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8:00am EDT
9:00am EDT
General Session-Welcome & Introductory Remarks
Saturday April 12, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Executive Producer, Financial Empowerment Convention
Me’Shae Rolling is a Certified Financial Literacy Educator and is the author of “How to Save Money & Organize Your Finances” as well as a Course Handbook on Financial Education. A serial entrepreneur, she has been in the Special Events, Conference and Hospitality industry for...
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Congressman, U.S. House of Representatives
New York State Senator, New York State Senate
NYS Assembly member, NYS Assembly
County Executive, Onondaga County
County Executive J. Ryan McMahon, II is the 4th County Executive. He assumed office on November 2nd, 2018.Ryan started his career in public service as a Syracuse City Councilor in 2005 after being elected at the age of 25. He was reelected in 2007 for a second term and quickly earned...
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Deputy Mayor, City of Syracuse
Sharon F. Owens, Deputy Mayor of the City of Syracuse oversees city services and programs that address quality of life in our community, including the Neighborhood and Business Development, and Syracuse Police and Fire Departments. Prior to her current appointment, Owens worked for...
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Writer/Director/Producer, Paragon Found Productions
John Ginty is an American filmmaker and entertainer, born in Niagara Falls, New York. He served in the US Army reserves before moving to Denver, where he performed stand-up comedy. His filmmaking career began in 2014 with the feature film "Good Villain" and continued with "From Dust...
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Membership Manager, CenterState CEO
10:00am EDT
10:00am EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session A06 - Pathway to Homeownership
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
CRA Mortgage Loan Officer, M&T Bank
Born and raised in Syracuse, NY. Attended public schools and come from a family of Bankers and Realtors.Valissa decided to follow her father’s footstep in 2017, pursue her Career in Real Estate as a New York License Salesperson. A few years ago, she transitioned to Real Estate Finance...
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Foreclosure Prevention & Housing Counselor, Home HeadQuarters, Inc.
Amanda Pascall is a US Dept. of HUD-certified Housing Counselor, NCHEC-certified Preand post purchase and foreclosure default counselor and 20+ year housing and neighborhooddevelopment veteran. Amanda currently oversees foreclosure prevention and housingcounseling efforts at Home...
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Senior Vice President, Retail Sales Mortgage, M&T Bank
John has been in the Mortgage Sales Industry for over 39 years, 35 years with Central New York's M&T Bank. He has supervised many successful Chairman Club Loan Officers and “Loves to help Buyers dreams come true.” He has served and currently serves on mortgage-related and many...
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10:00am EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session A10 - Video Screenings
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
President & CEO, Third Eye Network, LLC
Dr. Campbell is the founding President and CEO of Third Eye Network, LLC, a multicultural marketing and management strategy consortium serving a diverse national multi-sector clientele. With 22 years of combined experience in small business, higher education, nonprofit, and government...
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President/CEO, Center of Hope International, Inc.
Bishop Ronald B. Dewberry is the founder & CEO of Center of Hope International, Inc., a 501(C)3 with a focus on youth educational and financial literacy, STEM coding, entrepreneurial development and economical inclusion. COHI-INC is the host of the Annual MWBE Entrepreneurial Empowerment...
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CEO & Managing Partner, M.S. Hall + Associates, LLC
Mark has over 40 years of healthcare finance experience, and has served in a number of healthcare executive leadership positions. Mark currently serves as CEO & Managing Partner at M.S. Hall + Associates, providing financial reimbursement services to over 80 hospitals and healthcare...
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Vice-President, Corporate Responsibility & Community Relations Officer for the Capital Region and Central New York, KeyBank, KeyBank
Tamika is a Corporate Responsibility and Community Relations Officer at KeyBank, overseeing community engagement and philanthropic initiatives in the Capital Region and Central New York. She co-founded the Black Women Give Foundation, which funds grassroots non-profits serving communities...
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President & CEO, Founder, Gwen, Inc. and You Can't Fail
Gwen Webber-McLeod is a legacy-building Black woman leader committed to leveraging her success to pave the way for future generations of leaders. Her legacy-building includes a deep understanding of the importance of economic development and financial literacy in the lives of leaders...
