Agenda

Trevor Boylston

Economic Inclusion Manager
Boston Scientific

Pritesh Patel

Principal Analyst, SD & Engagement
Constellation Energy

Pritesh Patel serves as the Principal Analyst for Supplier Development and Engagement at Constellation, where he leads initiatives that drive inclusive procurement strategies and supplier diversity across the energy sector. In his current role, he collaborates closely with internal stakeholders and external partners to expand access for small and diverse businesses, thereby shaping a more competitive and resilient supplier ecosystem. He is passionate about building meaningful partnerships with a wide array of suppliers and has played a crucial role in expanding Constellation’s engagement within the communities it serves.

Prior to this position, Pritesh held roles as a Senior Chemist and subsequently a Senior Instructor of Engineering at one of Constellation’s Clean Energy Centers. His transition from technical operations to Supplier Development and Engagement reflects a career-long commitment to operational excellence, continuous learning and improvement, and thoughtful innovation.

Pritesh holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Loyola University Chicago and an MBA with a Project Management Specialization from Seton Hill University. He is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Pritesh is a regular contributor to national supplier development forums and is proud to represent Constellation as a Roundtable Leader at CelebrASIAN.

Randy Brown

Sr. Manager, Supplier Diversity
Denny's

Randy Brown is the Sr. Manager, Supplier Diversity for Denny’s. The award-winning executive i charged with managing and expanding the company’s supplier diversity program. Brown works closely to identify procurement opportunities around the country with certified diverse companies, including small disadvantaged, minority business enterprises, veteran-owned, woman business enterprises, LGBTQ+owned, disabled veteran-owned or disabled-owned. Prior to joining Denny’s, he played an instrumental role at Emory University in winning the Jesse L.Moore's2021 Supplier Diversity Award from Insight into Diversity.

The Georgia Minority Supplier Diversity Council also awarded Emory its George Lottier Rising Star Award during Brown’s tenure at the university. Brown has served on Emory University’s Business Diversity Council, National Minority Supplier Diversity Council Mentor Program, and the Georgia Minority Supplier Diversity Council’s Executive Council. He is currently aboard advisor for Spectrum Autism, a board member of Encourage Men Ministries Inc., and a member of the Georgia State University Entrepreneurship & Innovation Institute Strategic Planning Ecosystem Subcommittee. Brown received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson School of Business.

Antoine Hinton

Sr. Director, Small Business Development
Dollar General

Dallas Simmons

SD Program Manager
Domion Energy

Kimberley Thompson

G.D. & Inclusion Leader
Edwards Lifesciences

Inclusion thought leader, diversity, inclusion and equity strategist, culture changer, influencer, internal and relationship architect with over 15 + years related experience in diversity and inclusion design, management and community engagement.

Currently practicing D&I in the healthcare industry. Prior to that spent 12 years at Starbucks Coffee Company, providing D&I subject matter expertise, best practices, tools and strategic consultation across the corporate and retail businesses.

Kimberley has a Bachelor’s Degree in Science, Sociology (Race Relations and Education) from University of California, Los Angeles. She holds several certifications: D&I from eCornell, Unconscious Bias and Cultural Intelligence training.

Outside of work, Kimberley enjoys listening to podcasts and running, spending time with her husband, George, and children George, Alexander (twins) and Grace.

Jim Flynn

Executive Director
JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Debra Quade

S.D. Manager
Kellanova

Debra Quade is the Supplier Diversity Manager at Kellogg Company. Prior to joining Kellogg, she served as Supplier Diversity Specialist at Toyota Boshoku America in Erlanger, Kentucky and Magna Donnelly in Holland, Michigan.

Debra serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce in addition to leading a MiDiCo module for supplier inclusion and opportunity. She represents Kellogg Company on the National Minority Supplier Development Council Working Group, and the Corporate Advisory Council for the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce in addition to participating on the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council Programs Committee, the Food Marketing Institute Group Supplier Diversity Committee, WEConnect International Agricultural Industry Group and the Food & Beverage Industry Group.

Laura Flamm

Impact Spending
Kaiser Permanente

Dianca Kelly

Regional Liason, Buy to Pay Impact Spending
Kaiser Permanente

Dianca Kelly joined Kaiser Permanente in December 2015 as a Contracts Administrator with National Facilities Services, now known as National Facilities Design and Construction (NFDC). In this role, she collaborated with project delivery teams to establish contract strategies, provided subject matter expertise for the implementation, execution, and administration of construction, design, and specialty services contracts, and developed critical contract documents and processes for the organization’s major construction and maintenance projects. In 2017, Dianca became a Supplier Diversity Champion for the Mid-Atlantic States market, where her contributions were instrumental in helping the region consistently achieve its Tier 1 and Tier 2 Supplier Diversity spend goals.

In November 2024, Dianca transitioned to Buy to Pay Impact Spending as a Regional Liaison, focusing on increasing spending and contract opportunities with vendors in markets outside of California. In her new role, she connects small, local diverse vendors with contract opportunities, supports responses to Requests for Proposals (RFPs) that include special spend requirements, and ensures compliance with the organization’s goals and standards.

