Chief Innovation Officer of Nova Southeastern University (NSU)
Executive Director of the Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation

John Wensveen is responsible for overseeing a multimillion-dollar public-private partnership to support the growing entrepreneurial ecosystem by attracting and retaining industry-leading entrepreneurs, technology, sources of investment capital, and supporting resources to create a premier innovation center and technology hub.

CEO & President of eMerge Americas

Melissa Medina Jiménez is a Founding Executive team member and President of eMerge Americas, a venture-backed platform focused on transforming Miami into the tech hub of the Americas. Melissa is also the President of the Medina Family Foundation (MFF), playing an active role in local initiatives that focus on mentoring children and empowering families by enhancing education and quality of life.

Vice Chairman, External Affairs at Royal Caribbean Group

Lisa Lutoff-Perlo is Vice Chairman, External Affairs for the Royal Caribbean Group, known as the first woman to lead a Royal Caribbean Group brand. As former President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, she revolutionized the cruise experience with innovative ship design and service. Under her guidance, the brand achieved historic financial success and became the first to earn Forbes Travel Guide's coveted star rating in 2023. A trailblazer for diversity and inclusion, Lutoff-Perlo broke barriers in the maritime industry, appointing the first female American Captain and West-African woman on the bridge. She shares her inspiring journey in her forthcoming book, “Making Waves: A Woman’s Rise to the Top Using Smarts, Heart and Courage.”

Senior Investment Analyst / Staff Attorney Mark Cuban Companies

Eric is a Florida native who has been with Mark Cuban Companies for over 6 years. His primary responsibilities include evaluating new investment opportunities across a wide array of different industries, as well as supporting operations and growth for current portfolio companies. Additionally, Eric leads business due diligence for Mark Cuban's "Shark Tank" deals.

Prior to joining Mark Cuban Companies, Eric worked in public and private sector roles that intersected with local, state and federal government. Eric attended the University of Florida for undergrad and Nova Southeastern University for law school.

Founder & CEO of GeniusXR

Azad Abbasi stands as a luminary in the dynamic realm of technology, leading GeniusXR with a blend of passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to revolutionize the digital domain. His journey began in 2004 in Digital Marketing, where his prescience set him apart, leading to the monumental achievement of 2 billion views on YouTube for GeniusXR by 2012. Recognizing the potential of immersive content, Azad pioneered 360-degree videos in 2013, propelling GeniusXR to the forefront of the industry. Under his visionary leadership, GeniusXR achieved significant milestones, including recognition by the Forbes Agency Council, and the establishment of a groundbreaking Volumetric Capture Suite studio in collaboration with Sony in 2020. Azad's legacy lies not only in his achievements but also in his vision of a future where technology and artistry converge to craft unparalleled digital experiences.

Tenured Professor in the Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine

Dr. Anderson also serves as Associate Director for the newly created Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute, a rapidly growing clinical and academic enterprise charged with improving care for the medically underserved in the greater Tampa Bay region. A board-certified gynecologic oncologist, he has previously served as Director for the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, where he was responsible for providing care to underserved women in Harris County, Texas through Ben Taub General Hospital. An advocate for compassionate high-quality care for all, Dr. Anderson played a key role in developing comprehensive programs at Harris Health designed to better meet with needs of underserved women in Harris County by improving access to cervical cancer screening and treatment. This work was recognized with an Honorable mention from the Hearst Population Science Prize in 2017. His work has been funded by multiple foundations and granting agencies, including the National Institute of Health, March of Dimes, National Science Foundation and the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT).

Ron Antevy, Managing Director, Antevy Capital

Ron Antevy is a distinguished leader in enterprise software, known for his role in growing e-Builder, Inc. alongside his brother Jon. This led to e-Builder becoming a dominant construction management software, eventually being acquired by Trimble for $500 million. Post-acquisition, Ron initiated Trimble Ventures, a $200 million venture fund, and established Antevy Capital in 2022 to invest in innovative ventures. Recognized with numerous awards for his leadership, including "Ultimate CEO" and "Power Leader," Ron is a registered Professional Engineer and a devoted advocate for education and entrepreneurship. He serves on various boards, including those at the University of Florida and Nova Southeastern University Broward Center of Innovation.

Innovative Technologist

Dr. Allen Badeau Jr., a seasoned CTO and entrepreneur with over two decades of experience across federal, international, and commercial sectors, specializes in Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, and Cybersecurity. He founded AllenBadeau LLC, an AI consulting firm, and co-founded Harmonic AI, a Cognitive Intelligence startup. Dr. Badeau is a certified ethical hacker and technology advisor, recognized for his contributions to AI and Cybersecurity, including the title of "2020 Federal CTO of the Year" by Washington Technology. He holds degrees in Physics and Mechanical Engineering and has published extensively in scientific journals.

Assistant Vice President of Innovations at Baptist Health South Florida

Nila served as the Director, Technology Transfer at Dartmouth College where she instituted a new Intellectual Property Policy, increased startups, and provided technology transfer services to Dartmouth Hitchcock Hospital. Prior to that she was the Director of Technology Transfer at Rice University for 10 years, growing the office and serving as Interim, Director of Sponsored Research. She had progressive responsibility at Harvard and Carnegie Mellon in technology transfer. Prior to joining Carnegie Mellon, Nila spent 10 years working in several different areas at Alcoa's Technical Center. She received an Alcoa Merit Award for Team Performance for a joint venture team with Kobe, a Japanese steel company.

CEO of South Florida Tech Hub

South Florida Tech Hub is a nonprofit organization aiming to support and continue 'Building South Florida's Tech Hub' with a core focus on producing long-term economic impact by attracting new business, supporting startups, and building the talent pool. We strive to connect the community with the right resources in order to bring growth to the region which spotlights us as a place of sustainable economic and business development. This includes closing the cultural and gender gap to include people from all walks of life to create an ecosystem full of innovative solutions and a real digital transformation for all in our community.

