed and prosper.

Philosophy

Sean's philosophy is based on the belief that the most successful organizations are built through inspiring, empowering and leading the people who will ultimately shape them. His approach to professional and personal development has been influenced by a diversity of experiences both within and outside of the business world. Creating and delivering corporate training and managing the professional development of people, as well as many years of volunteering with underprivileged children, have allowed him to study the ways people develop at different stages of their lives. Tutoring grade school youths and helping high school students apply to college and prepare for the life style change that accompanies it, honed his appreciation for the importance of helping people establish the right habits as building blocks for self-improvement. It also firmly ingrained in him the value of working one-on-one with a coach and what can be accomplished through such a relationship. A firm believer in a work/life balance, Sean has applied a holistic approach to his own career and to his roles as husband and father. Drawing from his personal experiences, he works with his clients to help them grow both as leaders and people, as they work towards achieving their individual goals. Trusted Business Advisors allows people to develop to their fullest potential - both professionally and personally - to lead and excel in all areas of life. Sean holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the American University in Washington, D.C., in Interdisciplinary Studies: Communications, Legal Institutions, Economics and Government, and a Master of Science Degree in Management from the University of Maryland. Sean and his wife have 2 children. In addition to helping people live their best lives, he enjoys exercise, boating, the beach, traveling, coaching and watching his kids' sports and dance teams, reading and learning about new things.

Mr. Megrath is the Co-founder and Managing Director at VectorPoint Ventures, VectorPoint Impact Partners Fund and the VectorPoint Impact Network, a seed stage through Series C syndication platform for angel groups, angel and family office investors and early-stage companies to connect. He has over 25 years of experience in board, finance and operational roles in a variety of industries and disciplines, including finance, information technology, strategic planning and implementation, operations, investment banking, business development and corporate development. Don has extensive experience advising early and growth stage companies, assisting with growth and financing strategies that are matched to the objectives of company stakeholders. He has performed a variety of services to companies or parties he works with, including providing CFO services for growth stage companies, advising family office and other investors regarding growth capital investing, fund management, portfolio company management and operations, entrepreneurship, strategy development and execution, and other management and/or board level activities. Don is a member of the Keiretsu Forum Angel Investment Group in the Northwest Region and served has served there as a volunteer President of the Portland, Oregon Chapter for several years. He is also a member of the E8 Angels clean technology angel investment group and the Angel Capital Association.

Jomy J. Methipara is a business attorney who advises entrepreneurs, business executives and general counsel on corporate and securities law matters such as corporate formation and structuring, mergers and acquisitions, contract negotiations, and efforts to raise capital. Mr. Methipara is also well experienced in intellectual property law matters. Mr. Methipara represents clients including Fortune 500 companies, startup companies, technology companies, and individual inventors before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Mr. Methipara specializes in patent prosecution and opinion work, U.S. and foreign patent procurement, portfolio management, and appeal proceedings before the USPTO. Mr. Methipara also has substantial experience in counseling clients and rendering opinions on matters related to patentability, infringement, validity, freedom-to-operate, due diligence, and prosecution strategy involving domestic and foreign patents. Mr. Methipara also assists in patent litigation matters including the development of the technical aspects of litigation, such as developing claim construction, invalidity and non-infringement positions. Mr. Methipara’s main technological areas of patent expertise include mechanical and electromechanical devices such as, for example, printers, immersion lithography devices, optics, lasers, hybrid and electric cars, digital cameras, vehicle airbag devices, aircraft cockpit design, oil refineries, power tools, semiconductors, computer systems, and medical devices such as ophthalmic surgical devices, other surgical devices, drug delivery and injection devices, and medical packaging, transport and sterilization devices.

John Morgan is the managing General Partner at Morgan Global. In his role he advises leadership teams on strategy to take their company’s eminence and engagement to the next level. He takes a deep-dive look at their value proposition, market segments and go to market approach to craft a strategy aligned with corporate goals based on underlying tactics to drive performance, deliver remarkable customer experiences, establish strategic partnerships, and accelerate sustained business growth. John is an experienced technology executive with a proven track record of building and leading global teams at IBM and Deloitte. His expertise in data, analytics, and AI helps clients apply these technologies to generate business value.