Sarah Porter

Vice President
Kelly Services

Sarah Porter is the Vice President of Government Solutions at Kelly Services, leading sales, and operations for Kelly Government Solutions (KGS). KGS is part of Kelly’s Science, Engineering, Technology, and Telecom division, specializing in outsourced solutions for the federal government in Science & Clinical, Healthcare, Technology, and Professional services. Sarah holds an MBA and is a certified Project Manager. With nearly 20 years of government industry experience, including her former role as a Program Manager at the National Institutes of Health, Sarah has a deep understanding of the complexities of the sector.

Jessica Lozano Williams

Head of Responsible Sourcing
MassMutual

Jessica Lozano Williams is the Head of Supplier Diversity at MassMutual. Her responsibilities include leading the company's Responsible Sourcing vision, mission, goals, and initiatives, while providing support to category teams by bringing innovative suppliers forward for consideration. Her involvement in the Supplier Diversity industry includes National and Local non-profit organizations that support diverse owned companies (ethnic minority, women, LGBT, veteran, and/or disabled owned companies). She serves as the Vice-Chair for the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce Procurement Council and has also served on numerous committees and participated in panels across the country.

Prior to her time at MassMutual, Jessica spent sixteen years at Target Corporation, leading their Supplier Diversity program, as well as various other roles in procurement and recruiting. Jessica received her undergraduate degree in Sociology with an emphasis in Law, Criminology, and Deviance from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities.  In her free time, she likes to spend time with her family, including her husband and two sassy children.

Deborah Robinson

Procurement Manager
MGM Resort International

Tobias Thornwell

Regional Director of Global Business Impact
MGM Resort International

Tobias Thornwell is the Senior Strategic Sourcing Manager for MGM National Harbor, a $1.4 billion resort and casino located on the banks of the Potomac River in National Harbor, MD. He is responsible for developing and overseeing all procurement activities including vendor sourcing, purchasing, vendor contracts, and supplier diversity for the property. Mr. Thornwell is focused on ensuring that MGM National Harbor continues to meet or exceed its spending goals with certified diverse suppliers with the State of Maryland and Prince George’s County.

Mr. Thornwell has more than 12 years of purchasing and supply chain management experience in the food service industry. Prior to joining MGM National Harbor, Mr. Thornwell served as National Product Manager/Regional Buyer at The Chef’s Warehouse in Hanover, MD, and Lead COP Buyer/Product Line Manager at US Foods in Severn, MD.

Mr. Thornwell earned a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of Maryland, College Park (Go Terps!). He also holds a Certified Purchasing Manager certification (C.P.M.), and a Certified Professional in Supply Management certification (CPSM) from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). Mr. Thornwell is originally from the Bronx, New York and enjoys traveling.

Drew H. Misher

Vice President of Procurement
Penn Entertainment

Drew Misher is the Vice President of Procurement for PENN Entertainment, Inc.

Mr. Misher is responsible for PENN’s Procurement Operations including Strategic Sourcing, eProcurement as well as property purchasing and warehouse. Mr. Misher also plays an active role in managing PENN’s Supplier Diversity program.

Prior to joining PENN in 2017, Mr. Misher worked in procurement for 20 years across various industries including pharmaceuticals, banking/finance and the public sector. He has considerable experience in developing national and global procurement organizations and transitioning the function into a high performing value-added operation.

Drew was born and raised outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and received his Bachelor of the Arts in International Relations from The College of William and Mary where he was a member of the Division 1 Varsity Soccer Team. He also received his Master of Business Administration from Temple University. He resides in Villanova, PA with his wife and three children.

Bridget Carter

Manager, Supplier Diversity
Penn Entertainment

Joyce Eggers

Global Lead of S.D.
Takeda Pharmaceuticals

Joyce Eggers is a passionate Supplier Diversity expert with over 20 years of experience in the Life Sciences industry. Joyce is responsible for providing the leadership for Takeda to grow and develop a sustainable diversity, equity, and inclusion program for suppliers.

Supported by and aligned with Takeda’s overall DE&I strategy, her expertise and passion for fostering an inclusive and innovative supply chain drives positive impact in the global communities in which our patients, employees, and customers live and work, guided by Takeda’s commitment to patients, our people, and the planet.

In her role, Joyce also serves as an advocate, mentor, and coach for small and/or diverse suppliers and is actively involved with numerous NGOs and advocacy groups focusing on supplier mentoring, development, diversity, and inclusion.

Chasity Chatmon

Procurement Officer
USPS

Susan McGowan

Manager of Supplier Outreach
USPS

Trung Tieu

Supplier Diversity Global Procurement Manager
Wells Fargo

Doug Kelly

Chief Executive Officer
American Edge Project

Minh Le

Chief Technology Officer
Denny's

Antoine Hinton

Sr. Director, Small Business Development
Dollar General

Drew H. Misher

Vice President of Procurement
Penn Entertainment

Drew Misher is the Vice President of Procurement for PENN Entertainment, Inc.