Colin C. Campbell is a serial entrepreneur who has founded and built several internet companies with a combined valuation of over $1 billion. Colin attended the University of Toronto and has ventures across the United States and Canada. He has successfully exited Tucows Interactive, Internet Direct Canada, Hostopia, GeeksForLess, and .Club Domains. Colin has also served as a founding director of the Canadian Internet Registration Authority and speaks at universities and events around the world on entrepreneurship. Colin’s most recent ventures include a startup incubator in South Florida, a Montessori school, a vacation rental company, an eyewear company, a safety data sheet company, and a designer dog product company. Colin has received numerous awards for his companies, including being named one of the fastest growing companies in Canada by Profit magazine and being included on the Inc. 500 and Inc. 5000 lists. Colin is dedicated to cracking the code to identify what successful entrepreneurs do in order to start, scale, exit, and repeat the process.

Raechel Canipe combines over a decade of experience in sales, marketing, and operations, with her unique acumen for navigating complex business requirements across diverse sectors including defense intelligence agencies, healthcare, and non-profits. Raechel is also a devoted humanitarian and community advocate, leveraging her expertise to spearhead pivotal initiatives. These include co-founding Project Afghan Relief Fund, tech-enabled emergency evacuation support to rescue U.S. allies after the fall of Kabul, and serving as Founder & CEO of Women in Tech & Entrepreneurship, a community designed to dismantle financial barriers and economically empower women. Raechel's impactful work has earned accolades including the Tampa Bay Inno Fire Award, DeAnne Dewey Roberts Emerging Leader Finalist, and TBBJ Business Woman of the Year Nominee.

Co-Founder & CEO of 3Daughters, Evolutionary Health Care for Women
Mary Beth has over 40 years of executive leadership roles in marketing and business development and was formerly President of MarketSense Ltd., a healthcare consulting firm, where she worked with over 100 clients on marketing, partnering, and fund raising. Ms. Cicero has significant experience in Women’s Health including serving as Vice President of Business Development for Agile Therapeutics (Twirla®, contraceptive patch) and Vice President of Business Development at two biotechnology companies. Prior to that time, she headed U.S. marketing for Serono Labs (now EMD Serono) focusing on infertility treatments.

Senior Associate in Business Development at Endeavor Miami

Sara Lila Cordero brings a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship. Formerly, she founded La Fabrica Coworking in Nicaragua, supporting over 8,000 entrepreneurs through incubation programs, workshops, and bootcamps. Recognized as one of the most Challenging Women in Central America, Sara Lila holds a Master's degree in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from the University of Barcelona. With a commitment to fostering positive changes through business, she has been a judge, trainer, professor, and speaker at various institutions across Central America, emphasizing the transformative potential of entrepreneurship.

Chief Innovation Officer, Trembly Law Firm

Kristen Corpion is a multifaceted legal professional known for her innovative approach to law. With experience at prestigious firms and a founding role at CORPlaw, she's now a Partner and Chief Innovation Officer at Trembly Law, safeguarding business owners. Kristen's deep community involvement includes board positions at Aire Ventures and Legal Services of Greater Miami. She's earned numerous awards, such as SuperLawyers' Rising Star and South Florida Business & Wealth's Innovator Award. Committed to mentorship and legal education, Kristen aims to reshape the public perception of lawyers and empower local businesses, drawing on her personal connection to entrepreneurship.

Director of Neonatal Innovation at Envision Health and HCA University Hospital

Dr. Courchia is actively involved in the development and implementation of new technologies to improve the care of critically ill neonates. He is also the director of the chronic lung disease program. He is an adjunct faculty of medicine at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Courchia also co-hosts, with Dr. Daphna Yasova Barbeau, a weekly podcast focusing on neonatal care called The Incubator.

He is the co-founder of Cato Neonatal Innovations Inc, a non-profit organization focusing on delivering evidence based clinical information to worldwide audience. Cato has developed mobile applications, organized international medical conference and its flagship solution, the incubator podcast reaches thousands of neonatologists worldwide on a weekly basis.

Senior International Trade Specialist with the U.S. Commercial Service (USCS)

Isabel provides business export and market analysis to help U.S. companies increase their international sales by entering new global markets. Her portfolio includes supporting companies in the Education, Energy, Chemical, ICT and Media and Entertainment Industries.

Prior to her time at the USCS, she was a Marketing Specialist for the USDA Foreign Agricultural Services supporting U.S. agricultural exports to the Caribbean region. She also worked for ten years as Director of Investments and Institutional Relations at the Trade Commission of Spain in Miami, Florida

Isabel received her Baccalaureate Degree in International Relations from American University in Washington D.C. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Latin America and Caribbean Studies from Florida International University. Isabel is certified as a Global Business Professional through NASBITE. She was born and raised in Humacao, Puerto Rico.

VP of Platform and Community at Florida Funders

Florida Funders is a venture capital fund and investor network focused on finding, funding and building the next generation of tech companies. She also serves as the Executive Director of Refresh Miami, South Florida’s oldest and largest tech and startup community - a position she has held since 2015.

Passionate about diversifying the tech industry, Maria founded Women in Miami Tech, a group dedicated to connecting and supporting women in technology, in 2016. The community has now grown to over 3,000 women strong. She also co-hosts the Miami Tech Pod, a weekly podcast covering the latest news and events happening in the ecosystem.

Member Board of Directors at ValidiFI

Mr. DiVeroli’s entrepreneurial success spans 25 plus years within diverse and competitive markets. He is an expert in developing growth strategies that significantly enhance enterprise value. Oscar’s development and operational strategies established Robico Shutters as the leading manufacturer and distributor of hurricane protection systems to the Florida residential construction industry. As a result, the company was ultimately sold to the nation’s second largest window manufacturing company to serve as a model for their nationwide field operations. DiVeroli has served in various Boards of Directors and is a lifetime Director of the Builders Association, member for 17 years of the Entrepreneurs Organization and its’ past President, currently serves on President's Council, active business consultant to SMB, guest lecturer to academia and a public speaker.

