A dynamic leader, seasoned entrepreneur, author, and speaker, Lisa T. Grimes has spent more than 35 years in a variety of executive management, sales and business development roles.

Lisa is currently managing director of Habergeon, and President and CEO of PurThread Technologies, an antimicrobial textile company. Lisa co-authored Remember Who YOU Are: Achieve Success. Create Balance. Experience Fulfillment. with Paula Brown Stafford. Lisa also serves as managing director of Lead Wholly (www.leadwholly.com), an executive peer group experience that encourages women to lead with their whole selves.

As an entrepreneur, Lisa began her career with PPDI, where she helped to establish one of the world’s largest contract research organizations (CRO), as an early member of its executive management team leading global business development. Lisa then became President and CEO of InSite Clinical Trials, leading that company’s transition to a full-service CRO and ultimately, its sale to United Healthcare. Since that time, Lisa has served as start-up or interim CEO/Advisor to several other companies including AcSentient (specialty ophthalmology company), for which she negotiated its sale to ISTA.Lisa’s broad life science industry experience includes positions with multinational organizations such as GlaxoSmithKline.

Active in her community, Lisa serves on the boards of Fill Your Bucket List Foundation, Knowing God Ministries and Lighthouse Ministries. She is a past board member for the Caring Community Foundation and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Pharmacy Foundation. Lisa is an award-winning interior designer who also has experience launching consumer services franchises.

Lisa holds a BS in Pharmacy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She and her husband have two adult sons and a beautiful daughter-in-law.

 

Linkedin.com/in/lisa-t-grimes-a22276a

www.Habergeon.com

www.leadwholly.com

https://friendshipiq.pro/

A dynamic leader, seasoned entrepreneur, author, and speaker, Lisa T. Grimes has spent more than 35 years in a variety of executive management, sales and business development roles.

Lisa is currently managing director of Habergeon, and President and CEO of PurThread Technologies, an antimicrobial textile company. Lisa co-authored Remember Who YOU Are: Achieve Success. Create Balance. Experience Fulfillment. with Paula Brown Stafford. Lisa also serves as managing director of Lead Wholly (www.leadwholly.com), an executive peer group experience that encourages women to lead with their whole selves.

As an entrepreneur, Lisa began her career with PPDI, where she helped to establish one of the world’s largest contract research organizations (CRO), as an early member of its executive management team leading global business development. Lisa then became President and CEO of InSite Clinical Trials, leading that company’s transition to a full-service CRO and ultimately, its sale to United Healthcare. Since that time, Lisa has served as start-up or interim CEO/Advisor to several other companies including AcSentient (specialty ophthalmology company), for which she negotiated its sale to ISTA.Lisa’s broad life science industry experience includes positions with multinational organizations such as GlaxoSmithKline.

Active in her community, Lisa serves on the boards of Fill Your Bucket List Foundation, Knowing God Ministries and Lighthouse Ministries. She is a past board member for the Caring Community Foundation and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Pharmacy Foundation. Lisa is an award-winning interior designer who also has experience launching consumer services franchises.

Lisa holds a BS in Pharmacy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She and her husband have two adult sons and a beautiful daughter-in-law.

 

Linkedin.com/in/lisa-t-grimes-a22276a

www.Habergeon.com

www.leadwholly.com

https://friendshipiq.pro/

A dynamic leader, seasoned entrepreneur, author, and speaker, Lisa T. Grimes has spent more than 35 years in a variety of executive management, sales and business development roles.

Lisa is currently managing director of Habergeon, and President and CEO of PurThread Technologies, an antimicrobial textile company. Lisa co-authored Remember Who YOU Are: Achieve Success. Create Balance. Experience Fulfillment. with Paula Brown Stafford. Lisa also serves as managing director of Lead Wholly (www.leadwholly.com), an executive peer group experience that encourages women to lead with their whole selves.

As an entrepreneur, Lisa began her career with PPDI, where she helped to establish one of the world’s largest contract research organizations (CRO), as an early member of its executive management team leading global business development. Lisa then became President and CEO of InSite Clinical Trials, leading that company’s transition to a full-service CRO and ultimately, its sale to United Healthcare. Since that time, Lisa has served as start-up or interim CEO/Advisor to several other companies including AcSentient (specialty ophthalmology company), for which she negotiated its sale to ISTA.Lisa’s broad life science industry experience includes positions with multinational organizations such as GlaxoSmithKline.

Active in her community, Lisa serves on the boards of Fill Your Bucket List Foundation, Knowing God Ministries and Lighthouse Ministries. She is a past board member for the Caring Community Foundation and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Pharmacy Foundation. Lisa is an award-winning interior designer who also has experience launching consumer services franchises.

Lisa holds a BS in Pharmacy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She and her husband have two adult sons and a beautiful daughter-in-law.

 

Linkedin.com/in/lisa-t-grimes-a22276a

www.Habergeon.com

www.leadwholly.com

https://friendshipiq.pro/

Rev. Dr. Trish Harleston is visionary and founder of Trish Harleston Ministries (THM), a religious non-profit outreach organization which serves as host for the THM Liquidated Ladies Conferences and Community service events. THM offers free community workshops on various topics covering spiritual, professional and personal development. Trish Harleston Ministries has awarded over $10,000 in scholarships to local students. The ministry is involved in a number of community efforts including toy drives, as well as supporting local agencies through collection of funds and resources each year during the annual Women’s Conference.

Rev. Harleston holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/Management from Shaw University, a Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Apex School of Theology, a Doctorate in Christian Ministry from the North Carolina Theological Seminary and an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism.

As a licensed and ordained minister, she has been a highly requested preacher and conference presenter. She accepted God’s call to preach the Gospel in 2002 and was ordained in the Missionary Baptist Association in 2007.  For 13 years, Rev. Harleston served on staff in church administration leadership overseeing Christian Education, Operational, Organizational and Ministry Development. Prior to her retirement in 2022, Dr. Harleston has served in several other leadership roles, such as University Director of Professional Development and Career Services; Airport Authority Customer Relations Manager, and Cable Television Area Operations Manager.

She has consistently worked in the community serving on several boards and agency / organizational leadership roles, including Board of Directors for the United Christian Campus Ministries at NCCU, where she served as Chair of the By-Laws Committee. Board of Directors for The SISI, where she currently serves as Chaplain, The Durham MLK Steering Committee where she has served as Day of Service Chair. From volunteering at the Urban Ministries feeding the unhoused population to marching and raising funds for the High School Band Boosters to reading stories to elementary students, Trish’s life work has been in serving her community.

In addition to serving as preacher, teacher, conference speaker and public servant, Rev. Harleston is a published author of six publications and is a contributing author for two releases. Her publications include two devotionals, a self-help guide to transformational change and a children’s book that she authored with her grandchildren during the pandemic. Rev. Harleston is also a cast member in the award-winning gospel stage play Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child, and authored a weekly message as an inspirational blogger for over twelve years.

Rev. Harleston is a member of the Durham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She has served in several leadership roles, including South Atlantic Regional Chaplain (2016-2020), Chapter First Vice President (2020-2022), and Chapter President (2022-2024).  As a result of her years of service to the community and lifelong commitment to volunteerism, she was awarded the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021 from President Joseph R. Biden.

​Dr. Harleston has received numerous awards in ministry and in community service; 2016 Spectacular Magazine Woman of the Year for Community Service; 2016 Who’s Who in Black Raleigh and Durham as a Spiritual Leader; 2017 Druecillar Fordham Award in Pastoral Excellence from Wayland Baptist Theological Seminary; 2018 Woman of Distinction Award in Spirituality from Aura Galleria; and a 2019 Honoree for women in leadership from the Durham Chapter of Charms.  She was awarded the 2017 Merrick Fisher Spaulding Award, which is a public service recognition within her local Sorority Chapter.

Although there is great ministerial demand upon her life, Dr. Harleston is a woman of incredible life balance as she cherishes the time that she spends as wife to Charles Harleston, as Mom to her two adult children, Evin and Nikki; and as Mimi to her grandchildren, Bryson and Skylar. She and her husband currently worship at Watts Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Raleigh, NC under the leadership of Dr. Harry White where she serves on the ministerial team. Rev. Harleston stands on the scripture in 1 Corinthians 15: 10 “I am what I am by the grace of God”.

Facebook: @trishharleston

Instagram:  harlestontrish

Website:  www.trishharleston.com

 

 

Rev. Dr. Trish Harleston is visionary and founder of Trish Harleston Ministries (THM), a religious non-profit outreach organization which serves as host for the THM Liquidated Ladies Conferences and Community service events. THM offers free community workshops on various topics covering spiritual, professional and personal development. Trish Harleston Ministries has awarded over $10,000 in scholarships to local students. The ministry is involved in a number of community efforts including toy drives, as well as supporting local agencies through collection of funds and resources each year during the annual Women’s Conference.

Rev. Harleston holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/Management from Shaw University, a Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Apex School of Theology, a Doctorate in Christian Ministry from the North Carolina Theological Seminary and an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism.