Mr. Misher is responsible for PENN’s Procurement Operations including Strategic Sourcing, eProcurement as well as property purchasing and warehouse. Mr. Misher also plays an active role in managing PENN’s Supplier Diversity program.

Prior to joining PENN in 2017, Mr. Misher worked in procurement for 20 years across various industries including pharmaceuticals, banking/finance and the public sector. He has considerable experience in developing national and global procurement organizations and transitioning the function into a high performing value-added operation.

Drew was born and raised outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and received his Bachelor of the Arts in International Relations from The College of William and Mary where he was a member of the Division 1 Varsity Soccer Team. He also received his Master of Business Administration from Temple University. He resides in Villanova, PA with his wife and three children.

Sophie Zhai

VP of Business Development
Universal Processing

Kathy Clem

Executive Director
Allegis Global Soutions

Kathy Clem is an Executive Director with Allegis Global Solutions (AGS). AGS helps organizations around the world understand the most efficient and effective ways to get work done and secure the talent and resources to drive growth and success. They shape the future by designing and managing workforce solutions for over 35 years and across 60+ countries. From contingent and flexible workforce engagements to services procurement and employee recruiting, AGS universal workforce solutions cover the breadth of talent opportunity, so companies can leverage the total extended workforce as a strategic competitive advantage.

With 25 years of talent acquisition experience covering all aspects of human capital management solutions, Clem is consistently engaged in complex and strategic engagements while helping major corporations transform the way they acquire talent. Working globally, Clem has led a wide range of large-scale organizational transformational projects, managed client SLA/KPIs, technology roadmaps, including enabling strategies to ensure on-time project delivery and cost savings. The scope of her current position includes client enablement, oversight of implementation of multiple products and services, recruitment marketing, market and business analytics and delivery. Known as a trusted advisor, people leader, client centric and enthusiastic professional, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership by driving for greater efficiencies.

Clem’s knowledge, operational excellence, strategic agility and change management also led to taking on a role leading AGS’ external inclusion and diversity strategy. She is a member of AGS’ Regional Inclusion Council and was named SIA’s 2021 &2023 Global Power 150 Women in Staffing.

Moreover, Clem's commitment extends beyond the corporate realm into the heart of the community. She is an ardent advocate for social responsibility and actively engages in philanthropic endeavors. Her dedication to giving back is evidenced by her involvement in numerous charitable initiatives and community outreach programs.

As a compassionate leader, she places immense value on team building, and fostering an inclusive, supportive environment. Clem is devoted to nurturing talent and empowering her teams to reach their fullest potential, ensuring that each member feels valued and integral to collective success. Her empathetic approach and unwavering support for her colleagues underscore her belief that a cohesive, motivated team is the cornerstone of any thriving organization.

Amanda Hammett

Co-Founder & CEO
Core Elevation, Inc.,

Amanda Hammett is the Co-Founder and CEO of Core Elevation, Inc., leadership development consulting firm focused on leveraging the recruitment and retention of next generation talent for higher levels of retention, productivity and profitability.

Amanda was nicknamed the Millennial Translator® when she barnstormed North America delivering over 800 keynote speeches in 5 years to 1,000,000+ charged up Millennial and Gen Z’s ready to take on the business world. Amanda’s deep understanding and work in the trenches with Millennials and Gen Z’s led corporate executives and global leaders to pursue her as THE thought leader in helping them connect to the very audience they were struggling to understand and retain.

Amanda’s belief that if you do not understand the next generation, you cannot keep them as employees OR as customers has driven research from within numerous industries which helped organizations build strategies to revamp recruiting, leadership development and employee retention practices.

Her global clients include Fortune 500s such as Cisco, ADP, Valvoline, Ingersoll Rand and Emerson as well as leading global industry associations such as the Global Association of Association Executives, Women Business Enterprise Network Council and the European Vending Association.

Amanda shares her expertise and experiences on her popular business podcast, Next Generation Rockstars

and as co-host of the forthcoming podcast, Win(e)d Down Wednesdays: A Midweek Discussion on Diversity, Inclusion, Intersectionality, and Equality. Additionally, Amanda sits on multiple boards focused on diversity and inclusion such as the US Pan Asian-American Chamber of Commerce-South East Region (USPAACC-SE), the Women Business Enterprise Network Council (WBENC) NextGen Board and the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Foundation of Georgia.

Minh Le

Chief Technology Officer
Denny's

Terry Hsiao

Adjunct Professor
George Washington University

Terry Hsiao is an entrepreneur, advisor, and investor with extensive experience in mobile messaging, payment, and fintech. He has founded multiple companies in mobile that got acquired by Sybase, Verifone, and Kaleyra where he helped its recent public listing on NYSE:KLR in November 2019.

Mr. Hsiao served on the board of Virginia’s Center of Innovation and Technology, a state-funded economic development and investment agency. Terry is a current adjunct professor at Marymount University. He also serves as the President of Monte Jade DC, representing Asian American business leaders and entrepreneurs for 25 years. He also founded and leads the DC MIT Alum Angel Group.

