Advisory Boards

BOARD CHAIR
Joey Epstein, CPA
CGMA, Managing Director, BDO

Managing Director with BDO’s tax practice, Joey Epstein has extensive experience providing accounting and advisory services to clients in a wide range of industries including law firms and other professional service organizations, as well as wholesale/distribution and software development companies.

He has worked with publicly-traded and privately-held middle-market companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 1000. He has handled financial audits, income, and sales tax audits, tax planning, and has assisted clients with their exit strategies. He is also certified in Florida sales and uses tax.

Prior to joining BDO, he was the CFO of a start-up technology company, the COO of one of Florida’s largest law firms, and the COO of a national chain of language schools, where he negotiated the sale of the language schools to a UK public company.

Mark H. Agulnik, CPA CISA, CIS LI, JD
Regional Advisory Partner-in-Charge, Marcum

Mark Agulnik serves as the Regional Advisory Partner-in-Charge for the Southeast at Marcum. He steers the strategic growth of the advisory practice, which includes transaction support services as well as business valuations, litigation support, and SOC engagements.

Agulnik ensures a high-caliber client experience for advisory services provided in the region. He works with high-growth clients engaged on the buyer and seller sides of M&A activity and oversees due diligence engagements. Mark has extensive experience overseeing SOC engagements, Sarbanes-Oxley compliance and implementation, internal control and internal audit, risk assessments, data security regulations, internal and external vulnerability assessments, and forensic audits.

His experience extends from conducting a gap analysis within a company’s IT and security environment to assisting with remediation efforts to assist with compliance to various regulations/frameworks, including HIPAA, PCI, SOX, ISO 27001.

Roberto Esposito
Chief Financial Officer and Board Director, Stiles

Prior to joining Stiles in 1994 as controller, Mr. Esposito worked in public accounting as an audit and tax manager for seven years, assisting a wide range of clients, including real estate development firms, REIT's, financial institutions, hospitality industry and construction companies. With Stiles, he has deployed effective cost containment and financial reporting systems across all levels of the organization to help drive profitability. 

He has continually improved the company's operational performance, while building the organization's internal financial capabilities to support long-term sustainable growth.

Mr. Esposito, his wife Theresa, and their son, Brendon, are residents of Coral Springs.

 

 

Blain L. Heckaman CPA
Chief Executive Officer, Kaufman Rossin

Blain Heckaman is CEO of Kaufman Rossin, where his leadership has helped position the firm as one of the top 100 CPA and advisory firms in the U.S.

He has championed the firm’s innovation initiatives and expansion of specialized business consulting, risk advisory, and forensic advisory practices to complement its traditional services, always remaining focused on the firm’s core mission of improving clients’ businesses and helping protect them from risk.

Blain is active in the South Florida community and has been recognized by the South Florida Business Journal as a Power Leader, Ultimate CEO, and Key Partner. He chairs the YWCA's Economic Justice Council, a group of businesses dedicated to creating more inclusive industries, corporations, and workplaces. He is past chairman and current board member of Voices for Children Foundation, Inc., and a member of the Strategic Forum.

Shawn Mostal, CPA
Audit Partner, Grant Thornton

Shawn Mostal is an Audit Partner at Grant Thornton. With 20 years of experience in public accounting. Shawn’s work includes supervising and coordinating all services rendered to privately- and publicly-held clients.

Within these areas, he has significant involvement with in-depth work in audit and accounting, Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), complex partnership matters, consulting, acquisition evaluations, and various other services. Shawn has a focus on financial services and employee benefit plns on both accounting and consulting matters.

 

Michael Rabinovitch
Senior Advisor, Lionheart Capital

Michael Rabinovitch serves as the Senior Advisor to Lionheart Capital and is the former Chief Financial Officer of BurgerFi International, Inc., one of the nation's fastest-growing premium fast-casual concepts. There, he brought extensive financial leadership skills to high growth, publicly held retail and distribution companies, completing and integrating over 25 acquisitions valued at over $2B during his career.

Prior to joining BurgerFi, Mr. Rabinovitch was Chief Accounting Officer at Tech Data Corporation, a Fortune 100 global technology distributor. He has held positions including Chief Accounting Officer and VP Finance, North America, for Office Depot Chief Financial Officer of Mayors Jewelers. He also served as VP Finance at Claire's Stores during a six-year period of rapid expansion, contributing to their growth from 1,200 to over 3,000 locations in 10 countries.

Mr. Rabinovitch began his career with Price Waterhouse (now PwC) as a licensed certified public accountant. He holds bachelor’s degrees from Florida State University in Accounting and Finance and is an advisory board member of the School of Accounting at both Florida State University and University of South Florida.

Jennifer Rosati
Chief Financial Officer, Broward Health

Jennifer Rosati has spent her 17-year career working in the healthcare finance sector. After graduating from the University of Miami with a B.B.A. in Accounting and Finance, she began working with Ernst & Young as an auditor, obtaining her CPA license and focusing on the healthcare industry. She was then hired by one of her clients, Memorial Healthcare System, to lead the Corporate Finance Department for more than nine years, while simultaneously earning her MBA in Complex Health from Nova Southeastern University. She then joined Broward Health Medical Center in 2022 as their Chief Financial Officer. At Broward Health Medical Center, Jennifer is responsible for the oversight of the hospital's fiscal operations, including administration, development, and implementation of hospital financial plans, policies, programs, and accounting processes. 

Jennifer is a wife and mother to two young boys, who are three and five years old. As a family, they spend a lot of time on different sports fields, exploring their own backyard in South Florida, and traveling.

Michael Siegel, CPA
Audit & Assurance Managing Director, Deloitte & Touche

Michael Siegel, CPA is an Audit & Assurance Managing Director with Deloitte & Touche in Boca Raton, Florida.

Michael joined Deloitte in 1992 and has experience serving large public companies and privately held entities. Michael has served clients in a variety of industries including real estate, aerospace, manufacturing, hospitality, technology and insurance.

Siegel has extensive experience leading audit engagements, with debt and equity offerings, business combinations and audits of internal control over financial reporting.

Prior to transferring to Florida in 2004, Michael worked in Deloitte & Touche's Detroit office.

 

 

J. Stephen Wilder
Chief Financial Officer/Chief Information Officer, City Furniture

Steve Wilder began his career as a C.P.A. with Waterbed City before the company rebranded to City Furniture and became one of South Florida’s most recognizable brands. He has been City Furniture’s Chief Financial Officer since 2001 and also served as the Chief Information Officer for eight of those years. His financial acumen has helped City Furniture become a top-30 retailer on Furniture Today’s list.

Wilder earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of South Florida and an M.B.A. from Florida Atlantic University. He maintains an active Florida C.P.A. License and is a member of the American Institute of C.P.A.s, the Florida Institute of C.P.A.s, Broward County Chapter, and Financial Executives International, Broward County Chapter.

Steve was the recipient of an Apogee Award as Broward County CFO of the Year by South Florida Business & Wealth magazine. He has participated in both CFO and CIO Forums sponsored by the South Florida Business Journal and was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Journal.

