SPEAKERS - #ACELing2025 Leadership Conference

William Abbott is the Vice President of Development at Junior Achievement of Arizona. He brings over a decade of nonprofit experience with a focus on fundraising and donor engagement. An ASU graduate in Business Management and Sustainability and an MBA candidate, William has led transformative campaigns, including a 978% funding increase and a $20 million capital project. His award-winning pitch presentations have inspired major gifts and elevated community partnerships. Previously with the Boy Scouts of America, he values lifelong donor relationships. A Scottsdale native, William is excited to be back home. He enjoys outdoor adventures with his wife, Reina, and their German Shepherd, Hera.

Jasmine Bhatti, RN, is the founder and CEO of Navi Nurses, a fast-growing private-duty nursing company transforming at-home care through co-created care and client empowerment. With nearly 14 years of nursing experience, Jasmine brings a deep commitment to patient-centered care and healthcare innovation. Her leadership at Navi Nurses reflects a vision for accessible, compassionate, and personalized nursing support in the home. Jasmine is currently completing her PhD in Nursing and Health Innovation at Arizona State University, where her research focuses on reimagining healthcare delivery models. Her work bridges clinical expertise and innovative thinking to create meaningful change in the lives of patients and the nursing profession.

Mariko S. Carpenter is the Founder and Managing Director of OpalSphere, an advisory agency specializing in brand growth at the intersection of culture and strategy. With over 20 years of experience leading marketing initiatives for iconic brands in both B2C and B2B sectors, Mariko has held key roles at Nielsen and Condé Nast. She combines her deep expertise in consumer markets with data-driven insights to help organizations uncover growth opportunities and navigate market dynamics. A passionate advocate for the AANHPI community, Mariko has been recognized with the Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business Award. She holds an MS from New York University and a BA from Vassar College.

Evelyn Casuga is the Director of Community & Economic Prosperity at the Center for the Future of Arizona, serving part-time while actively volunteering in economic development, education, and civic engagement. A Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), she brings over 35 years of leadership experience, including 25 years with APS and nearly a decade as a municipal leader in Eloy and Marana. Evelyn serves on multiple boards, including Arizona Capital Source, Central Arizona College, and the Filipino American National Historical Society–AZ Chapter. She chairs Growth Partners Arizona, Local First Arizona, and Achieve Pinal. Additionally, she contributes to Arizona Town Hall, WESTMARC, and Asian Corporate and Entrepreneur Leaders in advisory roles.

George C. Chen is a partner at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP (BCLP), where he has led the Intellectual Property Practice in the Phoenix office since 2008. He began his legal career at BCLP in 1999 and served on the firm’s Global Board of Directors from 2017 to 2018 and 2019 to 2024. George represents the State Bar of Arizona in the ABA House of Delegates and serves on the ABA Commission on Women in the Profession. A former NAPABA president, he remains on its Leadership Advisory Council and is actively engaged with legal diversity initiatives in Arizona.

Roger Cheng is a dedicated Sr. Supplier Diversity Sourcing Manager at AT&T. With over 14 years of experience in the technology industry, Roger’s expertise lies in leading business development initiatives through Supplier Diversity, having previously excelled with M/WBEs. Roger is affectionately known as “The Voice” for his captivating emcee and VOG (Voice of God) performances at various prestigious events nationwide. In acknowledgment of his unwavering support for gender equality, Roger was bestowed with the esteemed #Hes4Shes Champion title at the WBENC National Conference in 2017.

Michael Cheung is a Founding Partner, Head of Quantitative Research, and Portfolio Manager at Redwood Investment Management, which oversees approximately $3 billion in assets. With over 15 years of investment experience, he leads the development and implementation of quantitative, algorithmic, and deep learning-based systems that drive Redwood’s research and investment strategies. Michael is instrumental in advancing the firm’s technology-driven approach to portfolio construction and dynamic risk management. He also spearheads Redwood’s innovation initiatives, focused on transforming financial services through cutting-edge data science, automation, and scalable infrastructure—enhancing decision-making, operational efficiency, and long-term performance across the firm’s investment platform.

CJ Dennis is a Senior Vice President and Wealth Advisor at Wells Fargo Private Bank, where he focuses on high-net-worth clients and leads efforts in the Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) group. With over a decade of experience, he previously managed $2 billion in institutional assets at Vanguard and helped generate $4.5 billion in new business. CJ mentors emerging professionals through ACEL and formerly with Vanguard’s Hispanic/Latinx group. A recognized leader and speaker, he is known for building high-performing teams. CJ also serves as a Board Member and past President of the CFA Society of Phoenix.