As a licensed and ordained minister, she has been a highly requested preacher and conference presenter. She accepted God’s call to preach the Gospel in 2002 and was ordained in the Missionary Baptist Association in 2007.  For 13 years, Rev. Harleston served on staff in church administration leadership overseeing Christian Education, Operational, Organizational and Ministry Development. Prior to her retirement in 2022, Dr. Harleston has served in several other leadership roles, such as University Director of Professional Development and Career Services; Airport Authority Customer Relations Manager, and Cable Television Area Operations Manager.

She has consistently worked in the community serving on several boards and agency / organizational leadership roles, including Board of Directors for the United Christian Campus Ministries at NCCU, where she served as Chair of the By-Laws Committee. Board of Directors for The SISI, where she currently serves as Chaplain, The Durham MLK Steering Committee where she has served as Day of Service Chair. From volunteering at the Urban Ministries feeding the unhoused population to marching and raising funds for the High School Band Boosters to reading stories to elementary students, Trish’s life work has been in serving her community.

In addition to serving as preacher, teacher, conference speaker and public servant, Rev. Harleston is a published author of six publications and is a contributing author for two releases. Her publications include two devotionals, a self-help guide to transformational change and a children’s book that she authored with her grandchildren during the pandemic. Rev. Harleston is also a cast member in the award-winning gospel stage play Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child, and authored a weekly message as an inspirational blogger for over twelve years.

Rev. Harleston is a member of the Durham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She has served in several leadership roles, including South Atlantic Regional Chaplain (2016-2020), Chapter First Vice President (2020-2022), and Chapter President (2022-2024).  As a result of her years of service to the community and lifelong commitment to volunteerism, she was awarded the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021 from President Joseph R. Biden.

​Dr. Harleston has received numerous awards in ministry and in community service; 2016 Spectacular Magazine Woman of the Year for Community Service; 2016 Who’s Who in Black Raleigh and Durham as a Spiritual Leader; 2017 Druecillar Fordham Award in Pastoral Excellence from Wayland Baptist Theological Seminary; 2018 Woman of Distinction Award in Spirituality from Aura Galleria; and a 2019 Honoree for women in leadership from the Durham Chapter of Charms.  She was awarded the 2017 Merrick Fisher Spaulding Award, which is a public service recognition within her local Sorority Chapter.

Although there is great ministerial demand upon her life, Dr. Harleston is a woman of incredible life balance as she cherishes the time that she spends as wife to Charles Harleston, as Mom to her two adult children, Evin and Nikki; and as Mimi to her grandchildren, Bryson and Skylar. She and her husband currently worship at Watts Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Raleigh, NC under the leadership of Dr. Harry White where she serves on the ministerial team. Rev. Harleston stands on the scripture in 1 Corinthians 15: 10 “I am what I am by the grace of God”.

Facebook: @trishharleston

Instagram:  harlestontrish

Website:  www.trishharleston.com

 

 

Rev. Dr. Trish Harleston is visionary and founder of Trish Harleston Ministries (THM), a religious non-profit outreach organization which serves as host for the THM Liquidated Ladies Conferences and Community service events. THM offers free community workshops on various topics covering spiritual, professional and personal development. Trish Harleston Ministries has awarded over $10,000 in scholarships to local students. The ministry is involved in a number of community efforts including toy drives, as well as supporting local agencies through collection of funds and resources each year during the annual Women’s Conference.

Rev. Harleston holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/Management from Shaw University, a Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Apex School of Theology, a Doctorate in Christian Ministry from the North Carolina Theological Seminary and an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism.

As a licensed and ordained minister, she has been a highly requested preacher and conference presenter. She accepted God’s call to preach the Gospel in 2002 and was ordained in the Missionary Baptist Association in 2007.  For 13 years, Rev. Harleston served on staff in church administration leadership overseeing Christian Education, Operational, Organizational and Ministry Development. Prior to her retirement in 2022, Dr. Harleston has served in several other leadership roles, such as University Director of Professional Development and Career Services; Airport Authority Customer Relations Manager, and Cable Television Area Operations Manager.

She has consistently worked in the community serving on several boards and agency / organizational leadership roles, including Board of Directors for the United Christian Campus Ministries at NCCU, where she served as Chair of the By-Laws Committee. Board of Directors for The SISI, where she currently serves as Chaplain, The Durham MLK Steering Committee where she has served as Day of Service Chair. From volunteering at the Urban Ministries feeding the unhoused population to marching and raising funds for the High School Band Boosters to reading stories to elementary students, Trish’s life work has been in serving her community.

In addition to serving as preacher, teacher, conference speaker and public servant, Rev. Harleston is a published author of six publications and is a contributing author for two releases. Her publications include two devotionals, a self-help guide to transformational change and a children’s book that she authored with her grandchildren during the pandemic. Rev. Harleston is also a cast member in the award-winning gospel stage play Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child, and authored a weekly message as an inspirational blogger for over twelve years.

Rev. Harleston is a member of the Durham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She has served in several leadership roles, including South Atlantic Regional Chaplain (2016-2020), Chapter First Vice President (2020-2022), and Chapter President (2022-2024).  As a result of her years of service to the community and lifelong commitment to volunteerism, she was awarded the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021 from President Joseph R. Biden.

​Dr. Harleston has received numerous awards in ministry and in community service; 2016 Spectacular Magazine Woman of the Year for Community Service; 2016 Who’s Who in Black Raleigh and Durham as a Spiritual Leader; 2017 Druecillar Fordham Award in Pastoral Excellence from Wayland Baptist Theological Seminary; 2018 Woman of Distinction Award in Spirituality from Aura Galleria; and a 2019 Honoree for women in leadership from the Durham Chapter of Charms.  She was awarded the 2017 Merrick Fisher Spaulding Award, which is a public service recognition within her local Sorority Chapter.

Although there is great ministerial demand upon her life, Dr. Harleston is a woman of incredible life balance as she cherishes the time that she spends as wife to Charles Harleston, as Mom to her two adult children, Evin and Nikki; and as Mimi to her grandchildren, Bryson and Skylar. She and her husband currently worship at Watts Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Raleigh, NC under the leadership of Dr. Harry White where she serves on the ministerial team. Rev. Harleston stands on the scripture in 1 Corinthians 15: 10 “I am what I am by the grace of God”.

Facebook: @trishharleston

Instagram:  harlestontrish

Website:  www.trishharleston.com

 

 

Ming is a passionate learner and continues to challenge herself by taking on new educational and professional opportunities to grow as a leader. At Lenovo: Advisory Engineer, Hardware Advisory Engineer, Hardware NCSU – Research Assistant and Business Commercialization Leader Education: Engineering and PhD in Philosophy, Certification in Entrepreneurship.

Ming is in her second year as a member of the ATHENA in tech committee. In 2023, she stepped into the leadership role for ATHENA Speaks and mentors the student ambassadors for grade 8. She has been a passionate leader in delivering the program for the past two years. Her enthusiasm to support the students and ensure that they have a great experience.

As a passionate STEM evangelist, I’m dedicated to sparking STEM passions in young minds and fostering a brighter future for the next generation of female tech leaders. Empowering Future Technologists: I lead and coordinate a series of engaging events and programs aimed at middle school and high school girls. Through industry tours, inspirational talks, and mentorship, we help these girls realize their limitless potential. Broadening Horizons: By showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of the tech field, we break down barriers and encourage girls from all backgrounds to explore STEM.

Empowerment Chair Empowerment Chair Lenovo LEAD ERG Jan 2022 – Present · 2 yrs 4 mos

Lenovo Employees of Asian Descent (LEAD) is an employee resource group (ERG) at Lenovo with a mission to drive change in diversity and inclusion. As an Empowerment Chair at LEAD, I plan, develop, and execute professional and career development initiatives for the Lenovian community.

Advisory Engineer, Hardware

Lenovo

Jul 2021 – Present 3 years

Morrisville, North Carolina, United States

As an advisory engineer at the Technical Evaluation Center (TEC), an independent hardware consulting group at Lenovo, I focus on competitive intelligence and “design to cost” to influence the next-generation PC products

North Carolina State University

1 year 11 months

Research and Teaching Assistant

Aug 2017 – Jun 2021 3 years 11 months

Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina Area

 

Consultant for New Business Venture

Aug 2019 – Dec 2019 5 months

• Led a team of five analysts to research and analyze the opportunities to spin out new ventures from laboratory research.
  • Provided strategy consulting services to clients in pharmaceuticals, biotech, diagnostics, and medical device.
  • Conducted technical review, executed quantitative market and competitive analyses, synthesized in-depth primary and secondary research into persuasive insights and client deliverables. Delivered recommendations directly to directors and the C-suite on…Show more

 

Licensing Analyst

NC State Office of Research Commercialization

Aug 2020 – May 2021 10 months

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

• Performed technical and market-based evaluation of innovations coming out of NC State and mapped their commercial viability and potential value to the marketplace.
• Developed technology transfer strategies and marketing plans.
• Identified potential industrial partners and investors.