Zorica Visosevic, CPA
Managing Director, Audit and Assurance Services

Zorica Visosevic, CPA, has twenty years of public accounting experience providing audit and advisory services.

She serves both public companies and private equity investors, primarily in the consumer and industrial products, transportation, hospitality, and services industries. Zorica has assisted numerous clients with private placements, debt offerings, and regulatory and accounting matters.

She has extensive experience working with multinational companies, including global coordination of audits in numerous countries and locations.

Her areas of specialization include revenue recognition, leases, restructuring, divestitures, consolidations, internal controls and accounting for income taxes.

Undergraduate

Angelique Benda

Hi there, my name is Angelique Benda and I am a Senior at Nova Southeastern University in the Huizenga Business Innovation Academy pursuing a BSBA with a management major and double minor in entrepreneurship and venture creation.

In May 2022, I will begin my MBA degree at NSU. I’m a member of the NSU Collegiate DECA chapter, a member of the Strategic Forum Student Group, Treasurer for NSU’s Pre-Health book club, and I am on the HCBE Dean’s Student Advisory Board. I am an Administrative Coordinator/Junior Recruiter at the NSU Business College Graduate School and look forward to advancements within the NSU community. My interests are helping others, solving problems, and creating happiness.

 

 

Romy Bensoussan

My name is Romy Bensoussan. I am a senior in the Huizenga Business Innovation Academy. I live in Miami, but I am originally from France.

On the Dean's Student Advisory Board, our purpose is to improve the lives of students at Nova Southeastern University. I encourage you to reach out to any of us regarding anything NSU-related. We are here for the students and want to know of any questions, comments, concerns, and additions you would like to see happen here at NSU.

 

 

 

 

Sebastian Harada

My name is Sebastian Harada, and I am currently a final year finance major at the Huizenga College of Business of Nova Southeastern University. I am very involved on campus, holding leadership roles in the Strategic Forum Student Group, the Personal Finance and Investments Association, as well as running my own on-campus business, “After Hours."

I was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, and in high school I played baseball competitively as a right-handed pitcher. My interests include reading, keeping up with the financial markets, and helping others in any way, shape, or form that I can. Upon graduation, I hope to break into the buy-side of high finance and help both institutional and individual investors create wealth through my analytical and interpersonal skills.

 

 

Kacie John

I am a third-year senior graduating this semester. I am studying Sport and Recreation Management with a minor in Marketing. I am also getting my certificate in Human Resource Management.

I am originally from Connecticut, but my parents have relocated to Florida. I came to NSU because I thought it would provide the best opportunities for me being a Sport major. I am a sister of Delta Phi Epsilon and am the Intramural Coordinator for our chapter. I have a research position on campus and am the treasurer for the Sport Business Student Association. I worked for the Miami Dolphins this past season! I am excited to be on this Advisory Board and look forward to what the future holds!

 

 

Julianne Mangano

My name is Julianne Mangano, and I am a Senior at NSU studying Entrepreneurship and Pre-Law. I am very involved on campus and hold a lot of leadership roles as I am in Razor's Edge Shark Cage (Marketing Co-Chair), Huizenga Business Innovation Academy, Strategic Forum (Secretary), Delta Phi Epsilon (Vice President of Academic Affairs) and HCBE Dean's Student Advisory Board Member.

In high school, I played Field Hockey, Basketball and Lacrosse. I love to stay active and I am very competitive. In my free time I love traveling, going to the beach, and hanging out with my friends and family. After graduating next May, I plan to continue my education at NSU to get my master's in business and then go to law school. My goal is to become a corporate, patent, or real estate attorney.

 

 

Graduate

Rukiye Devres Unver

Born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey, Rukiye Devres Unver, is an avid supporter of the arts, archeology and education among other causes. Mrs. Devres Unver sits on the boards of several non- profit foundations. She is a trustee and board member of the Hisar Educational Foundation, a member of the Turkish Educational Association, a founding member and board vice chair of the 65+ Rights for the Elderly Association, a member of the International Advisory Board of the New York Philharmonic, and the Advisory Board of the Istanbul Technical University Turkish Straights Maritime Applications and Research Center, a member of the Istanbul Culture and Arts Foundation, a Friend of Aphrodisias, a patron of Side, a member of the American Research Institute in Turkey, on the board of the Bebek Community Association, and a trustee of the Global Relations Forum.

Rukiye believes in the power of philanthropic efforts in informing policies of developing Turkey. In her daily life, she heads the Devres Real Estate Investment and Management Company, which she established in 2006 when her architecture practice lead her to the world of real estate. She is also a director of their family investment firm, True Value Capital Partners SA.

In the past, Mrs. Devres Unver joined projects designing in Pakistan with the Aga Khan Foundation and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and in China, Puerto Rico and Eastern Turkey, concentrating on financially, socially and environmentally sustainable low income pilot projects for regions in need of a better future. Following the devastating Marmara Region earthquake in 1999, she supported and worked with a group of earthquake victims, in partnership with CEKUL Foundation, Habitat for Humanity International, MIT Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, local and international academicians and philanthropists, local government, businesses, and NGOs to create a pilot village filled with sustainable and renewable solutions in Adapazari, Turkey.

Devres Unver graduated with a B.S. in Art and Design and later earned a Masters of Architecture, both from MIT. She currently is working towards a Master in Management in Philanthropy and Public Policy at Nova Southeastern University.

 

Shalima K. Mohamed

An immigrant from Trinidad and Tobago, Shalima K. Mohamed moved to Miami with her parents and three siblings as a young child. She excelled in grade school and is the first person in her family to graduate from high school and move on to higher education.

She obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Hospitality Administration from Florida State University. She began her career working for five-star hotels such as The Setai and Fontainebleau in Miami and then transitioned to local government.

For more than nine years, Mohamed has been an exemplary government professional in the South Florida community. During her tenure in local government, Shalima has assumed positions of increasing responsibility. Her background includes talent acquisition and retention, compensation, benefits, marketing, public relations, innovation programs, technology enhancements and executive management.

Mohamed is currently the Strategic Administration Officer for the City of Miramar, Florida, where she assists with overseeing the operations of the city’s administrative departments to include Human Resources, Management and Budget, Procurement, City Clerk and Finance. She is also a member of the Reopen Miramar Task Force, which oversees the processes and changes required to accommodate the unprecedented COVID-19pandemic. In addition, she is directly responsible for the municipality’s Office of Innovation and Technology, which spearheads Miramar’s smart city initiatives and Geospatial Information Systems division.

Throughout her career, Mohamed has played an integral role in the successful implementation of organizational enterprise systems as well as creating and building strategic divisions and programs within the organization. She has also been credited with implementing award-winning initiatives on behalf of Miramar.

Shamila is pursuing her Master of Public Administration degree at Nova Southeastern University and maintains a 4.0 GPA. She is a member of the Golden Key Honor Society. She is also a member of United Way of Broward County’s Women’s Council.

 

Eileen Arrien

I am Eileen Arrien, Vice President of B-GEAR Services Inc., a boutique South Florida company providing consulting services in business operations. Before evolving to this venture with my husband, I taught accounting and personal finance at the University of Phoenix for nine years. Prior to transitioning to teaching, I worked for General Electric Medical Systems for over 12 years.