Terry received a BSEE Honors degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Rutgers University and a Master’s degree in Management of Technology from MIT Sloan.

LaNeisha Littleton

President
iHealth360

Vivian Young

Global Head of Asian & Pacific Islander Affairs
JPMorgan Chase

Vivian Young has over 15 years of leadership experience in the financial services industry. In her current role as global head of Asian & Pacific Islander Affairs for JPMorgan Chase, Vivian is responsible for developing a leading a global, unified strategy to advance equity and inclusion for the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) community. Key focus areas include driving opportunity and progress through increased cultural understanding and collaboration; raising awareness about cultural identity and the challenges faced by underserved individuals and communities; supporting API communities globally through public advocacy, economic inclusion and community development.

Prior to joining JPMorgan Chase, Vivian spent 7 years at Charles Schwab Advisor Services, where she was responsible for strategy, execution and management of the Family Office and Investment Consultant client segment. She also served as business lead on new product initiatives for trust products, ETFs, mutual funds and separately managed accounts. Previous to Charles Schwab, Vivian was a relationship manager and team lead at U.S. Trust Company of New York providing financial planning services to high net worth individuals and families in the Wealth Management division.

Vivian Joined JPMorgan Chase in 2012 leading strategic initiatives for the Product and Platform team in the Private Bank and J.P.Morgan Wealth Management. She was responsible for product management, development and expansion of Trusts & Estates services, donor advised fund, and financial planning tools. She most recently was global head of Bank Product Marketing in Asset & Wealth Management, developing strategies to deepen client relationships and drive business growth. Working in partnership with Product leadership in banking, lending, mortgage, annuities, trusts and estates, and cyber and fraud, Vivian lead the content development and implementation of strategic marketing programs.

Vivian received a BA in Political Science from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.

She resides in New York City with her husband and two children.

Learn more about Vivian:

⦁ Office of Asian & Pacific Islander Affairs at JPMorgan Chase https://www.jpmorganchase.com/...

⦁ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vi...

⦁ Bringing a cultural lens to her community: Women on the Move podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episo...

Sabrina Sayoc

Senior Corporate Recruiter
Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom

Doris Li Yeh

CEO & Co-Founder
Mirapath

Doris Li Yeh is the CEO and Founder of Mirapath, a Datacenter Critical Infrastructure Total Solution Provider. . In her role, Doris drives growth strategy for the company using Mirapath’s four core values: relationships matter, commitment to excellence, results driven, and strive for innovation and excellence – while having fun and enjoying the journey together. She is passionate about leadership development, women empowerment and cutting-edge technology related to platform development in the data center and IoT space paired with AI and Automation.

Mirapath ‘s was #54 fastest-growing women-owned business. In 2017, the company was on the Fast 100 Asian American Business by USPAACC, the CRN Fast Growth 150, and the CRN Solution Provider 500, as well as the #6 Biggest Minority-Owned Business by Silicon Valley Business Journal.

Doris holds a BSEE from the University of São Paulo and graduated in 2018 from the prestigious Harvard Business School Owner President Management (OPM52) program. She was nominated Silicon Valley Women of Influence in 2018 by Silicon Valley Business Journal, 2018 Enterprising Women Award, 100 Fast USPAAC Company and Infrastrastructure Mason IM100 2020 Recipient . She is a proud Platinum member of Women President Organization, Co-Chair USPAAC WISE ( Women Initiative for Strategic Empowerment) and advisory boartd of USPAAC-West. Doris is fluent in English, Mandarin, and Portuguese.

Misty Dervic

Vice President
Radstad Enterprise

Carolyn Joshua

President & CEO
Trilyon, Inc.

Carolyn Joshua is the President and CEO of Trilyon, Inc., a leading content management, documentation, and technology services provider for Fortune 500 companies. Under Carolyn's exceptional leadership, Trilyon has earned notable recognition, including the esteemed 2023 Fast 100 Asian American Business Award from USPAACC. Her outstanding achievements have also been acknowledged through the prestigious Enterprising Women of the Year Award in 2023. Furthermore, she has been honored as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of San Francisco for 2023 by Women We Admire, highlighting her significant contributions to the business community.

In addition to her role at Trilyon, Carolyn holds a board position at the US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce (USPAACC West), a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering economic growth and promoting diversity through leadership, education, and business networking. Carolyn also plays a pivotal role as the Co-Chair of USPAACC WISE (Women Initiative for Strategic Empowerment), spearheading initiatives that empower and advance women professionals in the business world.

Carolyn serves as a General Partner at Early Equity Capital Advisors, specializing in late-stage technology startups. Additionally, she contributes to How Women Invest as an LP, a venture capital firm focused on promoting women-led companies and advancing women leaders within the venture capital ecosystem. Carolyn's commitment to diversity and inclusivity is further exemplified through her role as a global advisor for the Women Leaders for the World Fellowship Program. This transformative leadership training program empowers social change innovators and industry disruptors to create positive impacts on society.