 

Co-Founder, Tech Lead

PolyTec Research and Development

Aug 2018 – Jul 2020 2 years

Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill Area

• Managed strategic planning, product and solution development, and business model formulation to establish a new business start-up PolyTec R&D to commercialize an emerging polymer coating technology in the textile industry.
  • Built and grew relationships with potential investors, partners, and customers through marketing campaigns. Initiated informational interviews to seek partnerships and leverage team resources.
  • Conducted end-to-end project schedule management and budget

 

University of Minnesota

2 years 1 month

 

Research Assistant

Jan 2015 – May 2017 2 years 5 months

Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

• Conducted independent research in the field of fluid mechanics on granular and multiphase flows.
• Scaled the dynamics and morphology of liquid-drop impact cratering in wet granular media with laser and high-speed photography. Determined the scaling law and energy partition for impact response from impact energy and other factors.
•  Assessed the impact of compressed air blast inside beds of granular solids. Analyzed cratering dynamics from air blast penetration in granular media to…Show more
• Data Analyst

May 2015 – Dec 2015 8 months

Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

• Implemented data science research methods to analyze data collected by the SERU system on a cross-campus study.
•  Identified patterns and trends of mental health stressors reported by college students in the past six years.
• Presented descriptive statistics and reports to the Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students.

Process Development Engineer

Hutchinson Technology Inc.

2015 – 2016 1 year

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

• Created a protocol to bring manufacturing level high-volume testing on the photoresist layer down to the laboratory level.
  • Performed physical and electrical device characterization with analytical instruments such as SEM, EDS, and FIB.
  • Developed Matlab scripts to optimize simulations. Supported the design team with data analysis.
  • Solved processing issues and eliminated the formation of skinning layers, cracking, and delamination during polyimide swelling and dissolution…Show more

 

Education

North Carolina State University

Doctor of Philosophy – PhD Materials Science and Engineering GPA: 4.0

2017 – 2021

Activities and Societies: Entrepreneurship Student Ambassador, Consult Your Community, NC State K-12 Outreach Program, North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) Mentorship Program

NC State Jenkins MBA

Graduate Certificate Technology Commercialization and Entrepreneurship (TEC) GPA: 4.0

2018 – 2020

Activities and Societies: Start-up Practicum

 

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Bachelor’s Degree Materials Science and Engineering, Leadership Minor, Astrophysics Minor Valedictorian

2012 – 2017

Activities and Societies: Material Advantage, Building Engineering Technical Skills, Minnesota International Student Association (MISA), College of Science and Engineering Peer Mentor

 

Shanghai Pinghe School

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma

2009 – 2012

Activities and Societies: Student Council

Shanghai Pinghe School is a private boarding school in Shanghai, China. Its high school department is the first accredited IB World School in Shanghai and offers International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.

 

Volunteer Experience

ATHENA in STEM Committee Member

ATHENA of the Triangle

Sep 2022 – Present 1 year 10 months

Education

As a passionate STEM evangelist, I’m dedicated to sparking STEM passions in young minds and fostering a brighter future for the next generation of female tech leaders.

Empowering Future Technologists: I lead and coordinate a series of engaging events and programs aimed at middle school and high school girls. Through industry tours, inspirational talks, and mentorship, we help these girls realize their limitless potential.

Broadening Horizons: By showcasing the diversity and…Show more

 

Empowerment Chair

Lenovo LEAD ERG

2022 – Present 2 years

Lenovo Employees of Asian Descent (LEAD) is an employee resource group (ERG) at Lenovo with a mission to drive change in diversity and inclusion. As an Empowerment Chair at LEAD, I plan, develop, and execute professional and career development initiatives for the Lenovian community.

 

Entrepreneurship Ambassador

NC State Entrepreneurship

Jun 2020 – May 2021 1 year

Education

• Coordinated in the entrepreneurship community at NC State through events and programming.
  • Launched an online program during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure student involvement and engagement.
  • Built a community to reach out to students of all backgrounds with program offerings.

 

Event Coordinator

Minnesota International Student Association (MISA)

May 2016 – May 2017 1 year 1 month

Arts and Culture

• Collaborated with students from 42 countries to grow the association to the largest student group at the university.
  • Successfully raised ~$20,000 over eight months; conducted financial planning for operations and programs.
  • Organized and supervised logistics for two events with over 1000 attendees and six events with over 300 attendees.
  • Designed events and programs that promote diversity at the university and the Twin Cities metro area.

 

College Program Coordinator

PYC Arts and Technology High School, Minneapolis, MN

Sep 2016 – Mar 2017 7 months

Education

• Mentored and worked with a group of 15 high school students to initiate a student council at their school.
• Led weekly meetings to help my mentees to establish constitutions for their student council and plan for school events.

 

Industry Relations Officer

Material Advantage™ Student Program, UMN Chapter

Apr 2015 – Dec 2015 9 months

Science and Technology

• Obtained and maintained relationships with companies in the field of chemical engineering and materials science to bring guest speakers to talk at the university and to schedule industry tours for student members.
• Communicated with other Material Advantage chapters cross-campus.

Ming is a passionate learner and continues to challenge herself by taking on new educational and professional opportunities to grow as a leader. At Lenovo: Advisory Engineer, Hardware Advisory Engineer, Hardware NCSU – Research Assistant and Business Commercialization Leader Education: Engineering and PhD in Philosophy, Certification in Entrepreneurship.

Ming is in her second year as a member of the ATHENA in tech committee. In 2023, she stepped into the leadership role for ATHENA Speaks and mentors the student ambassadors for grade 8. She has been a passionate leader in delivering the program for the past two years. Her enthusiasm to support the students and ensure that they have a great experience.

As a passionate STEM evangelist, I’m dedicated to sparking STEM passions in young minds and fostering a brighter future for the next generation of female tech leaders. Empowering Future Technologists: I lead and coordinate a series of engaging events and programs aimed at middle school and high school girls. Through industry tours, inspirational talks, and mentorship, we help these girls realize their limitless potential. Broadening Horizons: By showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of the tech field, we break down barriers and encourage girls from all backgrounds to explore STEM.

Empowerment Chair Empowerment Chair Lenovo LEAD ERG Jan 2022 – Present · 2 yrs 4 mos

Lenovo Employees of Asian Descent (LEAD) is an employee resource group (ERG) at Lenovo with a mission to drive change in diversity and inclusion. As an Empowerment Chair at LEAD, I plan, develop, and execute professional and career development initiatives for the Lenovian community.

Advisory Engineer, Hardware

Lenovo

Jul 2021 – Present 3 years

Morrisville, North Carolina, United States

As an advisory engineer at the Technical Evaluation Center (TEC), an independent hardware consulting group at Lenovo, I focus on competitive intelligence and “design to cost” to influence the next-generation PC products

North Carolina State University

1 year 11 months

Research and Teaching Assistant

Aug 2017 – Jun 2021 3 years 11 months

Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina Area

 

Consultant for New Business Venture

Aug 2019 – Dec 2019 5 months

• Led a team of five analysts to research and analyze the opportunities to spin out new ventures from laboratory research.
  • Provided strategy consulting services to clients in pharmaceuticals, biotech, diagnostics, and medical device.
  • Conducted technical review, executed quantitative market and competitive analyses, synthesized in-depth primary and secondary research into persuasive insights and client deliverables. Delivered recommendations directly to directors and the C-suite on…Show more

 

Licensing Analyst

NC State Office of Research Commercialization

Aug 2020 – May 2021 10 months

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

• Performed technical and market-based evaluation of innovations coming out of NC State and mapped their commercial viability and potential value to the marketplace.
• Developed technology transfer strategies and marketing plans.
• Identified potential industrial partners and investors.

 

Co-Founder, Tech Lead

PolyTec Research and Development

Aug 2018 – Jul 2020 2 years

Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill Area

• Managed strategic planning, product and solution development, and business model formulation to establish a new business start-up PolyTec R&D to commercialize an emerging polymer coating technology in the textile industry.
  • Built and grew relationships with potential investors, partners, and customers through marketing campaigns. Initiated informational interviews to seek partnerships and leverage team resources.
  • Conducted end-to-end project schedule management and budget

 

University of Minnesota

2 years 1 month

 

Research Assistant

Jan 2015 – May 2017 2 years 5 months

Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

• Conducted independent research in the field of fluid mechanics on granular and multiphase flows.
• Scaled the dynamics and morphology of liquid-drop impact cratering in wet granular media with laser and high-speed photography. Determined the scaling law and energy partition for impact response from impact energy and other factors.
•  Assessed the impact of compressed air blast inside beds of granular solids. Analyzed cratering dynamics from air blast penetration in granular media to…Show more
• Data Analyst

May 2015 – Dec 2015 8 months

Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

• Implemented data science research methods to analyze data collected by the SERU system on a cross-campus study.
•  Identified patterns and trends of mental health stressors reported by college students in the past six years.
• Presented descriptive statistics and reports to the Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students.