I have held various roles in Finance, including Senior Finance Analyst Latin America and Finance Manager Central and Andean Region – one of the four major regions which includes 22 countries in Latin America. To diversify my experience, I took a role in Quality Six Sigma for the Latin America Operations.

I earned a Bachelor of Accounting and International Business from Florida International University and a Master of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. I also received corporate certification from GE Financial Management Program for Six Sigma Green Belt/Black Belt Certified.

I continue to cherish learning and growth.

 

Tania Perez

Hello all! My name is Tania Perez and I am currently pursuing my MBA with a concentration in Complex Health Systems at Nova Southeastern University Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship.

My plan is to graduate in December 2022 and pursue a career in healthcare administration. AT NSU, I am also the secretary of the Complex Health Systems Student Association.

I was born and raised in Southern California and moved to Florida to attend NSU for my bachelor’s degree; I graduated in May 2017 with a B.S. in Biology. In my free time, I like to spend time with my family and friends, go to the beach, and travel.

I hope to someday soon work in a healthcare system that leads me to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

 

 

Graduate Business Student Association

Christie Jean
President, Graduate Business Student Association

My name is Christie Jean, and I am an international student from Port-au-Prince, Haiti. I am in my last semester in the M.B.A. in Management program.

I am currently the president of the Graduate Business Student Association. Before attending Nova Southeastern University, I completed a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship at Monroe College in New Rochelle, NY.

My goal is to be a leader who will bring innovation and a taste for change to my community. Additionally, I want to seek a managerial position to practice my skills and gain the experience necessary to own my business.

I am a horse lover. I enjoy cooking and dancing. I speak French and Creole.

 

BOARD CHAIR
Ryan Shea
President, Florida/Caribbean Region, Right Management

Ryan Shea brings client-first focus to his multifaceted role in leading business performance, growth, and strategic innovation throughout Right Management’s Florida/Caribbean operations. He began his career with Right Management in 2009 with the accounting team, and he oversaw the implementation of an updated accounting system. He quickly moved into sales and continually exceeded his goals, grew into sales management, and inspired the team to surpass their sales quotas, and then he became an EVP of Right Management in 2015.

In October of 2019, Ryan was promoted to President of Right Management Florida/Caribbean. He is responsible for the growth and development of the Florida/Caribbean region. Under Ryan's leadership, there has been tremendous growth in their outplacement business, thus overseeing additional team members and creating new consulting solutions to capitalize on the demand. During this time, Ryan has been an inspirational leader, driving activity and successful outcomes for associates and clients. Right Management’s Vision is to “Guide and Inspire,” and Ryan leads from these beliefs.

Previously Ryan worked with Regions Bank, where he was a Corporate Credit Analyst and Portfolio Manager. While he was there, he analyzed public and private middle-market-size companies ($10-$300 million in annual revenues) to determine loan amounts and investments for working capital, acquisitions, recapitalization, and real estate financing purposes and managed those investments. Before that, Ryan worked with Woodbridge Holdings (formerly known as the Levitt Corporation) and Merrill Lynch.

Ryan received a dual Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Real Estate with a minor in Economics from Florida State University in Tallahassee. In 2008, Ryan received his Master’s degree in Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Ryan is a 2011 graduate of Right Management’s global Emerging Talent Program.

 

Jackie Chanin
Vice President, Colleague Strategic Partner, Merchant Services Team, American Express

Jackie Chanin is Vice President of Human Resources – U.S. Markets at American Express. Known for efficiency, thoroughness, and her well-rounded understanding of each and every part of an organization, Jackie’s business acumen makes her a valued and respected partner to leadership both within and outside of HR. She is highly respected by colleagues as a mentor and coach.

Prior to her current position, she was Director of Human Resources at TeamHealth, where she developed and led a team of 11 remote professionals collectively responsible for 6,000 employees in 27 states. She traveled regularly to hospital sites to onboard new and incumbent providers for multiple new contract start-ups and M&A’s resulting in a smooth and engaged transition process.

Jackie is PHR and SPHR certified and holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Babson College and a master’s in Human Resource Management from Villanova University.

 

Jess Forero
Senior Vice President, Director of Teammate Relations, Truist Financial Corp.

Jess Forero is the Director of Employee Relations responsible for leading an Employee Relations COE in the effective delivery of enterprise-wide employee relations consultation and regulatory compliance. She is experienced in building an effective Employee Relations program designed to manage employment-related risk from a regulatory, compliance and technology perspective allowing for solid business insights and consulting.

Forero has designed and implemented multiple Salesforce-based case management systems allowing for robust analysis and executive-level reporting of Employee Relations and Fraud metrics. She currently manages teams of HR Professionals responsible for remediation of employee relations risk through proactive support for mangers, advocacy on behalf of employees, and strategic coordination with other functions including Legal, Risk, Security, Audit and relevant HR partners. Jess provides thought leadership relative to enterprise initiatives including consumer sales practices, cyber-security threats, workplace safety and security, and organizational restructuring, mergers and acquisitions.

She also offers guidance on the development of employment-related programs and policies with the potential to impact large segments of the employee population subject to FRB, CFPB, FINRA, OFCCP, DOL, DOJ and acts as a representative of the corporation in employee-related litigation serving as a 30b6 witness, when necessary.

Forero has also served as a liaison with third parties to include EEOC, FEPA, NAACP, etc. and regulators to include FRB, CFPB, FINRA and others.

 

Melissa Martin
Senior Director, Global Employee Relations and EEO Compliance, Citrix Systems

Melissa Martin is an HR leader specializing in leading a global employee relations center of excellence. A dedicated, results-oriented human resource professional, she has extensive experience in change management, process improvement, succession planning, benefits and compensation, employee relations, HR strategy, talent development, engagement, client relations, and mergers/acquisitions.

A communicative leader who leverages strong interpersonal skills to build lasting relationships within and outside of an organization, Martin uses a broad mind and a keen eye for detail to resolve problems quickly and implement innovative processes for improvement while promoting continuous corporate success.

 

 

 

Upendra Mody
Co-Founder, Vervet Associates

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joe Penna, PHR
Vice President of Human Resources, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Florida

As Vice President of Human Resources, Joe Penna leads the HR, Talent Management, Learning and Development strategies for Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits of Florida located in Boca Raton, comprised of 2,500 employees and $2.6 billion in revenue. The largest North American wine and spirits distributor, Southern Glazer's exceeds $18 billion in sales and employs a workforce of 20,000+ throughout the United States and Canada.

Prior to joining at Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, Joe held the roles of Vice President of Human Resources at AIMCO, Regional HR Manager at Advance Auto Parts, and Division HR Manager at ANC Rental (Alamo and National Car Rental).

He is a results-oriented business partner with a comprehensive grasp of business efficiency, performance management and profitability concerns. Joe is widely recognized for creating partnerships between HR and business units, managing change, and elevating workforce competence to achieve organizational goals. He also has experience in Diversity & Inclusion as well as EEO Investigations.

Joe holds a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from California State University. He received a master’s degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix in San Jose, CA.