Assistant Executive Director of Programs at Levan Center of Innovation

Jaap oversees the four pillar programs of the Levan Center, Ideate, Incubate, Accelerate and Post-Accelerate as well as other programs. Jaap has close to 30 years of economic development experience, including over 25 years with the Miami-Dade Beacon Council, the economic development partnership for Miami-Dade County as Senior Vice President, Research & Strategic Planning. In this role he has been involved in the entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem in South Florida, including BioFlorida Southeast Chapter leadership, Life Science South Florida Executive Committee and past member of the eMerge Americas Steering Committee.

VP of Innovation and Managing Director of Innoventures at Tampa General Hospital

Rachel Feinman serves as the VP of Innovation at TGH and Managing Director of Innoventures where she leads innovation projects and partnerships for the health system, as well as manages venture investing on behalf of Tampa General Hospital. Rachel brings over twelve years of corporate law experience, where she provided legal counsel on M&A, Private Equity, and Venture Capital transactions. She is also an experienced innovation professional, having most recently served as the Executive Director for the Florida-Israel Business Accelerator prior to joining Tampa General Hospital. At the Florida Israel Business Accelerator, Rachel was responsible for supporting diverse startups in health care and other industry sectors in their efforts to expand from Israel to the U.S. market, including everything from raising capital to acquiring customers. Rachel holds a J.D. with a concentration in Intellectual Property from Cardozo School of Law and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Florida.

Special Agent, FBI Miami Division

Managing Director of Euler Digital

Euler Digital is a leading player in the Artificial Intelligence sector, overseeing brands like AI Forum and AI GEN. With a focus on the Levan Center's thriving tech and entrepreneur ecosystem in South Florida, the company is set to unveil its groundbreaking Language Model, Bezoku, on November 15th. Ian's leadership exemplifies a commitment to advancing AI technologies and fostering collaboration within the dynamic South Florida community.

Assistant Executive Director, Operations

Teresa Grandal Cusse (aka Terry) serves as the Assistant Executive Director of Administration and Operations of the Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation. She also spearheads the emerging technologies initiatives around cybersecurity, which includes a cyber range, spatial computing, and AI/machine learning. Prior to this role, Terry served as Director of Resource Development at Miami Dade College. Terry has over 15 years of experience in grants including writing, managing, and reviewing. As a skilled presenter and speaker, Terry has provided training workshops on a variety of topics including budget development and management, grant management, grant writing, improving sales skills, building relationships, and more.

Founder & CEO at Rubric Solutions Group

Bringing 25+ years of operational and IT management across diverse sectors, Charles has led in due diligence, mergers, tech services, and more. With an entrepreneurial edge, he aligns IT with strategy and efficiency, excelling in reporting, compliance, and mergers.

Notably, Charles drove digital shifts at Property force and Nordis, optimizing via AI/ML. At UDT, he managed due diligence, strategy, and improvements. Past roles at AeroTurbine, HEICO Aerospace, and General Roofing Service showcase his impact in streamlining IT.

Founder & CEO of BizHack

Dan Grech, founder and CEO of BizHack Academy, is a Pulitzer Prize-winning former journalist turned entrepreneur and educator. He's dedicated to helping underserved small businesses grow, aiming to reach 10,000 of them. Dan's family legacy of teaching, coaching, and entrepreneurship informs his work. He's known for pioneering lead generation techniques and content marketing strategies. With an extensive career in journalism and startups, Dan brings a wealth of experience to the business world. He's an active member of the South Florida startup ecosystem, mentoring entrepreneurs and supporting minority- and women-owned businesses. Dan is also a dedicated family man and a dual citizen of the U.S. and Spain.

Manager of International Investment and Logistics Industry at Select Florida

Mr. Guerra is a professional with over 35 years of combined experience in the international, public, and private sectors as an executive, advisor, university professor, as well as in the diplomatic arena. He currently holds the position of Manager of International Investment and Logistics Industry specialist at SelectFlorida (SF), the state’s official trade and investment promotion agency. Among other duties, he is responsible for the promotion of Florida as a premier destination for foreign direct investment and business development. Mr. Guerra also oversees the Latin American and the Caribbean markets and collaborates with the SF international offices. He has participated and collaborated in the organization of several international export and inbound missions and trade shows. He is a regular guest speaker and panelist in numerous conferences and events domestically and abroad.

Technical Product Manager at Sony

Experienced Creative Product Management Leader specializing in digital mobile and hardware products, generating $2.5M+ in sales from Google and FAANG tech companies. Proven track record of launching 20+ innovative products and driving strategic partnerships with industry giants like Apple, Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, resulting in $5M+ in sales. Skilled Product Owner and Agile Practitioner with expertise in product life-cycle, roadmap planning, UX/UI research, and successful product launches. Strong technical background in electrical and software engineering, adept at leading global cross-functional teams for seamless product development. Recognized for driving business KPI strategies, leveraging digital media, product marketing campaigns, and employee incentive programs to boost overall sales. Technical proficiency spans web/mobile app development, programming languages, and various software platforms. Personal interests include music, movies, digital media, and emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and space exploration.

Deputy District Director , U.S. Small Business Administration, South Florida District Office

Althea A. Harris has been helping businesses her entire federal career which began in 1993 at the U.S. Department of Commerce; there, she traveled worldwide in support of small and medium-sized exporters. Then she helped small business owners compete for federal contracts while at the U.S. General Services Administration in the Office of Enterprise Development. Having held several positions within the SBA office in Miami since 1999, Althea now serves as the Deputy District Director overseeing a staff that implements SBA’s mission throughout the District’s 24-county territory and advocating on behalf of the estimated 2 million+ small business owners. She is responsible for the daily operation of the District office in Miami and the Alternate Work Site in Tampa, Florida. Althea is also the Faith- & Community-Based Initiative Coordinator for the office.

Founder & CEO of PeakActivity

Hirapara is the CEO of PeakActivity– a digital acceleration and technology services company that enables progress for businesses at every point of their digital journey through modernization, optimization, innovation, and engineering services.