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10:00am EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session A05 - Meet the Funders of Syracuse’s Top Foundations: How does local funding work?
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Moderator
Vice-President, Corporate Responsibility & Community Relations Officer for the Capital Region and Central New York, KeyBank, KeyBank
Tamika is a Corporate Responsibility and Community Relations Officer at KeyBank, overseeing community engagement and philanthropic initiatives in the Capital Region and Central New York. She co-founded the Black Women Give Foundation, which funds grassroots non-profits serving communities...
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Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Executive Director and Director of Neighborhood Initatives, The Gifford Foundation
Sheena E. Solomon, Director of Neighborhood Initiatives has been with the Gifford Foundation since 2007. In addition to her work with grant applicants, the grants management team and various initiatives, she also serves as the Foundation’s representative in their community engagement...
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President & CEO, CNY Community Foundation
Melanie Littlejohn is incoming president and CEO of the Central New York Community Foundation, a public charity that that turns community dollars into community change. Established in 1927, it receives contributions from donors, manages them to grow over time and then distributes...
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Executive Director, Allyn Family Foundation
Margaret (Meg) O’Connell serves as Executive Director of the Allyn Family Foundation, a private family foundation focused on building a vibrant, equitable and prosperous community. Prior to joining the Allyn Family Foundation, Meg worked in nonprofit fund development and from 2012-2013...
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10:00am EDT
10:00am EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session A04 - Poverty, Prosperity or Stewardship?
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Executive Pastor, Abundant Life Church
Pastor Jordan Carter is a dedicated family man, loving husband to Faith, and proud father of their two children, Summit and Shiloh. He is an experienced leader and communicator with a rich background in both religious and secular organizations.Serving as the Executive Pastor at Abundant...
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10:00am EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session A07 - Personal accounts of male leaders in our community willing to share their stories of health & medical crises and their road to recovery
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
CNY Regional President, M&T Bank
Steve leads a local team of bankers to create customer strategies and ensure communities across the region, which includes Onondaga, Cayuga, Oswego, Madison, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida and Seneca Counties, are thriving and growing. He is also responsible for overseeing commercial...
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CEO & Managing Partner, M.S. Hall + Associates, LLC
Mark has over 40 years of healthcare finance experience, and has served in a number of healthcare executive leadership positions. Mark currently serves as CEO & Managing Partner at M.S. Hall + Associates, providing financial reimbursement services to over 80 hospitals and healthcare...
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10:00am EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session A08 - Financial Literacy En Español
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Moderator
Community Leader and Puerto Rican Festival Organizer, Puerto Rican Festival Syracuse
Jesus M Rolon is a dedicated Latino leader committed to empowering and uplifting the voices of the Latino community. As the organizer of the Puerto Rican Festival and co-host of the Sabor Latino Radio Show, he actively fosters cultural pride and unity. His mission is to inspire the...
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Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Vice-President, Bilingual Senior Branch Manager, M&T Bank
10:00am EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session A03 - How do you know when it’s time to leave your day job and start or grow a business?
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Moderator
President Emerita, Messenger Associates, Career Strategist and Executive Coach, Messenger Associates
Anne Messenger is a recognized career strategist, executive coach and facilitator of leadership groups. Former president of Messenger Associates, a career management and human resource consulting firm, for nearly 20 years, Anne is an active Central New York community leader, board...
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Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Managing Principal, DKON Consulting Group
Davine Bey is a seasoned talent management executive and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience in the industry. He's has a proven track record of leading teams, and implementing innovative strategies that help organizations attract, retain high performing talent.
President & CEO, Third Eye Network, LLC
Dr. Campbell is the founding President and CEO of Third Eye Network, LLC, a multicultural marketing and management strategy consortium serving a diverse national multi-sector clientele. With 22 years of combined experience in small business, higher education, nonprofit, and government...
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Entrepreneur
Shaneika Ford, MBA is a dynamic entrepreneur, serving as the Owner and Lead Consultant of SMG Consulting Services of CNY and the Owner and Lead Photographer of S’Marie Photography, LLC. With expertise in organizational leadership, crisis management, and strategic planning, Shaneika...
