Our "Professional Access Roundtables” allow current and prospective students, alumni, and employers to connect and network while discussing hot topics within their professions and disciplines. These small-group, semi-structured conversations are designed to catalyze an exchange of ideas and experience to enhance students’ professional development and build community.
Roundtable discussions are led by experienced alumni and employment partner professionals, who craft an initial set of thought-provoking questions shared with students in advance. This allows attendees to prepare for and make the most of these exciting conversations. It also gives discussion leaders the ability to efficiently broaden and deepen students’ understanding of the discussion topics.
At our Professional Access Roundtable events, attendees not only benefit from meeting experts in their field but also grow their professional network by meeting others who share a common interest in a particular profession and industry. Discussion leaders from our alumni and employment partner community enjoy the opportunity to support, connect, and develop the next generation of leaders in their field.
These events aim to inspire, educate, and connect you to a world of possibilities, ensuring that your journey through the multifaceted terrain of professions and industries is nothing short of transformative.
- Discussion Leader Biographies
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Amanda Brady
Chief Client Officer and Managing Director
The Alexander GroupAmanda K. Brady, Managing Director and Chief Client Officer, has 30 years of legal industry experience, including 20 years as a leading executive search consultant serving Am Law 100 law firms and major corporations.
In addition to recruiting C-suite executives and board members, Ms. Brady also provides clients with market trends and operational intelligence. Her broad expertise encompasses all business services, including finance, marketing, business development, talent management, and diversity and inclusion.
As CCO, Ms. Brady offers unparalleled support to firm clients while mentoring and leading The Alexander Group’s internal consultant group.Ms. Brady serves on the firm’s Executive Committee. From paralegal in her early career to law firm chief operating officer to executive search consultant, Ms. Brady's career demonstrates the progression of a career in the evolving legal industry.
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Darnell Downes
Police Sergeant
New York City Police Department, Counterterrorism UnitDarnell R. Downes has been a member of law enforcement with the New York City Police Department since 2006. Dr. Downes holds a B.S. in Psychology from Touro College, an M.A. in Human Resources and Training Development from Seton Hall University, and a Doctorate in Homeland Security from St. John’s University.
After serving in the NYPD Intelligence Bureau Mayor’s Security Detail, Dr.Downes was promoted to Sergeant in 2017, taking on various patrol assignments in Queens North. From 2018 to 2024, he worked in the Office of Management Analysis and Planning, conducting research and analysis to support crime reduction strategies.
Dr. Downes also supervises assignments within the Intelligence Bureau.Dr. Downes is currently assigned to the Counterterrorism Bureau, where he develops policies and intelligence capabilities to protect New York City from terrorist threats.
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Adam Glaser
Firmwide Higher Education Leader & Innovation District Expert
KPMGAdam is a distinguished designer, teacher and strategist dedicated to fostering innovation, entrepreneurial ventures, and university-corporate partnerships across the United States. Looking ahead, Adam envisions higher education evolving into a life- long, subscription-based journey accessed through a global network of branded locations – ideas he is advancing through his strategic planning venture, Campus 2.0. This initiative is designed to assist clients in adapting their institutions and corporations to these significant changes. Additionally, the Campus 2.0 framework seeks to address social equity challenges faced by higher education communities by creating shared spaces that connect both traditional and non-traditional students from underrepresented groups.
Since 2018, Adam has spearheaded several Campus 2.0 engagements including the UNC Chapel Hill Downtown Innovation District, the Discovery Partners Institute in Chicago's South Loop, the University of Georgia Center for Precision Agriculture, and the envisioned National Center for Cyber Leadership in Washington DC.
As an architect, Adam has led the design of projects exceeding $2 billion in value for numerous life-science and innovation companies, including Amgen, Wyeth, and MedImmune. He also held the position of Chief Design Officer for the coworking startup Benjamin’s Desk/1776 from 2016-2018, where he played a pivotal role in its expansion from 3,000gsf to a substantial 200,000gsf, contributing to major innovation hubs such as Pennovation Center in Philadelphia. A co-founder and co-chair of the ULI University Development and Innovation Council (UDIC), Adam has focused on the intersection of academic innovation and community development, and he has been an active participant in advisory boards with the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, advocating for design excellence and supporting the 1% for Art initiative – the first of its kind in the U.S. A product of Rice University (B.Arts ‘85, B.Arch ‘87) and the Harvard Graduate School of Design (MAUD with Distinction, ‘96), he maintains a passion for education, leading the annual Fall Urban Planning Studio at Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies. Adam's previous academic roles include Visiting Professor of Architecture at Washington University in St. Louis and Instructor at the University of Pennsylvania.