Dr. Erik Ilyayev is a seasoned medical professional and founder of MyHouseVisit.com, an organization specializing in medical home visits for the elderly and home-bound. Having overseen care for over 5,000 patients in the New York area, his team was acquired by ConcertoCare in March 2021. Dr. Ilyayev also served as Regional Medical Director of hospice for the Visiting Nurse Service Of New York, the largest non-profit home-based health care organization in the U.S.

A dedicated educator, he held academic positions in various esteemed institutions and currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Ilyayev co-founded iKonnect.io, a platform providing care coordination and remote patient monitoring for over 15,000 patients nationwide. Beyond his professional achievements, he takes immense pride in being a father to six children and is an avid music producer, using his latest video to raise awareness about teen substance abuse.

Founder & CEO, Lab22c

Saif, founder of Lab22c, is a Miami-native known for his expertise in navigating disruptive forces impacting learning, work, and play. Recognized as a Presidential Leadership Scholar and esteemed Aspen Institute Fellow, he's a sought-after advisor to venture-backed companies. Previously, Saif played key roles as VP for Engagement at Florida International University and as a Senior Advisor for Innovation & Technology to Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, driving partnerships and generating over $70m for the university's impact. He holds degrees from Georgetown University and the University of Miami School of Law.

Partner, Berger Singerman

Scott “SJ” R. Jablonski is a Partner and Co-Manager of the Business Finance & Tax Team at Berger Singerman LLP. With nearly two decades of private practice, he specializes in complex middle market private M&A, private equity, venture capital, and corporate finance transactions. In addition to his transactional work, Mr. Jablonski often serves as outside general counsel to entrepreneurs, investors, and private companies across various industries. Recognized for his innovative approach, he was named the firm’s first Transactional Innovation Partner in 2022, leading efforts to modernize legal services and enhance client value. He holds certifications in Process Improvement, Project Management, and Legal Innovation & Technology. Actively involved in the legal community, he serves on advisory councils and boards, contributing to thought leadership and organizational innovation. Additionally, Mr. Jablonski is a dedicated mentor for the Rollins College Crummer Graduate School of Business Mentorship Program.

Chris Joseph has dedicated 25 years to higher education and tech innovation. He has worked as an educator in Canada, South Korea and New Zealand; led the establishment of a polytechnic university in the Canadian Arctic, participated in a tech startup in the UK and researched the transition to a digital land cadastre in Cambodia. Now based in the Cayman Islands, Chris leads an initiative to increase IT labor supply to support more diverse economic growth. He joined Euler Digital as an advisor earlier this year and, drawing on his intersecting knowledge of culture, technology and organizational renewal, has co-led the development of the Bezoku platform.

Executive Vice President for Economic Development

James Kohnstamm is an experienced economic development professional who is passionate about expanding economic opportunities for all. As Executive Vice President for Economic Development, Kohnstamm leads a team that advises local, national and international business leaders on the economic trends and attributes of Miami-Dade County and delivers customized services to support expanding and relocating business that are making job generating investments. As an International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), Kohnstamm has directly managed over 200 economic development projects that have generated over 15,000 jobs and $3 billion of investment for Miami-Dade County. Clients include: Amazon, Blackstone, Boeing, Deloitte, Ford, JP Morgan Chase, LATAM Airlines, Microsoft, Ryder System, Spotify, Telemundo, Univision, and UPS. Kohnstamm is an ex-officio board member of the Coral Gables Florida Chamber of Commerce.

Chief Revenue Officer at Shokworks, Inc.

Daniel Laplana is a seasoned executive with expertise in finance, real estate, and technology. Leading growth, operations, and culture, he plays a pivotal role in the company's success. Co-founding Shokworks in 2018, Daniel has been integral in driving growth and de-risking the venture process for portfolio companies at various stages. With prior experience at Douglas Elliman and Vaster Capital, he has honed skills in finance and business strategy. Daniel, originally from Venezuela, holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from American University. His deep understanding of the technology industry positions him as a key leader, driving Shokworks to new heights. Based in Miami, Florida, Daniel balances his professional pursuits with family time and exploring the city's vibrant cultural and tech scene.

Founder & CEO of Shokworks, Inc.

Alejandro Laplana is a technology visionary with a remarkable track record. Under his leadership, Shokworks has developed over 500 digital platforms and apps for renowned brands such as FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, P&G, HBO, and the United Nations. Generating over $1 billion in revenue, Laplana's company holds a staff of 500+ full-time employees, specializing in scalable software solutions. He is also the Founder and Managing Partner of VC Fund, Kevlar, boasting a portfolio of 30 companies valued at $100 million. Recognized as "Entrepreneur and Investor of the Year" in 2022, Laplana is an influential figure in the startup and technology ecosystem, contributing insights to prominent forums and media outlets. Holding degrees from Syracuse University and New York University, he is not only a successful entrepreneur but also a sought-after speaker and mentor.

Chief Technology & Innovation Strategist at Dell Technologies

Hernan Londono, a Senior Higher Education Strategist at Dell Technologies, draws on over 22 years of technology expertise and leadership. Formerly the CTO at Barry University, he spearheaded the development of technology systems, cybersecurity efforts, and support functions. Hernan's contributions earned him prestigious awards including Barry’s Visionary Award of Excellence in 2014 and the South Florida Digital Alliance’s Digital Advancement and Excellence Award for Education. He holds a BS and MS in Computer Science from Barry University, as well as a PhD in Computer Science from Nova Southeastern University.

Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at UKG

At UKG, John leads a high-performing team of technologists in architecting and implementing cutting-edge solutions. With over two decades of experience, John is a recognized visionary and technologist, known for his commitment to transforming people's experiences through technology. Prior to this role, he served as the Senior Vice President of Development, significantly influencing the company's product strategies. Before joining UKG, John excelled as an enterprise technology consultant at Dell EMC and held a crucial role as the Director of IT Operations and Information Security at Ivax Pharmaceuticals. Throughout his career, John has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to technological advancement and a knack for creating transformative solutions, solidifying his impact in the technology industry. His ability to blend technical expertise with strategic vision positions him as a driving force in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation.