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President, Belesai Communications
Nikita Jankowski is a public relations professional with over 20 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry. As the President and Founder of Belesai Communications, she specializes in managing PR programs and communications initiatives for the travel industry. Nikita...
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10:00am EDT
10:00am EDT
Meet the MWBE VIP Hosts/Hostesses and Ambassadors
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 5:30pm EDT
VIP Host/Hostess
President, A.L. Consulting Group and Alacriti
Abner Larrieux is a seasoned professional with 20 extensive years in Government Contracting, Economic Development and Regulatory Compliance. He has designed, implement and monitored MWBE & DBE compliance and Labor on New York State, mega Construction and Infrastructure programs. In...
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Co-Founder & President/CEO, UpState New York Black Chamber of Commerce
Anthony Gaddy co-founded the UpState New York Black Chamber of Commerce in 2018, following a career in media and publishing. He studied economics at the University of Chicago before transferring to the University of Southern California to focus on business, specifically media and...
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Founder & CEO, Bridge Builder Corp
Barry John is a seasoned systems engineer, entrepreneur, and founder of Bridge Builder Corp, a firm driving innovation in security technology, workforce development, and construction solutions. With 17 years of aerospace and defense experience, he has led multimillion-dollar projects...
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CEO, The Albany Black Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Hailing from Albany, NY, Deshanna C. Wiggins takes pride in her roots as an alumna of the Albany City School District and Clark Atlanta University. Fueled by a deep-seated passion for service, Deshanna is dedicated to making a positive impact on lives and championing equity, diversity...
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President & CEO, Third Eye Network, LLC
Dr. Campbell is the founding President and CEO of Third Eye Network, LLC, a multicultural marketing and management strategy consortium serving a diverse national multi-sector clientele. With 22 years of combined experience in small business, higher education, nonprofit, and government...
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Executive Director, Upstate Minority Economic Alliance
Executive Vice President, NYS Division of Minority & Women’s Business Development
Jason M. Clark, Esq. is the Executive Vice President of the Division of Minority & Women’s Business Development. Prior to joining the Empire State Development, Jason served as Executive Director at Tech:NYC, where he focused on reducing the digital divide and building a tech ecosystem...
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Supplier Diversity Manager, County of Monroe
Matthew Burrell has been Manager of Monroe County’s Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Program since its inception in 2021. In this role he is responsible for the creation, implementation, and management of County’s M/WBE Certification and Utilization Programs. Prior...
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CEO, Diversify NY LLC
Rickey Brown is the CEO and founder of Diversify NY, a New York State certified MBE and technical assistance provider. Diversify New York provides small business development and guidance to newly formed entities.
CEO, CPS Recruitment
Susan Crossett is the owner and CEO of CPS Recruitment, a company she purchased in January 2020. CPS Recruitment delivers customized recruiting solutions and staffing services to businesses on the East Coast. Before acquiring CPS Recruitment, Susan held various roles in the energy...
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President, MWBE Constructors, Inc.
Talia Johnson-Huff is the President and CEO of MWBE Constructors, Inc. with over 15 years of experience empowering minority and women-owned businesses through construction management, certification guidance, and community development. Under her leadership, MWBE Constructors has become...
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10:00am EDT
Meet the LatinX/Hispanic Hosts/Hostesses and Ambassadors
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 5:30pm EDT
VIP Host/Hostess
Chair Central New York Community Foundation /Trustee New York Power Authority /Trustee NYS Housing Finance Agency and SONYMA, Central New York Community Foundation
Bea and her husband, Mike Leonard, are both retired. Bea stays busy being nanny granny to the grands in MD and serving her community through her board service on several state and local boards. At the state level she brings her perspective and commitment to access and inclusion to...
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President, CNY LATINO Media
Founder, Owner, & President of the most direct and effective way to reach the Latino population in Central New York State, with 'bilingual' Hispanic Media Outlets (Newspaper, Radio, Web, Podcasts, Social Media, Events, Emails Blasts).
Community Leader and Puerto Rican Festival Organizer, Puerto Rican Festival Syracuse
Jesus M Rolon is a dedicated Latino leader committed to empowering and uplifting the voices of the Latino community. As the organizer of the Puerto Rican Festival and co-host of the Sabor Latino Radio Show, he actively fosters cultural pride and unity. His mission is to inspire the...