Adam is a recognized speaker at conferences for organizations such as AIA, ULI, UEDA, APA, SCUP, and AURP, frequently organizing events that concentrate on Campus Planning and Globalism. From the mid-1990s onwards, Adam's architectural designs have received multiple AIA design excellence awards among other industry recognitions, and he has seen his work showcased in respected publications like Architectural Record and the ULI Journal.
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Vitaliy Goncharuk
Founder and CEO
12New.aiVitaliy Goncharuk is the CEO and Founder of 12New.ai, an AI company that develops products to empower professionals and governments with advanced AI solutions.
In 2013 Vitaliy founded a leading company(Augmented Pixels, Inc) in Autonomous Navigation / AI for drones, robots, and AR Glasses. This company was acquired by Qualcomm in 2022.
In addition to his business pursuits, Vitaliy has held several advisory positions in the public sector, including: - Advisor at Horizon Europe, EIC Accelerator, etc - AI / Tech Officer at Harvard Business Club DC. Vitaliy will be speaking about AI and the future of the workforce.
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Jose Carlos Linares
CEO
IG DIGITALMr. Linares brings over 30 years of experience in information technology, product/project management, alliance/partnership programs, and business/market strategy to the technology industry. His deep understanding of how organizations can leverage technology for increased collaboration and efficiency has led to successful outcomes.
With a successful track record, Mr. Linares has helped organizations establish strategic goals and clear priorities, resulting in improved productivity and enhanced customer satisfaction levels. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Systems Engineering and a Master of Science (MS) in Communication Technology (Networking). Additionally, he holds an MBA in Marketing and multiple executive certifications, such as the Stanford Certified Project Manager, Business Excellence from Columbia University, and the Advanced Certificate for Executives in Management, Innovation, and Technology (ACE) from MIT.
Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Linares is committed to making a positive impact in the industry. As the Founder and Chairman of the Linares Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to advancing careers in technology for underrepresented students, he actively contributes to improving opportunities for the next generation.
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Jonathan McGee
Senior Consultant
Baker TillyJonathan McGee is a former IL State Government Executive, Civic Leader, Economic Developer, and currently a Senior Consultant at Baker Tilly US in the Public Sector Advisory practice, specializing in equitable economic development. With over 10 years of non-profit, public sector, and social impact experience, he recently served as a political appointee in Governor JB Pritzker's Administration as Director for the Office of Business and Workforce Diversity at the Illinois Department of Transportation.
Previously, he was appointed as Director of Regional Economic Development at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity where he led a team of economic development leaders who drove business attraction, expansion, and retention efforts.
Jonathan's most notable achievements include:
- Spearheaded the historic Illinois Community Navigator Program which was adopted by the Biden-Harris Administration as an effective tool to increase access to capital for minority enterprises.
- Supported $4 billion in new company investments in Illinois, resulting in 250 relocations & expansions, and the creation of 13,000 jobs amidst a global pandemic.
- Led the State of Illinois Economic Response to COVID-19, by driving outreach, technical assistance, customer service, and economic support efforts for over 200,000 businesses, 8,000 communities, and millions of dislocated workers.
- Represented the Governor and Director of DCEO, at major company groundbreakings including Kimberly Clark Corporation, Ingersoll Machine Tools, and Lion Electric Company, resulting in the creation of over 1,000 jobs including the $75 million Ferrero Bloomington Expansion.
Jonathan began his career in Washington D.C as a non-profit leader at the Partnership for Public Service, Legislative Assistant for Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, and as Senior Marketing Director at the Graduate School of Political Management. Jonathan's mission is to revitalize how government serves constituents, especially constituents of color, by transforming the way government works through equity.
Jonathan has a Bachelors Degree in Political Science and Law Enforcement, holds a Master of Professional Studies in Political Management degree from The George Washington University, and a Masters of Business Administration from the Loyola University Chicago. He was recently named Chicago Defender's Man of Excellence in 2021, and WVON 40 under 40 Honoree in 2022.
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Justin Moralez
Senior Intergovernmental Policy Manager
City of MilwaukeeJustin Moralez is a Senior Intergovernmental Policy Manager for the City of Milwaukee, where he serves as a lead lobbyist advocating at both the state and federal levels. A Milwaukee native, Justin holds an undergraduate degree in Communications from Marquette University and a Master's in Political Management from George Washington University. He is also an alumnus of the prestigious Emerging Leaders program at The Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
In his current role, Justin has been instrumental in stabilizing the city’s finances and securing long-term commitments for the city's professional baseball team, ensuring its presence for future generations. His strategic approach to policy and governance has garnered respect at multiple levels of government.