Process Development Engineer

Hutchinson Technology Inc.

2015 – 2016 1 year

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

• Created a protocol to bring manufacturing level high-volume testing on the photoresist layer down to the laboratory level.
  • Performed physical and electrical device characterization with analytical instruments such as SEM, EDS, and FIB.
  • Developed Matlab scripts to optimize simulations. Supported the design team with data analysis.
  • Solved processing issues and eliminated the formation of skinning layers, cracking, and delamination during polyimide swelling and dissolution…Show more

 

Education

North Carolina State University

Doctor of Philosophy – PhD Materials Science and Engineering GPA: 4.0

2017 – 2021

Activities and Societies: Entrepreneurship Student Ambassador, Consult Your Community, NC State K-12 Outreach Program, North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) Mentorship Program

NC State Jenkins MBA

Graduate Certificate Technology Commercialization and Entrepreneurship (TEC) GPA: 4.0

2018 – 2020

Activities and Societies: Start-up Practicum

 

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Bachelor’s Degree Materials Science and Engineering, Leadership Minor, Astrophysics Minor Valedictorian

2012 – 2017

Activities and Societies: Material Advantage, Building Engineering Technical Skills, Minnesota International Student Association (MISA), College of Science and Engineering Peer Mentor

 

Shanghai Pinghe School

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma

2009 – 2012

Activities and Societies: Student Council

Shanghai Pinghe School is a private boarding school in Shanghai, China. Its high school department is the first accredited IB World School in Shanghai and offers International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.

 

Volunteer Experience

ATHENA in STEM Committee Member

ATHENA of the Triangle

Sep 2022 – Present 1 year 10 months

Education

As a passionate STEM evangelist, I’m dedicated to sparking STEM passions in young minds and fostering a brighter future for the next generation of female tech leaders.

Empowering Future Technologists: I lead and coordinate a series of engaging events and programs aimed at middle school and high school girls. Through industry tours, inspirational talks, and mentorship, we help these girls realize their limitless potential.

Broadening Horizons: By showcasing the diversity and…Show more

 

Empowerment Chair

Lenovo LEAD ERG

2022 – Present 2 years

Lenovo Employees of Asian Descent (LEAD) is an employee resource group (ERG) at Lenovo with a mission to drive change in diversity and inclusion. As an Empowerment Chair at LEAD, I plan, develop, and execute professional and career development initiatives for the Lenovian community.

 

Entrepreneurship Ambassador

NC State Entrepreneurship

Jun 2020 – May 2021 1 year

Education

• Coordinated in the entrepreneurship community at NC State through events and programming.
  • Launched an online program during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure student involvement and engagement.
  • Built a community to reach out to students of all backgrounds with program offerings.

 

Event Coordinator

Minnesota International Student Association (MISA)

May 2016 – May 2017 1 year 1 month

Arts and Culture

• Collaborated with students from 42 countries to grow the association to the largest student group at the university.
  • Successfully raised ~$20,000 over eight months; conducted financial planning for operations and programs.
  • Organized and supervised logistics for two events with over 1000 attendees and six events with over 300 attendees.
  • Designed events and programs that promote diversity at the university and the Twin Cities metro area.

 

College Program Coordinator

PYC Arts and Technology High School, Minneapolis, MN

Sep 2016 – Mar 2017 7 months

Education

• Mentored and worked with a group of 15 high school students to initiate a student council at their school.
• Led weekly meetings to help my mentees to establish constitutions for their student council and plan for school events.

 

Industry Relations Officer

Material Advantage™ Student Program, UMN Chapter

Apr 2015 – Dec 2015 9 months

Science and Technology

• Obtained and maintained relationships with companies in the field of chemical engineering and materials science to bring guest speakers to talk at the university and to schedule industry tours for student members.
• Communicated with other Material Advantage chapters cross-campus.

Ming is a passionate learner and continues to challenge herself by taking on new educational and professional opportunities to grow as a leader. At Lenovo: Advisory Engineer, Hardware Advisory Engineer, Hardware NCSU – Research Assistant and Business Commercialization Leader Education: Engineering and PhD in Philosophy, Certification in Entrepreneurship.

Ming is in her second year as a member of the ATHENA in tech committee. In 2023, she stepped into the leadership role for ATHENA Speaks and mentors the student ambassadors for grade 8. She has been a passionate leader in delivering the program for the past two years. Her enthusiasm to support the students and ensure that they have a great experience.

As a passionate STEM evangelist, I’m dedicated to sparking STEM passions in young minds and fostering a brighter future for the next generation of female tech leaders. Empowering Future Technologists: I lead and coordinate a series of engaging events and programs aimed at middle school and high school girls. Through industry tours, inspirational talks, and mentorship, we help these girls realize their limitless potential. Broadening Horizons: By showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of the tech field, we break down barriers and encourage girls from all backgrounds to explore STEM.

Empowerment Chair Empowerment Chair Lenovo LEAD ERG Jan 2022 – Present · 2 yrs 4 mos

Lenovo Employees of Asian Descent (LEAD) is an employee resource group (ERG) at Lenovo with a mission to drive change in diversity and inclusion. As an Empowerment Chair at LEAD, I plan, develop, and execute professional and career development initiatives for the Lenovian community.

Advisory Engineer, Hardware

Lenovo

Jul 2021 – Present 3 years

Morrisville, North Carolina, United States

As an advisory engineer at the Technical Evaluation Center (TEC), an independent hardware consulting group at Lenovo, I focus on competitive intelligence and “design to cost” to influence the next-generation PC products

North Carolina State University

1 year 11 months

Research and Teaching Assistant

Aug 2017 – Jun 2021 3 years 11 months

Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina Area

 

Consultant for New Business Venture

Aug 2019 – Dec 2019 5 months

• Led a team of five analysts to research and analyze the opportunities to spin out new ventures from laboratory research.
  • Provided strategy consulting services to clients in pharmaceuticals, biotech, diagnostics, and medical device.
  • Conducted technical review, executed quantitative market and competitive analyses, synthesized in-depth primary and secondary research into persuasive insights and client deliverables. Delivered recommendations directly to directors and the C-suite on…Show more

 

Licensing Analyst

NC State Office of Research Commercialization

Aug 2020 – May 2021 10 months

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

• Performed technical and market-based evaluation of innovations coming out of NC State and mapped their commercial viability and potential value to the marketplace.
• Developed technology transfer strategies and marketing plans.
• Identified potential industrial partners and investors.

 

Co-Founder, Tech Lead

PolyTec Research and Development

Aug 2018 – Jul 2020 2 years

Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill Area

• Managed strategic planning, product and solution development, and business model formulation to establish a new business start-up PolyTec R&D to commercialize an emerging polymer coating technology in the textile industry.
  • Built and grew relationships with potential investors, partners, and customers through marketing campaigns. Initiated informational interviews to seek partnerships and leverage team resources.
  • Conducted end-to-end project schedule management and budget

 

University of Minnesota

2 years 1 month

 

Research Assistant

Jan 2015 – May 2017 2 years 5 months

Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

• Conducted independent research in the field of fluid mechanics on granular and multiphase flows.
• Scaled the dynamics and morphology of liquid-drop impact cratering in wet granular media with laser and high-speed photography. Determined the scaling law and energy partition for impact response from impact energy and other factors.
•  Assessed the impact of compressed air blast inside beds of granular solids. Analyzed cratering dynamics from air blast penetration in granular media to…Show more
• Data Analyst

May 2015 – Dec 2015 8 months

Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

• Implemented data science research methods to analyze data collected by the SERU system on a cross-campus study.
•  Identified patterns and trends of mental health stressors reported by college students in the past six years.
• Presented descriptive statistics and reports to the Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students.

Process Development Engineer

Hutchinson Technology Inc.

2015 – 2016 1 year

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

• Created a protocol to bring manufacturing level high-volume testing on the photoresist layer down to the laboratory level.
  • Performed physical and electrical device characterization with analytical instruments such as SEM, EDS, and FIB.
  • Developed Matlab scripts to optimize simulations. Supported the design team with data analysis.
  • Solved processing issues and eliminated the formation of skinning layers, cracking, and delamination during polyimide swelling and dissolution…Show more

 

Education

North Carolina State University

Doctor of Philosophy – PhD Materials Science and Engineering GPA: 4.0

2017 – 2021

Activities and Societies: Entrepreneurship Student Ambassador, Consult Your Community, NC State K-12 Outreach Program, North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) Mentorship Program

NC State Jenkins MBA

Graduate Certificate Technology Commercialization and Entrepreneurship (TEC) GPA: 4.0

2018 – 2020

Activities and Societies: Start-up Practicum

 

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Bachelor’s Degree Materials Science and Engineering, Leadership Minor, Astrophysics Minor Valedictorian

2012 – 2017

Activities and Societies: Material Advantage, Building Engineering Technical Skills, Minnesota International Student Association (MISA), College of Science and Engineering Peer Mentor

 

Shanghai Pinghe School

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma

2009 – 2012

Activities and Societies: Student Council

Shanghai Pinghe School is a private boarding school in Shanghai, China. Its high school department is the first accredited IB World School in Shanghai and offers International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.