Read More →
Founder and President/CEO, Cueva Contract Inc. dba Interior Innovations
I am the founder and President/CEO of Cueva Contract Inc. dba Interior Innovations. Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, I worked as a designer and space planning consultant prior to launching my business in 2012.Interior Innovations has grown from a home-based business at its inception...
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Editor & Radio/Podcast Producer, CNY LATINO Media
Editor in Chief of a monthly "bilingual" newspaper, the only Hispanic oriented newspaper in Central New York State, AND producer of a weekly "Spanish" Radio show AND 3-times-a-week "Spanish" Podcast show.
10:00am EDT
Green Room for Sponsors, Speakers, Panelists and Presenters sponsored by Brackens Financial Solutions Network
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
President, President of Brackens Financial Solutions Network, LLC (BFSN)
Vicki Brackens, President of Brackens Financial Solutions Network, LLC (BFSN), has over 30 years of experience in financial education and services. After a successful career with Metropolitan Life Financial Services, she associated BFSN with LPL Financial in 2018. Known as “America’s...
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Wealth Consultant/ Financial Planning Associate, Brackens Financial Solutions Network, LLC (BFSN)
Michael, a Syracuse University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Forensic Science, transitioned into a financial advisor role to better serve his community. Passionate about connecting with people, he volunteers with the Ronald McDonald House Charities’ Red Shoe...
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10:00am EDT
Veterans Entrepreneurship sponsored and hosted by The Lender Center at Syracuse University
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Director, Lender Center for Social Justice
Kendall R. Phillips is professor of communication and rhetorical studies at Syracuse University where he also serves as director of the Lender Center for Social Justice.
Senior Research Associate, The Lender Center for Social Justice at SU, Associate Professor, The Whitman School of Management, Syracuse University
Dr. Kira Reed is a native of Chicago and a former commercial lending officer. She received her undergraduate degree in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; her masters in Management, Organizational Behavior, and Marketing at Northwestern University; and her...
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Associate Dean of Business Education, The Whitman School at Syracuse University
Dr. Willie Reddic serves as the associate dean of business education and as an associate professor at the Joseph L. Lubin School of Accounting within the Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University. Before joining Syracuse, he held positions as an associate dean of programs...
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Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Lender Center for Social Justice, Syracuse University
Mauricio Mercado is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Lender Center for Social Justice, Syracuse University. He earned his Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship from Iowa State University. His research focuses on underrepresented racial minority entrepreneurship, examining areas such as resource...
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Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Syracuse University
Yolanda Christophe, PhD is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Syracuse University’s Lender Center for Social Justice. Her research focuses on understanding the dynamics between individuals and broader social institutions in the context of entrepreneurship. One research stream investigates...
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Assistant Professor of Finance, Whitman School of Management, Syracuse University
Ricardo Lopez A. serves as an Assistant Professor of Finance, specializing in empirical methods in asset pricing, financial econometrics, and natural experiment design. His recent research centers on corporate diversity initiatives and their impacts. In a recent paper, he explores...
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Veterans Track,
Veterans and Student Veterans
- about Kendall R. Phillips is professor of communication and rhetorical studies at Syracuse University where he also serves as director of the Lender Center for Social Justice.
12:00pm EDT
1:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session B01 - Understanding, Building & Improving Credit and Managing Debt
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Vice President & Community Manager, JP Morgan Chase & Co
Jason Baribeau is a Community Manager in Syracuse, NY for Community and Business Development. He is a local ambassador for Chase whose job is to build and nurture relationships with key community leaders, nonprofit partners and small businesses at the neighborhood level. Jason hosts...
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1:30pm EDT
1:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session B10 - Vision Boarding
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Powers Wealth Management and Financial Advisor, UBS Financial Services Inc.
Colette's professional and personal life experience has truly shaped the Financial Advisor she is today. Having built and managed with her husband, a successful small business for over 24 years, Colette knows the importance of understanding a client's needs, having a consistent process...
