Executive Biography

Maria Angelica Paliza | Business Strategies | Financial Perspective

Maria Angelica Paliza is a seasoned mining industry executive with 14 years of experience specializing in financial optimization, project development, and investment strategy. She has a proven track record in CAPEX/OPEX planning, asset valuation, and data-driven decision-making, helping mining operations enhance profitability and maximize asset value. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in mining industry management at Colorado School of Mines, Maria is committed to bridging engineering, finance, and strategic investment to drive smarter, more efficient mining operations. As a bilingual professional fluent in English and Spanish, she offers a global perspective, with expertise in financial modeling, risk governance, and operational analytics. Passionate about business growth and investment strategies, she is now seeking board and advisory roles where she can contribute her expertise in corporate governance, financial oversight, and strategic planning to help mining organizations thrive.

Lukas Farbiak, Ph.D.

Dr. Lukas J. Farbiak is a biomedical engineering innovator and academic leader whose work in genetic medicine is transforming how diseases are treated at the molecular level. As an Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern and Co-Founder of Signify Bio, Inc., he merges deep scientific expertise with translational impact—developing advanced lipid nanoparticle platforms and signal peptide technologies that enable precise, tissue-specific delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids. With over 15 peer-reviewed publications and 20+ patent filings, Dr. Farbiak stands at the cutting edge of non-viral drug delivery and personalized therapeutics, bringing a rare blend of academic rigor, entrepreneurial vision, and collaborative leadership to every endeavor.

Mindy Rocha-Barella: A Legacy of Leadership and Service

I'm proud to share my professional biography—a reflection of over two decades of service, leadership, and innovation across funeral services, healthcare, and veterans’ advocacy. My journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to operational excellence, team empowerment, and community impact. From mentoring professionals to building revenue-generating programs, I’ve always led with purpose and integrity.

Ronnie Robinson | Global Sourcing and Supply Chain Executive | Board Director | ESG Leader

Ronnie Robinson is a globally accomplished sourcing and supply chain executive with over four decades of leadership in the apparel, footwear, and accessories industries. With a proven track record in driving operational excellence, sustainable practices, and strategic transformation, Ronnie has held senior roles at industry leaders including Designer Brands, J.Crew, Ascena, and Mast Industries. He currently serves on the boards of Duluth Holdings Inc. and Handshake America, and brings a unique blend of technical expertise, global perspective, and inspirational leadership to every role he takes on.

Charles Harkness

After decades of dedication to the fire life safety industry, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in leadership roles that have both challenged and inspired me. From my beginnings as a technician to managing multimillion-dollar projects across critical infrastructure, my journey has been shaped by a commitment to safety, continuous improvement, and team development. I’m proud to share more about that journey and the values that drive me forward. Here is my biography.

David L. Ribbens: Leadership Rooted in Purpose, Empowered by Passion

After more than four decades of experience in athletics administration, education, and mentorship, I’ve taken some time to reflect on my journey and the values that have guided me. From my years at Trinity Christian College to my work with the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools and current consulting practice, I remain deeply committed to leadership, service, and student development. Here is my biography.

Michael J. Hutner | Strategic Growth Leader | SaaS & Fintech Executive | Board Advisor

Michael Hutner is a seasoned SaaS and fintech executive with over 27 years of experience driving growth, operational excellence, and go-to-market innovation for technology companies around the globe. With a proven ability to scale businesses from startup to $300M+ in revenue, he brings deep expertise in product development, sales strategy, pricing models, and strategic planning. Currently serving on five advisory boards, Michael is a trusted partner to founders and investors, known for his clarity, commercial acumen, and results-driven leadership.

Chris T. Dickman: Leading With Integrity, Innovating With Purpose

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to grow as a leader in the financial services and banking sectors, driven by a passion for innovation, strategic growth, and servant-leadership. From public accounting to executive leadership roles, my journey has been one of transformation, collaboration, and a commitment to giving back. Here is my biography.