Justin's political career began as the 1st District Alderperson and Council President for the City of Cudahy, where he served from April 2013 to April 2021. During his tenure, he demonstrated exceptional leadership by overseeing the city’s $14 million annual budget, producing consecutive surplus budgets, and improving Cudahy’s bond ratings. He spearheaded several inclusive legislative efforts, positioning Cudahy as a regional leader in progressive policies. His work included chairing key committees such as the Finance Committee, Traffic and Safety, and the Rules, Laws, and Licensing Committee. From 2016 to 2022, Justin served as the Wisconsin State Director for the American Federation for Children (AFC), where he developed and executed comprehensive lobbying campaigns that secured more than $400 million annually for K-12 education programs. He also played a key role in expanding educational opportunities for working-class families and special needs students.
Justin has been widely recognized for his leadership and influence. He was named one of the "39 Most Influential Latinos in Wisconsin" and has earned several accolades including "Rising Star in Politics" and "Most Beloved Politician." His extensive experience in public service, policy advocacy, and coalition- buiilding has made him a trusted figure in both state and local politics.
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Lindsay Morton
Vice President, Community Engagement and Corporate Impact
Redbrick LTDLindsay Morton serves as Redbrick LMD’s Vice President of Community Engagement and Corporate Impact. She is staunchly involved in and focused on community preservation, engagement, and progression, with experience at both the local and national levels. Lindsay previously served as the Director of Community Engagement in the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia where she advised senior attorneys and led community initiatives under the direction of Attorney General Karl A. Racine.
Before that role, she served as Director of the Healthy Markets Program at Martha’s Table where she launched Joyful Food Markets — an after- school grocery program that provides healthy food and nutrition education to over 6,000 elementary students each month. She also aided in the development and opening of a one-of-a-kind Whole Foods Market “community store” in New Orleans, LA.
Lindsay earned her B.S. in business from Boston College and a Master’s in Sports Industry Management from Georgetown University.
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Cheryl Nodarse
Advanced Certified Paralegal
Vlahakis Cole Law Firm
P.C. and President of NALA - The Paralegal AssociationCheryl Nodarse, ACP, is NALA’s newly installed President. Cheryl is a paralegal with Vlahakis Cole Law Firm in East Lansing, Michigan, specializing in municipal and real estate law. She graduated from Central Michigan University and from Lansing Community College’s paralegal program.
A NALA Certified Paralegal for 34 years, Cheryl has served on the NALA Board and its committees for the past 11 years, and previously served with the State Bar of Michigan Paralegal/Legal Assistant Section. She is a licensed realtor with Vlahakis Companies and a member of the Lansing Community College Paralegal Program Advisory Committee.
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Anthony Shop
Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer
Social Driver
Host of the Chief Influencer PodcastAnthony Shop believes in the power of people-centered branding and marketing to create a bright future. He chairs the National Digital Roundtable, the premier convener of digital innovators, leaders and policy shapers, and hosts The Communications Board’s podcast, Chief Influencer.
Anthony is the Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Social Driver, a digital services firm that helps companies and non-profits establish winning strategies with social media, websites, creative, and advertising. An enthusiastic presenter and teacher, he has led executive-level training for Amazon, PepsiCo, NASA, The British Embassy, and the Bipartisan Policy Center.
He has been recognized as an “OUTstanding LGBT Role Model” by The Financial Times, “40 Under 40” by The Washington Business Journal, and Business Leader of the Year by the DC Chamber of Commerce. A former newspaper reporter, Anthony was the first new media professional elected to the National Press Club’s Board of Governors. He currently serves on the board of Leadership Greater Washington. He earned his MBA from The George Washington University School of Business, where he teaches as an adjunct lecturer.
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Natasha Streets
Deputy Director - Election Security
Charleston County Board of Voter Registration & ElectionsNatasha Streets was designated Deputy Director of Voter Services for the Charleston County Board of Voter Registration and Elections Office in May 2021 and was named the Deputy Director of Election Security in February 2024 after two years of developing the County’s Election Security Program.
Natasha oversees the physical security of the election headquarters building, and full-time staff, as well as assessing and developing security plans and responses for events such as on-site observable processes, off- site early voting, and off-site election day. She coordinates with Charleston County Public Safety’s counter-threat manager, workforce violence manager, emergency medical services, emergency management, consolidated dispatch, and local law enforcement from multiple jurisdictions within the county. Natasha routinely provides presentations on Election Security to local leaders and law enforcement. The National Homeland Security Conference selected Natasha’s panel presentation on county-level election security planning and coordination with Public Safety and Emergency Management for the July 2024 session in Miami, Florida.
Natasha has served Charleston County Government for 18 years and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Limestone University. She was identified as an emerging leader in County government in 2019 and completed the program in 2020. Natasha is a nationally certified election official through the Election Center’s Certification for Election and Registration Administrators (C.E.R.A.), sponsored by Auburn University.