Dale Shintani

Senior Vice President
Wells Fargo

Dale Shintani is a Senior Vice President at Wells Fargo. In addition to being a strategy and planning leader in her day job, she also serves as the strategy chair for Wells Fargo’s internal women’s employee resource network with over 25K members. She has also focused on supporting small businesses for much of her career through various leadership roles including head of Customer Experience, Digital Strategy, and business manager of a business line of credit portfolio all while continuing to be a Diversity Equity and Inclusion champion.

Passionate about mentoring emerging leaders, Dale regularly delivers talks on women’s empowerment in business and was a frequent leadership speaker in an Asian American Pacific Islander Diverse Leaders program. Dale lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband Mark and daughters Claire and Katie.

Ann Anjali Ramakumaran

Founder & CEO
Ampcus, Inc.

Ann Ramakumaran is the Founder and CEO of Ampcus Inc a technology savvy entrepreneur with more than 10 years of contribution towards the design and development of software services and delivery of Information Technology services. Under her leadership, she has grown Ampcus Inc into a fast-growing consulting and professional services firm.

She has been awarded as the top Asian American owned businesses by USPAACC for 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 and 50 fastest growing women owned businesses in the CONUS by the Women Presidents Organization for the years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. Ampcus Inc made the Inc 500/5000 list for the years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. Ampcus Inc has also been recognized as the Top diversity business for the years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014.

Ann has helped fortune 2000 companies with their enterprise-wide customized solutions. She reports to the board and drives the company to attain its vision of being one of the largest Professional services companies globally. She has been involved in executing a consultative methodology to define, qualify, and quantify the clients’ targeted and strategic IT and business objectives and from this, develop solutions to proactively address current and evolving needs and projects.

Ann holds her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in business and commercial management from India. She has also completed an executive management program from the Robins School of Management, University of Richmond.

Rich Szellan

SVP Merchandising Operations
Dollar General Corporation

Stéphane Masson

Strategic Advisor to CEOs & Boards | Retired Senior Vice President, Global Procurement
Marriott International

Stephane entered the hospitality industry in 1990 and has a degree in Hotel Business Administration. His career began with Holiday Inn and later he joined the Ramada/ Renaissance group to set up their purchasing department in Eschborn (Germany) covering EMEA. In 1997, Stephane was named Regional Director of Procurement for Continental Europe, overseeing Marriott’s procurement operations to drive margins optimization from contract programs and provide services and savings to our regional teams and owners. In 2002 Stephane was promoted to Vice President International Procurement, managing successfully procurement functions in London, Dubai, Shanghai, Sydney, Bangkok, Eschborn, Paris, Cap Town, Hong Kong and Mumbai. He was responsible for assisting our hotels to maximize buying leverage, providing support to ensure compliance and monitoring service levels of vendors.

As the leader of the Global Procurement Team, Stephane who is a 23-year veteran with Marriott, successfully led the team through the Starwood hotels acquisition, which added ,500 hotels to the 4,000 already supported by the team.

In 2017 Stephane was promoted to Senior Vice President and continues to develop opportunities by leading a team to manage and deploy global key procurement initiatives and strategies including an EProcurement tool which is scalable, environmentally responsible, increases synergies between domestic and international contacts and advances global supplier diversity.

Susanna Webber

Senior Vice President & Chief Procurement Officer
Merck

Susanna Webber currently serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer for Merck. In this role, Susanna is responsible for all aspects of strategic procurement (Indirect, Direct and Research & Development), supplier development and performance management, process, operations, and strategy, as well as, the global workplace enterprise services, which is Merck’s facilities and real estate portfolio.

Prior to this role, Susanna served as Vice President, Indirect Sourcing and Operations organization for Merck, responsible for leading the simplification of the purchasing process, supplier performance management, data standardization and transparency by embracing a culture of service mindset while driving efficiencies and innovation in support of the launch and growth of key products that provide benefit to society.

Under Susanna’s leadership, Merck gained a seat at the Billion Dollar Roundtable. In addition, Merck has been recognized as Top Global Champion in Supplier Diversity & Inclusion by WEConnect International, America’s Top Corporation for WBEs by WBENC, Corporation of the Year by NMSDC, Corporation of the Year for Disability-Owned Businesses by Disability:IN, and Best of the Best Corporation for Inclusion by National LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce (NLGCC) and National Business Inclusion Consortium (NBIC).

Susanna has an extensive supply chain, procurement, finance, operations, sales, and business development background that spans more than 20 years and includes senior positions in both the pharmaceutical manufacturing and auto manufacturing industries. Susanna has served in several executive positions at General Motors (GM), including general manager and president of GM in Russia and vice president, Global Purchasing & Supply Chain for GM Europe. Her accomplishments have earned her recognition as one of the Top 15 Chief Procurement Officers by DiversityPlus Magazine in 2023.

Susanna serves on the board of directors for NMSDC in the capacity of Vice-Chair and is an active member of World 50 Group.

Susanna holds an undergraduate degree in business administration and management from Southern Methodist University, and a Master of International Management from Thunderbird School of Global Management.