 

Todd Rogers
HRM, SHRM, SCP
Principal, HR Peak Performance, LLC

Todd Rogers is a Human Resources professional with an extensive 25+ year career, working in diverse and fast paced organizations. As the Principal at HR Peak Performance, he consults with small to mid-sized organization’s HR teams.

Rogers' expertise is in helping organizations audit, create or enhance any or all of the eleven stages of their Employment Lifecycle from Attraction through Alumni. He also has extensive expertise in Executive Coaching, mentoring, guiding, and advising HR professionals who may be newer to the field or in need of a peer partner to execute HR processes, policies, and programs – without adding headcount to payroll.

Brett J. Schneider
Partner, Chair of Labor & Employment Division, Boca Raton Office Managing Director, Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman

 

A partner with Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, Brett Schneider is the Managing Director of the Boca Raton office and Chair of the firm’s Labor and Employment Division. As a Florida Bar Board Certified attorney in Labor and Employment Law, Brett helps public and private sector employers resolve issues in a prompt and efficient manner.Certified by the HR Certification Institute and by the Society for Human Resource Management, Brett advises employers on human resources issues including personnel policies and procedures, discipline and discharge matters, drug and alcohol testing, employee privacy rights, and educational and training programs for managers and supervisors. He works closely with employers to ensure that their practices comply with federal, state, and local laws.

 

Patrick Cann, CPRP 
Director, Leisure Services Department, City of Wilton Manors

As Director of the Leisure Services Department, Patrick Cann manages 40+ full-time employees and a $5 million budget. A passionate problem-solver, he increased revenue 110% to more than $600,000 the past 9 years.
Patrick is an entrepreneurial leader who enjoys mentoring others on the path to enhance the quality of life for all in Wilton Manors. Under his supervision, Wilton Manors became the 17th City in America to earn "Community Wildlife Habitat." He sets high performance measures, collaborates and partners with diverse enthusiasts and stakeholders to bring parks, trails, waterways, open spaces, nature and cultural events and recreation programs, amenities and services to local, regional, national, and international guests.

He was Project Manager of the $6.3 million Historic and Nature Park and completed the design build with $4.8 million in grants. Patrick and his team operate and maintain 15 parks, a library, 13 miles of waterways, 42 medians/right-of-ways, and 25 public buildings and facilities with more than 69,500 SF of facility space.

Patrick is a Certified Park and Recreation Professional and earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management from Saint Leo University and a master’s in Management from Saint Thomas University.

 

Desiree Casanova
County Administrator Assistant, Sarasota County, Florida

Desiree Casanova aspires to be the next generation of leaders in local government. She currently is the Assistant to the County Administrator for Sarasota County, Florida.

She is originally from South Florida and started her local government career at the City of Coconut Creek within the City Clerk Department. In this position she worked on process improvement projects such as implementing the first digital board/committee system, updating and maintaining the department website for ADA compliance, developed the first lobbyist manual, and was in charge of the department budget.

After 3 years at the City, she moved to Sarasota County and became the 2021 International City County Management Association Local Government Management Fellow (ICMA LGMF). This fellowship allowed her the ability to be mentored 1:1 by the Deputy County Administrator and work on high level projects that enhanced her leadership and project management skills.

As Assistant to the County Administrator, Desiree works on special projects for county administration, assists Human Resources with the execution of job fairs, local school outreach, and recruiting. She also assists in monitoring and reviewing State and Federal legislation, and tracking legislative bills to understand and communicate to others on their impact to the county.

Desiree is a change maker who wants to inspire and lead. She is a true advocate for educating the youth/students about the public sector and the amazing career opportunities it holds.

Desiree holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Master’s Degree in Public Administration both from Nova Southeastern University (NSU). She is a proud member of the International City County Management Association (ICMA) and Florida City County Management Association (FCCMA).

 

Greg Chavarria
City Manager, City of Fort Lauderdale

Greg Chavarria joined the City of Fort Lauderdale in September 2020. One of the contributing factors hat attracted him to Fort Lauderdale, is the melting-pot of professionals, communities, and cultures that exist in the metropolitan City. Prior to joining Fort Lauderdale, Greg was the City Manager for the City of Hallandale Beach, a vibrant coastal community of South Florida.

Greg is a public servant professional with more than 23 years of experience in municipal local government. He holds a dual engineering degree in Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering from the University of Miami and a Master of Science degree in Management of Information Systems from Florida International University. His portfolio includes supporting core services of notable communities like City of Miami and the City of Doral as well. Some of his accomplishments include completing smart city initiatives for water works, implementation of public safety technologies, managing infrastructure and public facility projects, and providing ongoing support for improved economic development outcomes for the South Florida region.

Greg is a constant advocate for innovation and transformational leadership and looks forward to further support strategies for enhancing the quality of life of communities and business growth.

 

Alex Dambach, AICP 
Planning Supervisor, City of Oakland Park

As Supervisor, Alex Dambach leads the Planning unit for Oakland Park, FL. The City’s downtown and culinary district is currently undergoing an exciting redevelopment, a major step toward raising the City’s visibility as a South Florida destination.

Skilled at zoning and land use policies, economic development, and urban design, Alex is a planning and community development professional with experience in redevelopment of urban and inner-suburban areas. He facilitates public engagement and legislative processes.

Alex was Division Chief, Land Use Services for the City of Alexandria, Virginia for more than eight years prior to his move to Florida. Previously, he spent eight years as City of Newark’s Acting Supervising Planner.

In between, Alex was Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Des Plaines, IL, a town adjacent to O’Hare International Airport. In less than a year, he took the retail section of the downtown from 70% vacant to 80% occupied. Collaborating with the real estate community and property owners, he leveraged TIF district funds to recruit new key businesses to act as anchors to re-ignite pedestrian traffic.

Alex is certified by The American Institute of Certified Planners, and earned a bachelor’s degree in History from the College of Charleston and a master’s in City and Regional Planning from The Ohio State University.

 

Jennifer Frastai
Assistant Manager, City of Oakland Park

Jennifer Frastai serves as the Assistant City Manager for the City of Oakland Park, Florida. Jennifer began her career as a Crime Victim Advocate, later serving as an Assistant State Attorney in Miami-Dade County.

After working as a prosecutor, she pursued a position as an in-house Deputy City Attorney with the City of Hallandale Beach. There, she transitioned from law into municipal administration, and later promoted to Deputy City Manager, and eventually became Interim City Manager.

Jennifer has been at the forefront of bringing programs and improving residents’ quality of life through innovative funding approaches such as public-private partnerships, grants, and smart fiscal management. She helped build government facilities and improve access to services for low-income residents. Projects she worked on span in range from state-of-the-art public parks, fire stations, and community centers to multi-modal transportation hubs.

Jennifer received a Harvard University certificate of completion for the Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Florida and Juris Doctor degree from American University. She is a licensed member of the Florida Bar and received the ICMA Credentialed Manager designation in 2016.

 

Kathleen Gunn
City Manager, City of Tamarac

Kathleen Gunn is a proven and experienced municipal executive with 20+ years of leading, managing and serving cities with populations from 50,000 to 175,000 in the states of Florida and New York.