Abolaji is a 2nd Yr. MBA student with American University, Kogod School of Business. He is private equity, and venture capital enthusiast given his experience working with startup companies and as an entrepreneur. He has had experience working in investor relations at "Flutterwave Inc" (Unicorn Fintech) San-Fransico, USA and as a Strategy Consultant (growth and monetization strategy) with 2019 Fast Company "Kano Computing" in the UK. He has also had experience in the area of Program management working with Private, youth, and government stakeholders in international development. Abolaji is an investor at Serial Capital and led the American University Private Equity and Venture Capital Club from 2020 to 2022.

Estefania Palomino is a social and climate serial entrepreneur, lawyer, trusted leadership coach and startup board member. During her career, she’s served as Director at the Aspen Institute, Program Manager at The Wyss Foundation and Program Officer at the Helmsley Charitable Trust, managing multimillion-dollar portfolios, developing and implementing ESGs, climate, and global health strategies, and actively engaging with partners in Central Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and the U.S. Estefania is Aleph Leadership’s founder and CEO. Aleph Leadership is a certified MWBE firm supporting growing businesses with executive and leadership coaching. Estefania co-founded and managed law firm IVO Legal which has been serving entrepreneurs and small business owners for more than 10 years. She is also a coach for the WeNYC program, helping women business owners launch profitable ventures in NYC.

Matthew Philistine is a Business Mentor and an Event Campaign Manager with Northeastern Pennsylvania Score. He’s also a business mentor for startups on the Entrepreneurs for All platform. His professional interests include business development, event campaign management, and learning more about the venture capital / private equity industry. Mr. Philistine earned his Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Health Administration degree from King’s College Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Pramod Raheja, is the CEO & Co-Founder of Airgility, Inc., a leader in artificial intelligence and aerial autonomous systems based in the Washington DC Metro area. He is a technology entrepreneur of 25+ years, angel investor and a longtime member and past president of the Entrepreneur's Organization of Washington DC, He is a graduate/mentor of the Founder's Institute, Mass Challenge US Air Force Labs and the Fedtech Accelerator Program. He is also a commercial pilot with 14000+ hours in 30+ aircraft types. He holds a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Maryland and is a graduate of the Entrepreneurial Master's Program at MIT. Pramod has been involved as a Board Chair, Judge and Mentor for the past few years with the EO Global Student Entrepreneur’s Awards, the premiere global competition for college student entrepreneurs. He is the 2022 award recipient of the University of Maryland Alumni “EnTERPreneur of the year” and a 2022 DCA Live “Red Hot Entrepreneur” and currently serves on the Alumni Board of Mindshare. Pramod thinks of himself as half geek and half sales guy and is passionate about how innovative, deep tech technologies, particularly Aerospace tech, can solve problems.

Currently, Michael Riemer is CEO of Vocinity, a video engagement platform featuring fully conversational brand assistants. Michael is a successful serial entrepreneur ( 8x ventures, three exits, and early Nextel executive). As an advisor, Michael has worked with more than 100 B2B ventures across more than a dozen industries and a plethora of technologies (IoT, NLP/AI/ML, medical devices, healthIT, cybersecurity, SaaS, XR/AR/VR, prescriptive analytics, and wireless/mobile). Michael is a proud father of four grown children, an active fly fisherman, and a world traveler.

Andres is a transformative leader and strategic consultant with a unique blend of creative and operational expertise. His diverse background spans educational technology, documentary film production, and impactful projects, demonstrating his adaptability, resilience, and commitment to driving positive change. Andres has collaborated with esteemed organizations like National Geographic, NASA, and Harvard, leveraging the power of education to inspire action and innovation. As a seasoned operational leader, he has spearheaded global scaling initiatives, led high-performing teams, and developed strategic partnerships yielding over $48M in revenue. Andres holds an MBA from American University, complementing his expertise with a solid understanding of business fundamentals. He has a proven track record of navigating complex projects, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, and driving organizational transformation. As a creative problem-solver and strategic thinker, Andres excels in balancing vision with execution, making him an invaluable thought partner and consultant for organizations seeking impactful change and growth.

Evan Shubin has been a serial entrepreneur and angel investor for the past 20 years. He is currently President and Founder of Results.now, Inc., and President and Founder of Candlelight Partners LLC. He is also currently serving as COO of Game Gym Inc., and COO of Leed Seed LLC. He has been directly involved in 20 different launches and early-stage companies. All told, he served as the President and Founder of four different companies, the COO of four other companies, and a Vice President at five other companies.