Drew H. Misher

Vice President of Procurement
Penn Entertainment

Drew Misher is the Vice President of Procurement for PENN Entertainment, Inc.

Mr. Misher is responsible for PENN’s Procurement Operations including Strategic Sourcing, eProcurement as well as property purchasing and warehouse. Mr. Misher also plays an active role in managing PENN’s Supplier Diversity program.

Prior to joining PENN in 2017, Mr. Misher worked in procurement for 20 years across various industries including pharmaceuticals, banking/finance and the public sector. He has considerable experience in developing national and global procurement organizations and transitioning the function into a high performing value-added operation.

Drew was born and raised outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and received his Bachelor of the Arts in International Relations from The College of William and Mary where he was a member of the Division 1 Varsity Soccer Team. He also received his Master of Business Administration from Temple University. He resides in Villanova, PA with his wife and three children.

Ann Anjali Ramakumaran

Founder & CEO
Ampcus, Inc.

Ann Ramakumaran is the Founder and CEO of Ampcus Inc a technology savvy entrepreneur with more than 10 years of contribution towards the design and development of software services and delivery of Information Technology services. Under her leadership, she has grown Ampcus Inc into a fast-growing consulting and professional services firm.

She has been awarded as the top Asian American owned businesses by USPAACC for 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 and 50 fastest growing women owned businesses in the CONUS by the Women Presidents Organization for the years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. Ampcus Inc made the Inc 500/5000 list for the years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. Ampcus Inc has also been recognized as the Top diversity business for the years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014.

Ann has helped fortune 2000 companies with their enterprise-wide customized solutions. She reports to the board and drives the company to attain its vision of being one of the largest Professional services companies globally. She has been involved in executing a consultative methodology to define, qualify, and quantify the clients’ targeted and strategic IT and business objectives and from this, develop solutions to proactively address current and evolving needs and projects.

Ann holds her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in business and commercial management from India. She has also completed an executive management program from the Robins School of Management, University of Richmond.

Maitjian Welke

Western Chapter President | Founder and Chief Security Officer
USPAACC | CMIT Solutions

Maitjian Welke is the Founder and Chief Security Officer of CMIT Solutions Silicon Valley which is an IT Managed Service Provider specializes in IT infrastructure, Cyber Security, IT Consulting & CIO/CISO services. Maitjian Welke has Computer Science background and extensive IT & Software Engineering experience of over 20 years working in fortune 500 corporations including IBM, SUN, CISCO, AMEX, NCR, VMware and GOOD Technology. Maitjian Welke started their company CMIT Solutions of Silicon Valley in 2009 and continue to grow with two acquisitions. As an active VAR Channel Partner for fortune 500 computer manufacturers, she has been recognized in the Women of the Channel by CRN Magazine every year since 2015 for her leadership and accomplishments. Maitjian and her team are passionate about helping businesses and corporations with their Technology and Cyber Security. Maitjian recently developed a Cyber Security in Supply Chain course for University of California Santa Cruz extension and has been teaching it since 2021. She had been invited to be on Cyber Security Panelists for a number of Cyber Security Summits and Expos in San Jose, Fresno and Los Angeles and provided a number of Cyber Security webinars for professionals in recent years. Maitjian also volunteered and served on three Boards - Board of Industry Council for Small Business Development, USPAACC Western Chapter and Alameda County Employer Advisory Council.

Vivian Young

Global Head of Asian & Pacific Islander Affairs
JPMorgan Chase

Vivian Young has over 15 years of leadership experience in the financial services industry. In her current role as global head of Asian & Pacific Islander Affairs for JPMorgan Chase, Vivian is responsible for developing a leading a global, unified strategy to advance equity and inclusion for the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) community. Key focus areas include driving opportunity and progress through increased cultural understanding and collaboration; raising awareness about cultural identity and the challenges faced by underserved individuals and communities; supporting API communities globally through public advocacy, economic inclusion and community development.

Prior to joining JPMorgan Chase, Vivian spent 7 years at Charles Schwab Advisor Services, where she was responsible for strategy, execution and management of the Family Office and Investment Consultant client segment. She also served as business lead on new product initiatives for trust products, ETFs, mutual funds and separately managed accounts. Previous to Charles Schwab, Vivian was a relationship manager and team lead at U.S. Trust Company of New York providing financial planning services to high net worth individuals and families in the Wealth Management division.

Vivian Joined JPMorgan Chase in 2012 leading strategic initiatives for the Product and Platform team in the Private Bank and J.P.Morgan Wealth Management. She was responsible for product management, development and expansion of Trusts & Estates services, donor advised fund, and financial planning tools. She most recently was global head of Bank Product Marketing in Asset & Wealth Management, developing strategies to deepen client relationships and drive business growth. Working in partnership with Product leadership in banking, lending, mortgage, annuities, trusts and estates, and cyber and fraud, Vivian lead the content development and implementation of strategic marketing programs.

Vivian received a BA in Political Science from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.