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1:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session B04 - Scholarships & Student Loans: Triage, Hunkering Down in the current climate
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Moderator
Professional Speaker and Entrepreneur, George J. Lynch Excelsior Group LLC
Licensed Real Estate Agent with a career that has lasted since 2016, George J. Lynch is a seasoned real estate agent specializing in commercial and residential properties. Outside of real estate, Lynch is a professional speaker and actively engages in the local community, contributing...
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Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
VP of Scholarships and Student Success Executive Director, Say Yes Syracuse, Central New York Community Foundation
Associate Director for Financial Literacy, Syracuse University
Jessica C. Calhoun is an Associate Director in the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs and the Office of Financial Literacy at Syracuse University. She has been with Syracuse University for over 10 years, spending half the time in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions...
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1:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session B05 - Economic Development and Revitalization the Southwest and Southside of Syracuse
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Moderator
Director of Equity & Community Development, Heuber Breuer Construction Co., Inc.
Laiza Semidey is a dedicated community development professional with extensive experience in driving equity-focused initiatives and managing workforce programs. She has a proven track record of empowering minority businesses and promoting diversity across various industries. Laiza...
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Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Real Estate Project Manager, Allyn Family Foundation
In Cal's role he is focused on creating economic growth through inclusive real estate development projects meaning he will be developing socially equitable real estate development projects in Onondaga County that will address generational poverty and social inequality in our local...
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President & CEO, Syracuse Community Health
Dr. Reid graduated from the Ross University School of Medicine and completed his Internal Medicine Residency at Trinitas Hospital through the School of Health and Medical Sciences at Seton Hall University. He has continued to pursue his education and received his Advanced Executive...
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Colvin Commons, President
Indaria is an award-winning entrepreneur and business development professional dedicated to empowering CEOs, startups, and community leaders across New York. Her work has helped secure over $128 million in funding, with a focus on creating opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs...
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Owners, The Castle
Evelyn and Chino Ingram, a true representation of a power couple, credit the strength of their relationship to a love for God and mutual respect. Their union, established six years ago, has been a testament of God’s favor. Both Evelyn and Chino are well established and have excelled...
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Executive Director, Jubilee Homes of Syracuse, Inc.
Walt has served as Executive Director of Jubilee Homes of Syracuse, Inc. for over 37 years. As Executive Director he has overseen the construction and rehab over 100 properties on the City of Syracuse’s Southwest side utilizing the Time of Jubilee Community Land Trust, Jubilee Homes...
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1:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session B02 - The triumphs and challenges of running a brick-and-mortar business enterprise
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Moderator
President/CEO, Melody’s Coworking & Event Space
Melody R. Smith Johnson, a CNY transplant from Harlem, NY is a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, ordained minister, award-winning entrepreneur, social justice activist, philanthropist and tenacious servant leader dedicated to empowering women and uplifting communities of color. She...
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Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
The Candle Bar by Cocoa’s Candles
Owner, Miss Prissy’s LLC
Dreamer graduated with a BS in Biology from SUNY Albany but life happened and she stopped working in her field of study. It was when her first born daughter passed away that she discovered that cooking was not only her new life but her birth right. Inspired by her grandmother and...
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Owner/Curator/Advocate, Black Citizens Brigade
Cjala Surratt is a passionate advocate for equity and restorative justice in the arts, working to create inclusive, community-centered spaces that amplify the voices of historically excluded artists. A Syracuse University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts graduate, she has...
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Founder and President/CEO, Cueva Contract Inc. dba Interior Innovations
I am the founder and President/CEO of Cueva Contract Inc. dba Interior Innovations. Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, I worked as a designer and space planning consultant prior to launching my business in 2012.Interior Innovations has grown from a home-based business at its inception...
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Owner/Operator, The Guest House
Sharron Pearson has been a hybrid entrepreneur for most of her adult life, combining fulltimeemployment with several side hustles. Currently she owns and operates The Guest House, anine year old venue for hire in East Syracuse, NY. Prior to opening her establishment, sheretired from...
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1:30pm EDT
How Chambers of Commerce can help your business grow and thrive
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Moderator
CEO, The Albany Black Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Hailing from Albany, NY, Deshanna C. Wiggins takes pride in her roots as an alumna of the Albany City School District and Clark Atlanta University. Fueled by a deep-seated passion for service, Deshanna is dedicated to making a positive impact on lives and championing equity, diversity...