 

Volunteer Experience

ATHENA in STEM Committee Member

ATHENA of the Triangle

Sep 2022 – Present 1 year 10 months

Education

As a passionate STEM evangelist, I’m dedicated to sparking STEM passions in young minds and fostering a brighter future for the next generation of female tech leaders.

Empowering Future Technologists: I lead and coordinate a series of engaging events and programs aimed at middle school and high school girls. Through industry tours, inspirational talks, and mentorship, we help these girls realize their limitless potential.

Broadening Horizons: By showcasing the diversity and…Show more

 

Empowerment Chair

Lenovo LEAD ERG

2022 – Present 2 years

Lenovo Employees of Asian Descent (LEAD) is an employee resource group (ERG) at Lenovo with a mission to drive change in diversity and inclusion. As an Empowerment Chair at LEAD, I plan, develop, and execute professional and career development initiatives for the Lenovian community.

 

Entrepreneurship Ambassador

NC State Entrepreneurship

Jun 2020 – May 2021 1 year

Education

• Coordinated in the entrepreneurship community at NC State through events and programming.
  • Launched an online program during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure student involvement and engagement.
  • Built a community to reach out to students of all backgrounds with program offerings.

 

Event Coordinator

Minnesota International Student Association (MISA)

May 2016 – May 2017 1 year 1 month

Arts and Culture

• Collaborated with students from 42 countries to grow the association to the largest student group at the university.
  • Successfully raised ~$20,000 over eight months; conducted financial planning for operations and programs.
  • Organized and supervised logistics for two events with over 1000 attendees and six events with over 300 attendees.
  • Designed events and programs that promote diversity at the university and the Twin Cities metro area.

 

College Program Coordinator

PYC Arts and Technology High School, Minneapolis, MN

Sep 2016 – Mar 2017 7 months

Education

• Mentored and worked with a group of 15 high school students to initiate a student council at their school.
• Led weekly meetings to help my mentees to establish constitutions for their student council and plan for school events.

 

Industry Relations Officer

Material Advantage™ Student Program, UMN Chapter

Apr 2015 – Dec 2015 9 months

Science and Technology

• Obtained and maintained relationships with companies in the field of chemical engineering and materials science to bring guest speakers to talk at the university and to schedule industry tours for student members.
• Communicated with other Material Advantage chapters cross-campus.

Ellysa was recognized formally as an Emerging Leader Award Nominee in 2022 through the local Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. She received that nomination because of her demonstrated professional leadership as modern Human Resources Business partner during her ten year career.

Ellysa is a servant leader and practices self-leadership. She is extremely visible in her local community taking her Human Resources expertise and sharing it with those who are underserved, underrepresented, and under-supported. She worked for 3 years at a local CDFI which addresses economic disparity for small business owners historically underserved. In her role as HR Manager and HR Director she led strategic initiatives to transform the culture and make effective people oriented business decisions. As a strong disability advocate in the workplace, Ellysa volunteers as Board member for the nonprofit Disability Rights of North Carolina (DRNC). Additionally, Ellysa is an active SHRM national members and present in her local chapter RMSHRM. In her commitment to DEI, she also serves as the VP, DEI on the Board of Directors for RMSHRM, a completely volunteer run nonprofit, bringing the latest in support of HR professionals locally. Ellysa has consciously chosen to spend her time and resources in the nonprofit sector. In launching her own business CuraHuman in 2023, she stayed true to her purpose of quality of life for other in community. CuraHuman focuses on serving the underserved as well mainly nonprofit organization and other small business owners.

Ellysa launched her own HR consulting firm CuraHuman in June 2023. In her previous work she actively engaged inclusive work through behavioral changes that promoted more equity for those historically underserved including women, women of color, and people with disabilities. Her ability to maintain consistency for diversity, equity, and inclusion as a leader is the most impactful as a local role model. She was nominated in 2023 as a ATHENA Award Nominee through her local Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. The small business CuraHuman also became a 2024 BBB Spark Award Finalist indicating the purposeful nature of the her work.

Ellysa was recognized formally as an Emerging Leader Award Nominee in 2022 through the local Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. She received that nomination because of her demonstrated professional leadership as modern Human Resources Business partner during her ten year career.

Ellysa is a servant leader and practices self-leadership. She is extremely visible in her local community taking her Human Resources expertise and sharing it with those who are underserved, underrepresented, and under-supported. She worked for 3 years at a local CDFI which addresses economic disparity for small business owners historically underserved. In her role as HR Manager and HR Director she led strategic initiatives to transform the culture and make effective people oriented business decisions. As a strong disability advocate in the workplace, Ellysa volunteers as Board member for the nonprofit Disability Rights of North Carolina (DRNC). Additionally, Ellysa is an active SHRM national members and present in her local chapter RMSHRM. In her commitment to DEI, she also serves as the VP, DEI on the Board of Directors for RMSHRM, a completely volunteer run nonprofit, bringing the latest in support of HR professionals locally. Ellysa has consciously chosen to spend her time and resources in the nonprofit sector. In launching her own business CuraHuman in 2023, she stayed true to her purpose of quality of life for other in community. CuraHuman focuses on serving the underserved as well mainly nonprofit organization and other small business owners.

Ellysa launched her own HR consulting firm CuraHuman in June 2023. In her previous work she actively engaged inclusive work through behavioral changes that promoted more equity for those historically underserved including women, women of color, and people with disabilities. Her ability to maintain consistency for diversity, equity, and inclusion as a leader is the most impactful as a local role model. She was nominated in 2023 as a ATHENA Award Nominee through her local Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. The small business CuraHuman also became a 2024 BBB Spark Award Finalist indicating the purposeful nature of the her work.

Ellysa was recognized formally as an Emerging Leader Award Nominee in 2022 through the local Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. She received that nomination because of her demonstrated professional leadership as modern Human Resources Business partner during her ten year career.

Ellysa is a servant leader and practices self-leadership. She is extremely visible in her local community taking her Human Resources expertise and sharing it with those who are underserved, underrepresented, and under-supported. She worked for 3 years at a local CDFI which addresses economic disparity for small business owners historically underserved. In her role as HR Manager and HR Director she led strategic initiatives to transform the culture and make effective people oriented business decisions. As a strong disability advocate in the workplace, Ellysa volunteers as Board member for the nonprofit Disability Rights of North Carolina (DRNC). Additionally, Ellysa is an active SHRM national members and present in her local chapter RMSHRM. In her commitment to DEI, she also serves as the VP, DEI on the Board of Directors for RMSHRM, a completely volunteer run nonprofit, bringing the latest in support of HR professionals locally. Ellysa has consciously chosen to spend her time and resources in the nonprofit sector. In launching her own business CuraHuman in 2023, she stayed true to her purpose of quality of life for other in community. CuraHuman focuses on serving the underserved as well mainly nonprofit organization and other small business owners.

Ellysa launched her own HR consulting firm CuraHuman in June 2023. In her previous work she actively engaged inclusive work through behavioral changes that promoted more equity for those historically underserved including women, women of color, and people with disabilities. Her ability to maintain consistency for diversity, equity, and inclusion as a leader is the most impactful as a local role model. She was nominated in 2023 as a ATHENA Award Nominee through her local Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. The small business CuraHuman also became a 2024 BBB Spark Award Finalist indicating the purposeful nature of the her work.

Dwayne Garnett, a Love Advocate and Value-Based Educator, is a recipient of the prestigious Parrish “Ham” Womble Distinguished Service Award. As the visionary founder and CEO of Love Is A Parable, he specializes in solving the unique needs of individuals and organizations through a value-based approach. Drawing from senior and executive-level leadership experience, Garnett is renowned as an inspiring speaker, esteemed author, and trusted consultant committed to fostering personal acceptance, reflective storytelling, and togetherness through the power of value-based education.

Garnett’s expertise has made him a highly sought-after speaker, delivering impactful keynote addresses, training sessions, and workshops for a diverse array of audiences and occasions. Notable engagements include the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce Workforce Development Series, Wake County Health and Human Services, Benedict College, Voorhees University, and numerous others. His insights have garnered attention from prestigious publications such as Main & Broad Magazine, and he has shared his wisdom as a featured guest on PBS North Carolina’s Black Issues Forum.

As a dynamic and captivating orator, Garnett ignites audiences with his passion for living with purpose and intention. His speaking repertoire covers a wide spectrum of topics including value-based education, personal and professional development, diversity, equity, and inclusion, career readiness, recruitment and sales strategies, organizational management, and conflict navigation.

In his role as CEO of Love Is A Parable, Garnett continues to catalyze positive change within communities, empowering individuals and organizations to address their distinct needs while fostering unity and embracing the power of value-based education. For further insights into the impactful work of J. Dwayne Garnett, visit their website at loveisaparable.com.