Mike Smith is a “Washington Insider” with deep connections in national media and political circles including on Capitol Hill. He has over 35 years of experience including account management primarily in tech and public policy at three of the largest PR firms in the world including AE at Burson-Marsteller, Chicago Office; VP of Technology for Edelman PR Worldwide; EVP of Global Public Affairs and GM of the Washington Office for HAVAS PR. Mike is a 30-year member of the National Press Club and serves on its Board of Governors and Communicators Committee. He is also a Certified Association Executive. Mike was Director of Public Affairs for National Association of Manufacturers, Associate Director for the Newspaper Association of America and Public Affairs Director for the American Sportfishing Institute.

Sean is Chief Marketing Officer for Kapowza, a Creative Agency focused on providing graphic design, website, video, and social media support for emerging brands, mission-based organizations, associations, and more. Sean is a tireless connecter and entrepreneurial mentor who loves to give back and serve as a sounding board for groups looking to grow.

Ben Teicher is a seasoned executive with an expansive career that spans over three decades. With expertise rooted in Finance, Marketing, and Operations, he has demonstrated versatility across multiple industries including consumer products and services, media/entertainment, manufacturing, and distribution. His leadership experience includes multiple C-Suite positions over the past 20+ years. Over the past 35+ years, Mr. Teicher has worked for blue chip organizations like Nestlé, The Walt Disney Company, and Discovery Communications (now Warner Bros. Discovery). Throughout his career, Ben has successfully led both publicly owned and privately held enterprises, ranging from family-owned businesses to those backed by private equity. His professional accomplishments include experiences in international markets, having overseen turnarounds, driven growth, and invested in successful startups. Currently, Ben is a board member of two privately held companies, while also offering strategic and organizational advisory services to a variety of companies in different life-stages. In addition to his business accomplishments, Ben is deeply committed to community service. He works with a local food pantry and other organizations, reflecting his unwavering dedication to uplifting those in need. Mr. Teicher's academic credentials include a BS in Economics from the University of California, San Diego, earned in 1986, and an MBA from Loyola Marymount University, received in 1991. Though now having resided in Bethesda, Maryland since 2004, he is proud of his roots in Los Angeles, California. His professional and personal journeys have taken him to various corners of the world, enriching his global perspective.

Matthew Tompkins, born in Alexandria, Virginia, and raised in Fells Point, Baltimore, is driven by curiosity and dedication to achieving his dreams. With a solid foundation in fashion, business, and leadership, he continually refines his approach.He studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan and The Conde Nast School of Design in London, mentored by Susie Forbes. Matthew holds certifications from The Wharton School of Business in Marketing and Retail, Accounting, Business Management, and Managing Human Capital, as well as from Parsons School of Design in Transformational Retail and The Bocconi School in Luxury Management. As a Fashion Assistant and Assistant Stylist, he worked with industry experts Alex Van der Steen and Damiane Fox, contributing to publications like Essential Homme, Vestal Magazine, London Financial Times, Madame Magazine Paris, and Surface Magazine. As a Senior Stylist, Matthew worked with brands like Ralph Lauren, Under Armour, and Peter Millar on e-commerce projects and campaigns. In 2022, he founded a social impact e-commerce DTC brand, demonstrating his commitment to positive change through philanthropy and e-commerce during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, Matthew launched a new venture—a B2B vertical SaaS company that brings Generative AI personal shoppers with 24/7 AI customer service to all of your customers. His aim is to solve the problem of abandoned carts and high return rates for fashion and apparel brands. Abandoned carts account for nearly 70% of potential sales losses, and returns in the fashion industry cost over $500 billion annually. The market for AI in retail is projected to reach $24 billion by 2027, and the fashion e-commerce market is expected to grow to $1.2 trillion by 2029. He and his team aim to make shopping easier and more personal through innovative software solutions, seamlessly merging fashion and advanced technology to revolutionize digital shopping experiences.

After a successful career leading a number of high growth technology businesses, Chris Veator is now an investor and advisor to early stage companies. He has a broad spectrum of industry experience ranging from media to software, legal services, intellectual property and real estate/construction. He has worked for publicly traded, private equity and venture backed companies – racking up 5 exits throughout his career. Chris has a unique background in leading early stage companies with little or no revenue and growing them to $30 - $50 million of annual revenue – which he has done four times in four separate industries. To drive these results he draws from his revenue growth “playbook” focused on creating and fostering a growth culture, developing world class product management and go-to-market strategy and execution. Chris graduated from Dartmouth College with a degree in Economics and Psychology. He was the runner up of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year for the Washington DC area.