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Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Executive Director, Upstate Minority Economic Alliance
Co-Founder & President/CEO, UpState New York Black Chamber of Commerce
Anthony Gaddy co-founded the UpState New York Black Chamber of Commerce in 2018, following a career in media and publishing. He studied economics at the University of Chicago before transferring to the University of Southern California to focus on business, specifically media and...
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Vice President of Member Engagement, CenterState CEO
Jess Murphy is a seasoned leader with expertise in business development, strategic partnerships, and member engagement. As Vice President of Member Engagement at CenterState CEO, she oversees membership recruitment, onboarding, and engagement while collaborating on government relations...
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1:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session B07 - Helping others and achieving success, but at what cost? What does it really take to live the life you dream of and desire apart from earning a living?
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
President & CEO, Founder, Gwen, Inc. and You Can't Fail
Gwen Webber-McLeod is a legacy-building Black woman leader committed to leveraging her success to pave the way for future generations of leaders. Her legacy-building includes a deep understanding of the importance of economic development and financial literacy in the lives of leaders...
Read More →
Executive Producer, Financial Empowerment Convention
Me’Shae Rolling is a Certified Financial Literacy Educator and is the author of “How to Save Money & Organize Your Finances” as well as a Course Handbook on Financial Education. A serial entrepreneur, she has been in the Special Events, Conference and Hospitality industry for...
Read More →
1:30pm EDT
1:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session B03 - The Fine Art of Strategic Networking to get that job or promotion that’s the right fit to advance your career (so you’re never really unemployed)
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Moderator
Performance Consultant & Certified Trainer, Dale Carnegie of CNY
Having spent the past 30+ years in marketing - with a specialty in Recruitment Marketing...moving into employee engagement/leadership development was a natural progression. Jody now helps to retain and engage employees through talent and leadership development with Dale Carnegie...
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Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Managing Principal, DKON Consulting Group
Davine Bey is a seasoned talent management executive and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience in the industry. He's has a proven track record of leading teams, and implementing innovative strategies that help organizations attract, retain high performing talent.
Head of People & Culture, C&S Companies
Nalisa is an accomplished HR leader with over a decade of experience driving HR strategies that align with business goals and foster organizational growth. Currently serving as the Head of People and Culture at C&S Companies, Nalisa specializes in talent acquisition, succession planning...
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Founder, Resurrect Your Resume
With over 25 years of expertise in human resources and career development, I excel at guiding individuals toward meaningful career opportunities through strategic resume writing, skills development, and personalized career coaching.I earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from...
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Sr. HR Business Partner, Dairy Farms of America (DFA)
Tayari Shaw is a Senior HR Leader with over 25 years of progressive experience spanning multiple industries, providing strategic HR partnership to business leaders. With a strong track record in senior-level roles at prominent companies such as Bristol-Myers Squibb and Kraft Heinz...
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Vice President of Human Resources, Onondaga Community College
Monifa A. Wilcox is the vice president of Human Resources for Onondaga Community College. Ms. Wilcox has more than 20 years' experience in the human resources field overseeing the overall administration, coordination, and evaluation of the human resources function, including forming...
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1:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session B09 - Medicaid Financial Preparation
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Chief Operating Officer, Skilled Nursing, LORETTO
Christine Stanford is the Chief Operations Officer [COO] of Skilled Nursing at Loretto. Christine is a long-term Loretto employee with more than 24 years in progressive roles and responsibilities across the organization. She has made significant contributions to our financial management...
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3:30pm EDT
3:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session C10 - Video Screenings
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
President & CEO, Founder, Gwen, Inc. and You Can't Fail
Gwen Webber-McLeod is a legacy-building Black woman leader committed to leveraging her success to pave the way for future generations of leaders. Her legacy-building includes a deep understanding of the importance of economic development and financial literacy in the lives of leaders...
Read More →
President & CEO, Third Eye Network, LLC
Dr. Campbell is the founding President and CEO of Third Eye Network, LLC, a multicultural marketing and management strategy consortium serving a diverse national multi-sector clientele. With 22 years of combined experience in small business, higher education, nonprofit, and government...