City Manager Gunn is responsible for day-to-day operations of a full-service municipality. Tamarac is a majority minority community of more than 72,000 residents located in the heart of west-central Broward County. The FY 2023 budget is $242 million and the City of Tamarac has a bond rating of AA. In the latest community surveys, residents and businesses report satisfaction rates of 73% and 78% respectively, exceeding state and national averages.

The City of Tamarac has been recognized by the International City Management Association (ICMA) as a leader in Performance Measurement and Management. For the last eight years, Tamarac has won the Digital City in America Award for cities under 75,000 population. In 2022, the City of Tamarac won the International Public Management Association for Human Resources Small Agency Award for Excellence.

In her tenure as City Manager, Ms. Gunn’s primary achievements include major investment in economic development by private investors, the implementation of innovative public safety community engagement efforts, and in expanding employee wellness initiatives including meditation rooms at the BSO district and in City Hall.

Kathleen’s strengths lie in shaping and executing a city’s vision through strategic planning and implementation, completing capital improvement projects on time and on budget, teambuilding, organizational and individual employee development and project management.

Throughout her career Kathleen has successfully steered cities to find their niche, leverage their unique character and attract investors, while working to facilitate the expansion of existing businesses. Her extensive experience in working on complex projects to reach mutually established goals helped negotiate a deal with Broward County on the expenditure of $102 Million in CARES Act funding.

Kathleen has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and master’s degree in Public Administration from Pace University. She also holds a master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry from St. Thomas University. She is immediate past Vice President of the Broward County City Manager’s Association and is a memberships of the International City/County Management Association and the Florida City and County Management Association.

 

Tammie L. Hechler
Director of Human Resources, City of Hollywood

Tammie Hechler directs the Human Resources department for the City of Hollywood, Florida. She has special expertise in Workplace Safety/OSHA and Labor Unions.

She began her career as Employment & Diversity Coordinator at Owens Community College in Perrysburg, Ohio, before moving on to the role of Human Resources Manager at Behavioral Connections of Wood County in Bowling Green, Ohio. Before moving to Florida, she was Human Resources Director of Grant County in Washington State for six years.

Hechler holds SHRM-SCP, IPMA-HR CP, SPHR and CLRP certifications.

 

 

 

 

Rosalind Osgood
Florida State Senator

Dr. Rosalind Osgood, is a Broward County native and graduate of Fort Lauderdale High School. She has earned both a master’s and doctoral degree in Public Administration from Nova Southeastern University. 

In 2001, the late preacher extraordinaire, Dr. Mack King Carter licensed Dr. Osgood as the first female preacher in the history of the New Mount Olive Baptist Church. In 2002 she was ordained and in 2007, she earned a Master’s of Divinity Degree from New Orleans Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. She currently serves as an Associate Minister at New Mount Olive Baptist Church. Additionally, and is the Founder of Dr. Rosalind Osgood's Ministry International and an anointed itinerate preacher. 

Dr. Osgood has over 21 years of experience in non-profit management. For the past 18 years, she has been the CEO of the Mount Olive Development Corporation (MODCO). She was also an Adjunct professor at Nova Southeastern University Huizenga School of Business, where she taught Leadership and Public Policy Evaluation in the Masters of Public Administration Program. In 2012, she was elected to represent District 5 in the Broward County School Board, and served as the Chair twice; first in November of 2015 and again in November 2020. Amid tumultuous times, Dr. Osgood helped the school district navigate through the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas tragedy and the confusion and frustration endured by the coronavirus crisis.

Dr. Osgood is the author of two academic articles and two books titled, “The Story Behind the Story” and “Influential Women Leader”. Her leadership extends to the Boards of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Fort Lauderdale Chapter of the Links, Inc., Broward Health Coalition Board, and the Circuit 17 Juvenile Justice Board. 

In 2013, Dr. Osgood became the First Female Chaplain for the City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department. She also received the JM Families African American Achievers Award, highlighting her commitment to community service.

Currently, Dr. Osgood proudly serves as a member of the Florida State Senator representing District 33, where she brings a fresh perspective and commitment to building a stronger community through faith, compassion and hard work.

Overcome Obstacles by Optimizing Opportunities and Obtaining Outstanding Outcomes.

 

Daniel J. Stermer
Managing Director, Development Specialists, Inc.

Daniel J. Stermer is Managing Director of Development Specialists, Inc., a leading provider of management and consulting services on behalf of lending institutions, secured and unsecured creditors, shareholders, bondholders, and business owners. DSI specializes in corporate finance, turnaround consulting, and forensic/litigation accounting.

Previously, Stermer served as Mayor of the City of Weston, FL, as well as City Commissioner. During his terms in office, the City of Weston achieved a Triple A rating from Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s, consistently had the lowest ad valorem tax rate in Broward County, and maintained reserves in excess of $50MM.

For nearly 10 years, he was a principal at Lewis B. Freeman & Partners, Inc., a forensic accounting and consulting firm. Before joining Lewis B. Freeman & Partners, Inc., Daniel served in the Economic Crimes Litigation Unit of the Florida Attorney General’s Department of Legal Affairs, where he commenced and participated in all facets of civil enforcement pre-complaint investigations and litigation, including bankruptcy litigation, related to Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act and Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act, from the inception of investigation through trial.

While with the Office of the Bronx County, New York, District Attorney’s office, he served as Special Assistant United States Attorney in the Organized Crime Unit and as Assistant District Attorney in a federally funded task force prosecuting high-volume narcotics trafficking and related violent crime.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the State University of New York and his Juris Doctor degree from Touro College. As an adjunct professor at St. Thomas University School of Law, Daniel regularly teaches “Receivership Practice and the Inter-Relationships between the Legal, Accounting, and Business Worlds.” His professional and community involvement includes his participation in local bar associations and the Florida Fiduciary Forum.

 

Denise Yoezle
Retired Public Works Director and Emergency Manager, City of Cooper City

Denise Yoezle worked in public works for more than thirty-five years. Public Works and Emergency Management functions include maintenance and capital projects related to streets, solid waste, parks, utilities, landscaping and arboriculture, building maintenance, grant writing and administration, along with storm preparation, training, and recovery. The Public Works Department is also the liaison with both public and private sector entities, such as the Florida Department of Transportation and Broward County Engineering. She ended her career as a Public Works Director and Emergency Manager, serving as the Incident Commander for multiple hurricane events in southeast Florida. She worked for municipalities of varying land size, population, and resident diversity, providing her an opportunity to lead as many as 80 employees in providing local government services at many levels. Her boots-on- the- ground approach led to effective and successful citywide implementations of multi-million dollar operational programs.

Denise built trust and credibility with businesses, residents, and civic associations which resulted in successful collaborations and support for neighborhood improvements. Denise focused on employee development and training, team management initiatives, and fiscal responsibility.

Denise earned a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master of Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University. She is a member of the American Public Works Association (APWA), International City Managers Association (ICMA), and holds the credentials of Licensed Plumber in Broward County, Certified Arborist, and multiple FEMA credentials. She remains active in the University of Florida IFAS continuing education program as an instructor for the Florida Green Industries program. Denise is an out and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. 