Dwayne Garnett, MHA, BSRT

 

Dwayne Garnett, a Love Advocate and Value-Based Educator, is a recipient of the prestigious Parrish “Ham” Womble Distinguished Service Award. As the visionary founder and CEO of Love Is A Parable, he specializes in solving the unique needs of individuals and organizations through a value-based approach. Drawing from senior and executive-level leadership experience, Garnett is renowned as an inspiring speaker, esteemed author, and trusted consultant committed to fostering personal acceptance, reflective storytelling, and togetherness through the power of value-based education.

Garnett’s expertise has made him a highly sought-after speaker, delivering impactful keynote addresses, training sessions, and workshops for a diverse array of audiences and occasions. Notable engagements include the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce Workforce Development Series, Wake County Health and Human Services, Benedict College, Voorhees University, and numerous others. His insights have garnered attention from prestigious publications such as Main & Broad Magazine, and he has shared his wisdom as a featured guest on PBS North Carolina’s Black Issues Forum.

As a dynamic and captivating orator, Garnett ignites audiences with his passion for living with purpose and intention. His speaking repertoire covers a wide spectrum of topics including value-based education, personal and professional development, diversity, equity, and inclusion, career readiness, recruitment and sales strategies, organizational management, and conflict navigation.

In his role as CEO of Love Is A Parable, Garnett continues to catalyze positive change within communities, empowering individuals and organizations to address their distinct needs while fostering unity and embracing the power of value-based education. For further insights into the impactful work of J. Dwayne Garnett, visit their website at loveisaparable.com.

Dwayne Garnett, MHA, BSRT

 

Dwayne Garnett, a Love Advocate and Value-Based Educator, is a recipient of the prestigious Parrish “Ham” Womble Distinguished Service Award. As the visionary founder and CEO of Love Is A Parable, he specializes in solving the unique needs of individuals and organizations through a value-based approach. Drawing from senior and executive-level leadership experience, Garnett is renowned as an inspiring speaker, esteemed author, and trusted consultant committed to fostering personal acceptance, reflective storytelling, and togetherness through the power of value-based education.

Garnett’s expertise has made him a highly sought-after speaker, delivering impactful keynote addresses, training sessions, and workshops for a diverse array of audiences and occasions. Notable engagements include the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce Workforce Development Series, Wake County Health and Human Services, Benedict College, Voorhees University, and numerous others. His insights have garnered attention from prestigious publications such as Main & Broad Magazine, and he has shared his wisdom as a featured guest on PBS North Carolina’s Black Issues Forum.

As a dynamic and captivating orator, Garnett ignites audiences with his passion for living with purpose and intention. His speaking repertoire covers a wide spectrum of topics including value-based education, personal and professional development, diversity, equity, and inclusion, career readiness, recruitment and sales strategies, organizational management, and conflict navigation.

In his role as CEO of Love Is A Parable, Garnett continues to catalyze positive change within communities, empowering individuals and organizations to address their distinct needs while fostering unity and embracing the power of value-based education. For further insights into the impactful work of J. Dwayne Garnett, visit their website at loveisaparable.com.

Dwayne Garnett, MHA, BSRT

 

 

As a seasoned chief executive for several significant Triangle nonprofit community-based organizations over the past twenty years, Adam Hartzell had demonstrated exceptional vision and leadership. The definition of a catalyst is “an agent that provokes or speeds significant change or action”. As a leader, Adam is strategic in identifying an agencies’ challenges and guiding the board, staff and community to find solutions and opportunities to change organizational structures with clarity, actions, and a clear vision for the future. Among his professional accomplishments: • Serving as Executive Director/CEO at three non-profit, mission-driven organizations; • Leading two state agency’s advocating for NC citizens; • Participating on four non-profit boards; • Driving capital campaigns benefitting four organizations and their long-term needs; • Advocating for the underserved by engaging in over 300 media, conference and community appearances educating on the social needs of the underserved; and • Crafting and supporting implementation of more than 25 strategic plans. Throughout his career Adam has demonstrated his commitment to mission-driven work, addressing social determinants of health, building collaborative teams and partnerships, and implementing best practices as he strives to be a good steward of community resources. Even when working in the private sector he has worked to benefit others. For example, while at United Healthcare working in the arena of social determinates of health, he served on a working group to help employees better understand domestic violence and develop a screening tool that is now utilized in Medicaid programs throughout the nation. Currently Adam is the Chief Executive Officer for SouthLight, a community based behavioral health provider offering innovative outpatient care for individuals and communities living with the harmful impact of stigma and untreated addiction and mental illness. He leads a team of 180 staff in multiple locations and treatment settings to meet clients where they are on their recovery journey. Most of SouthLight’s clients do not have insurance and many face social barriers to care such as homelessness, unemployment and judicial involvement.

Adam has led efforts to create care pathways that guide people from crisis to stability and from stability to a life where they can thrive. Among SouthLight’s programs, Adam is proud of a Women and Children’s Residential Program that provides substance use and mental health treatment for women who are pregnant and women with young children. Many of these women are engaged with protective services, and if not for the program, the children would be separated from their mothers and placed in foster care. SouthLight supports mothers through recovery and teaches valuable life-long parenting skills.

Adam has long been an advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion with a particular focus on gender equality. In the United States 1 in 4 women experience rape, physical violence and/or staling by an intimate partner in their lifetime. 8 million women are raped, physically assaulted, and/or stalked by current of former intimate partners each year. (National Network to End Domestic Violence Fact Sheet). The World Health Organization acknowledges that violence against women is a cause and consequence of inequity. At the Family Violence Prevention Center d/b/a InterAct, Adam led the transformation of a community-based family services agency focused on serving victims of domestic violence and sexual assault from 2003-2010. Adam developed a compelling vision that united a diverse board, a professional staff of 50 and a volunteer staff of 100 to build a nationally acclaimed, wrap around, whole person care model for the effective delivery of life-saving services. At the age of 33, Adam was the first male executive director of domestic violence/sexual assault organization in the state. His presence helped change the perception that these issues were “only women’s issues” and in fact impacted all of us. Utilizing his personal and professional communication skills, he expanded greater awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault through the media, government, and opinion leaders collaborating with medical, police, mental health substance abuse and immigrant services to bring an often-hidden issue into the light. He led a $5 million capital campaign to expand and redesign the facility to help more women find safety and protection.

Adam Hartzell believes people can transform their lives by breaking down barriers that prevent them from accessing resources. A tremendous barrier affecting women is wage inequity that continues to exist in the United States and especially North Carolina. Adam has long been an advocate for women’s equality demonstrated through his professional and volunteer efforts. Specific examples include: First, Adam was a board member and board chair of Women NC, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing gender equity in North Carolina by facilitating discussions with thought leaders and advocates, informing and educating the community on issues of concern to them. It also works to move cities and municipalities to become sites of gender inclusivity in its equal cities campaign, cites for CEDAW. This includes a mentorship scholarship program where young scholars who are offered a platform to explore issues of gender equality and to share recommendations for policy change with local city, county and state leaders. Next, in 2019, Adam served as Interim Director of Dress for Success during a time of transition to their new Executive Director and went on to become a member of the board in 2020 through to the present. Dress for Success Triangle’s mission is to help unemployed and underemployed women find meaningful employment and economic security. Dress for Success provides image and career coaching, job acquisition and job retention skills, classes in financial literacy, mock interviews, one-on-one mentoring from coaches leading to success in work and in life. One of his initiatives while serving was to secure a grant that focused on connecting low-income women in Southeast Raleigh to employment services. Currently he is mentoring the Dress for Success’ Director of Development and Marketing to help her reach her and the organization’s goals. In addition, as an organizational leader, Adam has led many change initiatives that have led to institutional changes for women. A few examples, in Adam’s role as Strategy and Development Officer for Wake Health Services (aka Advance Community Health) he helped to provide a medical home for the underserved in Wake and Franklin Counties and lead a team that manage enrollment under the Affordable Care Act as it rolled out for the first time. Seeing firsthand the impact access to healthcare has on people, particularly women and families, Adam has advocated and found funding to offer health insurance as an employer at each organization he has lead since, including being one of the few employers in the region to offer a completely free and comprehensive health insurance plan to the current 180 employees at SouthLight.

Adam graduated from American University with a BA in Communications and Political Science and received his JD from Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law. Adam practiced small business and family law for three years before joining the non-profit sector. He grew-up in High Point, North Carolina.