Read More →
Vice-President, Corporate Responsibility & Community Relations Officer for the Capital Region and Central New York, KeyBank, KeyBank
Tamika is a Corporate Responsibility and Community Relations Officer at KeyBank, overseeing community engagement and philanthropic initiatives in the Capital Region and Central New York. She co-founded the Black Women Give Foundation, which funds grassroots non-profits serving communities...
Read More →
CEO & Managing Partner, M.S. Hall + Associates, LLC
Mark has over 40 years of healthcare finance experience, and has served in a number of healthcare executive leadership positions. Mark currently serves as CEO & Managing Partner at M.S. Hall + Associates, providing financial reimbursement services to over 80 hospitals and healthcare...
Read More →
President/CEO, Center of Hope International, Inc.
Bishop Ronald B. Dewberry is the founder & CEO of Center of Hope International, Inc., a 501(C)3 with a focus on youth educational and financial literacy, STEM coding, entrepreneurial development and economical inclusion. COHI-INC is the host of the Annual MWBE Entrepreneurial Empowerment...
Read More →
3:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session C04 - The Concrete Ceiling: The Effects of Gendered Racism and Black Women’s Career Mobility
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
President & CEO, Butterfly Community Innovations
Dr. Tatiana C. Parker is a dedicated advocate, educator, and community affairs professional committed to uplifting individuals and advancing community well-being. With expertise in social capital, leadership development, and community advocacy, she supports individuals and organizations...
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College of Social Work, University of Kentucky at Lexington
Dr. Brooks is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the profession for over twenty years. Currently working in Higher Education , for seven years she has also ran her own private practice in the state of KY. Dr. Brooks serves as a part-time faculty instructor in the...
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3:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session C02 - How do I price myself as a Professional Services Consultant, and how do I get paid on time?
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
CEO, CPS Recruitment
Susan Crossett is the owner and CEO of CPS Recruitment, a company she purchased in January 2020. CPS Recruitment delivers customized recruiting solutions and staffing services to businesses on the East Coast. Before acquiring CPS Recruitment, Susan held various roles in the energy...
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Administrative Consultant, Admin-On-Call, LLC
Admin-On-Call, LLC specialize in providing high-level administrative solutions that support entrepreneurs and small business owners on their journey to success. Our mission is to help others succeed by managing the daily tasks that keep the business side of their operations functional...
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Business Owner, Investor, Quality Cleaning NY
Born and raised in Syracuse New York. Husband, Father, Business Owner and Investor.
Founder/CEO, KSF Consolidated LLC
Keonna Franklin is the founder of KSF Consolidated LLC, an accounting and tax preparation firm dedicated to helping small businesses manage their finances. With a background in construction and over five years of accounting experience, she combines industry knowledge with financial...
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Owner/CEO & Sales Manager, PostNet in Syracuse
In July 2018, my family bought an existing PostNet franchise in Syracuse. Shelly became the face of our local PostNet. We operate and run our franchise as a family. We are a woman-owned Small Business.
3:30pm EDT
3:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session C05 - What are various POS (Point of Sale) Instruments available to me as a merchant/vendor?
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Founder & President, ITologist, LLC
ITologist, LLC is a New York State based B2B IT support and service business specializing in white-glove IT solutions. ITologist works with a wide-variety of business types handling infrastructure, cabling, network, security, cameras, point of sale, cloud-based solutions, email migrations...
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3:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session C06 - Arts Entrepreneurship: How to generate income and revenues as a visual and performing artist
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Moderator
Founder, JH Rolling Arts, Education, Leadership Strategies, Interim Chair, Department of African American Studies and Professor of Arts Education, Syracuse University
Dr. James Haywood Rolling, Jr. is Interim Chair of the Department of African American Studies and Professor of Arts Education at Syracuse University. Dr. Rolling earned his BFA in fine art from The Cooper Union, his MFA from Syracuse University, and his doctorate in art education...
