Executive Biography

Catherine McKenzie: Championing Truth Through Storytelling

After more than three decades in journalism and media leadership, I’ve had the privilege of telling stories that matter and mentoring extraordinary teams across platforms. As I begin a new chapter exploring board service and strategic advising, I’m excited to share my journey, experiences, and values. Here is my biography.

Raegan Kelly – Championing Innovation with Purpose

After more than 25 years leading innovation, strategy, and sustainable growth across product marketing and operations, I'm excited to take the next step into board leadership. I’m passionate about contributing to mission-driven organizations and offering insight shaped by diverse experience and a deep commitment to impact. Here is my biography.

Mark Mitchelson: Transformational Healthcare Executive, Visionary Leader in Clinical Operations and Strategy

I’m a healthcare executive with over a decade of experience leading clinical operations, hospital strategy, and system-wide transformation in both domestic and international settings. My journey has taken me from launching a specialty hospital in Saudi Arabia to overseeing multimillion-dollar initiatives across California hospitals, where I’ve served as COO, CNO, and Patient Care Executive. With a foundation in nursing, a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration, and a passion for community impact, I’m committed to advancing patient-centered care, operational excellence, and leadership development across every level of the health system.

Namrata Dhanawade

I'm excited to share my professional journey and the experiences that have shaped my career in technology and innovation. From leading digital transformation initiatives to developing AI-driven solutions, it's been a rewarding path of growth and learning. Here is my biography.

Douglas Hildebrand

I'm excited to share a snapshot of my professional journey—one that spans over 34 years of leadership in the automotive and retail sectors. From retail management and reinsurance to mentoring future leaders through community work, I've always led with integrity, focus, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Here is my biography.

Bernard Storey Jr.

I'm honored to share a comprehensive snapshot of my professional journey—spanning over three decades in quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and strategic operations leadership across aerospace, defense, and automotive sectors. My passion lies in building quality systems that align with business objectives while fostering a culture of excellence. Here is my biography.

Rebecca Edelman: Transformational Leader Bridging Finance, Education, and Workforce Innovation

Rebecca Edelman is a visionary executive and founder with over 20 years of leadership experience at the intersection of finance, education, and workforce development. As CEO of Caper Associates, she pioneers innovative programs that equip young people and professionals with practical skills for career and civic success. Known for her strategic mindset and operational expertise, Rebecca has driven transformative change in global financial institutions and nonprofit education settings alike, all while championing mission-driven initiatives that create lasting impact.

Cyril Morel | Principal & Chief Operating Officer | Real Estate Developer | Financial Strategist | Global Operations Leader

Cyril Morel is an accomplished executive whose career spans over 15 years at the intersection of real estate development, financial strategy, and global operations. As Principal and COO of Synapse Development, he has led over $250 million in assets under management, championing energy-efficient projects and pioneering technology-integrated real estate models. Known for his disciplined leadership and strategic decision-making, Cyril has delivered transformative outcomes across multiple sectors—from Passive House-certified multifamily developments in New York to LEED-certified hospitality projects in San Francisco. With a foundation built at the United Nations and refined through ventures in finance and proptech, he brings a rare blend of operational precision, global awareness, and impact-driven vision to every opportunity he pursues.

Raymond (Ray) Gonzales: Empowering People, Transforming Organizations, and Guiding Leaders to Unlock their Greatest Potential.

I'm proud to share my professional biography, highlighting the journey that has taken me across industries, continents, and transformational leadership experiences. From shaping HR strategy in Fortune 10 companies to coaching future leaders and serving on mission-driven boards, each step has been about creating impact and empowering others.

Tom DeMarino: Achieving Extraordinary Results with Ordinary People

After more than five decades in aerospace, leadership, and innovation—including record-setting unmanned aircraft achievements and mission command in active combat zones—I'm excited to share a comprehensive look at my journey and experiences. From the Navy to the private sector, I've always believed in achieving extraordinary results with ordinary people. Here is my biography.

Bridget Lamont: Driving Brand Growth and Sales Innovation Across the Wine, Spirits, and Hospitality Industries

Bridget Lamont is a dynamic sales and trade marketing executive with nearly two decades of experience driving growth and brand excellence in the wine, spirits, and retail industries. With a unique blend of strategic insight and operational know-how, she has successfully led national marketing campaigns, built new business territories from the ground up, and collaborated with top-tier partners across North America and Europe. Known for her hands-on leadership and results-oriented mindset, Bridget thrives in fast-paced environments where creativity, data, and execution come together to shape impactful consumer experiences.

Chris Knierim | Principal | Training & Project Management | Board Member | Leadership Strategist

Chris Knierim is a seasoned executive and board advisor with over two decades of experience driving impactful training, leadership development, and operational transformation across manufacturing, medical device, and technology sectors. Known for aligning strategic business goals with scalable learning systems, Chris blends technical expertise with a people-first mindset—bringing clarity, integrity, and humor to every challenge he tackles.

Jerry Bautista, PhD | Retired VP & General Manager, Intel Corporation | Startup Advisor | Innovation & Technology Strategist

Dr. Jerry Bautista is a retired Intel Vice President and General Manager with over 40 years of experience leading innovation at the intersection of advanced technology and business strategy. A Stanford and Princeton-trained chemical engineer, Jerry has driven major advancements in semiconductors, AR/VR, and wearables, launching over a dozen products and integrating acquisitions valued at over $700 million. Known for his data-driven decision-making, cross-functional leadership, and commitment to mentoring startups, Jerry now serves as an advisor and accelerator lead, helping emerging ventures scale with purpose and precision.

Paul Baribault: Transformational Executive Driving Enterprise Growth and Innovation, Entertainment Impact, and Global Conservation

I’m a mission-driven executive passionate about transforming organizations through purpose, innovation, and storytelling. Over the past two decades, I’ve had the privilege of leading global conservation efforts as President & CEO of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and driving award-winning brand campaigns at The Walt Disney Studios. Whether building teams, securing international partnerships, or launching major initiatives, I’m inspired by the power of strategy and communication to create lasting impact.

Michael Daddona: Transformational Hospitality Executive Driving Operational Excellence and Profit Growth

Michael Daddona is a seasoned hospitality executive with over 35 years of proven leadership in operations, project management, and multi-unit oversight. Renowned for his ability to drive revenue growth, reduce costs, and build high-performing teams, he has successfully led large hotel portfolios, including a 200-property division across 21 states. With a sharp financial acumen and a talent for strategic execution, Michael has consistently delivered exceptional results in RevPAR, EBITDA, guest satisfaction, and employee engagement. His track record includes award-winning service, successful franchising transitions, and operational turnarounds, all underscored by his commitment to excellence, innovation, and team development.

Michael Weiner: Transformative Leader in Pediatric Oncology and Champion for Childhood Cancer Research

I’m a physician, author, and advocate with over four decades of experience in pediatric oncology, academic medicine, and nonprofit leadership. For the majority of my career, I served at Columbia University Medical Center, where I led one of the nation’s top pediatric hematology-oncology programs and mentored a generation of physician-scientists. I’m proud to have founded the Hope & Heroes Children’s Cancer Fund, which has raised over \$100 million to support children and families facing cancer. Today, I remain active as a writer and fundraiser, committed to advancing care, research, and hope for the next generation.