Claira Dresher is the Chief Operating Officer of Gellert Health, a mission-driven organization guiding patients through the complexities of healthcare with compassionate support. She began her career at Goldman Sachs in finance, operations, and asset management before transitioning into psychology and healthcare. Claira holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Economics from NYU. Her leadership is rooted in kindness, mindfulness, and service. Passionate about mentorship and community, she contributes to Asian Corporate & Entrepreneur Leaders (ACEL) through its Mentoring Program and Executive Alliance. Outside of work, she enjoys yoga, meditation, reading, art, music, travel, and time with loved ones.

Faye Ferguson is Executive Director and Chandler District Branch Network Senior Manager for Wells Fargo’s Greater Arizona Region, overseeing 13 branches across Ahwatukee, Chandler, and Gilbert. She began her career with Wells Fargo in 2012 as a teller and has held several leadership roles since. Born in Dumaguete City, Philippines, Faye earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Negros Oriental State University. She is actively involved in the Gilbert and Chandler Chambers of Commerce and has served as Board Chair of Asian Corporate Entrepreneur Leaders. Faye lives in Gilbert with her husband and twin daughters and is a 2025 candidate for Mrs. Philippines Arizona.

Reina Ferrufino is a  first-generation Honduran American higher education leader, researcher, and social justice advocate with over a decade of experience advancing student success and inclusive education. She has led equity-driven initiatives at Hispanic-Serving and AANAPISI institutions, including advocacy efforts that helped pass Nevada’s AB 226 to expand tuition equity for undocumented students. At Rio Salado College, Reina leads a 35-member council dedicated to student engagement, cultural transformation, and instructional innovation—efforts recognized by the NCWE and ACE. She holds a BA from UC Berkeley, an MS from CSUN, and is completing a PhD at UNLV. Outside of work, Reina enjoys dancing, family time, and connecting through food and community.

Sharmila M. Fowler is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of OpalSphere, a people-first advisory firm specializing in culture, brand, and business strategy. A seasoned DEI strategist and marketing expert, she brings 20+ years of cross-disciplinary experience spanning HR, consulting, and leadership development. Sharmila has held senior DEI roles at McDonald’s and Echo Global Logistics and now teaches DEI management at DePaul University. A recognized leader, she serves on multiple national boards and advisory councils and was honored by Diversity MBA as a Top 25 Outstanding Leadership & Diversity Impact Award winner. Sharmila holds an MBA from The Wharton School.

Elizabeth Greene is a seasoned talent development leader with over 20 years of experience in learning strategy, leadership development, and organizational growth within global environments. As Senior Director of Organizational Learning and Development at Lam Research, a Fortune 500 semiconductor company, she drives impactful initiatives that shape leadership and career progression. Known for her people-first approach, Elizabeth is a trusted advisor in talent development. She holds an MBA, a BA in East Asian Studies, and SHRM-SCP certification. Outside of work, Elizabeth volunteers with Make-A-Wish, mentors through ACEL, speaks on leadership, and serves on the advisory board for NAU’s workforce development initiative in the semiconductor industry.

Kevin Hartke is the Mayor of Chandler, Arizona, for over a decade, currently in his second term as Mayor since January 2023. Previously, he served two terms as Vice Mayor and has been on City Council for nine years. A dedicated community leader, Kevin is actively involved in state and regional organizations, including the Arizona League of Cities and Towns, Arizona Commerce Authority, and Maricopa Association of Governments. He also serves on the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. Kevin is a Pastor at Trinity Christian Fellowship and advocates for literacy and local charities. He and his wife, Lynne, have lived in Chandler since 1985 and have four children and four grandchildren.

Amanda Hines-Woo is a college-educated, purpose-driven professional with a diplomatic approach and a diverse background as both a team manager and individual contributor. Her experience spans large-scale remediation projects, credit assistance, home loan servicing, and most recently, technical procedure writing for Bank Financial Crimes at USAA Federal Savings Bank. Amanda has been an active member of ACEL since 2019 and was part of the 2021 ACEL Mentorship Program, where she was honored as Mentee of the Year. Outside of work, Amanda enjoys reading, playing video games, and participating in long-form improv events.