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Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Artist: Illustrator, Dollmaker, Curator, Jaleel Campbell Studios
Jaleel Campbell is a New York based artist whose work ranges from illustration, curating, directing, performing and the latest, Doll making. Jaleel attained his BFA in Visual Communications with a specialization in Graphic Design from Cazenovia College and his MFA in Media Arts...
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Freelance Illustrator, London Ladd Studio
London Ladd has featured artwork in numerous picture books, newspapers, magazines, and community-based murals. He received recognition from the American Library Association, Society of Illustrators, Communication Arts, American Illustration, and World Illustration Awards and has been...
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Owner & Band Leader & Producer, The DeSantis Orchestra
Maria DeSantis is the owner, bandleader, vocalist, of The Legendary DeSantis Orchestra, founded by her father Mario DeSantis 78 years ago, the first performance on May 22, 1947 at Syracuse’s Lincoln Auditorium. Bringing together the area’s legendary musicians and vocalists of...
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3:30pm EDT
3:30pm EDT
Concurrent Breakout Session B08 for the LatinX/Hispanic Track - Pending/TBA
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
VIP Host/Hostess
Chair Central New York Community Foundation /Trustee New York Power Authority /Trustee NYS Housing Finance Agency and SONYMA, Central New York Community Foundation
Bea and her husband, Mike Leonard, are both retired. Bea stays busy being nanny granny to the grands in MD and serving her community through her board service on several state and local boards. At the state level she brings her perspective and commitment to access and inclusion to...
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President, CNY LATINO Media
Founder, Owner, & President of the most direct and effective way to reach the Latino population in Central New York State, with 'bilingual' Hispanic Media Outlets (Newspaper, Radio, Web, Podcasts, Social Media, Events, Emails Blasts).
Community Leader and Puerto Rican Festival Organizer, Puerto Rican Festival Syracuse
Jesus M Rolon is a dedicated Latino leader committed to empowering and uplifting the voices of the Latino community. As the organizer of the Puerto Rican Festival and co-host of the Sabor Latino Radio Show, he actively fosters cultural pride and unity. His mission is to inspire the...
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Founder and President/CEO, Cueva Contract Inc. dba Interior Innovations
I am the founder and President/CEO of Cueva Contract Inc. dba Interior Innovations. Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, I worked as a designer and space planning consultant prior to launching my business in 2012.Interior Innovations has grown from a home-based business at its inception...
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Editor & Radio/Podcast Producer, CNY LATINO Media
Editor in Chief of a monthly "bilingual" newspaper, the only Hispanic oriented newspaper in Central New York State, AND producer of a weekly "Spanish" Radio show AND 3-times-a-week "Spanish" Podcast show.
3:30pm EDT
5:00pm EDT
Closing Ceremonies
LIMITED
Saturday April 12, 2025 5:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Executive Producer, Financial Empowerment Convention
Me’Shae Rolling is a Certified Financial Literacy Educator and is the author of “How to Save Money & Organize Your Finances” as well as a Course Handbook on Financial Education. A serial entrepreneur, she has been in the Special Events, Conference and Hospitality industry for...
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Writer/Director/Producer, Paragon Found Productions
John Ginty is an American filmmaker and entertainer, born in Niagara Falls, New York. He served in the US Army reserves before moving to Denver, where he performed stand-up comedy. His filmmaking career began in 2014 with the feature film "Good Villain" and continued with "From Dust...
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6:00pm EDT
FinancialFest: Indoor Street Festival and Block Party
Saturday April 12, 2025 6:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Speakers, Presenters, Panelist...
Executive Producer, Financial Empowerment Convention
Me’Shae Rolling is a Certified Financial Literacy Educator and is the author of “How to Save Money & Organize Your Finances” as well as a Course Handbook on Financial Education. A serial entrepreneur, she has been in the Special Events, Conference and Hospitality industry for...
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LaKisa Renee Entertainment, Lè Du Jour Beauty & Wellness & Tales From The Media
LaKisa Terrell (LaKisa Renee) is a dynamic Media Professional, Journalist, Host, Model, Award-Winning Makeup Artist and Certified Qigong Healing Teacher. She is the Founder of LaKisa Renee Entertainment, a media, fashion, and events company, as well as Lè Du Jour Beauty & Wellness...
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Financial Empowerment Convention