As a seasoned chief executive for several significant Triangle nonprofit community-based organizations over the past twenty years, Adam Hartzell had demonstrated exceptional vision and leadership. The definition of a catalyst is “an agent that provokes or speeds significant change or action”. As a leader, Adam is strategic in identifying an agencies’ challenges and guiding the board, staff and community to find solutions and opportunities to change organizational structures with clarity, actions, and a clear vision for the future. Among his professional accomplishments: • Serving as Executive Director/CEO at three non-profit, mission-driven organizations; • Leading two state agency’s advocating for NC citizens; • Participating on four non-profit boards; • Driving capital campaigns benefitting four organizations and their long-term needs; • Advocating for the underserved by engaging in over 300 media, conference and community appearances educating on the social needs of the underserved; and • Crafting and supporting implementation of more than 25 strategic plans. Throughout his career Adam has demonstrated his commitment to mission-driven work, addressing social determinants of health, building collaborative teams and partnerships, and implementing best practices as he strives to be a good steward of community resources. Even when working in the private sector he has worked to benefit others. For example, while at United Healthcare working in the arena of social determinates of health, he served on a working group to help employees better understand domestic violence and develop a screening tool that is now utilized in Medicaid programs throughout the nation. Currently Adam is the Chief Executive Officer for SouthLight, a community based behavioral health provider offering innovative outpatient care for individuals and communities living with the harmful impact of stigma and untreated addiction and mental illness. He leads a team of 180 staff in multiple locations and treatment settings to meet clients where they are on their recovery journey. Most of SouthLight’s clients do not have insurance and many face social barriers to care such as homelessness, unemployment and judicial involvement.

Adam has led efforts to create care pathways that guide people from crisis to stability and from stability to a life where they can thrive. Among SouthLight’s programs, Adam is proud of a Women and Children’s Residential Program that provides substance use and mental health treatment for women who are pregnant and women with young children. Many of these women are engaged with protective services, and if not for the program, the children would be separated from their mothers and placed in foster care. SouthLight supports mothers through recovery and teaches valuable life-long parenting skills.

Adam has long been an advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion with a particular focus on gender equality. In the United States 1 in 4 women experience rape, physical violence and/or staling by an intimate partner in their lifetime. 8 million women are raped, physically assaulted, and/or stalked by current of former intimate partners each year. (National Network to End Domestic Violence Fact Sheet). The World Health Organization acknowledges that violence against women is a cause and consequence of inequity. At the Family Violence Prevention Center d/b/a InterAct, Adam led the transformation of a community-based family services agency focused on serving victims of domestic violence and sexual assault from 2003-2010. Adam developed a compelling vision that united a diverse board, a professional staff of 50 and a volunteer staff of 100 to build a nationally acclaimed, wrap around, whole person care model for the effective delivery of life-saving services. At the age of 33, Adam was the first male executive director of domestic violence/sexual assault organization in the state. His presence helped change the perception that these issues were “only women’s issues” and in fact impacted all of us. Utilizing his personal and professional communication skills, he expanded greater awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault through the media, government, and opinion leaders collaborating with medical, police, mental health substance abuse and immigrant services to bring an often-hidden issue into the light. He led a $5 million capital campaign to expand and redesign the facility to help more women find safety and protection.

Adam Hartzell believes people can transform their lives by breaking down barriers that prevent them from accessing resources. A tremendous barrier affecting women is wage inequity that continues to exist in the United States and especially North Carolina. Adam has long been an advocate for women’s equality demonstrated through his professional and volunteer efforts. Specific examples include: First, Adam was a board member and board chair of Women NC, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing gender equity in North Carolina by facilitating discussions with thought leaders and advocates, informing and educating the community on issues of concern to them. It also works to move cities and municipalities to become sites of gender inclusivity in its equal cities campaign, cites for CEDAW. This includes a mentorship scholarship program where young scholars who are offered a platform to explore issues of gender equality and to share recommendations for policy change with local city, county and state leaders. Next, in 2019, Adam served as Interim Director of Dress for Success during a time of transition to their new Executive Director and went on to become a member of the board in 2020 through to the present. Dress for Success Triangle’s mission is to help unemployed and underemployed women find meaningful employment and economic security. Dress for Success provides image and career coaching, job acquisition and job retention skills, classes in financial literacy, mock interviews, one-on-one mentoring from coaches leading to success in work and in life. One of his initiatives while serving was to secure a grant that focused on connecting low-income women in Southeast Raleigh to employment services. Currently he is mentoring the Dress for Success’ Director of Development and Marketing to help her reach her and the organization’s goals. In addition, as an organizational leader, Adam has led many change initiatives that have led to institutional changes for women. A few examples, in Adam’s role as Strategy and Development Officer for Wake Health Services (aka Advance Community Health) he helped to provide a medical home for the underserved in Wake and Franklin Counties and lead a team that manage enrollment under the Affordable Care Act as it rolled out for the first time. Seeing firsthand the impact access to healthcare has on people, particularly women and families, Adam has advocated and found funding to offer health insurance as an employer at each organization he has lead since, including being one of the few employers in the region to offer a completely free and comprehensive health insurance plan to the current 180 employees at SouthLight.

Adam graduated from American University with a BA in Communications and Political Science and received his JD from Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law. Adam practiced small business and family law for three years before joining the non-profit sector. He grew-up in High Point, North Carolina.

As a seasoned chief executive for several significant Triangle nonprofit community-based organizations over the past twenty years, Adam Hartzell had demonstrated exceptional vision and leadership. The definition of a catalyst is “an agent that provokes or speeds significant change or action”. As a leader, Adam is strategic in identifying an agencies’ challenges and guiding the board, staff and community to find solutions and opportunities to change organizational structures with clarity, actions, and a clear vision for the future. Among his professional accomplishments: • Serving as Executive Director/CEO at three non-profit, mission-driven organizations; • Leading two state agency’s advocating for NC citizens; • Participating on four non-profit boards; • Driving capital campaigns benefitting four organizations and their long-term needs; • Advocating for the underserved by engaging in over 300 media, conference and community appearances educating on the social needs of the underserved; and • Crafting and supporting implementation of more than 25 strategic plans. Throughout his career Adam has demonstrated his commitment to mission-driven work, addressing social determinants of health, building collaborative teams and partnerships, and implementing best practices as he strives to be a good steward of community resources. Even when working in the private sector he has worked to benefit others. For example, while at United Healthcare working in the arena of social determinates of health, he served on a working group to help employees better understand domestic violence and develop a screening tool that is now utilized in Medicaid programs throughout the nation. Currently Adam is the Chief Executive Officer for SouthLight, a community based behavioral health provider offering innovative outpatient care for individuals and communities living with the harmful impact of stigma and untreated addiction and mental illness. He leads a team of 180 staff in multiple locations and treatment settings to meet clients where they are on their recovery journey. Most of SouthLight’s clients do not have insurance and many face social barriers to care such as homelessness, unemployment and judicial involvement.

Adam has led efforts to create care pathways that guide people from crisis to stability and from stability to a life where they can thrive. Among SouthLight’s programs, Adam is proud of a Women and Children’s Residential Program that provides substance use and mental health treatment for women who are pregnant and women with young children. Many of these women are engaged with protective services, and if not for the program, the children would be separated from their mothers and placed in foster care. SouthLight supports mothers through recovery and teaches valuable life-long parenting skills.

Adam has long been an advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion with a particular focus on gender equality. In the United States 1 in 4 women experience rape, physical violence and/or staling by an intimate partner in their lifetime. 8 million women are raped, physically assaulted, and/or stalked by current of former intimate partners each year. (National Network to End Domestic Violence Fact Sheet). The World Health Organization acknowledges that violence against women is a cause and consequence of inequity. At the Family Violence Prevention Center d/b/a InterAct, Adam led the transformation of a community-based family services agency focused on serving victims of domestic violence and sexual assault from 2003-2010. Adam developed a compelling vision that united a diverse board, a professional staff of 50 and a volunteer staff of 100 to build a nationally acclaimed, wrap around, whole person care model for the effective delivery of life-saving services. At the age of 33, Adam was the first male executive director of domestic violence/sexual assault organization in the state. His presence helped change the perception that these issues were “only women’s issues” and in fact impacted all of us. Utilizing his personal and professional communication skills, he expanded greater awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault through the media, government, and opinion leaders collaborating with medical, police, mental health substance abuse and immigrant services to bring an often-hidden issue into the light. He led a $5 million capital campaign to expand and redesign the facility to help more women find safety and protection.