BOARD CHAIR
Tracey Taylor-Prescod
Director of Programs, Education Rocks

Tracey Taylor-Prescod serves as Director of Programs for Education Rocks, Inc., an international global leadership development organization based in Delray Beach, Florida. Education Rocks believes that the world can be changed two kids at a time through education and envisions a world in which having access to education can shift lives, influence families, and impact communities.

Taylor-Prescod leads the implementation, execution, monitoring and data collection for Education Rocks in the United States, Indonesia, Haiti, Uganda, Guatemala, and India. She is directly responsible for the overall education program strategy and oversees the national and international program teams. As a member of the executive management team, Tracey plays a critical role in setting the strategic direction for the programs, growth, and sustainability of Education Rocks.

Having established her career working in radio promotions for iHeart Radio Richmond, Tracey became Marketing & Community Relations Director for FOX Richmond – WRLH. A natural storyteller, she utilized her expertise, experience, and resources to create compelling messages and stories for charities, community-based organizations, and businesses, which ultimately led her to her role as Chief Operating & Finance Officer for Trinity Family Life Center. As Chief Operating & Finance Officer, she developed and enhanced organizational processes and infrastructure, participated in the development and implementation of organizational strategy and oversaw day-to-day operations, utilizing a supportive and collaborative leadership approach.

Tracey earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond in Liberal Arts and currently serves as Secretary and Event Chair on the board of Bowtie Kids – Courage and Confidence for Kids With Chronic Pain™. She is a past board member for Girls Can, and former Advisory Board Member for Beacon Tree Foundation.

 

CO-VICE CHAIR
Karen Prescod
Founder & Chief Statement Maker, The Bowtie Gurl
Visionary, Founder & CEO, Bowtie Kids

Karen Prescod is the Founder and Chief Statement Maker of the fashion brand, The Bowtie Gurl.™ She is also the Visionary, Founder and CEO of the charitable organization, Bowtie Kids.™ Both her business and non-profit organization are built on the foundation of Five Empowerment Principles: Self-Discovery, Self-Awareness, Self-Worth, Self-Expression, Social Engagement & Advocacy.

A serial entrepreneur, Karen joined The Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce in 2014 with her insurance agency Prescod Life & Health. An active and highly visible advocate, she is committed to making an impact in the community and has served on the GFLCC Executive Committee, Government Affairs Committee and Nominating Committee.

As 2016 chair for the Gay and Lesbian Business Exchange (GLBX) Council, Karen took the GLBX to new heights during her tenure. Due to her exceptional leadership and vision, she has been awarded numerous community leadership awards, including the Chair’s Award in 2017 from The Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Chair, Heiko Dobrikow. Also in 2017, Karen was elected by the Chamber leadership team to revitalize a dormant Women’s Council. As immediate past chair, she stoked the flames of success and the Women’s Council is one of the most active, engaged, thriving Councils for the Chamber to date.

A #1 International Bestselling author, influencer, empowerment speaker and moderator, Karen has been honored as one of Fort Lauderdale’s Most Powerful Women, by Gold Coast Media Group. She has been highlighted and featured in multiple media campaigns as a friend and advocate for a variety of groups and organizations, represented in the diverse Fort Lauderdale community. She is currently one of the featured faces for the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau campaign for Pride of The Americas 2020.

As a leader, advocate, and philanthropist, Karen has dedicated thousands of hours in service and makes it a priority to incorporate and implement a philanthropic culture into every committee and organization she is connected with.

 

Jeffrey Berger, CNP, CFRE 
Scout Executive, CEO, South Florida Council, Boy Scouts of America

Jeff Berger is the Scout Executive/CEO of the South Florida Council, Boy Scouts of America. The South Florida Council of the Boy Scouts of America serves Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe counties with over 30,000 in its programs. Programs consist of the traditional Scouting programs, Scoutreach programs, and its in-school character education program, Learning for Life.

Both boys and girls, ages 5–21, have access to advancement programs to prepare them for life to make ethical and moral choices. Jeff reminds us that the programmatic reach and impact are only possible because of its 3,000 adult volunteers and over 250 community partnerships.

Jeff started his career with the Boy Scouts of America in 1994, with experiences in various areas of the country. He started in Miami, FL, and has also served in Reno, NV; Pueblo, CO; and most recently in Bethesda, MD for one the movement's largest councils. In the various assignments, he has specialized in capacity building and debt elimination. His largest gift to date was securing $1.45 million to eliminate debt on a camp and also place $600,000 into the council’s endowment for future earnings.

Professionally, he is a Certified Nonprofit Professional. He is a graduate of the Nonprofit Executive Leadership Program at the Center for Creative Leadership and a Certified Fund Raising Executive by CFRE International.

In the community, he has been the President of the Rotary #43 Foundation and served on various community task forces including the Packard Foundation’s Workforce Development group. Other task forces included community beautification, teen pregnancy reduction, and school volunteerism enhancement. He is currently a member of the 200 Club of Greater Miami and the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce.

 

Sandra Veszi Einhorn
Executive Director, Coordinating Council of Broward, and The Nonprofit Executive Alliance of Broward

Sandra Veszi Einhorn is the Executive Director of the Coordinating Council of Broward, a coalition of senior executives from Broward’s largest health and human service stakeholders including government, business and nonprofits. The Coordinating Council works to provides collaborative solutions to some of Broward’s most critical issues.

Sandra also serves at the Executive Director of the Nonprofit Executive Alliance of Broward, a coalition of nonprofit CEOs working together for shared advocacy, increased education and further collaborations throughout Broward. She brings her strengths in operations, strategic alliances, relationship building and advocacy to these roles.

During her tenure at the Coordinating Council, Sandra led an effort to create the Broward Housing Affordable Housing Trust Fund through ballot referendum, and worked to update the County’s fair housing ordinance. Her leadership led to the revival of the Long Term Recovery Coalition of Broward, which became a need after Hurricane Irma. Sandra also brought together key leaders around the issue of seniors, forming the Dignity in Aging Task Force.

Previously Sandra served as the Executive Director of the Broward County affiliate of Rebuilding Together. Under her leadership Rebuilding Together Broward grew tremendously and became a recognizable and well respected brand in the non-profit industry. During her tenure, Rebuilding Together Broward received several notable accolades including a 211 Non-Profit Academy Award, Non-Profit of the Year finalist by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and the Innovation Award for the Safe at Home program Sandra developed.

Sandra has received a number of prestigious awards including the Up and Comers award from South Florida Business and Wealth magazine, recognized as a top “20 under 40” by InWeston magazine, “40 under 40” and Influential Business Women by the South Florida Business Journal. Sandra is a graduate of Leadership Broward, Leadership Fort Lauderdale, Women Leading Broward, Jewish Federation of Broward County’s Horizons Leadership Program and the Jim Moran Small Business Executive Program.

She currently serves on Broward County’s Children’s Services Board, the homeless Continuum of Care Board, Chair of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance’s Partner Council and the Broward Days Board of Directors, where she also chairs the Housing Impact team. She is also the co-founder of the Communities of Promise collaboration in the Sistrunk area.

 

Dennis Haas, Esq.
Retired/former President/CEO, Arc Broward

Dennis Haas is the former President/CEO of Arc Broward, Inc. a 62-year-old nationally accredited non-profit organization serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, among others with various life challenges.

