Surya Krishnan is a seasoned finance and strategy executive with over two decades of experience in corporate development, M&A, valuation, and strategic planning. He has led over $25 billion in transactions, managed $150 million in revenue, and advised C-level executives on financial strategy and business growth. With a strong background in corporate finance, venture capital, and financial consulting, Surya has played a key role in high-profile acquisitions and investment initiatives. In addition to his leadership in corporate finance, he is committed to mentorship and professional development, guiding MBA students and emerging business leaders through financial strategy and career growth. His expertise in data-driven decision-making, market analysis, and corporate advisory continues to shape the future of finance and business strategy.

Cynthea Johnson Amason is a mission-driven executive whose career reflects a profound dedication to people, purpose, and positive transformation. As Chief Culture and Communications Officer at Cadet Portfolio, LLC, she blends strategic insight with compassionate leadership to shape organizational culture and elevate client engagement. With over 40 years of experience spanning nonprofit leadership, higher education, public relations, and ministry, Cynthea is known for her ability to build trust, lead with authenticity, and inspire meaningful change. Whether mentoring staff, overseeing complex initiatives, or representing organizations in the public eye, she leads with integrity, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to service.

I'm excited to share my executive biography! After nearly three decades in finance, risk, compliance, and customer experience leadership, I’m looking forward to contributing to boards where I can help drive strategic transformation, elevate customer value, and empower others.

Mitch McDermott is a visionary leader in executive search, known for aligning exceptional talent with purpose-driven organizations to fuel growth and lasting impact. As Founding Partner of Talent Ascension Group, he is driven by a mission to help people and companies progress toward a future without limits. Mitch empowers teams, candidates, and clients alike, creating breakthrough moments that transform careers and strengthen organizations. Through his forward-thinking approach and unwavering commitment to purpose, he delivers a world-class recruitment experience that redefines what it means to lead with impact.

Shanna Weber is a dynamic executive coach, leadership strategist, and financial services expert with a proven ability to transform teams, drive strategic growth, and cultivate high-performance cultures. As the Founder and CEO of Prima Consulting, she empowers leaders to elevate their impact through executive coaching, leadership development programs, and culture-building initiatives. With over 23 years of experience in financial services, including leadership roles at Charles Schwab and Janus Henderson Investors, Shanna has led large-scale business transformations, spearheaded diversity and inclusion initiatives, and developed enterprise-wide strategies that drive measurable success. A sought-after speaker and mentor, she is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their leadership potential and create workplaces where employees thrive.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in psychotherapy, business strategy, and leadership development. With a background in sales, marketing, and mental health, I specialize in helping individuals and organizations achieve resilience, balance, and peak performance. Whether in therapy, consulting, or executive coaching, my mission is to empower people to thrive both personally and professionally.

James Alton Walker is a seasoned retail executive with over 30 years of experience in operations, sales, and strategic leadership. As a results-driven leader, he has successfully managed multi-unit retail operations, overseeing teams of thousands while optimizing profitability and customer experience. His expertise spans P&L management, marketing strategy, team development, and operational excellence. Most recently, as Vice President of Sales and Operations at Advance Auto Parts, James led 225 stores generating over $410 million in annual revenue, consistently exceeding sales and profitability targets. A dedicated mentor and advocate for leadership development, he has played a pivotal role in succession planning and diversity initiatives, including serving as the National Chair of the African American Employee Resource Group. With a strong foundation in business strategy and a passion for mentorship, James now seeks board opportunities where he can contribute his expertise in guiding organizations toward sustainable growth and operational excellence.

Joelle LaChance is a dedicated healthcare professional and business development specialist with a passion for patient advocacy and strategic relationship management. With a diverse career spanning pharmacy operations, healthcare consulting, and provider services, she has demonstrated exceptional expertise in health insurance navigation, pharmaceutical sales, and customer relations. Joelle’s ability to problem-solve creatively and build lasting professional relationships has positioned her as a trusted advocate in both patient care and business strategy. Her background in healthcare administration, combined with her commitment to excellence, makes her a dynamic leader in the industry.

Chris Jackson, Co-Managing Partner at Roneta, is an accomplished leader in executive search and talent management with over 30 years of experience across diverse industries, including finance, oil and gas, and technology. Renowned for his strategic vision and operational excellence, Chris has built a reputation for delivering customized workforce solutions, driving business growth, and fostering long-term client relationships. His career highlights include founding and scaling Roneta into a trusted staffing firm, launching successful recruitment practices at national organizations, and managing high-profile product lines at industry-leading companies. With a strong foundation in strategic planning, market intelligence, and innovative problem-solving, Chris combines his deep expertise with exceptional communication and leadership skills to consistently exceed expectations and create lasting impact.

Tina Fellows is a highly accomplished executive with over two decades of experience in non-profit management, project administration, event planning, fundraising, and social media marketing. Known for her conscientious work ethic and strategic thinking, Tina has successfully led large-scale initiatives, including national presentations, volunteer management, and educational conferences. Her expertise spans a wide range of areas, from managing databases and contract compliance to developing impactful communication strategies through newsletters, email campaigns, and social media channels. With a proven track record of driving results and optimizing operational processes, Tina continues to make a significant impact in every role she undertakes, showcasing her leadership and dedication to making a positive difference.

I’m excited to share my professional biography, which highlights my journey through finance, asset management, and consulting. My passion lies in driving results, fostering collaboration, and delivering strategic insights that make a lasting impact.

With over 38 years of experience in academic leadership, curriculum design, and student success initiatives, Hassanali Espahbodi is a dynamic educator and scholar dedicated to fostering excellence in education. A Ph.D. graduate in Business Administration specializing in Accounting, Dr. Espahbodi has spearheaded transformative programs, restructured curricula to meet industry standards, and championed inclusive, equitable learning environments. Recognized for his strategic vision and collaborative leadership, he has authored 29 influential journal articles and contributed to international educational initiatives in Turkey and Russia. Dr. Espahbodi’s unwavering commitment to innovation and mentorship has left an enduring impact on students, faculty, and academic institutions worldwide.

I’m excited to share my professional biography, highlighting my journey in sales, account management, and leadership. Over the past nine years, I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing teams, driving impactful results, and making a difference for my clients and community.

I am thrilled to share my professional biography, which highlights my journey through 30 years of leadership in real estate, healthcare, and operational management. My experiences have shaped my passion for strategic innovation and creating meaningful impacts.

A leader's fulfillment journey is inseparable from their role—it forms the foundation for empathy, connection, and trust. By developing self-awareness across the five life pillars—Health, Fitness, Career, Relationships, and Legacy—leaders can unlock their capacity to inspire and empower others. This framework isn’t about perfection; it’s about balance and integration, fostering a culture where employees bring their best selves to work. Fulfilled leaders create ripple effects, cultivating engaged teams and thriving organizations. Embracing self-aware leadership is not only a pathway to personal growth but also a blueprint for leaving a lasting legacy of fulfillment.

Dr. Barrett Matthews is a seasoned entrepreneur, media expert, and leadership coach with over 37 years of experience across various industries. Known for his unwavering commitment to character and integrity, he has dedicated much of his career to empowering others and creating lasting, positive change in both business and the community. Dr. Matthews brings deep knowledge of leadership development, media production, and strategic entrepreneurship, having worked with international organizations and served as an advisor to the royal throne in Ghana. With his strategic vision, he helps guide businesses and individuals toward sustainable growth, while his engaging communication style as a dynamic speaker and media producer allows him to connect with audiences and inspire action. His personal mission, “You’re Something Special because you are God’s Vessel,” drives his passion for helping others realize their potential and create impactful legacies.