She resides in New York City with her husband and two children.

Learn more about Vivian:

⦁ Office of Asian & Pacific Islander Affairs at JPMorgan Chase https://www.jpmorganchase.com/...

⦁ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vi...

⦁ Bringing a cultural lens to her community: Women on the Move podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episo...

Susanna Webber

Senior Vice President & Chief Procurement Officer
Merck

Susanna Webber currently serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer for Merck. In this role, Susanna is responsible for all aspects of strategic procurement (Indirect, Direct and Research & Development), supplier development and performance management, process, operations, and strategy, as well as, the global workplace enterprise services, which is Merck’s facilities and real estate portfolio.

Prior to this role, Susanna served as Vice President, Indirect Sourcing and Operations organization for Merck, responsible for leading the simplification of the purchasing process, supplier performance management, data standardization and transparency by embracing a culture of service mindset while driving efficiencies and innovation in support of the launch and growth of key products that provide benefit to society.

Under Susanna’s leadership, Merck gained a seat at the Billion Dollar Roundtable. In addition, Merck has been recognized as Top Global Champion in Supplier Diversity & Inclusion by WEConnect International, America’s Top Corporation for WBEs by WBENC, Corporation of the Year by NMSDC, Corporation of the Year for Disability-Owned Businesses by Disability:IN, and Best of the Best Corporation for Inclusion by National LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce (NLGCC) and National Business Inclusion Consortium (NBIC).

Susanna has an extensive supply chain, procurement, finance, operations, sales, and business development background that spans more than 20 years and includes senior positions in both the pharmaceutical manufacturing and auto manufacturing industries. Susanna has served in several executive positions at General Motors (GM), including general manager and president of GM in Russia and vice president, Global Purchasing & Supply Chain for GM Europe. Her accomplishments have earned her recognition as one of the Top 15 Chief Procurement Officers by DiversityPlus Magazine in 2023.

Susanna serves on the board of directors for NMSDC in the capacity of Vice-Chair and is an active member of World 50 Group.

Susanna holds an undergraduate degree in business administration and management from Southern Methodist University, and a Master of International Management from Thunderbird School of Global Management.

Tobias Thornwell

Regional Director of Global Business Impact
MGM Resort International

Tobias Thornwell is the Senior Strategic Sourcing Manager for MGM National Harbor, a $1.4 billion resort and casino located on the banks of the Potomac River in National Harbor, MD. He is responsible for developing and overseeing all procurement activities including vendor sourcing, purchasing, vendor contracts, and supplier diversity for the property. Mr. Thornwell is focused on ensuring that MGM National Harbor continues to meet or exceed its spending goals with certified diverse suppliers with the State of Maryland and Prince George’s County.

Mr. Thornwell has more than 12 years of purchasing and supply chain management experience in the food service industry. Prior to joining MGM National Harbor, Mr. Thornwell served as National Product Manager/Regional Buyer at The Chef’s Warehouse in Hanover, MD, and Lead COP Buyer/Product Line Manager at US Foods in Severn, MD.

Mr. Thornwell earned a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of Maryland, College Park (Go Terps!). He also holds a Certified Purchasing Manager certification (C.P.M.), and a Certified Professional in Supply Management certification (CPSM) from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). Mr. Thornwell is originally from the Bronx, New York and enjoys traveling.

Tony Gladney

Vice President
MGM Resort International

Nisha Balwani

CEO
RCI Technologies, Inc.

Nisha Balwani is the Chief Executive Officer of RCI Technologies, an MWBE information technology firm focused on building and modernizing digital systems while minimizing security risk. By creating high-value technical solutions for clients ranging from, state, local, federal, and commercial entities, RCI Tech is poised to continue its growth. As a second generation-member of the family business, Nisha served as Head of Business Development for five years before becoming CEO, spearheading the company’s expansion into the public sector. Under her leadership, RCI has already tripled its’ business with New York City agencies and expanded its’ cyber security capabilities.

Nisha was recently featured in Forbes for her leadership of RCI through its’ generational succession. She is especially proud to continue RCI's woman-owned and led legacy as she leads the company into the next generation of growth.

Prior to returning to the family business, Nisha graduated from Columbia Business School with an MBA in technology and entrepreneurship and founded RENTALYA, the first US-based brand to provide South Asian formalwear as a rental service. She sat on the board of the NJBPU SDDC Supplier Diversity Development Council and was Chief of Staff to the US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Northeast President

Tammy Tran

Principal Manager - SD
Southern California Edison

Katie Macias

VP Strategic Initiatives
Tech Observer

Katie is a dynamic business professional with a proven track record spanning Marketing, Project Management, and Supply Chain Management in diverse industries, including contingent labor, aviation, and construction and facility management. Her results-driven approach and wealth of experience underscore her ability to deliver tangible outcomes across global markets.

With a keen focus on optimizing human capital, Katie adeptly navigates complex supplier relationships, fostering innovative solutions that drive organizational success. Her fluency in multi-cultural and multi-lingual environments equips her with a unique perspective, enabling her to overcome obstacles and achieve strategic goals with finesse.