Arc Broward operates on 10 sites in Broward County and with its 450 employees operates 21 programs and two innovative social enterprises—Arc Culinary and Arc Educates in tandem with career development services through its Arc Works Division.

Previously, Mr. Haas was in private law practice for 18 years as a Shareholder in a large south Florida law firm and later in his own firm practicing in the areas of corporate healthcare, public finance and governmental relations.

He has served as a member and in leadership positions of many non-profit and community Boards including the Florida Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, Broward County Special Needs Advisory Committee, United Way of Broward, Non-Profit Executive Alliance of Broward, and the Autism Grants Council, among others.

 

Daryl Hulce
President, Common Knowledge Scholarship Foundation, The Living STEM Project

Daryl Hulce is the founder and president of the Common Knowledge Scholarship Foundation (CKSF), a not-for-profit administered at Nova Southeastern in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. An employee of Nova Southeastern University for over 25 years, Daryl has served as the coordinator for the academic computer labs, director of IT for the Huizenga College of Business and scholarship coordinator at the Fischler School of Education. He currently serves part time as a special projects coordinator for the Fischler College of Education.

Through CKSF Daryl awarded over $400,000 in college scholarships using one of the first online quiz generators on the Internet. In addition to scholarships, CKSF developed scholarly and academic programs including an internet safety program with the Miami FBI Crimes Against Children Unit, a reading challenge for remedial readers, and an anti-bullying program for elementary and middle school students.

For thirteen consecutive years, Daryl received the Enlightenment Foundation Model Schools Grant for developing innovative student programs. In 2010 he received the FBI Directors Community Leadership Award on behalf of Nova Southeastern University. The affiliation with the FBI led to a client affiliation with the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business undergraduate Management 100 and Wharton 101 programs.

 

Christine Klima, CPA
Chief Administrative Officer, Early Learning Coalition of Broward

Christine Klima, CPA, is the Chief Administrative Officer for the Early Learning Coalition of Broward. She has been a leader in non-profit financial and operations management for more than 20 years in a wide variety of settings and she understands the challenges of sustainable fundraising.

Prior experience includes the World Wildlife Fund and the Credit Builder’s Alliance in Washington DC; the Wildlife Conservation Society in New York City; the Child Care Coordinating Council in the San Francisco Bay Area; and the Children’s Services Council in Broward.

She has a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from the University of Wisconsin and a Master of Accounting from Nova Southeastern University.

 

Kristi Messer, M.P.H., LCSW 
Academic Administrator, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine

Kristi Messer, M.P.H., LCSW relocated to Florida from Washington D.C where she had spent years working with the Department of Health and Human Services to successfully launch community health centers across the nation.

As a passionate public health professional, Kristi currently serves the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine as an Academic Administrator of the KPCOM Undergraduate programs, as well as the Director of the Bachelor of Science in Public Health program. Kristi is also an Assistant Professor of Disaster and Emergency Management and assists community health centers across the state with developing robust emergency preparedness and response plans.

Kristi successfully launched a non-profit organization, On My Own, which provides independent living and employment skills training to adults with disabilities. Kristi also serves on the Board of Directors for two local non-profit organizations dedicated to positively impacting homelessness. For more than twenty years, Kristi has dedicated her professional life to underserved and vulnerable population groups through her involvement with the homeless, individuals with disabilities, communities affected by disasters, and persons impacted by mental illness.

Kristi has presented her research and academic achievements at over 40 international, national, state, and local conferences. Kristi is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and is committed to positively impacting children, families, and adults.

 

John Moreno-Escobar, M.P.A.
Executive Director, YV Foundation

John Moreno-Escobar is a successful social entrepreneur, community leader, and executive not-for-profit innovator. His passion is education equality, and access to higher education for all. John is a native Colombian from Bogotá. He has more than 10 years of experience in the not-for-profit sector.

He moved to New York City from Bogota Colombia in 2003 and established his first not-for-profit while he was in college with the purpose of helping/supporting Latino immigrant students and parents in the process of preparing, applying and paying for college.

He also created the first-ever scholarship fund for Colombians in New York State. After college John has been in C-Level positions creating strategic partnerships to support students in need to go to college and beyond. John now lives in Broward County, Florida.

John was the first appointed Latino to work at the City University of New York (Largest urban university in the US) as the Director of Urban Initiatives in the office of the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs. He was one of only two Latinos to work for the Broward County Superintendent of Schools as the Director of Strategic Partnerships for the school system, the fifth largest school system in the country.

Currently, John is the Executive Director of the YouVisit Foundation whose mission is to reinvent education. He serves on multiple boards including President of the Board – PorColombia (the Largest network of Colombian students and professionals in the US); Co-Chair of Imagine Broward Council and Initiative of Broward Partnership for the Homelessness; and Advisory Board member for the National Academy Foundation and The Children Movement of Florida.

John holds a Master in Public Administration and a Bachelor's in Public Affairs from the City University of New York – Baruch College.

 

Barbara K. Norland,
MSL, Consultant

Barbara K. Norland is a consultant with a passion to mentor and guide not-for-profit organizations and its leaders to a higher level of impact for their mission. This includes consulting and advisement on all aspects of not-for-profit business operations, fund- and friend-raising, identification, cultivation, stewardship, events and board development. Knowledgeable of overall leadership and management for all aspects of non-profit management including the creation and implementation of robust new and/or expanded business development plans for events, major gifts, foundation, corporate and individual fundraising. Other capabilities include personnel, volunteer, board oversight, recruitment and management, contract negotiations, public relations, event design and execution, board development and donor tracking and stewardship. Expertise as an NFP generalist, grant writer & events and board development.

Most recently Barbara contracted with the Angel Hugs Foundation, Inc., South Florida Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (SPCA) Horse Rescue and Phil and Orianne Collins' Little Dreams Foundation, AQUA Foundation and Touching Miami with Love with primary responsibilities to form new philanthropic alliances through the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of major corporate, individual donations and foundation grants as well as to lead initiatives to market and promote both organizations though multi marketing and social media campaigns. Professional tenures include Director of Development & Communications for the YWCA of Greater Miami-Dade, Inc., Philanthropy & Community Development Director for The Women's Fund of Miami-Dade; Executive Director of the Junior Orange Bowl; Director of Development at CHARLEE of Dade County, Inc.; Director of Major Gifts at Miami Children's Hospital Foundation; Director of Corporate Relations and Fundraising Events at Baptist Health South Florida Foundation and Executive Director of the Deering Estate Foundation.

Before entering the not-for-profit arena, Barbara worked in the entertainment industry at Homestead-Miami Speedway as Corporate Partnerships and Hospitality Manager where she was part of the initial team to promote the sport of racing throughout South Florida, nationally and internationally. At the speedway Barbara was instrumental in designing best practice policies, procedures, collateral, corporate, group & fan hospitality packages, annual and multi-year corporate agreements and managed all speedway partnerships, trades, contracts, vendors and event staff & volunteers.