Assistant Vice President for Innovation and Business Development, Florida Atlantic University

Dr. Marin Ruiz is a seasoned entrepreneur and innovation leader with extensive experience in Latin America, the Midwest, and Florida. Committed to linking local needs with global policy, she's known for her impactful contributions in entrepreneurship and social innovation programs. As an engineer deeply connected to her communities, Dr. Marin strives to facilitate access to capital, government contracts, and international trade for businesses, utilizing technology innovations to address social issues. Currently, she holds the role of Assistant Vice President for Innovation and Business Development at FAU, overseeing multiple outreach locations in South Florida, and serves as the Regional Director of Florida SBDC for Broward and Palm Beach Counties.

Director of Training Initiatives of United Way of Broward County

Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC, Suicidologist, and Certified Trauma Expert, brings over 15 years of experience in social services. As Director of Training Initiatives at United Way of Broward County, she leads their behavioral health programs, Mental Health First Aid course, Crisis Intervention Team training, and Health Equity initiatives. An expert in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, Aisha focuses on dismantling systemic barriers and provides specialized support for marginalized populations in South Florida, including those with mental illness, substance use disorders, and youth in welfare. Through workshops, trainings, and panel discussions, she promotes mental health awareness, substance use education, and social equity.

CEO at Startupyer

Lavinia has played a pivotal role in Miami's vibrant startup scene since 2017. As a mentor and advisor to local and international startup incubators and accelerators, she brings invaluable guidance on fundraising and business strategy to emerging entrepreneurs across Europe, the U.S., and LatAm. Over the years, Lavinia collaborated with a diverse portfolio of over 100 global startups and institutions, as well as forging strategic alliances with Fortune 500 companies such as IBM. With significant global experience spanning pre-seed, seed, and series A funding, Lavinia recognizes the power of seizing every opportunity while making the path less daunting. This insight led her to create Startupyer, a company dedicated to arming startups with indispensable tools and strategies for seamless fundraising journeys. Beyond her entrepreneurial expertise, Lavinia is a lawyer both in Europe and the U.S., and licensed Attorney in Florida. Her experience on both sides of the table uniquely positions her as a trusted ally for startup founders.

Managing Director, New World Angels

New World Angels is Florida's longest standing angel syndicate, which funds new and emerging companies with early traction across various sectors. New World Angels has deployed over $20MM+ in early-stage companies and their founders since 2014. Our members come from a variety of industries, with direct experience as company founders, advisors, technology leaders, and C-suite executives. Prior to joining New World Angels, Jessica co-founded Talent Navigators, a talent advisory and search firm focused on scaling early and late stage startups. Jessica also serves as an Angel investor and is passionate about investing into and supporting the next generation of innovation.

Tahl has had a long career, most of it in Silicon Valley. Early in his career he worked for system integration companies creating some of the first factory automation projects at Ford and GM. He moved into finance becoming CTO of Providian Financial which became a F500 company and was later acquired by Chase. He went on to build and manage a global enterprise architecture consulting practice at Cisco and built it to 13 countries. He then moved to Visa to manage the enterprise architecture group thereby owning the company's technology master plan. His responsibilities also included co-chairing the company's Data Governance Board, the IT relationship with the Fundamo (fintech) subsidiary, and managing the UI/UX group for the company. He was introduced into the world of start-ups when he became responsible for technology due diligences for acquisitions. There, his team was instrumental in the $1.6B acquisition of Cybersource as well as the acquisition of Playspan. He was about ready to retire when he founded a IoT healthcare startup Lifestate in 2015. He exited that in 2019 and moved to Florida. He still does technology for fun while investing and advising startups.

President & CEO of Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority (DDA)

Jenni Morejon is the President & CEO of the Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority (DDA), a public-private partnership that powers the experience, growth, and prosperity of Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Prior to joining the DDA, Jenni had a 16-year career with the City of Fort Lauderdale and served as the director of the development services department where she led city planning, economic development, housing programs, code compliance, and building permits.

Corporate Director, Chief Diversity Office at Memorial Healthcare System

Vanessa Nazario brings over 28 years of experience in Community Development, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Beginning at the Hispanic nonprofit MECHA, she provided homeownership training. Vanessa championed equity at PNC Bank for two decades, reaching the role of VP of CDB Operations. Transitioning to RWJ University Hospital as Diversity Director, she led transformative initiatives. In 2021, Vanessa joined Memorial Healthcare System (MHS) as Director of DEI, achieving the System's first Healthcare Equality Index recognition. Promoted to Corporate Director and Chief Diversity Officer in 2022, Vanessa holds an MBA and a master’s degree in science. Currently pursuing a Doctoral in Business Administration, she's a leader committed to advancing DEI at MHS.

Executive Director at 1909

Shana Ostrovitz serves as the Executive Director at 1909, a non-profit in Palm Beach County dedicated to nurturing the comprehensive growth of creators. At 1909, Shana leads a collective of diverse creatives, offering accelerator programs, mentorship, and shared workspaces to support projects and startups. With a background in prominent consumer product brands like P&G and GE, she transitioned to the nonprofit sector, previously working with the American Diabetes Association. Before her role at 1909, Shana co-founded Rooster, a startup in Delray Beach focused on building resources and communities for entrepreneurs, reflecting her ongoing commitment to supporting innovation and creators.

Global business developer and social entrepreneur focused on identifying transformative companies and supporting their scale and growth by leveraging the Miami business ecosystem as the gateway to impact and increase global business expansion.

A community engager and named Best of Miami Entrepreneur by Miami Today, Camilo adds well over 25 years as a marketing and business executive including private equity investment strategies. He has assumed various roles with companies in: telecommunications, entertainment technology, food services, healthcare, and social impact technology. Camilo leads as president of ASELA USA – Association of Entrepreneurs of Latin America, an active member of the Miami-Dade County Beacon Council and board chair of global partnerships for The Levan Center of Innovation at Nova Southeastern University.