Ed Jones: Global Financial Strategist and Operational Innovator in Real Estate and Hospitality

Ed Jones is a seasoned global executive with a distinguished track record in financial leadership, governance, and operational transformation across the real estate and hospitality sectors. With decades of experience overseeing complex, multi-billion-dollar portfolios spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, Ed has led major initiatives in financial reporting, audit and risk oversight, capital planning, and systems modernization. Known for his ability to drive enterprise-wide efficiencies, guide international teams, and navigate regulatory frameworks, he brings a strategic, ESG-aligned perspective to both corporate and board leadership. A former senior director at Tishman Speyer and co-founder of a successful boutique hospitality venture, Ed combines deep industry knowledge with entrepreneurial insight, making him a valuable asset to forward-thinking organizations and boards seeking strong financial and operational stewardship.

W. Thomas More (Bill) Williams: Visionary CFO, Strategic Advisor, and Transformational Leader in Finance, Tech, Sustainability, and Value Creation

W. Thomas More (Bill) Williams is a multidisciplinary executive and board leader with over four decades of experience driving transformation at the intersection of finance, law, technology, and strategy. Known for his integrity, strategic foresight, and operational excellence, Bill has led high-stakes restructurings, IPOs, and sustainability initiatives across Fortune 500s, private equity-backed firms, and emerging tech companies. His global perspective and ability to lead with both analytical precision and collaborative communication make him a powerful asset in the boardroom and beyond.

Arrowyn Ambrose | Transformational Facilitator | Creative Strategist | Trauma-Informed Educator

Arrowyn Ambrose is a transformative educator and creative strategist whose work bridges the healing arts, social justice, and storytelling. With a background in trauma-informed facilitation and a foundation in depth psychology, she designs immersive, embodied learning experiences that awaken resilience and deepen human connection. Whether working with incarcerated individuals, educators, or community leaders, Arrowyn weaves together neuroscience, mythology, and movement to inspire growth, compassion, and collective transformation.

Trey Collat

I'm proud to share a reflection of my professional journey, personal mission, and the values that have shaped my leadership path. With experience in banking, real estate, business development, and community engagement, I’m always seeking new opportunities to grow and make a difference. Here is my biography.

Dennis Bulgarelli: Executive Leader in Digital Marketing, Analytics, and Strategic Growth

Dennis Bulgarelli is a seasoned executive in digital marketing and analytics, with over 40 years of experience guiding Fortune 500 brands through data-driven strategy, campaign optimization, and market research. Known for his ability to bridge creative thinking with analytical rigor, Dennis has led multimillion-dollar client portfolios and built high-performing teams across the automotive, pharma, retail, and consumer goods sectors. With a background rooted in advertising and a career defined by strategic growth, he continues to support organizations seeking to compete, scale, and lead in the evolving digital landscape.

Alec Martone

I’ve always believed that the best growth comes when we lean into discomfort and embrace failure as a necessary step to mastery. With a background rooted in aerospace manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and mindset training, I’ve had the privilege of learning, leading, and evolving across a variety of roles and industries. Here is my biography.

Naomi Fraenkel Altschul: Infrastructure Development and Funding Strategist

Naomi Fraenkel Altschul, AICP, FE, is a nationally respected economist and infrastructure strategist whose 25-year career has transformed how the United States plans for coastal resilience and public infrastructure. As Chief Economist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Naomi has overseen the development of over $11 billion in federally authorized projects, leading with a rare blend of technical precision, policy fluency, and visionary planning. With deep expertise in risk management, public finance, and urban development, she brings a powerful voice to the future of sustainable, equitable infrastructure.

Dr. Sharon L. Shappley: Global Education Leader, Curriculum Innovator & Multilingual Advocate

Dr. Sharon L. Shappley is a dynamic and visionary educator with more than 40 years of experience in global learning environments. Renowned for her expertise in curriculum development and multilingual instruction, she has pioneered the launch of immersive English programs designed to reach learners across continents. Fluent in four languages and deeply committed to educational equity, Dr. Shappley blends academic rigor with cultural sensitivity, equipping students worldwide with the tools to thrive in a globalized society. Her legacy is marked by innovation, integrity, and a passion for lifelong learning.