Sue Ann Hong-Whitaker is the President & CEO of the Center for Asian Pacific American Women (CAPAW), a position she has held since January 2020, after joining as interim Executive Director in May 2018. With over 28 years at State Farm Insurance, Sue Ann has held leadership roles across Data Processing, Diversity & Inclusion, Corporate Business & Technology, and P&C Auto Claims. She has managed teams of up to 600 employees and supported customers in 23 states. Actively engaged in leadership, Sue Ann serves on multiple boards, including the Asia Society So-Cal Advisory Board and the National Diversity Advisory Council. In 2024, she received the Diversity MBA Top 25 Leaders of Impact Award and was honored with the LEDI International Life Changers Award. Sue Ann resides in Atlanta, GA, with her husband, Dr. Xavier Whitaker, their three stepchildren, and their Yorkie, Dora Bear

Rodney Hu is a second-generation Arizona native and ASU finance graduate. He spent eight years on Wall Street as an investment analyst with firms such as Goldman Sachs and Cantor Fitzgerald before returning to Tempe as the Owner/Operator of the iconic Yucca Tap Room. A founding member of Arizona Distilling Company, he helped produce the first locally distilled spirits in Phoenix since prohibition. Over the past decade, Rodney has worked in the cannabis industry, launching brands like Vital Infusions and Grand Daddy Genetics. Named a Phoenix New Times Tastemaker, he serves on several boards, including the Tempe Sports Authority Foundation.     

Matthew Mihaylo Hum is a founding team member of Y Solve and the Head of New Venture Development at Y Solve Lab. Y Solve is an invention innovation system that is building, operating, and funding 170 emerging technology companies over the next 6 years. Y Solve’s purpose is to generate above market returns and deliver scaled impact. As the Head of Y Solve Lab’s New Venture Development group, he is responsible for leading the incubation and building of the 170 companies. Matt is passionate about changing the system in which organizations create value and impact society.

Bill Imada is Co-Founder, Chairman, and Chief Connectivity Officer of IW Group, a national advertising and PR agency specializing in multicultural markets. For over 30 years, Bill has led campaigns for top global brands including Walmart, Disney, Lexus, McDonald’s, and Warner Bros. IW Group is part of IPG/McCann Worldgroup and Worldcom PR Group. A founder of six national AAPI-focused organizations, Bill also serves on numerous nonprofit and university advisory boards. He was inducted into the AAF Advertising Hall of Fame and recently led IW Group to be named Multicultural Agency of the Year by PRWeek and Ad Age (2025).

Tania Will Jeppesen is a dynamic leadership expert, speaker, and founder of The Prepared Leader. With two decades of experience leading operations and HR teams in both Fortune 50 companies and small to mid-sized businesses, Tania has a deep understanding of the challenges leaders face. Her passion for empowering leaders led her to shift her focus to leadership development, providing organizations with strategies and tools to thrive. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Tania's systematic approach to problem-solving has shaped her success in guiding leaders. Through engaging speaking sessions, she equips leaders with actionable insights to drive performance and foster a culture of excellence.

Phil Kim is the Managing Director and Co-Founder of Signature Wealth Concepts, with over two decades of experience in financial planning and wealth management for individuals and businesses. A graduate of Cornell University, Phil holds multiple industry designations, including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and various FINRA registrations (Series 7, Series 66, and Series 24). His dedication to excellence, combined with a strong commitment to education and the profession, allows him to provide exceptional service to his clients. Active in his community and a frequent speaker on topics such as business strategy, financial planning, and career advice, Phil builds lasting relationships based on trust and accountability. Since 2008, he has resided in Arizona with his wife and two children, enjoying golf, travel, and outdoor activities.

Roger Lee is a seasoned leader with over 20 years of experience in finance, contact center operations, and customer experience (CX). As the founder and principal of his own firm, Roger specializes in bridging product, sales, and customer success to create seamless momentum throughout the client journey. He has led initiatives resulting in nearly $10 million in cost savings and has built high-performing teams that excel in AI-powered marketing, product management, and digital transformation. A recognized CX thought leader, Roger is passionate about delivering impactful customer experiences through innovative strategies and empowering leadership. He holds certifications as a Six Sigma Black Belt, COPC leader, and has contributed to the Stevie Awards and Performance Excellence Network.