President Emeritus of Miami Dade College

Dr. Eduardo Padrón has been a transformative force in American higher education since his arrival as a teenage refugee in 1961. As MDC's president since 1995, he elevated the institution to national prominence, earning accolades such as the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in 2016. An economist by training, Eduardo's leadership is marked by innovation, fostering a culture of success that significantly impacts student access, retention, and graduation. Internationally recognized, he has received honors from nations like France, Argentina, and Spain, reflecting his profound contributions to education and community service. Eduardo serves on various prestigious boards, further exemplifying his commitment to shaping the future of education.

Vice President of Programs and Compliance at FSMSDC

Dr. Palmer has over 25 years of experience in management, business growth, and entrepreneurship. Her specializations in strategic management, corporate growth, and leadership development contribute to her role in overseeing program direction and ensuring compliance. With a track record of excellence in entrepreneurship and higher education leadership, her expertise supports the development of new opportunities and bold strategic initiatives. Her accomplishments include commendation from the World Bank as one of the top female entrepreneurs in Latin America and the Caribbean. Dr Palmer was Adjunct Professor for New Ventures and Entrepreneurship at the University of the West Indies and at Northern Caribbean University, Jamaica. She has also taught business courses at Miami Dade College.

She holds a Doctorate in Information Technology Management and an MBA from Nova Southeastern University.

Chief Executive Officer at the Dan Marino Foundation

Leading The Dan Marino Foundation for over nineteen years, Mary has transformed it from a small family foundation to a national force, providing crucial support to thousands of children and young adults with autism and other disabilities. With an investment of over $80 million, she revolutionized post-secondary education and quality-of-life programming. Her dedication to education led her through teaching, school administration, and a role as CEO at the YMCA of South Florida. In 1999, Mary received the Bellsouth "Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award" for her community dedication and ethical leadership.

In 2013, Mary founded Marino Campus, offering post-secondary education for 18-28-year-olds with developmental disabilities. They’ve achieved a remarkable 92% graduation rate, with employment outcomes at 65-72%, far surpassing the national average of 18%. Marino Virtual Campus, their online course platform, launched in spring 2020. A significant achievement has been ViTA-DMF, a mixed reality software developed with the University of Southern California and the Department of Defense, aiding job interview preparation. This tool's success spans universities, schools, justice programs, and military bases, supporting soldiers in their community reintegration.

Deputy Executive Director of the Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation

Mili boasts three decades of diverse experience in Technology, Academia, and Insurance, gaining expertise in entrepreneurship, leadership, strategy, and operations. With strategic roles at global companies like Laureate International Universities and Microsoft, she's demonstrated adeptness in leading culturally diverse teams. Mili also contributed to academia as an Adjunct Professor and played a pivotal role in course development. Currently, as Deputy Executive Director at the Levan Center of Innovation, she applies her entrepreneurial and leadership skills to guide her team effectively. Mili holds an MBA and completed the "Women Leading Broward" Leadership Program, and is actively engaged in various leadership roles within the community.

Managing Partner: Emerging Tech & Innovation

With over 15 years of experience in digital transformation, Rob Petrosino leads the Emerging Tech & Innovation teams, a digital consultancy that helps businesses achieve their peak performance. He is responsible for ideating, defining, and documenting strategies for emerging technology and innovation projects for clients within the digital space, as well as exploring and exploiting new technology opportunities for joint ventures.

Rob is a strategic visionary and a technological expert who leverages his skills and knowledge in emerging fields such as spatial computing, digital twins, generative AI, and machine learning to create and deliver cutting-edge solutions that propel the company's market position and facilitate sustainable growth. He is passionate about instilling innovation in established businesses and is well-regarded for his insights on cutting-edge technology and all things digital. He also serves as a speaker and a thought leader in the spatial computing and AI industry, and as a board member of the VRARA Miami Chapter.

Chief Executive Officer of Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, Inc.

Silvia Quintana is a seasoned professional in the field of mental health and addictions. As the CEO of Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, Inc., she oversees the creation, implementation, and management of substance abuse and mental health systems in Broward County. With extensive experience, she has led initiatives like Broward County's One Community Partnership grants, Family CPR's Regional Partnership Grant, and the FACES System of Care SAMHSA grant in Miami. Silvia has also contributed to education as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Miami's School of Continuing Studies and directed substance abuse programs in Miami-Dade County. Her dedication extends beyond her career, as she has been actively involved in supporting artists recovering from mental illnesses through NAEMI's National Art Exhibitions.

CEO of Synapse

Lauren Prager, CEO of Synapse, brings a rich background in community building and engagement. With over a decade of experience in Washington DC as a lobbyist and political organizer, she championed bipartisan initiatives, achieving remarkable success in fundraising, membership growth, and community involvement. Lauren's transition to Florida led her to Synapse, where her volunteer role evolved into a full-time passion, driving her commitment to connect, discover, and engage with Florida's innovation community. As Synapse's CEO, she orchestrates strategic partnerships and events, fostering meaningful connections and accelerating the state's innovation narrative. Lauren's dedication extends to community initiatives and her role as a certified pilates instructor and avid baker. Proudly hailing from Philadelphia, she cherishes moments with her family.

VP Architecture at TD Bank

Kirsti Racine, VP of Architecture Practice at TD Bank Group, boasts 25 years transforming financial services technology. Currently overseeing Architecture for Customer Platforms and AMCB, she leads the Platforms and Technology Innovation Hub. Focused on talent development and streamlining capabilities, Kirsti's career spans 16 years at IBM, where she contributed significantly to digital platforms and technology modernization. As a women-in-tech advocate, she actively participates in events, sharing insights on maintaining technical prowess throughout career progression. Kirsti is dedicated to delivering exceptional customer and colleague experiences at TD.

Founder & CEO of Xendoo

A South Florida native, Lillian Roberts prides herself on building customer-centric companies that are built on teamwork, technology, and integrity. A serial entrepreneur with a passion for small business, she is known as an innovator with an enviable ability to foresee market trends. After a successful exit from the manufacturing industry, Lillian serves as CEO and Founder of Xendoo, a cloud-based Fintech company based in Fort Lauderdale.