Roy Vella is a well-known digital strategy expert, professional speaker, and independent Non-Exec Director, Advisor & Consultant to enterprises large and small. As a resourceful Stanford JD/MBA and US/UK citizen, Roy has proven complex problem-solving skills and global execution delivering high-growth, digitally-driven teams. He runs a management consultancy providing strategic advice and commercial services to digital leaders globally, particularly as an expert in the deeptech, fintech, smart home industries. In EMEA, he engaged many notable, brand name clients as well as many London-based incubators and their fast-growing European startups.

Cassandra is a Public Relations Consultant with 30+ years of experience helping organizations, individuals and businesses to thrive. She completes projects in the USA in any time zone. And, she works with clients in most industries, including healthcare, education, finance, and with city and state agencies. She also work with other public relations agencies as a subcontractor on their projects. Cassandra is an Adjunct Professor at Mildred Elley College and at the Metropolitan College of New York. She teaches a variety of business courses including Constructive Action (an extensive writing class), Business English/Communication Skills, Organizational Development, Professional Business Presentation Computer Skills and Project Management. Prior to her role at TKing, Cassandra developed and executed public relations/media strategies as a PR executive for the City of New York. She wrote speeches, briefings, media coverage reports, press releases, talking points, media advisories, letters to the editor and public statements for the City's executives, including Agency Chiefs and the Mayor of the City of New York. In this prior role, Cassandra also pitched stories, managed events and arranged press interviews. Cassandra obtained her MPA from Columbia University in the City of New York. She received her Bachelor's Degree with honors from the University of West Indies in Jamaica, W.I. She also obtained a teaching certificate to teach both English and French at the University of London. Cassandra obtained additional training in public relations, marketing, communications and events from the Jamaica Institute of Management and New York University.

Carl has 25+ years of successful experience in the Life Science and Technology sectors. He’s helped multiple Life Science and Technology organizations grow and evolve, particularly as they’ve introduced new products and services that provide unique data sets for the industries served. Carl is a strategic consulting partner for many companies, both large and emerging, where he advises on critical commercial, or operational solutions. Over the past sixteen years, Carl has held multiple C-level roles where he’s led hyper growth for companies seeking to scale and sustain their businesses. He’s led multiple organizations through the revenue generation, capitalization, and M&A process. He founded Vertical Performance Partners, a Providence based SaaS Enterprise platform focused on content and app development for their Life Science clients. As CEO, Carl grew Vertical from a venture backed startup with a handful of clients to a global organization with most of the top tier pharmaceutical companies utilizing his Velocity platform. He managed to a successful acquisition. As CEO, he led a turnaround effort for Dovetail Health, a high touch medication adherence organization focused on the most critically ill patients. Under his leadership, Dovetail rapidly grew clients, revenue, and operations. He managed a successful acquisition by Optum Health. As President & CEO of Tedor Pharma, a generics CDMO, he led a large capital raise, transformed the company’s capabilities and capacity, and organized multiple Ex-US acquirers for a successful exit. Additionally, Carl has worked in a wide variety of commercial leadership roles within the pharmaceutical industry, which included mid-sized to large pharmaceutical organizations. He served with organizations such as Abbott Laboratories (Abbvie), GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Sepracor (Sunovion). Carl’s most recent project is GivGo. GivGo, a FinTech play, is the market’s first consumer focused social micro-gifting platform. He has been a speaker, contributor, and moderator for many organizations, some include American Society of Training and Development, Society of Pharmaceutical/Biotech Trainers, Chief Learning Officer Organization, FiercePharma, Physician Detailing Summit, Center for Business Intelligence, Tech Collective and Pharmaceutical Executive. He has mentored students attending Brown University, Johnson & Wales, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), and Narragansett Local Schools. He also serves on the mentor programs for MassChallenge, TechStars, and EforAll Rhode Incubator. Carl attended The Ohio University for his BA/BS in Business and Xavier University for his MBA in International Business. Carl lives in Narragansett, Rhode Island where he is the father of four wonderful children.

Carrie excels as the Global Head of Strategic Marketing at RoslinCT, a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) in the cell and gene therapy industry. Her entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her founding of a full-service marketing agency that serves the biotech and IT industries. Carrie's rich background, spanning academia and industry, underpins her exceptional leadership in marketing, business development, ecommerce and product management. Her contributions have been pivotal in driving growth for both Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups. Carrie's expertise lies in her unique ability to integrate scientific knowledge with innovative business strategies, marking her as a pivotal influencer in her field. Additionally, she is deeply committed to giving back to the business community as a certified mentor with SCORE, where she shares her wealth of knowledge and experience to support and nurture emerging entrepreneurs.