Vanessa Leuaxay is a Senior Recruiter at Avnet who now calls Phoenix, Arizona home. Originally from Kansas City, Kansas, she attended Grand Canyon University and has built her career around helping people find roles where they can grow and succeed. At Avnet, she also serves as the Membership Chair for the ASPIRE Employee Resource Group, supporting inclusion and community. Vanessa is known for her approachable style and genuine interest in people. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her partner, Connor, and their dog, Cooper—whether that’s exploring new spots around town or just relaxing at home.

Jack Liu is the co-founder and CEO of ProCARE Portal, a healthcare SaaS company streamlining provider compensation and performance management for medical groups in large hospitals and health systems. Since launching in 2019, he has guided ProCARE through key milestones, including onboarding over 25,000 providers and expanding internationally with a wholly owned subsidiary in Northern India. Passionate about leveraging technology to solve complex business challenges, Jack offers deep insight into shifting healthcare market dynamics. He also serves as a board director for ACEL, a national nonprofit advancing AANHPI leadership and mentorship. Outside of work, Jack enjoys mentoring young entrepreneurs, playing golf, and spending time with his two dogs.

David Martinez III is the Director of Strategic Community Partnerships at Vitalyst Health Foundation, where he leads efforts in grantmaking, capacity-building, and civic health. A first-generation college graduate from the University of Arizona and a Flinn-Brown Fellow, David brings over a decade of experience advancing equity and civic engagement. His previous roles include work with the Center for the Future of Arizona, St. Mary’s Food Bank, and the Arizona Students’ Association. He actively serves on several boards and committees, including the Arizona Democracy Alliance, FCCP Census Initiative, and the National Trust for Civic Life. Originally from Marana and now based in Phoenix, David remains deeply committed to Arizona’s communities and landscapes.

Andrea Moreno is the Interim CEO of AZ Impact for Good, bringing over 20 years of experience in community engagement and philanthropic leadership. A passionate advocate for social impact, she has held key leadership positions at SRP, where she managed multimillion-dollar corporate contributions and led successful community outreach initiatives. Andrea’s commitment to empowering nonprofits and advancing philanthropy is reflected in her extensive board service, including her continued involvement with AZ Impact for Good. Deeply rooted in Arizona, she is a respected leader whose dedication to community betterment continues to inspire and uplift those around her.

Chau Nguyen is the co-founder of CHAOS (Chemical Handling and Occupational Safety) Supplies in Arizona, a company with over 30 years of excellence in the safety and automotive products industry. Under her leadership, CHAOS has earned a reputation for delivering innovative, high-quality solutions tailored to the evolving needs of professionals across multiple sectors. Chau’s strategic vision and dedication to safety and customer satisfaction have positioned the company as a trusted partner for businesses nationwide. Her entrepreneurial drive continues to fuel the company's growth, making a lasting impact in the field of occupational safety and reinforcing CHAOS’s role as an industry leader.

Anita Ranhotra is the Distribution Engineering Manager at Hallmark Cards, Inc., where she leads engineering, quality, and EHS teams across a distribution network of over 3 million square feet. With 25 years at Hallmark, Anita has extensive experience in engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and supply chain solutions. She recently led the development of a new 850K square-foot distribution center. Prior to Hallmark, Anita worked at The Limited and Payless ShoeSource, earning a patent. Anita holds a B.S. in Industrial Engineering and an M.S. in Engineering Management from Kansas State University (K-State), where she is also a co-founder of the IE Academy. She is an active leader in professional organizations and community initiatives, including serving as a senior advisor for the Kansas City chapter of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers and co-founding the Kansas City chapter of the National Association of Asian American Professionals.

Kayla Ruyle is a seasoned marketing professional with over a decade of experience in marketing and business development within the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Holding a degree in English Literature, she currently serves as Marketing Manager for WSP USA Inc., where she leads strategic marketing and business development initiatives across Arizona and New Mexico. Passionate about community engagement and mentorship, Kayla has actively contributed as both a mentor and mentee in programs with ACEL, Barrett, The Honors College at ASU, the Arizona Science Center’s Girls in STEM events, and her employers. She is committed to fostering professional growth and empowering the next generation of leaders in her field.

Jean Seo is the Founder and President of Evolue Skincare, a pioneering force in clean beauty. In 2007, she launched the first eco-chic beauty boutique in Beverly Hills, featuring top green beauty brands. After realizing that her celebrity clientele sought more effective results, Jean began formulating products using naturally occurring moisturizing factors found in the human body. This led to the creation of Evolue Skincare, which now offers two global brands: Evolue Beverly Hills, a luxury anti-aging line, and LUE by Jean Seo, an accessible organic skincare range available in 1,371 Walmart Supercenters across the U.S. Jean remains dedicated to combining innovation with integrity in skincare.