President, South Florida Manufacturers Association

As President of the SFMA, Matthew’s experience spans more than 10 years in the corporate arena, higher education, and in the non-profit sector. Matthew served as SFMA President from 2017 to 2021 and has now resumed this role in 2023. He has served in various leadership positions, managed complex projects and programs, worked with employers to create customized workforce programs for their companies, and created partnership opportunities in the business community. He brings an excellent mix of expertise and a passion for helping manufacturers to his new role. Prior to becoming SFMA President, Matthew was a Board of Director for the SFMA while he worked at Broward College. Matthew is excited to be back in South Florida working hard on behalf of all manufacturers in South Florida. Matthew is a native of South Florida and is an avid University of Miami Hurricanes Football Fan.

Vice President, Business Recruitment, Retention, Expansion at the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County

Shawn has served in a variety of roles during his 16 year tenure at Palm Beach County’s public/private economic development agency, the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County, Inc. (BDB). In addition, he serves on the board of the Lake Okeechobee Regional Economic Alliance and serves on several industry advisory councils. While in his roles with Business Recruitment, Retention, and Expansion, he has been involved with facilitating some of the largest job creation projects in Palm Beach County from companies like ADT, Pratt & Whitney, Office Depot, TBC Corporation, Zimmer/Biomet, Modernizing Medicine, UTC, and Carrier to name a few.

Shawn is also the BDB staff liaison for task forces and committees at the BDB including the Aerospace/Aviation/Engineering Task Force and the Shovel Ready Sites Program Committee.

Managing Director and Founder at Advaion

Pavan Satyaketu, with over 25 years of global finance and accounting expertise, specializes in Automated Financial and Accounting Reports, Enterprise Risk Assessment, IPO Readiness, SEC Filings, Internal Controls, Pre-Audit Prep, and SOX 404. His deep understanding of accounting workflows enables him to identify opportunities for increased profitability, risk reduction, and process streamlining. He has successfully tackled complex challenges for Fortune 500 companies, including facilitating listings on the NYSE for European multinationals and guiding major IPOs for tech firms. As the Managing Director and Founder of Advaion, he personally oversees projects, providing tailored accounting, financial, and technology solutions for clients in New York City and South Florida. In addition, Mr. Satyaketu dedicates his skills to community service, serving as a volunteer treasurer and committee chair for organizations like the Association for Corporate Growth and the Boys and Girls Club.

Founder & CEO at MSM podcast production

Mark Savant owns MSM podcast production, a company that helps business owners launch and automate podcasts. He is an AI adopter and influencer, teaching business owners to grow their companies using AI and innovative technology. His mastermind community has dozens of business owners focused on AI adoption.

Trade Commissioner at ProChile

Trade Commissioner of Chile for all the Southeast region and Puerto Rico based in Miami, with more than 17 years of experience in management positions in marketing, sales, and international business development in the private and public sector. Former Marketing Director of ProChile for 50+ offices around the world. She is also a mentor and marketing professor.

Euler Digital

Steve, a seasoned professional with 30 years of experience in change and innovation, brings a wealth of leadership and strategic thinking to the technology, banking, and capital markets sectors. As a dedicated advocate for diversity and fairness, he champions initiatives promoting inclusion in the workplace. Currently serving as a hands-on Partner, Founder, and Chief Revenue Officer of a Miami-based blockchain fintech company, Steve actively supports the next generation of entrepreneurs. Committed to environmental sustainability, he collaborates with global companies to address climate change. Additionally, Steve is passionate about fostering civil and fair political discourse, aiming for respectful and honest debate. His expertise spans lending, AI, blockchain, digital transformation, and more, supported by certification as an expert in Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain from MIT.

Senior Vice President, Regional Vice President at TD Bank

Jennifer Starkey brings over 25 years of extensive banking experience, with 20 years at TD Bank, where she currently serves as Senior Vice President/Regional Vice President, overseeing regions in South Florida. Her expertise spans various facets of banking, including deposit operations, credit management, and bank mergers and acquisitions. Jennifer leads a team of Relationship Managers who offer a wide range of financing solutions, from working capital to mortgages, tailored to meet the needs of businesses in Broward, Southern Palm Beach Lee, and Collier Counties. Committed to community involvement, Jennifer actively engages in initiatives supporting diversity and inclusion, financial education, and volunteerism. She is also a mentor in TD's Career Relaunch program, providing guidance to colleagues returning to the workforce after an extended absence. Jennifer holds a Bachelor's degree from Rutgers University and resides in South Florida with her family.

Program Director of MBDA Export Center and Export Supplement - Miami

Mrs. Starkey has over a decade of experience in project management and business development. During her tenure within the MBDA network, Mrs. Starkey spear-headed numerous minority business enterprises’ expansion into both domestic and foreign markets. One such highlight being the extension of an Atlanta-based firm to the South Florida market, in which she facilitated the acquisition of a substantial contract with the University of Miami. Furthermore, Mrs. Starkey serves as Deputy Coordinator of the local Minority Enterprise Development Week (MEDWeek) Business Matchmaker & Networking Conference. MEDWeek, the nation’s premier, and longest running event for small and minority businesses, hosted annually in South Florida by the MBDA Export Center, Operated by M. Gill & Associates, Inc. As a result of her tenure and expertise, Mrs. Starkey serves as Executive Liaison to M. Gill & Associates’ Board of Directors.

Vice President and Chief Digital Officer of Memorial Health Care System/South Broward Hospital District
Jeff oversees Information Technology, Clinical Engineering, and Contact Center/call center operations, encompassing at team of close to 1,000 individuals and an annual operating budget of $175 Million. Jeff is a passionate healthcare executive, frequent contributor to various publications, speaker, and a change agent for consumer driven health within our communities. Previously he was a Partner with a national based healthcare IT consultancy, as well as Ernst & Young’s Healthcare Consulting practice. Jeff has nearly 30 years of healthcare experience, specifically in the planning, management and facilitation of digital transformation, organizational change, operational impacts, consumer experience/engagement and overall governance. He is an accomplished, results-driven executive with demonstrated success leading healthcare digital initiatives. Jeff is a Certified Healthcare Chief Information Officer (CHCIO) and Certified Digital Health Executive (CDH-E).

