Carrie Thome, Co-Founder and Managing Director of NVNG Carrie is a visionary investor with decades of top-tier results. Former CIO of WARF, she led a $3B portfolio and was twice ranked among the world’s most powerful institutional investors. She brings unmatched insight to venture capital and asset strategy. This free event will be held in 4151 Grainger Hall.…
Lyndon Lattie, Founder and Lonni Kieffer, COO Meet the minds behind SmartCert - Lyndon Lattie and Lonni Kieffer, two remarkable innovators who are reshaping how businesses manage certificate and compliance. With decades of experience in aerospace, engineering, and operational leadership, they are transforming certification challenges into streamlined digital solutions. Don’t miss this chance to connect…
Annemarie Maitri, Founder of Bloom Bake Shop and Lallande Annemarie Maitri creates food that connects people to place, memory and one another. Known for her farm-rooted approach and devotion to craft, she brings a storyteller’s lens to bread, pastry, and savory cooking. Her work celebrates growers, honors tradition, and invites guests into a deeper experience…
Darren Smith, Owner of Murphy Business Sales Darren is a seasoned business broker, entrepreneur, and franchise consultant. With expertise in valuing, acquiring, and selling service-based businesses, Darren has guided hundreds of entrepreneurs through successful transactions. Representing over 500 franchise brands, he blends real-world dealmaking with practical coaching to help business owners and investors achieve their…
Matt Maroon, Chief Executive Officer of C-Motive Matt drives the commercialization of breakthrough electrostatic motors set to transform industrial and renewable power. A veteran cleantech leader with a record of scaling startups and securing major funding, he brings game‑changing innovation to market. This free event will be held in 4151 Grainger Hall. The Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch program is…
Natasha Vora, Founder & CEO of Optical X Natasha Vora is a resilient entrepreneur and optical‑industry innovator whose career spans global operations, retail, technology, and brand development. As Founder & CEO of Optical X, she is redefining how independent optometrists deliver care, manage their practices, and grow profitably. This free event will be held in 4151 Grainger Hall.…
Mike Trigg, Author, Angel Investor and Entrepreneurship Coach With 25+ years in Silicon Valley startups, Mike brings insights from his journey as founder, executive, and investor, plus his work as a published novelist and contributor to TechCrunch, Entrepreneur, and Fast Company. This free event will be held in 4151 Grainger Hall. The Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch program is sponsored…
Katie Lorenz, Founder of CAMPO Alpaca Katie Lorenz founded Campo Alpaca, a Chicago-based fair-trade brand partnering with Peruvian artisans to craft sustainable alpaca products. Built on Cambio Positivo—positive change—Campo blends exceptional quality with ethical production, empowering women and families while preserving tradition. With 13+ years in consulting, Katie drives growth through strategic sourcing, wholesale expansion,…
David Gilberg, CEO of ElderCare Homecare and Adam Ross, Founding Partner, Abrams Garfinkel & Ross LLP Come join us for an inspiring lunch featuring two powerhouse professionals who are shaping the future of healthcare and finance. David is the champion of compassionate innovation and Adam brings his sharp insight and mission-driven leadership to the stage.…
Joe Hamilton, CEO and President of Vortex Come join us to meet Joe Hamilton who is the kind of leader who proves that humility, grit, and service can build something extraordinary. As CEO and President of Vortex®, the world’s largest sport optics brand, Joe brings decades of hands-on experience—from stocking shelves in his family’s Madison…
Dana Guthrie, Managing Partner & Lamarr Banks, Associate, Gateway Capital Partners Dana Guthrie and Lamarr Banks will share insights from the front lines of venture investing. With experience supporting founders, funding high-growth startups, and advancing innovation across the Midwest, they offer practical perspectives on what investors seek, how startups can prepare for growth, and emerging…
Drew Hykes, President & Chief Executive Officer of Okami Medical Drew is a leader known for building strong teams, scaling innovative technologies, and helping organizations navigate pivotal moments of growth…