Kristi Tate is an accomplished leader with extensive experience across education, service, and civic engagement sectors. She currently serves on the team at the Center for the Future of Arizona, following her role at the National Conference on Citizenship (NCoC), where she led national partnerships for the Civic Health Index. Her work has focused on strengthening civic life through data-driven initiatives and community collaboration. Kristi has also held leadership roles at Georgetown University’s Center for Social Justice, HandsOn Greater Phoenix, and the Boys and Girls Club of Boston. She holds a B.A. from the University of Notre Dame and an M.A. in Liberal Studies from Georgetown University, with a focus on social and public policy.

Dani Thao is a Marriage and Family Therapist, Life Coach, and Entrepreneur, and the proud daughter of Hmong refugees. Often the “first” or “only” in many spaces, Dani knows firsthand the weight of imposter syndrome and the journey toward belonging. Her work is rooted in helping others come home to themselves—not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who they've always been. Through therapy, coaching, and community work, Dani creates spaces of healing, authenticity, and empowerment. She doesn’t show up because she has all the answers, but because she’s learned to lead with both courage and doubt—and believes we all deserve to take up space just as we are.

Dawn Wallace directs the nonpartisan Arizona Center for Civic Leadership at the Flinn Foundation, where she leads initiatives that strengthen civic life in Arizona through education, engagement, and leadership development. She oversees programs including youth civic leadership, Arizona policy workshops, strategic civic partnerships, and the prestigious Flinn-Brown Fellowship for experienced community leaders. A seasoned public-policy expert, Dawn has advised Arizona governors and legislators for over 20 years. She joined the Flinn Foundation in 2020. Dawn holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Arizona State University and is certified to teach social sciences in grades 6–12. She also serves in leadership roles for several civic and arts-focused nonprofit organizations.

Monica Wang is the Business Development Director at Amentum, where she leads environmental programs and government market strategy. With 20 years of experience and dual advanced degrees (MBA, MS in Civil Engineering), Monica brings strategic insight and technical expertise to every initiative. She serves as President of both the ACEL Denver Chapter and the SAME Denver Metro Post, championing cross-sector leadership and collaboration. Monica is also the Founder of Epic Horizon, which delivers transformative wellness experiences through outdoor adventure, yoga, and mindfulness. Through her nonprofit, Epic Horizon Access, she expands nature-based wellness access for underserved communities. Monica is a certified yoga instructor, ultramarathon runner, and advocate for wellness-driven social impact.

Mistie Dawn Weishaar is a seasoned writer, marketer, and multicultural engagement specialist with over 25 years of experience helping organizations and leaders communicate with clarity, connection, and purpose. She is the author of Slay in Color: Motivational Affirmations and Quotes by Women, a creative blend of art, affirmations, and leadership empowerment. At Greenberg Traurig, Mistie leads marketing, branding, and inclusion initiatives. Holding a B.I.S. from ASU, her diverse background includes special effects artistry and design. Recognized for her community impact, she was named AZ Big Media’s 2025 Nonprofit Volunteer of the Year and a 2023 Most Influential Minority Business Leader.

Dr. Hui Wu‑Curtis is a visionary leader in the CX and BPO industries, known for blending innovation with empathy to drive exceptional service and empower diverse teams. With over 20 years of operational experience across major industries, both domestically and globally, she brings strategic insight and deep expertise to every initiative. As CEO of SupportU and Director of Customer Service at SmartRent, Dr. Hui champions inclusive leadership and customer-centric transformation. An active speaker and published author, she has received numerous industry accolades for her impact in contact centers. Her personal journey—from immigrant child to executive—fuels her passion for elevating both people and performance across the customer experience landscape.

Dennis Yao Yu is a seasoned business leader and 20-year eCommerce veteran, having shaped go-to-market strategies for top platforms and brands. With executive experience at Shopify, Firework, and Art.com, Dennis now leads The Other Group, a consultancy helping brands and tech companies accelerate growth.He offers a unique end-to-end perspective on commerce, advising businesses from DTC startups to public enterprises. Dennis integrates digital transformation, brand storytelling, and ecosystem orchestration to drive sustainable growth. A LinkedIn Top Voice and frequent speaker, he holds an MBA from USC and a BA in Economics from UC Irvine. Dennis is passionate about guiding companies through change and building enduring businesses.