Director of Community Engagement at Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation

Born in Salvador, Brazil, Catarina “Cat” Suplicy is a hospitality and tourism management graduate from the University of Southern Vermont. Cat's career evolved from being an event manager for high-profile resorts such as the Diplomat Beach Resort and Spa and Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, to serving as the COO of the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, and now, she plays a crucial role as the Director of Community Engagement at the Levan Center of Innovation, The World's First Theme Park for Entrepreneurs™. Fueled by an insatiable curiosity for novelty, a knack for problem-solving, and a passion for data, Catarina brings strategic leadership to her roles. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is passionate about empowering others, particularly serving as a role model for women aspiring to chase their dreams. With an eye constantly on the horizon, she relishes new technology and anticipates the dynamic future of her industry.

President and CEO of Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance

Bob has been the President and CEO of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance since 2009, having initially joined as Senior Vice President of Business Development in 2003. In this role, he and his team actively promote Broward County as an attractive business destination, bringing in high-skilled jobs and enhancing economic diversity. As Broward County's official public-private economic development partnership, the Alliance collaborates with the business community and 31 municipalities to drive economic and job growth. A lifelong Broward resident, Bob has held various leadership roles in both business and the community. Before joining the Alliance, he served as President of Champion Manufacturing for 18 years. Bob is actively involved in several boards including CareerSource Broward, United Way of Broward County, Junior Achievement of South Florida, and Winterfest. He has also held chairmanships with the FEDC (Florida Economic Development Council) and Florida Atlantic Research & Development Park Authority. Additionally, Bob served on the Board of Directors for NAIOP and the former state economic development partnership, Enterprise Florida.

Vice President and General Counsel at NetChoice

Carl is the Vice President and General Counsel at NetChoice, where he specializes in tech-related legislative and regulatory matters for online companies. With extensive experience in intellectual property law, he advises clients on privacy, e-commerce, and contractual issues. Carl has also played pivotal roles in copyright, trademark, and anti-piracy efforts for industry organizations. He holds a J.D. and Communications Law Certificate from the Catholic University of America and is a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US).

Chief Information Officer at Broward Health

Steven Travers, a seasoned healthcare executive, has joined Broward Health as its Chief Information Officer (CIO). With a wealth of leadership experience in the healthcare industry, Steven is poised to make a significant impact on Broward Health's pursuit of excellence in patient care through the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies. Prior to joining Broward Health, Steven served as the CIO at USA Health, an academic health system located in Alabama's upper Gulf Coast. His impressive credentials include certifications as a healthcare CIO and a digital health executive. He has also contributed to the field of education as an adjunct instructor at the University of South Alabama Mitchell College of Business and has actively participated as a board member of the Alabama chapter of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS).

Associate Professor | Universidad Carlos III of Madrid (UC3M), Spain

Belen Usero Sanchez, a Ph.D. economist and accomplished international business expert, currently serves as the Co-Director for the Master's in International Business Management and the Diploma in International Business Expertise at the University Carlos III University of Madrid. She is also the delegate for the GUESSS (Global University Entrepreneurial Spirit Students' Survey) project at UC3M, a pioneering international research initiative. Her research portfolio encompasses various aspects of entrepreneurship, particularly from a gender-focused perspective, garnering recognition from leading academic journals.

Market President, South Florida, at Florida Blue

David Wagner, a healthcare veteran with over 30 years of experience, serves as the Florida Blue Market President for South Florida. In this capacity, he leads business operations in an eight-county region, overseeing strategic planning, membership acquisition, retention, and brand visibility. Prior to joining Florida Blue in December 2021, Wagner held roles at prominent healthcare organizations in South Florida, including Kindred Health, Sunshine Health, Amerigroup, ATI College of Health, and Baptist Health South Florida. Actively engaged in the community, he chairs the South Florida Hospital and Health Association, and serves on the boards of various organizations including the American Lung Association of Broward and Palm Beach, and the YMCA South Florida in Pembroke Pines. Wagner earned a Bachelor of Science in business management from the University of Phoenix and a Master of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University.

Executive Director of the NSU Health Interprofessional Simulation Institute

Dr. Dawn Wawersik is a visionary leader in healthcare education and simulation. She leads the development of a world-class simulation center at NSU and oversees all campus simulations. Her extensive background includes military service, critical care nursing, and healthcare education. With a PhD in Health Professions Education and simulation, she co-chairs the Healthcare Distance Simulation Collaborative, a global organization promoting healthcare distance simulation. Dr. Wawersik's research is widely published in prestigious journals, covering topics such as error reporting, moral courage, and faculty development for simulation. She's a member of esteemed professional organizations and possesses technical expertise in various simulation technologies. Her unwavering dedication makes her a pioneering educator, researcher, and leader in the field.

Alejandra is a dedicated professional with over a decade of experience fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in both the US and Latam ecosystems. With six years at CIC, she spearheaded the development of Latam's CIC International Soft Landing Program, facilitating the entry of over 200 startups, investors, government departments, and VCs into the US market. Additionally, as a Director of Rebelius, a people analytics startup, she plays a key role in enhancing organizational effectiveness. Alejandra serves on the Advisory Board of Option Venture Studio, the first Chilean Venture Studio, and Fundación Tremendas, a nonprofit empowering girls and young women. Her multifaceted contributions make her a driving force in building dynamic and impactful communities.

Founder and CEO of Sparkseeker

Kalista stands at the forefront of technological innovation in online communities. As a solutions-focused impact leader, she is known for her contributions to revolutionizing technology practices, with a specific emphasis on data privacy and mental health and wellness. Her use of technology extends to harnessing its potential for broader social impact. Kalista is reshaping industry standards, championing solutions that prioritize mental well-being and inclusivity in the digital sphere. Her unwavering commitment extends to addressing the divisive repercussions of AI, especially in combating biases inherent in scoring systems and deepfakes. Kalista's mission is rooted in promoting equity, countering behavior manipulation, and exploitative practices, all of which have adverse effects on mental health within digital spaces.