Recognized as a leader in the staffing industry, Katie's visionary leadership has propelled her to
the forefront of talent acquisition and workforce planning. Her innovative strategies have garnered acclaim, earning her nominations and awards such as the "Top 100 Staffing Leaders to
Watch" at the World Staffing Awards 2023.

Further cementing her reputation, Katie has led Cynet Health to prestigious accolades including being named as a “FAST 100 Asian American Business Award Winner for 2024” by USPAACC, securing a spot among the "Top 50 Fastest Growing Privately Held Companies in the Washington Region" by the Washington Business Journal, and earning the distinction of "2023 Best Staffing Firms to Work For" by Staffing Industry Analysts. Her commitment to excellence and strategic vision continue to drive success in the staffing industry and beyond.

Donald Chu

CEO
Tronex International, Inc.

Hector Martinez

Vice President, S.D.
U.S. Bank

Katie Lawler

Executive Vice President, Global Chief Ethics Officer
U.S. Bank

Katie leads U.S. Bancorp’s Global Ethics Office and serves as the leading voice in the company’s ongoing commitment to ethics and integrity. Under her leadership, U.S. Bank has been recognized by Ethisphere as a World’s Most Ethical Company 11 years in a row. In 2023, Katie received the Carol R. Marshall Award for Innovation in Corporate Ethics from the Ethics and Compliance Initiative. Katie is a regular speaker, sharing insights on the importance of cultivating an ethical culture to drive business success.

Since joining U.S. Bank in 2002, Katie has served in multiple leadership roles within the Law Division and Human Resources, including Deputy General Counsel, Director of

Inclusion and Employee Relations, and Human Resources Chief Risk Officer. An active member of the Twin Cities community, Katie serves on the board of trustees of Wallin Education Partners and the advisory board for the University of St. Thomas Center for Principled Leadership.

Katie received her B.A. from Rice University in Houston, Texas, and her J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center. Katie lives with her husband, Charlie, and their two children in Minnesota. In her free time, she is an avid reader, novice crocheter, cautious mountain biker and Ted Lasso fanatic.

Mark S. Allen

Vice President, Corporate and External Affairs
USPAACC

Susan Au Allen

CEO
USPAACC

Anisa Balwani

Northeast Chapter President | President
USPAACC | RCI Technologies

Anisa Balwani is the owner of RCI Technologies, Inc. and is a results-driven business professional with over 25 years of experience. She has successfully established trusting relationships with clients, resulting in increased business. Anisa is an enthusiastic, self-motivated and accomplished entrepreneur with many years of managerial, sales and marketing experience. She has an outstanding analytical, problem solving and communication skills with a successful track record of assisting at all levels of her organization.

RCI Technologies, Inc. provides Information Technology Professional Services and Software Development to major corporations and government entities nationwide. RCI is headquartered in Iselin, NJ with branch offices in New York, Washington DC and Houston, Texas.

Anisa is the Northeast Chapter President of the US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce, (USPAACC)and she is responsible to connect Asian American businesses within the region of New York, New England, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware to major corporations and government agencies. Anisa serves on the Governing Forum Board of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) the Steering Committee of the Women’s President Educational Organization and is the member of the Women Presidents Organization, (WPO). RCI is the proud winner of numerous excellence awards and the recipient of the US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce -Fast 50 Asian American Business Excellence Award. In September 2013, Anisa Balwani was invited to speak at the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Recently, on March 31st, Anisa was invited by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce to participate in the roundtable discussion, “The Power and Promise of the Minority Woman Business.”

Anisa is a graduate of the Executive Management Programs at the Amos Tuck School of Business and the Kellogg Graduate School of Management.

Anisa is an advocate for small, minority and women owned businesses. She resides in Edison, NJ with her husband and two children.

Grace McDermott

Southwest Chapter President
USPAACC

Dallas, Texas. Grace is an advocate, role model, and mentor for women and Asian Americans in Dallas business and the larger community. She has best served Asian American communities through various leadership roles and by giving them a voice and presence on mainstream boards and community associations.

Mallik Medarametla

Southeast Chapter President | Founder & Chief Architect
USPAACC | SAMPRASOFT

Andrew Moy

Executive Vice President, Division Executive Commercial Banking for Diversified Sector Management
Wells Fargo

Dale Shintani

Senior Vice President
Wells Fargo

Dale Shintani is a Senior Vice President at Wells Fargo. In addition to being a strategy and planning leader in her day job, she also serves as the strategy chair for Wells Fargo’s internal women’s employee resource network with over 25K members. She has also focused on supporting small businesses for much of her career through various leadership roles including head of Customer Experience, Digital Strategy, and business manager of a business line of credit portfolio all while continuing to be a Diversity Equity and Inclusion champion.

Passionate about mentoring emerging leaders, Dale regularly delivers talks on women’s empowerment in business and was a frequent leadership speaker in an Asian American Pacific Islander Diverse Leaders program. Dale lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband Mark and daughters Claire and Katie.