Barbara has extensive experience in networking and cultivation with over 28 years' experience with sales and marketing in the public, private and non-profit sectors along with strong communication skills, extensive knowledge in creating, managing and executing charitable giving programs, fundraising, board and volunteer development and staff and volunteer management sales incentive programs and promotional opportunities. As the current President of BKVN Consulting, Inc., she has a priority to work with not for profit leadership to strengthen organizational knowledge, build capacity, implement and follow best industry practices. Additionally, she is a certified Executive Function Coach & Mentor.

Norland served as a board member with a variety of business and community organizations such as Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Miami Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP-Miami) President, AFP-Miami National Philanthropy Day Luncheon, AFP Florida Caucus Executive Committee, AFP Global Nominating Committee UN Women, Miami Chapter Board Member, Miami Dade Women’s Chamber Board, Women’s Power Caucus and a proud mentor for Women of Tomorrow at South Dade High School.

Barbara completed a Master of Science in Leadership and Management from Nova Southeastern University, H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business in Davie, FL., and a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and sociology from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. In 2018 she was received the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce AXA Advisors Businesswoman of the Year Outstanding Philanthropist Award.

 

Shea Spencer
CEO, Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County

Shea S. Spencer is the CEO of the Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County, a local nonprofit dedicated to advocating for the homeless and providing food, housing and other essential services for homeless families and individuals. Spencer is responsible for providing leadership, fundraising & marketing expertise, and overseeing the day to day operations of the organization.

Shea has 15+ years of fundraising and community engagement experience and recently served as Assistant Vice President of Development, Marketing and Public Relations at HOPE South Florida, a nonprofit 501c3 organization that provides food, clothing, housing, employment assistance, mentoring, and case management for the homeless.

In her role as Assistant Vice President, Ms. Spencer was responsible for raising $1m annually through individual and corporate gifts and organizing large fundraising events. Ms. Spencer also has more than 10 years of United Way experience managing work place giving campaigns, conducting annual trainings & speaking engagements and a number of other initiatives.

She earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Florida Atlantic University, is a graduate of Leadership Fort Lauderdale Class XXI, and is an alumnus of the American Express Leadership Institute. She also earned a certificate of completion from Indiana University’s Lilly School of Fundraising and was recently nominated and selected by Legacy magazine as one of South Florida’s "Most Influential and Prominent Black Women in Business and Industry" for 2019.

 

Jannette Taylor 
MOL, MSNDR, Education Rocks

Jannette Taylor is a native of Omaha, Nebraska. Taylor currently serves as the Executive Director of Education Rocks in Delray Beach, Florida. Ms. Taylor is also the owner and Chief Executive Outlier of Social Impact Outliers, a consulting firm working with businesses and nonprofits throughout the Midwest. Prior to relocating to South Florida, she served as the CEO of the United Way in Lawrence, Kansas.

Jannette leads Education Rocks. Education Rocks is a global youth leadership program that supports the education of children worldwide. The organization provides leadership development programming to 52 schools nationwide and supports schools in India, Indonesia, Guatemala, Uganda and Haiti. The organization provides experiential learning opportunities for American students and a platform for global youth leadership.

Taylor founded a community-based nonprofit, Impact One Community Connection, and served as its Executive Director for several years. This small nonprofit grew from a annual budget of $500,000 to $2 million in the first year of operation. The organization provided gang intervention and prevention programs to youth and young adults.

She attended undergraduate and graduate school at the College of Saint Mary, earning a bachelor's in Business Leadership and a master's in Organizational Leadership (M.B.A.). She went on to earn a Master of Science in Negotiation and Dispute Resolution at Creighton University School of Law Werner Institute, while also working on a Juris Doctor Degree.

She has a passion for social justice and has been actively involved in youth development programs and community revitalization projects. She focused her efforts on the Bridge to Success Program, an early entry college program for disadvantaged youth in Omaha Public School serving on the African-American Achievement Council and volunteering for their events. Through this program, she and others helped many high school students get a jump start on college, taking college courses at Metro Community College, Bellevue University and University of Nebraska Omaha.

She founded Impact One Community Connection in 2009 and began focusing her energy on the marginalized youth and young adults in North Omaha. Working with the Empowerment Network of Omaha, Impact One began managing the Great Summer Jobs Program that has provided over 1200 employment opportunities for high-at-risk youth and gang members in Omaha. Impact One provided gang intervention and prevention to young people on the street, in addition to providing intervention services at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Creighton University Medical Center.

Jannette's personal life experiences has aided her in working with at-risk youth in various cities and has positioned her to be the perfect advocate for the marginalized people in the community. Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle acknowledged her hard work and dedication to the community by declaring December 5th "Jannette Taylor Day" in Omaha, Nebraska. While this is an impressive accomplishment, Jannette is most proud of her daughter Erika, who graduated from Regis University in Denver, Colorado and is currently attending graduate school.

Steve Borchert, DBA
Executive Lean Leader, General Electric Aviation Services 

Dr. Steve Borchert is currently the Executive Lean Leader for General Electric Aviation Services where he has responsibility for the implementation of Lean.

Steve spent the balance of his career at UTC (United Technologies Corporation) where he held positions of increasing responsibility in continuous improvement, quality, operations, IT, and customer program management both domestically and internationally. 

Steve has also worked in aerospace, space propulsion, and fire and security divisions of both the manufacturing, and overhaul and repair sectors.

Steve holds a Doctor of Business Administration, an MS in Aerospace Management, an MS in Manufacturing Engineering, and a Master of Business Administration. Steve is a certified ISO lead auditor, a certified lean transformation leader, and a certified Shainan Apprentice (Technical Problem Solving).

Andrew Koenig
CEO, City Furniture

Andrew Koenig graduated with degrees in Finance and Accounting from Elon University in 2005, and received his M.B.A. in Entrepreneurship from Nova Southeastern University. Andrew began his full-time career with CITY Furniture in January 2006 in the Receiving Department unloading furniture on containers, and has worked his way up through the company and in almost all divisions of the company. He spent a significant time streamlining the Operations Department in the first eight years of his career to become one of the industry’s best. Currently, Andrew is serving as President of CITY Furniture, overseeing all departments of the business.

Shortly before joining CITY Furniture, Andrew studied Lean Philosophy at Toyota’s headquarters in Toyota City, Japan. After learning from Toyota and other Lean companies in the United States and abroad, Andrew introduced Lean Thinking to City Furniture in 2007. Ever since, CITY Furniture has been on a Lean Journey to create a culture of mutual trust and respect, teamwork and a deep sense of urgency to continuously improve.

Since the implementation of Lean, the company has seen many major breakthroughs in turnover reduction, operational process improvement, customer experience, safety, associate satisfaction, strategic planning, financial success and much more. The journey is never over, and Andrew and the senior team are working very hard to implement Lean Thinking which has been named "The CITY Furniture Operating System (CFOS), throughout the company.

Dr. Thinh Tran
President and COO, Provider Network Solutions

Dr. Thinh Tran is the President and Chief Operating Officer for Provider Network Solutions (PNS). He has held executive positions at the University of Miami Health System, Baptist Health South Florida, and the Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas. 

He is both an experienced physician and a healthcare executive. Dr. Tran received his bachelor’s and medical degree from the University of Minnesota and his MBA from the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts  Amherst.