Adam Hartzell believes people can transform their lives by breaking down barriers that prevent them from accessing resources. A tremendous barrier affecting women is wage inequity that continues to exist in the United States and especially North Carolina. Adam has long been an advocate for women’s equality demonstrated through his professional and volunteer efforts. Specific examples include: First, Adam was a board member and board chair of Women NC, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing gender equity in North Carolina by facilitating discussions with thought leaders and advocates, informing and educating the community on issues of concern to them. It also works to move cities and municipalities to become sites of gender inclusivity in its equal cities campaign, cites for CEDAW. This includes a mentorship scholarship program where young scholars who are offered a platform to explore issues of gender equality and to share recommendations for policy change with local city, county and state leaders. Next, in 2019, Adam served as Interim Director of Dress for Success during a time of transition to their new Executive Director and went on to become a member of the board in 2020 through to the present. Dress for Success Triangle’s mission is to help unemployed and underemployed women find meaningful employment and economic security. Dress for Success provides image and career coaching, job acquisition and job retention skills, classes in financial literacy, mock interviews, one-on-one mentoring from coaches leading to success in work and in life. One of his initiatives while serving was to secure a grant that focused on connecting low-income women in Southeast Raleigh to employment services. Currently he is mentoring the Dress for Success’ Director of Development and Marketing to help her reach her and the organization’s goals. In addition, as an organizational leader, Adam has led many change initiatives that have led to institutional changes for women. A few examples, in Adam’s role as Strategy and Development Officer for Wake Health Services (aka Advance Community Health) he helped to provide a medical home for the underserved in Wake and Franklin Counties and lead a team that manage enrollment under the Affordable Care Act as it rolled out for the first time. Seeing firsthand the impact access to healthcare has on people, particularly women and families, Adam has advocated and found funding to offer health insurance as an employer at each organization he has lead since, including being one of the few employers in the region to offer a completely free and comprehensive health insurance plan to the current 180 employees at SouthLight.

Adam graduated from American University with a BA in Communications and Political Science and received his JD from Campbell University, Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law. Adam practiced small business and family law for three years before joining the non-profit sector. He grew-up in High Point, North Carolina.

Sue Stevens is focused on contributing to the community through volunteer work following a 29-year versatile career in Human Resources for three large multinational corporations.  Sue participated on several nonprofit boards prior to retirement but has made involvement in the nonprofit community her mission during the 8 years since her retirement.  Her more recent Board member experience (Read and Feed and Western Wake Crisis Ministry) includes officer positions and chairing Strategic Planning, Governance and Resource Development committees.  She has provided direct client service through individual career coaching and with the Going Places Network Program with Dress for Success.  She also is a member of the Dress for Success Career Services Committee, which is focused on ensuring career coaching clients receive high quality and relevant guidance.  She has been a mentor/facilitator and deeply involved in program planning with ATHENA of the Triangle’s Enlightened Leaders Program.  Sue draws upon her extensive HR and business experience, with a particular focus on organizational effectiveness, project management, and change management, in these roles and is always ready to step up to ensure program and/or organizational goals are achieved.

Through her community involvement, Sue has engaged with, collaborated with, and established lasting relationships with a diverse group of individuals, all dedicated to the mission of increasing the potential of and empowering women, and supporting communities in need.

Sue Stevens is focused on contributing to the community through volunteer work following a 29-year versatile career in Human Resources for three large multinational corporations.  Sue participated on several nonprofit boards prior to retirement but has made involvement in the nonprofit community her mission during the 8 years since her retirement.  Her more recent Board member experience (Read and Feed and Western Wake Crisis Ministry) includes officer positions and chairing Strategic Planning, Governance and Resource Development committees.  She has provided direct client service through individual career coaching and with the Going Places Network Program with Dress for Success.  She also is a member of the Dress for Success Career Services Committee, which is focused on ensuring career coaching clients receive high quality and relevant guidance.  She has been a mentor/facilitator and deeply involved in program planning with ATHENA of the Triangle’s Enlightened Leaders Program.  Sue draws upon her extensive HR and business experience, with a particular focus on organizational effectiveness, project management, and change management, in these roles and is always ready to step up to ensure program and/or organizational goals are achieved.

Through her community involvement, Sue has engaged with, collaborated with, and established lasting relationships with a diverse group of individuals, all dedicated to the mission of increasing the potential of and empowering women, and supporting communities in need.

Sue Stevens is focused on contributing to the community through volunteer work following a 29-year versatile career in Human Resources for three large multinational corporations.  Sue participated on several nonprofit boards prior to retirement but has made involvement in the nonprofit community her mission during the 8 years since her retirement.  Her more recent Board member experience (Read and Feed and Western Wake Crisis Ministry) includes officer positions and chairing Strategic Planning, Governance and Resource Development committees.  She has provided direct client service through individual career coaching and with the Going Places Network Program with Dress for Success.  She also is a member of the Dress for Success Career Services Committee, which is focused on ensuring career coaching clients receive high quality and relevant guidance.  She has been a mentor/facilitator and deeply involved in program planning with ATHENA of the Triangle’s Enlightened Leaders Program.  Sue draws upon her extensive HR and business experience, with a particular focus on organizational effectiveness, project management, and change management, in these roles and is always ready to step up to ensure program and/or organizational goals are achieved.

Through her community involvement, Sue has engaged with, collaborated with, and established lasting relationships with a diverse group of individuals, all dedicated to the mission of increasing the potential of and empowering women, and supporting communities in need.

Sue Stevens is focused on contributing to the community through volunteer work following a 29-year versatile career in Human Resources for three large multinational corporations.  Sue participated on several nonprofit boards prior to retirement but has made involvement in the nonprofit community her mission during the 8 years since her retirement.  Her more recent Board member experience (Read and Feed and Western Wake Crisis Ministry) includes officer positions and chairing Strategic Planning, Governance and Resource Development committees.  She has provided direct client service through individual career coaching and with the Going Places Network Program with Dress for Success.  She also is a member of the Dress for Success Career Services Committee, which is focused on ensuring career coaching clients receive high quality and relevant guidance.  She has been a mentor/facilitator and deeply involved in program planning with ATHENA of the Triangle’s Enlightened Leaders Program.  Sue draws upon her extensive HR and business experience, with a particular focus on organizational effectiveness, project management, and change management, in these roles and is always ready to step up to ensure program and/or organizational goals are achieved.

Through her community involvement, Sue has engaged with, collaborated with, and established lasting relationships with a diverse group of individuals, all dedicated to the mission of increasing the potential of and empowering women, and supporting communities in need.

Sue Stevens is focused on contributing to the community through volunteer work following a 29-year versatile career in Human Resources for three large multinational corporations.  Sue participated on several nonprofit boards prior to retirement but has made involvement in the nonprofit community her mission during the 8 years since her retirement.  Her more recent Board member experience (Read and Feed and Western Wake Crisis Ministry) includes officer positions and chairing Strategic Planning, Governance and Resource Development committees.  She has provided direct client service through individual career coaching and with the Going Places Network Program with Dress for Success.  She also is a member of the Dress for Success Career Services Committee, which is focused on ensuring career coaching clients receive high quality and relevant guidance.  She has been a mentor/facilitator and deeply involved in program planning with ATHENA of the Triangle’s Enlightened Leaders Program.  Sue draws upon her extensive HR and business experience, with a particular focus on organizational effectiveness, project management, and change management, in these roles and is always ready to step up to ensure program and/or organizational goals are achieved.

Through her community involvement, Sue has engaged with, collaborated with, and established lasting relationships with a diverse group of individuals, all dedicated to the mission of increasing the potential of and empowering women, and supporting communities in need.

Sue Stevens is focused on contributing to the community through volunteer work following a 29-year versatile career in Human Resources for three large multinational corporations.  Sue participated on several nonprofit boards prior to retirement but has made involvement in the nonprofit community her mission during the 8 years since her retirement.  Her more recent Board member experience (Read and Feed and Western Wake Crisis Ministry) includes officer positions and chairing Strategic Planning, Governance and Resource Development committees.  She has provided direct client service through individual career coaching and with the Going Places Network Program with Dress for Success.  She also is a member of the Dress for Success Career Services Committee, which is focused on ensuring career coaching clients receive high quality and relevant guidance.  She has been a mentor/facilitator and deeply involved in program planning with ATHENA of the Triangle’s Enlightened Leaders Program.  Sue draws upon her extensive HR and business experience, with a particular focus on organizational effectiveness, project management, and change management, in these roles and is always ready to step up to ensure program and/or organizational goals are achieved.

Through her community involvement, Sue has engaged with, collaborated with, and established lasting relationships with a diverse group of individuals, all dedicated to the mission of increasing the potential of and empowering women, and supporting communities in need.

Sue Stevens is focused on contributing to the community through volunteer work following a 29-year versatile career in Human Resources for three large multinational corporations.  Sue participated on several nonprofit boards prior to retirement but has made involvement in the nonprofit community her mission during the 8 years since her retirement.  Her more recent Board member experience (Read and Feed and Western Wake Crisis Ministry) includes officer positions and chairing Strategic Planning, Governance and Resource Development committees.  She has provided direct client service through individual career coaching and with the Going Places Network Program with Dress for Success.  She also is a member of the Dress for Success Career Services Committee, which is focused on ensuring career coaching clients receive high quality and relevant guidance.  She has been a mentor/facilitator and deeply involved in program planning with ATHENA of the Triangle’s Enlightened Leaders Program.  Sue draws upon her extensive HR and business experience, with a particular focus on organizational effectiveness, project management, and change management, in these roles and is always ready to step up to ensure program and/or organizational goals are achieved.

Through her community involvement, Sue has engaged with, collaborated with, and established lasting relationships with a diverse group of individuals, all dedicated to the mission of increasing the potential of and empowering women, and supporting communities in need.