Guiding Startup Triumph: The Vital Role of Independent Advisors and Platforms in Achieving Success

Lydia McCoy is a dynamic executive leader with a proven track record in senior services, community development, and strategic program management. As the Executive Director of Senior Services for the City of Watertown, she spearheads initiatives that enhance the quality of life for the city’s elderly population, overseeing key programs such as the Watertown Council on Aging, the Watertown Senior Center, and The Watertown Food Pantry. With extensive experience in public housing, healthcare services, and nonprofit leadership, Lydia has successfully led large-scale programs, secured vital funding, and cultivated partnerships that drive meaningful social impact. Her expertise in stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and crisis management underscores her commitment to creating sustainable, community-focused solutions. Holding a Master of Business Administration from Springfield College, Lydia continues to be a passionate advocate for seniors and underserved communities, ensuring access to essential resources and transformative services.

Renée Hazlet is a seasoned food safety expert, U.S. Army veteran, and creative entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in regulatory compliance, public health, and process improvement. With a longstanding career at USDA-FSIS and a background in food science, she brings deep expertise in HACCP, GMP, and food manufacturing oversight. Renée is also the founder of RenaissanceTinkerDork L.L.C., where she expresses her passion for stained glass and digital art. A proud transgender woman and advocate for equity and inclusion, Renée seeks board opportunities where she can use her technical knowledge, collaborative mindset, and lived experience to make systems better and more inclusive for all.

I am passionate about gender justice, nonprofit leadership, and strategic impact. With 17 years of experience in fundraising, corporate partnerships, and board development, I am dedicated to fostering inclusivity and driving meaningful change in communities. My journey has been defined by building sustainable organizations, advocating for equity, and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Richard Juman, PsyD, is a transformative healthcare executive with over 40 years of expertise in behavioral health, addiction medicine, and organizational development. A visionary leader, he has spearheaded national initiatives to integrate mental health services into healthcare systems, championed clinician wellness, and driven quality improvement across diverse organizations. As a former president of the New York State Psychological Association and a sought-after speaker, Richard continues to inspire innovation and positive change in healthcare through strategic leadership and mentorship.

I’ve spent my career empowering leaders, transforming organizations, and advocating for meaningful change. From guiding CEOs and business owners to mentoring the next generation of professionals, I am passionate about leadership, performance, and innovation. Here is my biography.

Frank W. Woodruff is a results-driven executive with over 20 years of experience in community development, public policy, and organizational leadership. As the Executive Director of the National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations (NACEDA), Frank has led efforts to transform the organization into a key national voice for over 6,000 community development organizations. Under his leadership, NACEDA’s budget grew from $200,000 to $1.5 million, and its membership expanded from 27 to 6,000 organizations. Frank's strategic vision has shaped capacity-building programs, advocacy efforts, and research initiatives, all focused on advancing economic opportunities for underserved communities. A seasoned public speaker and published author, he frequently addresses issues such as affordable housing, racial equity, and community reinvestment, contributing to major industry publications and national discussions on public policy.

I am excited to share my executive biography with you. After over four decades of advocating for progressive causes, leading impactful campaigns, and helping nonprofits thrive, I’ve had the privilege of working across various sectors, including animal welfare, public libraries, and political advocacy.

Supporting individuals who have experienced bullying or harassment requires empathy, active listening, and a deep understanding of trauma dynamics. It's essential to create a safe environment where targets feel heard and validated, helping them navigate the emotional and psychological impacts of their experience. Advocating for them, providing continuous support, and empowering them to make informed decisions about their case are critical steps. Whether it's offering a compassionate ear, advocating for policy changes, or running a campaign against workplace bullies, our focus should always be on helping the targeted person regain their confidence and well-being.

I'm excited to share my professional journey with you all. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in the legal field with a strong focus on animal welfare, striving to make a meaningful impact through my work. My commitment to justice and innovative legal strategies has been recognized through awards like the Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence and the title of Top Dog Attorney. These accolades reflect my dedication and the values that guide me. I invite you to read more about my journey and the milestones I’ve achieved.